A printed sheet sent to guests for the Opening Ceremony of the National Conference of Legacy at the Victorian Arts Centre on 2 October 1998 in the presence of the Governor General of Australia, Sir William Deane. The document acted both as a ticket and an information sheet, and the event was organised by Past President Legatee D.J. Simonson.Part of documentation for the 75th Anniversary of Legacy. The presence of the Governor General is indicative of the importance of the event.Blue Legacy letterhead, black printing, white paper'Guests' handwritten in red biro 'This is how admittance will go out' in black biro.conference, 75th anniversary

The photo shows a group of Legatees who attended the 13th Annual Legacy Club Conference held in April 1940 in Launceston. The names are not known. The Legacy conference was held periodically, often annually, and allowed Legatees from across Australia to gather together. The aim of the annual conference was an exchange of ideas and methods of carrying out Legacy functions, and to form general policy for cooperation between clubs and groups. From TROVE. Mercury (Hobart, Tas. : 1860 - 1954), Monday 25 March 1940, page 6 'There are 20 clubs in Australia, and of these seven will be directly represented and another seven by proxy. Delegates from other clubs. Visitors from Melbourne, Sydney, Bendigo, Newcastle, Geelong, and Hobart, together with a strong representation from the Launceston Club will take part in the conference, which will open in the Anzac Hostel Hall on Saturday. Delegates and observers will arrive in Launceston this week to be present at the ceremony of presenting the Charter of Legacy to the Hobart Club on Wednesday evening. The organisation in Hobart has been functioning for many years as the Remembrance Club, but has now accepted the invitation of Legacy to join up, using as its new name "Remembrance Club (Hobart Legacy)." ' The man second from left on the front row is Frank Wittman, who was the smallest man to have enlisted in the 1st AIF and as such the shortest Legatee. Frank Clifford Wittman was only 4ft 4 inches tall (132 cms). From an article in the bulletin when his medals were sold. He served in both world wars.These men were some of the founders and early members of Legacy throughout Australia and had fought in the first World War. This conference was during the second World War. The 1940 Conference was when the Hobart Remembrance Club joined with Legacy.Black and white photo of a group of Legatees at the 1940 conference in Launceston.Hand-written on reverse: 'Legacy Club Conference / Launceston T. / March 30/1940' in navy ink. legatee event, conference

The photo shows a group of Legatees who attended the Legacy Club Conference held in Perth in September 1948. The three men at the front are Legatees Stan Savige on left and Bill Perrin in the centre. Other names are not known. Legatee Bill Perrin had been President in 1945 and had just been elected to succeed Legatee Savige as the Chairman of the Co-ordinating Council. The Legacy conference was held periodically and allowed Legatees from across Australia to gather together. The aim of the annual conference was an exchange of ideas and methods of carrying out Legacy functions, and to form general policy for cooperation between clubs and groups.These men were some of the founders and early members of Legacy throughout Australia and had fought in the first World War. Black and white photo x 2 of a group of Legatees at the Legacy conference in Perth.Stamped with copyright stamp of W.A. Newspapers in purple ink. Hand-written on reverse: 'Legacy Club Conference Perth' in pencil. legatee event, conference

The letter from Eric Harding to Legacy President Ron Foskett in 1978 was in response to a call for information and photos for the archive that was being compiled. Legatees Frank Doolan and Brian Armstrong were making an attempt to collect items relevant to Legacy's history for an official archive project The letter suggests L/- Eric Harding provided a photo in which Cyril Smith, Dudley Treagent and others appear but that photo was not with the letter. It also referenced the photo that appears here, with of a group of people at a weekend party at Ocean Grove. No names are identified but it must have been a Legacy event for it to be sent to the archive project. It could be Legatees and their wives and children socialising together at a weekend event in Ocean Grove. Legatee Eric Harding OBE, MM, was also a member of the Limbless Soldiers' Association of Victoria as he lost a leg as a gunner in France in WW1. He served with the Australian Field Artillery in the original Anzac Corps. Despite loosing a leg he was active enough to ride with a Light Horse Party at the head of Melbourne's 1975 Anzac Day march. (Source Trove 18/4/1975)The photo shows that Legatees and their families socialised together. Also that the archive project in the 1970s approached legatees for items to be included in the archive.Black and white photo of a group of people in Ocean Grove and a letter from L/- Eric Harding.Handwritten on reverse of photo is 'No. 2' in blue pen. Letter is signed 'Dear Ron / Warm regards. Yours sincerely, Eric. / P.S. Another photo print No.2 is enclosed . This was a weekend party at Ocean Grove. I can pick out may wife but no others.' in blue pen.legatee event, founding legatee

Photograph of Legatee Oswald Gawler, who was President of Melbourne Legacy in 1943. It is a professional photo taken for use in publications. The notation on the reverse appears to be written by L/- Frank Doolan who was collecting the history of Legacy into an archive. From the AWM website Oswald Gawler was a Lieutenant in World War 1 serving with the 12th Australian Field Artillery Brigade.A record of the past presidents of Melbourne Legacy.Black and white photo of President Os Gawler.Handwritten on the reverse: 'Legatee Os Gawler Pres Melbourne Legacy 1943' in blue pen. Stamped 'Prices subject to sales tax' in purple ink.past presidents, os gawler

Photograph of Legatee Oswald Gawler, who was President of Melbourne Legacy in 1943. The notation on the reverse appears to be written by L/- Frank Doolan who was collecting the history of Legacy into an archive. From the AWM website Oswald Gawler was a Lieutenant in World War 1 serving with the 12th Australian Field Artillery Brigade.A record of the past presidents of Melbourne Legacy.Black and white photo of Legatee Os Gawler.Handwritten on the reverse: 'Legatee Os Gawler Pres Melbourne Legacy 1943' in blue pen. Also 'Circa 1955' in blue pen and '37401' in pencil.past presidents, os gawler

Photograph of a painted portrait of L/- Stan Savige. The signature appears to be 'Manders '45'. He appears to be in uniform and could be from his service in World War 2. Stanley Savige is seen as the founder of Legacy when it was founded in Melbourne in September 1923. He was born in Morwell Victoria on 26/6/1890. He served in the Australian Army between 1915 and 1946, including service in both World Wars. Stanley Savige was awarded a KBE, CB, DSO, MC,ED. Stanley George Savige was born in Victoria in 1890, and enlisted in the AIF (Private 577) in March 1915. He served with 24 Battalion at Gallipoli, and was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant prior to the evacuation, at which he was part of the final holding party at Lone Pine. In France he saw service with 6 Brigade Headquarters as well as with his battalion, and was awarded the Military Cross for his gallantry at the second battle of Bullecourt. In 1918, he became one of a small number of Australians selected for service with 'Dunsterforce' in Persia, commanding 'Urmia Force', and was awarded the Distinguished Service Order. Between the wars, Savige continued his military career with the Militia, and by 1939 he held the rank of colonel. When the 2nd AIF was raised, he was placed in command of 17 Brigade, which he led through the campaigns in Libya, Greece and Syria, before being promoted to command 3 Division (Militia) in New Guinea. In 1944, he was appointed GOC 2 Corps, in command of forces engaged in the campaign on Bougainville, and accepted the Japanese surrender there in September 1945. Lieutenant General Savige was knighted (KBE) in 1950, and died in 1954. He is widely remembered for his efforts between the wars in founding the Legacy Clubs (which he modelled on the 'Remembrance Club' formed in Hobart by his friend and former commander Sir John Gellibrand in 1923) to care for the dependants of deceased servicemen and ex-servicemen. These clubs grew into a nation wide organisation which, by the time of Savige's death, was supporting over 80 000 widows and children.This is a photographic portrait of the founder of the first Legacy Club in Australia, Sir Stanley Savige.Black and white photo of a painting of Sir Stan Savige printed onto a postcard.Stamped with 'Photograph No. MH 91859 Supplied by Military History Section (S.D.9,) General Staff L.H.Q. For official purposes ONLY, NOT TO BE PUBLISHED' in purple ink.savige, portrait, stan savige, founding legatees

The photo shows a small girl presenting a bunch of flowers to Lady Lavarack on the steps of Moorlands. The Queensland Governor Sir John Lavarack and his wife were attending the opening of the Legacy childrens' residence, Moorlands, in Brisbane on 20 February 1947. Legatee Stan Savige had travelled to Brisbane for the event, he is at the centre rear. From TROVE: Telegraph (Brisbane, Qld. : 1872 - 1947), Tuesday 18 February 1947, page 7 FOR OPENING OF LEGACY HOME Lieutenant-General Stan Savige (left) arrived in Brisbane this afternoon to attend the opening of the new Legacy home, Moorlands, at Coronation Drive. On the right is Mr. F. E. Lascelles, Brisbane president of Legacy. Moorlands will be opened by the Governor (Sir John Lavarack) on Thursday. Moorlands is a heritage-listed villa at 451 Coronation Drive, Auchenflower, Queensland, Australia. It was designed by Richard Gailey and was built c. 1892 by contractor Arthur Smith. It was added to the Queensland Heritage Register on 21 August 1992. In 1947 the building was sold to the Brisbane branch of the Legacy War Widows and Orphans Fund, and accommodated war-orphaned children and widows until 1971.Some Legacy events were attended by dignitaries, such as the State governors' and their wives and the events were covered by press photographers and reported in newspapers.Black and white photo of a girl presenting flowers to the Queensland Governor's wife at Moorlands.Handwritten 'Complements from J D Coots(?)' in pencil. Stamped with copyright of 'The Telegraph Feature Service Brisbane', in purple ink.residences, moorlands

A photo of three men, the two in uniform are former junior legatees that were helped to achieve admission to Southampton Naval College UK when they visited Legacy in 1964. These two outstanding junior legatees that were featured in the June 1957 newsletter. The article explains that Ron Rudd was a member of Footscray classes. And John Woodley had lived at Harelands. Both won entry to the greatest school of navigation at Southhampton UK, which lead to successful careers and were welcomed to Legacy luncheons when they were back in Australia. It is possible these two junior legatees had returned to Legacy in 1964 when this photo was taken. The man is the centre is Ivan Layton, Executive Officer of Legacy for 30 years. John Woodley's brother, Arthur, was also looked after by Legacy and in 1990 he wrote of his life and how Legacy helped him in a document (see item 00107).Many junior legatees enlisted in the services in the second World War. Some returned and joined Legacy as Legatees. It shows the impact of Legacy on their lives that they lived the belief that the spirit of Legacy is service.Black and white photo of three men, two are in uniform.Printed on front of photo 'Ritter-Jeppesen Studios July 1964'.legatee, junior legatee, john woodley, ron rudd

An iconic image of a soldier, eyes raised to the sky, taken by photographer Jack Cato in 1932. He used the artist/entertainer Pat Hanna as a model in the photoshoot. Pat wrote down his experience in a moving two page document 'The Story Behind the Picture', it tells how he was moved to imagine the action in France when posing. The image is described as the portrait of a soldier, eyes raised to the sky. This portrait is a study which is called 'The spirit of Anzac' or 'The Digger'. Pat Hanna, said he tried to recreate the "look something between fear and defiance which we have all seen so often, and which will always remain in my memory as typical of our gallant old cobbers 'the Diggers'". A colour image is held in the AWM collection. The photo was stored with other items including a letter to Frank (possibly L/- Frank Doolan who was making an attempt to collect items relevant to Legacy's history for an official archive project - see items 01400 to 01404). Pat Hanna was an entertainer, comedian, artist and producer of reveues, plays and movies. One of his first revues was performed just after the armistice in France. His popular stage show was 'Diggers' that performed in many towns in Australia post-war and adapted into a film in 1931. He was born George Patrick Hanna, 18 March 1888 in Whitianga, New Zealand and served in the First World War, was a founding member of Melbourne Legacy and was involved with Legacy for many years.Pat Hanna was a founding member of Melbourne Legacy and an artist and producer. Legacy kept some of his works in the archive.Black and white photo of Pat Hanna as a 'Digger' and a two page recollection of the photoshoot with Jack Cato.Handwritten on photo 'Digger' in black ink in Pat Hanna's handwriting. Handwritten on reverse " 'The Digger', sometimes called 'The spirit of Anzac' / photo Jack Cato / model -Pat Hanna" in black ink. Typed on a paper note 'Spirit of Anzac / Pat Hanna'. Stamped with copyright of The Age in blue ink.hanna, solider, portrait

A drawing done by artist Pat Hanna and sent to friends at Legacy. He was living in London at the time and drew this on his letterhead. It was stored with other items including a letter to Frank in 1972 (possibly L/- Frank Doolan who was making an attempt to collect items relevant to Legacy's history for an official archive project - see items 01400 to 01403). Pat Hanna was an entertainer, comedian, artist and producer of reveues, plays and movies. One of his first revues was performed in France just after the armistice. A popular stage show was 'Diggers' that performed around Australia post-war and adapted to film in 1931. He was asked to pose for photographer Jack Cato for the iconic image of a digger shown in 01400. He was born George Patrick Hanna, 18 March 1888 in Whitianga, New Zealand and served in the First World War, was a founding member of Melbourne Legacy and was involved with Legacy for many years. Pat Hanna was a founding member of Melbourne Legacy and an artist and producer. Legacy kept some of his works in the archive.Drawing of a kangaroo and kiwi from Pat Hanna on his letterhead pasted onto brown cardboard. Also a digger's face, a rising run and maps of Australia and New Zealand.Handwritten in the drawing 'Heres to every cobber who wore the old chapeau, 20 - 30 - 40 - 50 years ago!!!' and 'There's a wee toon on the Yarra with streets broad and narra that's where we first toasted dear old Legacy.'hanna, founding legatee

A letter from Pat Hanna to Frank (presumably L/- Frank Doolan) about his request for information for Legacy's archive project. He mentions some of the outstanding events in the early days of Legacy were the wonderful holidays the children had at Somers Camp and outings for widows and their children to Luna Park. Pat posed for the iconic image of a digger taken by photographer Jack Cato in 1932. Pat wrote down his experience in a moving two page document 'The Story Behind the Picture', it tells how he was moved to imagine the action in France when posing (see 01400). This letter and another copy of the photo was stored with other items - see items 01400 to 01403. Pat Hanna was an entertainer, comedian, artist and producer of reveues, plays and movies. One of his first revues was performed just after the armistice in France. A popular stage show was 'Diggers' that performed in many towns in Australia post-war and was adapted into a film in 1931. He was born George Patrick Hanna, 18 March 1888 in Whitianga, New Zealand and served in the First World War, was a founding member of Melbourne Legacy and was involved with Legacy for many years.Pat Hanna was a founding member of Melbourne Legacy and an artist and producer. Legacy kept some of his works in the archive.Letter on Pat Hanna's letterhead in June 1972.Signed 'Pat' in black ink.hanna, solider

A drawing done by artist Pat Hanna and sent to friends at Legacy as a postcard. It could be a self portrait or a caricature of another Legatee. It was stored with other items including a letter to Frank (L/- Frank Doolan who was making an attempt to collect items relevant to Legacy's history for an official archive project - see items 01400 to 01403). Pat Hanna was an entertainer, comedian, artist and producer of revues, plays and movies. One of his first revues was performed just after the armistice in France. A popular stage show was 'Diggers' that performed around Australia post-war it was adapted into a film in 1931. He was asked to pose for photographer Jack Cato for the iconic image of a digger shown in 01400. He was born George Patrick Hanna, 18 March 1888 in Whitianga, New Zealand and served in the First World War, was a founding member of Melbourne Legacy and was involved with Legacy for many years.Pat Hanna was a founding member of Melbourne Legacy and an artist and producer. Legacy kept some of his works in the archive.Cartoon drawing of a man with a monocle, signed Pat Hanna on a postcard.Post card is addressed to 'President and Legatees, Legacy Club, Market St, Melbourne' in blue ink. It is postmarked 29 December 1955 in Melbourne and an Australian 3d postage stamp. Also handwritten is 'Cartoon card by Pat Hanna 1955' in blue pen.hanna, founding legatee

A cartoon drawing done by artist Pat Hanna and sent to friends at Legacy. It looks like a funny caption is missing from the drawing. It was stored with other items including a letter to Frank (possibly L/- Frank Doolan who was making an attempt to collect items relevant to Legacy's history for an official archive project - see items 01400 to 01404). Pat Hanna was an entertainer, comedian, artist and producer of reveues, plays and movies. One of his first revues was performed in France just after the armistice. A popular stage show was 'Diggers' that performed around Australia post-war and adapted into a film in 1931. He was asked to pose for photographer Jack Cato for the iconic image of a digger shown in 01400. He was born George Patrick Hanna, 18 March 1888 in Whitianga, New Zealand and served in the First World War, was a founding member of Melbourne Legacy and was involved with Legacy for many years.Pat Hanna was a founding member of Melbourne Legacy and an artist and producer. Legacy kept some of his works in the archive.Cartoon drawing of a four people playing cards signed Pat (Hanna).Signed 'Pat'hanna, founding legatee, cartoon

Two photos of Legatee Hugh Caffrey in 1995. Event and reason for the photo is not known. It is believed that he was Hugh William Caffrey with Service number VX120388 who served in the second world war in the 2/12 Australian Infantry Battalion. Born in 1921 in Maffra. From his medals, he served in the Pacific in the Second World War, as he has (from left to right) the Pacific Star, the Defence Medal, the War Medal 1939-45, The Australia Service Medal 1939-45, and last is the 1977 EIIR Silver Jubilee medal. A record of a legatee towards the end of his life.Colour photo x 2 of Hugh Caffrey.Handwritten on one '3R95-22 / 15 August 1995' the other has 'Hugh Caffrey' in pencil.legatee, comradeship

The photo shows a gathering of people including Legatees, at a service in Morwell. The photos were in an envelope labelled 'From Annual Conference Morwell 1985'. The Legacy conference was held periodically and allowed Legatees from across Australia to gather together. The aim of the annual conference was an exchange of ideas and methods of carrying out Legacy functions, and to form general policy for cooperation between clubs and groups.A record of a service of remembrance in Morwell during a Legacy conference.Black and white photo x 3 of a service at a war memorial during a Legacy conference in Morwell in 1985.Handwritten on reverse ' W2567' 'W2575' and 'N2576'.legatee event, conference

A photo of Legatees Colin Bannister and Ray Ward with other legatees and guests. The event is not known but believed to be during Colin Bannister's year as president in 1985. During that time Ray Ward was President of the Perth Legacy. (Ray would later move to Melbourne and served term as President of Melbourne Legacy in 1996.) So it is possibly an annual Legacy Conference where legatees from all parts of Australia come together. The photos came from a Legacy envelope marked "P3 Fund Raising" in red pen, with assorted photos of fundraising events (most from the 1980s), including appeal tins in different years and a charity concert, and a fundraising marathon run (some are items 00433 to 00438, 01410 to 01415).A record of a conference in 1985.Black and white photo of Ray Ward, Colin Bannister and other legatees and guests at an event.Handwritten on reverse 'N2747' in blue pen.fundraising, conference

A function to launch Legacy Week in 1989. It is possibly the guest speaker Sir William Vines. The lectern has a poster showing the slogan 'Lest You Forget'. One photo is of Captain Bert Billings. A photo from the event (00825) appeared in the President's Highlights Report in 1989, the caption said 'A distinguished cross section of the Melbourne community joined for the official launch of Legacy Week. A group of Vietnam Veterans were among the guests to listen to the address given by the Guest of Honour, former Chairman of the ANZ Banking Group, Sir William Vines, A.O.'A record of a launch of Legacy Week by a prominent Australian. Colour photo x 5 of the launch of Legacy Week in 1989.legacy week, speakers

Legacy has a programme of donating trees grown from seeds descended from a pinecone of a Lone Pine in Gallipoli. One photo shows President John Stevenson by the newly planted tree, and making a speech, also Legatee Lucky Luscombe speaking. The plaque shown is now known to be incorrect. The species of tree is not an Aleppo Pine but a Pinus Brutia (also known as Turkish Pine). From the early 1970s Legacy had a commemorative programme of providing trees grown from seeds from Gallipoli to various towns throughout Australia. This may be part of that project (see the Lone Pine brochure at 00593) or subsequent propagation undertaken by Legacy. Melbourne Legacy‚ Commemoration Committee was responsible for the collection, propagation, presentation and dedication of Lone Pines from the 24th Battalion tree at the Shrine of Remembrance. On the 14th September 1989 further seedlings were collected with the hope to raise 1,000 trees from the seeds. Thus, Legacy is helping to keep the memory of the Gallipoli 'Lone Pine' alive, its spirit living on today. Presentations are made to schools, ex-service organisations and interested bodies by Legacy Clubs in the hope that they will be cherished as a symbol of nationhood and of its just pride, devotion, courage, selflessness and sense of service to others.The planting of Lone Pine trees, donated by Legacy, has promoted the memory of Australian servicemen in many places around Australia.Colour photo x 6 of a planting of a Lone Pine by President John Stevenson at Springvale Garden of Remembrance.lone pine, tree planting

Three Australian soldiers in World War 1 uniforms. Two are holding rifles with bayonets, the officer in the centre holds a Union Jack flag. The solider on the left has a VC medal as well as first world war medals. The link with Legacy is unknown but Legacy was founded by men who had served in World War 1. The photo is an example of first World War uniforms and equipment.Black and white photo of three soldiers from World War 1 mounted on dark grey cardboard.A degraded label on the back says 'Picture / Framers / ? / Beaments(?) / Camberwell / Glenferrie ?'world war one, soldiers, uniforms

A leaflet issued by General William Birdwood to the AIF troops just after the Armistice on 11 November 1918 to end the first world war. 'To the officers, Non-Commissioned Officers and Men of the Australian Imperial Force. It is now just four that we have been serving together, often through days of hardship and peril, and often through times of well-deserved success. During this time I hope and think we have come to know each other well and I trust we realised how rightly we have confidence in each other. No words of mine can possibly express all I feel for the magnificent work which has been done by the Australian soldier during these long four years. It is well known and recognised, not only throughout the British Empire, but throughout the world - and now we have peace in sight, and peace after a victory in which the Australian soldier has taken so large a share. Even then, with peace there are still difficult times before us. Faith in our recent foe cannot quickly be established, and it may be that some little time yet we shall be able to relax no precautions, until we are assured of the complete and honest fulfilment of our terms. Then will come the difficult time of demobilisation, and it is regarding this that I wish to make a personal appeal to every single member of the AIF in the full confidence that it will be met as every other appeal to face and tackle the strongest positions has ever been met by the Australian solider. Never has the name of Australia stood higher than it does now throughout the world, thanks to the bravery of her soldiers, and it sup to everyone one of us to see that this is maintained, and that no reproach can be cast on the Australian Flag owing to any behaviour of ours. The time of demobilisation will undoubtedly be difficult and irksome - I fully realise what great personal self-restraint will certainly be required - but if each individual of us makes up his mind to do his best during these times, realising the good name we bear, I feel confident that all will go well. I want you to remember that everything possible will be done to look after and help the troops during this period, while every energy will be strained to get men back to their homes as soon as this possibly can be done. You will have to realise, however. that there is a great shortage of shipping, and that there must be a considerable inevitable delay. Play the game, boys, during this time, as you have always done, and add still more to the deep debt of gratitude which will always be acknowledged to you by the Empire and remembered by me as your comrade and commander. In the field, 14 November 1918.' (Signed) 'W Birdwood'.A rare example of a notice to troops about the Armistice.A leaflet issued by General Birdwood to AIF troops to commemorate the end of World War 1.world war one, soldier

Copy of a letter dated 1st September 1970 from C.A. Gordon of George G. Henderson Pty Ltd (Auctioneers) and addressed to Legatee Rossman (sic) (Legatee G K Rosman was chair of the Residences Committee in 1969 and an active Legatee from 1957-2013). The copy was directed to Hugh C.G. Rodgers (Legatee from 1964-96) according to the With Compliments slip attached. In the letter Gordon mentions a booklet (missing) about accommodation for single women which the YWCA in Great Britain maintained, and which they were hoping to provide in Australia. He also suggested that Legacy might wish to contribute to the project. Part of the history of Melbourne Legacy's involvement with residential care for children.2 photocopied quarto sheets, black on white, with printed and typed black on white. With Compliments card attached. Two holes punched for filing. residences, review

The Australian Service Medal and Pacific Star Medal that were awarded to Private Arthur Norman Comben VX26251 for his war service in World War Two. From the AWM website Private Arthur N Comden of the 2/21st Australian Infantry Battalion, who died on Hainan Island, China, on 27 June 1945. The DVA records show he was born 6 April 1907 in Yarraville and enlisted on 17 June 1940 whilst residing in Coopers Creek Victoria. His next of kin was shown as H Dilks. Also that he had been a prisoner of war. His connection with Legacy is not known, he may have been a junior legatee though there's no record of his father Arthur John Louis Comben serving for Australia in WW1. More research is needed to check, it is possible the medals were donated to Legacy as no family members wanted them. Additional information provided by a distant relative - Arthur's mother (Mary Eleanor Norman) remarried twice after his fathers death in 1911. His stepfather Horace Dilks served in World War 1 with the 2nd Pioneer Battalion.These are examples of World War 2 medals awarded to a serviceman who participated in the conflict in the Pacific region. Many returned servicemen joined Legacy after World War 2 and would have had similar medals.Silver circular medal and bronze star shaped medal from World War 2 mounted on ribbons initially together by a safety pin. 01700.1 The medal is nickel silver with the crowned effigy of King George VI on the obverse. The reverse has the Australian coat of arms, placed centrally, surrounded by the words ‘THE AUSTRALIA SERVICE MEDAL 1939-1945’. The normal ribbon is missing and it is on the ribbon meant for the UK War Medal which is of red, white and blue to represent the colours of the Union Flag. 01700.2 The six–pointed star is yellow copper zinc alloy. The obverse has a central design of the Royal and Imperial cypher, surmounted by a crown. The cypher is surrounded by a circlet containing the words ‘The Pacific Star’. The ribbon has central yellow and green stripes that represent the forests and the beaches of the Pacific, flanked dark blue, light blue and red stripes that represent the service of the Naval Forces and Merchant Navy, the Air Forces and the Armies.Both engraved with 'VX26251 A. N. Comben'.medals, world war two, arthur comden

A badge that was produced to promote a Vietnam Veterans' Motorcycle ride around Australia in 1996 in support of Legacy. An article in Trove shows a VetAffairs newsletter in July 1996 saying that 110 Vietnam veteran bikers spent 46 days in May and June 1996 riding over 14,000 kms to connect with veterans around the country. The Vietnam Veterans' Motorcycle Club organised the ride to raise awareness for Legacy who was looking after more than 122,000 widows and 2,000 children throughout Australia. The symbol of Legacy is the Torch and Wreath of Laurel. The Torch signifies the undying flame of service and sacrifice of those who gave their lives for their country. The Wreath of Laurel is the symbol of our remembrance of them. A record of an event in 1996 that supported Legacy organised by the Vietnam Veterans' Motorcycle Club.Round metal badge x 2 with blue background, the Legacy torch and a yellow map of Australia. It says 'I help Legacy. Vets Connect. Vietnam Veterans Motorcycle Ride around Australia 1996 in support of Legacy.'legacy promotion, fundraising, vietnam veterans

An example of a medallion issued to commemorate Legacy's 90th anniversary. It features an image of the Widow and Children statue from the Legacy garden at the Shrine. The red cardboard box says: "90th Anniversary of Legacy 2013 Gold Medallion, Todays Legacy's caring and compassionate service assists over 100,000 widows and 1,900 children and dependents with a disability. This commemorative medallion is crafted to proof like quality in copper finished in pure gold. The design is based on the sculpture, Widow and Children by sculptor Louis Laumen, symbolising the service of Legacy." It was part of a collection of Legacy items from Valma Hutchinson (nee Wigg), a former junior legatee. Valma was accepted into Junior Legacy club in 1940. An article in the Answer in 2014 shows there was a silver medallion as well (retail $19.95) in a blue box, plus a Limited Edition set of a silver medallion, and Australian Soldiers coin from Macquarie Mint (retail $90).A record of an item produced by Legacy to celebrate the 90th Anniversary.Gold medallion with the image of the Widow and Children statue, Legacy torch and text 'Legacy 90th Anniversary 1923-2013' on the obverse. The reverse has the Legacy Torch and Legacy logo and the text 'Caring for the families of incapacitated and deceased veterans'. Medallion is in a clear plastic cover and a black case in a red cardboard box.Embossed with 'Legacy 90th Anniversary 1923-2013'90th anniversary, medallion, legacy promotion

An incomplete diary of an Australian nurse serving in France in 1916. The author is unidentified in the document but after extensive research it is concluded that is by Priscilla Wardle, who left Melbourne on 14 April 1915 on RMS Orontes and served with Queen Alexandra's Imperial Military Nursing Service (QAIMNS) in France. A larger portion of her diary is available from the Ballarat Base Hospital Trained Nurses League entries on Victorian Collections. The contents of the diary has been retyped and is in the Word document. The diary shows she was serving at a Casualty Clearing Station (CCS) in Bethune, France in March 1916. She goes on to serve at Wimereux, at the No 8 Stationary hospital. Also possibly at Boulogne. She had a period of rest at Hardelot, a convalescent home for nurses, and also a trip to England and Scotland. She tried to visit the graves of ancestors, such as relatives of 'Grandfather Allan', in the church yard at East Kilbride church. During her nursing experience she mentions being gassed by 'weeping' gas and hearing the sounds of shelling. Also the numbers of operations per month, such as 311 in March 1916. And another day when there were 29 operations in one day. She talks of POWs coming to the hospital. They are treated after the Allied soldiers are looked after. So operations often continued into the night to take care of the Germans. She also mentions removing a piece of shrapnel herself in one operation. She appears to be of a senior rank as she is asked to meet with senior hospital officials and high ranking officers that visit. In particular she mentions a staff surgeon from Admiral Jellicoe's ship the 'Iron Duke'. He visited just after the Battle of Jutland, which was a naval battle fought between Britain's Royal Navy Grand Fleet, under Admiral Sir John Jellicoe, and the Imperial German Navy's High Seas Fleet, under Vice-Admiral Reinhard Scheer, during the First World War (‎31 May – 1 June 1916). Also being visited by Stan Walker (also from Ballarat) and Lt Brough who was ADC to General Legge. It is possible Stan Walker is Lt (later Captain) Edward Stanley Walker. Lt Brough is believed to be Charles Anthony Brough. She also mentions meeting a Lady Gifford and Madam O'Gorman. She mentions travelling with Captain Newton to London in early December 1916 - she calls him Sauchiehall and Sauchie, both could be nicknames. Capt Newton later becomes Sir Wilberforce Newton, who was serving in the Royal Army Medical Corps on the Western Front between 1915 and 1917. His diaries are held in the University of Melbourne archive. He also left Melbourne on the RMS Orontes on 14 April 1915 (source Trove) and would have known the 14 Victorian nurses that went on to serve with QAIMNS. On 11 December 1915 he mentions trying to see a Sister Loughran at the No. 7 Stationary hospital - which was in Boulogne. Sister Loughran was also on the RMS Orontes. When he was ill he mentions receiving a parcel from two other nurses that were on the Orontes and served with QAIMNS (Madge Donnellan and Margaret Donaldson). Other things that indicate it might be Priscilla Wardle is that from Births Deaths and Marriages Victoria (BDM) she was born in Ballarat, her mother's maiden name was Allan, she had a sister Janet that went by the name of Jean who was married at the time mentioned in the diary (BDM and Trove), Priscilla's mother also died during the time of diary and coincides with the diary entry of the 'death of dear mother'. An article in Trove after Priscilla's return to Australia mentions she was in the areas mentioned in the diary. Also that Priscilla went on to be trained as an anaesthetist to help in the surgeries. It matches the comment in the diary that she was involved in many operations and even allowed to perform a bullet extraction. Finally on seeing the diary held by Ballarat Base Hospital Trained Nurses League - it was determined the handwriting matched and this diary is part of the larger diary held there, so is definitely Priscilla Wardle. After the war Priscilla Wardle married Cyril Terrence (Terry) Charles Kirby, an English soldier and they settled in Ballarat and later Melbourne. Terry Kirby became a Legatee in 1929 and transferred to Melbourne Legacy in 1935. He was a well liked, hard working Legatee and worked at Legacy House up to his death in 1967. That is probably how the diary ended up in the building. In May 2021 the pages were returned to descendants of Priscilla so now only electronic copies are in our archive.A valuable first hand account of life as a nurse in World War One. The founders of Legacy all served in World War One and may have known this nurse or been in situations similar to her.Handwritten diary of a nurse from 1916 on 10 pages of notepaper.memoir, world war one, nurse

A photo of the finale of the 1953 demonstration. There is a large portrait of the Queen and her coat of arms above the stage with a Legacy torch suspended high above it. Junior legatees on stage in many different costumes, including beef eaters, soldiers, and in naval uniforms. Flag bearers hold Australian, UK, and Welsh flags. Some of the children hold musical instruments. Throughout the year Melbourne Legacy provided classes for Junior Legatees such as dancing, gymnastics and Eurythmics. The Demonstration was an annual event to showcase their skills. Melbourne Legacy conducted Annual Demonstrations / Parades from 1928 through to the 1980's, usually held at Melbourne Town Hall or Olympic Pool Stadium. The beautiful costumes were made by members of the Junior Legacy Mothers' Club and the Melbourne Legacy Wives' Association. Names on the back of the photo could be those who ordered reprints. They include: EDC / Wilma / Dorothy Allen / Helen McGregor / B McCutcheon / Margaret Wallace / J Britton / Val Wigg / J Rees / M Rinnie / Mary Parker / Legatee Grattan / Audrey B / Norrie / Marguerite / Joan Spencer / B McCutcheon / Theresa.A record of the displays at the Annual Demonstrations. Also that Legacy provided classes for junior legatees and the skills learned were displayed in the Annual Demonstration.Black and white photo of the finale of the 1953 Annual Demonstration.In pencil on the reverse " Finale - 1953 Demo " Then a list of names who had ordered reprints.annual demonstration, junior legatee

A photo of Legatee Stan Savige at a microphone. The function or event is unknown. There are two Australian flags in the background. Legatee Stan Savige was the founder of Legacy and many items in the archive record his life.Black and white photo of Legatee Stan Savige at a microphone.Stamped on the reverse '___ Branch / GPO Melbourne / Photograph / Neg No. P119/1 / Draught__s section' in purple ink.savige, event, stan savige, founding legatee

A large photo of soldiers from the first World War. It is almost identical to one in the AWM. From the AWM record it is the 2nd Pioneer Battalion before they returned to Australia. From Wikipedia the 2nd Pioneer Battalion was tasked with digging trenches, labouring, constructing strong points and light railways, and undertaking battlefield clearance, the troops assigned to the pioneers required construction and engineering experience in addition to basic soldiering skills. After the Armistice personnel were repatriated to Australia in drafts as part of the gradual demobilisation of the AIF, the battalion's strength dwindled until finally it was disbanded on 18 May 1919 while in the Charleroi area of Belgium. The men are standing on the steps of the Palais de Justice in Charleroi. The lion is one of a pair made by Antoine-Felix Boure a Belgium sculptor, who was renowned for his portrayal of lions. This pair is called Totor et Tutur. The Palais de Justice was replaced by a new building in the 1960s and the lions now stand in the garden of the Palais de Justice. The soldiers wear different uniforms depending on their rank. This photo is a good example of some of them. Legatee Philip E Potts who was president in 1927-28, was a Captain in the 2nd Pioneer Battalion and is likely to be in this photo. Or the photo belonged to him. Another photo of L/ Potts is labelled Charleroi 1919 and mentions a 2nd Division Concert Party and his war record at NAA says he was assigned to the Concert Party at that time.Legacy was founded by returned soldiers from World War 1, hence some founding legatees may be in this photo.Sepia photo of the 2nd Pioneer Battalion on the steps of a building.soldiers, world war one, lion, charleroi, 2nd pioneer battalion, uniforms, philip e potts

Patsy Adam Smith had a long relationship with Legacy and has been present at different functions (such as 00752). She helped promote Legacy during Legacy Week as celebrity of the year in 1994. This photo was published in the Answer in August 1994. Among her popular books are 'Australian Women at War', 'Heart of Exile', 'Prisoners of War: From Gallipoli to Korea' and 'The Anzacs'.A record that celebrated Australians were invited to attend events at Legacy House and to be celebrity of the year to promote Legacy Week. Colour photo of author Patsy Adam-Smith and Legatee George Woodward at Legacy House.legatee event, function, answer, patsy adam smith, george woodward