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Bendigo Military Museum
Award - MEDAL SET, post WWI
Roy William Gillham enlisted on 8.1.17 in 7th reinforcements 38th Batt AIF. Embarked on 19.2.17. He survived the war unscathed and was discharged on 26.9.19 from the AIF.Medal set, court mounted, set of (2) re R.W Gillham. 1. War medal 1914-19. 2. Victory Medal."3071 Pte R.W Gillham 38th Batt AIF"numismatics- medals - military, metalcraft -
Melbourne Legacy
Badge, War Orphans Appeal Badge
An example of a War Orphans Appeal button badge. These badges were a precursor to the Legacy Badge appeals that occur annually. The age of this badge is not known, possibly from the 1940s. 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.An example of an early Legacy badge that was sold in the 1940s to raise money for war orphans.Round metal button badge with white background and the Legacy torch and wreath in a stapled in cardboard and plastic cover.Printed in red text 'War orphans appeal. Lest We Forget. 1/-'legacy appeal, fundraising -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Ribbons, Group 1, 4 ribbon group, Group 2, 4 ribbon Group, Group3, 2 Ribbon Group
WW 2, Korean War, VietnamWW2, Korean War, Vietnam War3 x Ribbon Bar Groupings. Group 1 - Korean War Service Medal, British Commonwealth Occupation Forces Medal, Australian Services Medal 1945-1975, United Nations Service Medal for Korea. Group 2 - War Medal 1939-1945, Australia Service Medal 1939 -1945, Australian Active Service Medal 1945 - 1975, Korea Medal. Group 3 - Vietnam Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal. -
City of Ballarat
Artwork, other - Public Artwork, Korea Malaya Borneo Vietnam War Memorial, 2000
Lest We Forget is a contemporary and crisp treatment, marking the sacrifices of Australian forces involved in the conflicts of South East Asia, including the Korean War 1950-53, the Malayan Emergency 1950-60, the Borneo Uprising 1962-64 and the Vietnam War 1962-72. A plaque was added in 2006 by the Victorian Vietnam Veterans Community in commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. The memorial is of historic significance to the people of BallaratLest We Forget is a contemporary and crisp treatment, marking the sacrifices of Australian forces involved in the conflicts of South East Asia, including the Korean War 1950-53, the Malayan Emergency 1950-60, the Borneo Uprising 1962-64 and the Vietnam War 1962-72. A plaque was added in 2006 by the Victorian Vietnam Veterans Community in commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. Lest We Forget/ Korea/ Malaya/ Borneo/ Vietnamkorean war, malayan emergency, borneo uprising, vietnam war, battle of long tan, war history, ballarat -
Lakes Entrance Regional Historical Society (operating as Lakes Entrance History Centre & Museum)
Book, RAAF Directorate of Public Relations, These Eagles, 1942
Story of RAAF at War- various war time stories WW2. Illustrated -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Postcard, Caire Tombeaux des Khalifes, c. 1915
Pte Charles Field Richardson served in the AIF in World War 1. Wounded at Gallipoli in 1915 he was to die of his wounds in Egypt.This work forms part of the collection assembled by the historian Dorothy Rogers, that was donated to the Kew Historical Society by her son John Rogers in 2015. The manuscripts, photographs, maps, and documents were sourced by her from both family and local collections or produced as references for her print publications. Many were directly used by Rogers in writing ‘Lovely Old Homes of Kew’ (1961) and 'A History of Kew' (1973), or the numerous articles on local history that she produced for suburban newspapers. Most of the photographs in the collection include detailed annotations in her hand. The Rogers Collection provides a comprehensive insight into the working habits of a historian in the 1960s and 1970s. Together it forms the largest privately-donated collection within the archives of the Kew Historical Society.Postcard, sent to Dorothy Rogers (later Dorothy Richardson) by her brother Charles Field Richardson from Egypt during World War 1.Dear Doss I am having such a good time have such a lot to telly & some nice things for you. brother Charliecharles field richardson, dorothy rogers, world war 1 -
Whitehorse Historical Society Inc.
Photograph, Mitcham War Memorial
The Mitcham War Memorial is now located in Halliday Park.in Mitcham Road.Black & white photo of the Mitcham War Memorial in the centre plantation west of Mitcham Road & Whitehorse road intersection. Allan's Butcher shop is on the left and the Post Office on the right.war memorial mitcham, war memorials -
Ballarat Heritage Services
Photograph - Photograph - Colour, Interior of Clunes Town Hall, 2016, 30/04/2016
The painted interior of the Clunes Town Hall is a war memorial A number of colour photographs showing the ipainted nterior of the Clunes Town Hall, including the World War One memorial which includes a rising sun painted onto an interior wall.clunes town hall, world war one memorial, rising sun, aif, architecture, clunes -
Melbourne Legacy
Photograph - Widows function, World War 1 Widows Lunch 1992, 1992
A special luncheon was held for World War I widows as a lead up to "Legacy Week". Legatees dressed up as moustached French waiters to add a bit of humour to the day. Due to its success it was held for a number of years. Seated with the widows is President Geoff Swan who was president in 1992. Also Sir Weary Dunlop attended. Another photo shows a film crew from SBS recording the event. Legatee Lucky Luscombe is seen serving bowls of food. Also President Swan presenting flowers to Audrey the lady who ran the kitchen. The WWI group would meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 11 at Legacy House for many years until their numbers dwindled.A record of the type of activities Legacy provided as a social outlet for the widows.Colour photo x 11 of a World War 1 widows lunch.widows, function -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph
Taken during World War I from the forecastle of a navy ship, the photograph depicts an eruption of water and smoke as a result of an underwater submarine being bombed from above.The naval war of World War I was a conflict unlike any previous one with the exception of the brief Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905), with naval warfare in World War I being mainly between the German forces and the Great Britain forces. The naval war of World War I proved largely a disappointment to officials on both sides as it did not produce the decisive fleet actions envisioned in the pre-war years. Nevertheless, the war at sea was a crucial part of World War I overall. The German use of the submarine against commerce not only threatened the Allied war effort, but also drew the United States into the conflict. In addition, the British economic blockade of Germany afforded by the Royal Navy’s command of the sea inflicted great damage on the war effort of Germany. Finally, the naval war held great ramifications for the future since many practices employed in the First World War were those pursued in the Second World War.Black and white rectangular reproduced photograph on matte photographic paperReverse: 6527/ (Crown copyright notice from the Imperial War Museum)/ Naval 23/ 23/ A99/ burke museum, world war 1, world war i, ww1, wwi, submarine, submarine warfare, navy, naval vessels -
The Foundling Archive
Photograph- golf
This photograph is part of the West Sydney Collection which depicts the period around Second World War in Australia from the perspective of a young unknown woman.This photograph is part of the West Sydney Collection which depicts the period around Second World War in Australia from the perspective of a young unknown woman.golf: sport; west sydney; australia -
The Foundling Archive
Photograph- girl and car
This photograph is part of the West Sydney Collection which depicts the period around Second World War in Australia from the perspective of a young unknown woman.This photograph is part of the West Sydney Collection which depicts the period around Second World War in Australia from the perspective of a young unknown woman.Pippy, outside Father Inghams Tarree 22.2.47west sydney: car; 1947; 1940's; aaustralia -
The Foundling Archive
Photograph
This photograph is part of the West Sydney Collection which depicts the period around Second World War in Australia from the perspective of a young unknown woman.This photograph is part of the West Sydney Collection which depicts the period around Second World War in Australia from the perspective of a young unknown woman.Barney Grimes, Mum, Mary Grimeswest sydney; australia; melanesia; polynesia; holiday; -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Photograph - Kew War Memorial, 1927
The Kew War Memorial was planned and constructed at the apex of Cotham Road and High Street, Kew. It was built to commemorate those soldiers from Kew who served in the First World War. The Memorial was designed by the architect Harry Tompkins. It was unveiled by the Governor of Victoria in 1925.An early photograph of this iconic Memorial that locates it in its context. Small black and white photographic positive showing the Kew War Memorial in 1927, two years after its opening. The shops, known then as 'The Block' can be seen behind the Memorial.Annotated verso "Kew Memorial"kew war memorial, war memorials -- kew -- victoria -- australia, architects - harold tompkins, cotham road, high street -- kew (vic.), wwi -
Dandenong/Cranbourne RSL Sub Branch
Radio, Tokyo Shibaura Electrical Co, LTD, Unknown
Vietnam War historical significanceAM - FM Transistor radio, square in shape, pop up swivel antenna. Was used in Vietnam War 1969. Battery operated and 240 volts. Wooden handle and metal frame with original earplug.Toshiba model No 15L -822F -
Tatura Irrigation & Wartime Camps Museum
Document, F. H. Prager & Co, Personal recollections, June 1988
It tells of the 3 brothers Prager, the expansion of their business and internment. 3 pages. the next 3 pages are in German. The following page Nicola & Giovanni Cua camp 2. Nicolas revisits camp 2 1991. Next page a Japanese internee told by his daughter Fujiko Kawaguchi and the remainder excerpts from archives. Also a couple of pages in German, hand written and typed.a grey plastic folder, black spine and on white paper is the inscription as indicated below.Personal Recollections - internees and prisoners of war - World War 2 campsprager brothers, fujiko kawaguchi, nicola cua -
Melbourne Legacy
Newspaper - Document, article, 25,000 Returned Soldiers, Headed By Their Leader, Sir John Monash, Marched Past The Cenotaph On Anzac Day, 05/05/1928
A newspaper photo of returned servicemen and nurses marching past the original First World War memorial during an Anzac Day march in 1928. It was published as a centre page spread on 5 May 1928 in the The Weekly Times. '25,000 Returned Soldiers, Headed By Their Leader, Sir John Monash, Marched Past The Cenotaph On Anzac Day.' A war memorial to the 1914-1918 war was originally erected in Spring Street outside the Victorian Parliament Building (at that time it was the being used by the Australian Federal Parliament, from 1901-1927 when it moved to Canberra). Anzac Day services were held at this memorial in the 1920s and early 1930s. Items were in an envelope with other photos and programmes from different items relating to the Shrine of Remembrance - including discussions on its location and design. Labelled 'Shrine of Remembrance S1 - S14' it was part of an old archive numbering system (S=Shrine), that showed there has been efforts in the past to collect, order and save items of Legacy's history. From articles in Trove: The temporary cenotaph was the original first world war memorial until the Shrine of Remembrance was dedicated in 1937. The cenotaph was a half size replica of the London Symbol of Remembrance in Whitehall. It was made from timber and plaster and was initially meant to only last for the 1926 Anzac day service and be removed. With annual upkeep it remained until at least 1934 when ex-service men proceeded from the incomplete Shrine to the cenotaph on the steps of Parliament House on Anzac day.A record of an Anzac Day ceremony at the old First World War memorial in Spring Street in 1928. Not many photos are available of the original memorial. The size of the march past (reported as 25,000 soldiers) points to the enormous number of Victorians who served in the First World War. Black and white newspaper article about ANZAC Day at the old First World War memorial in Spring Street in 1928.Title: '25,000 Returned Soldiers, Headed By Their Leader, Sir John Monash, Marched Past The Cenotaph On Anzac Day.' Caption: " Scene at Parliament House, Melbourne, where the Governor, Lord Somers, took the salute, as returned Soldiers and Nurses passed, on they way to the Commemorative Service at the Exhibition.'anzac day, wreath laying ceremony -
Melbourne Legacy
Photograph - Widows function, World War 1 Widows Lunch 1995, 1992
A special luncheon was held for World War 1 widows as a lead up to "Legacy Week". Legatees dressed up as waiters to add a bit of humour to the day. Also Legatee Eddie Jowett led some singing. Due to its success it was held for a number of years. Seated with the widows is President David Millie who was president in 1995. Another shows Legatee George Woodward laughing with widow Mollie Thiele (in purple). Also President Millie in the kitchen thanking Audrey, the lady who ran the kitchen, and her helpers. Audrey is on the far right, next to her is Joan Miller. The WWI group would meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 11 at Legacy House for many years until their numbers dwindled.A record of the type of activities Legacy provided as a social outlet for the widows.Colour photo x 4 of a World War 1 widows lunch.widows, function, george woodward -
Ballarat Heritage Services
Photograph, William Botten, c1916
Bill Botten was born in Carisbrook . He enlisted for service during World War One on 22 August 2016. He died in 1945. BOTTEN.— On October 21, at his residence, Simpson street, Carisbrook, William Alfred, dearly loved husband of Fanny, and loved father of Bernie, Peggy (Mrs. J. Meagher), Mollie (Mrs. N. Trembath), Jack, Flora (Mrs. W. Baker), Bill, and Bob, aged 69 years. (The Argus, 22 Oct 1945) Photograph of an Australian World War One Soldier, William Alfred (Bill) Botten. During World War One his wife was Ann Botten of Green Street, Carisbrook. He rerurned to Australia on 31 October 1917 after an appendectomy. em22, carisbrook, william botten -
Melbourne Legacy
Document, Members of the Melbourne Intermediate Legacy Club who served in the Defence Services 1939-1945
A list of 22 members of the ILC who had served in the second world war and their details if known. A second note mentions that of 42 ILC members, there were 33 that served in the second world war. 12 in the AIF, 12 in the AMF, 8 in the RAAF, and 1 in the Indian Army. The balance were in reserved occupations or had ill health. Ranks held included 2 Majors, 2 Captains, 2 Lieutenants, and 1 pilot officer. Also noted was that 2 became POWs and one in the RAAF served in the No 10 Squadron. Background: The ILC was formed in 1929. The idea of the club sprang from those boys who had outgrown the Junior Legacy Club. In the early days it fielded a lacrosse team and it was this that mainly held the members together. Enthusiasm wained after a few years as it lacked a solid objective. The answer came from one of its members and in 1938 they founded the Don Esses Club. This was a club for the children of incapacitated ex-servicemen which met every Thursday night at 7.30 run by the ILC members. The name came from the signallers' code Disabled Servicemen's Sons. During the second world war 80% of the members of the ILC enlisted in the services. Leaving only 8 members that could not join due to ill health or reserved occupations. They continued the Don Esses and whatever aid they could to Legacy. ILC members had always helped Legacy where possible including being camp leaders or camp staff, with the annual demonstrations, and coffee stalls at the ANZAC dawn service. Post second world war some ILC members were nominated into Legacy, others drifted away in civil occupations. It was found difficult to recruit new blood into the ILC and eventually membership waned when the boys from the Don Esses clubs found other youth activities to join. The ILC ceased to meet regularly in the mid fifties. However a strong comradeship still existed between members and they would meet in one anothers homes. Members were always ready to help the senior Legacy Club in any way in their power and still helped at Christmas parties and summer camps. ILC was a service rendering organisation and was self governing. Non-sectarian and non-political, the members were ex-junior legatees over 18 years of age. After serving in World War 2 members were eligible to become members of Legacy. Was in a folder of material collated about the ILC by an early archive committee. List included: Edward Kennedy Graham Billiet, Cecil Waters, Len Frazer, Jack Suggett, Bert Hollingsworth, Jack Belsey, Frank Bell, Norman Smith, Ron Rimmer, Bill (Spud) Murphy, Jim Day, Don Cameron, Bill Johnston, Frank 'Happy' Holliday, Alan Williams, Doug Wade, Jack Rintoul, Bill Stanbridge, Alan Francis, Chris JorgensonA record of where the ILC members served in world war two and some of the ranks they attained. The ILC was active from 1929 to 1974.White lined note paper with handwritten list of members who served in World War 2.ilc, membership, junior legatee -
Federation University Historical Collection
Sign, Red Cross Junior Competition, c1943
This sign was made by Keith Rash, most probably made during World War 2 (1939-1945)Original artwork sign on strawboard relating to a Red Cross Junior Competition with proceeds to the Prisoners of War Fund. The artwork shows a small child dropping a coin into a box.keith rash, red cross, prisoner of war, prisoner of war fund, signwriter, world war, warld war two -
Mont De Lancey
Certificate, 1916
Certificate acknowledging Mr Thomas W. Gaudion's Voluntary Active Service during World War 1.White coloured Certificate from Shire of Lilydale to Thomas W. Gaudion acknowledging Voluntary Active Service during 1st World War, with a red Wax Seal."Shire of Lilydale, Lilydale 1st March 1916 to Mr Thomas Gaudion......" Red Wax Seal in lower left of Certificatecertificates of appreciation -
Dandenong/Cranbourne RSL Sub Branch
Book, "The Changing of the Guard"
Pictorial record of incidents that occurred during both World WarsLarge Green Leather covered book with Gold Australian Coat of Arms on front.Reproduced from Official and other photographs of the two World Wars. Published under the auspices of the Board of Management of the Australian War Memorial. Contains Dedication - To the men and women of the Empire who in every hour of danger , face the storm … who in their willing sacrifice are bearing the brunt of a struggle for the peace and security of all peoples.world war 1, ww1, world war one, world war 2, ww2, world war two -
Red Cliffs Military Museum
Replica Medals, WW1 & WW11 Medals Awarded to Nathaniel Barclay, (estimated); between 1914 & 1945
Born 5th October 1895 in Adavoyle, United Kindom Occupation Grocer and later horticulturalist Married after WW1- Wife - Daisy Florence Barclay World War One Staff Sergeant Regimental Number 2139 Enlisted AIF in Melbourne 29th December 1914, having previously served 3 months with the Ulster Volunteers and to camp Broadmeadows, to depot Battalion 29th December 1914. Embarked from Melbourne for the middle East with 3rd reinforcement group for the 5th Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 1st Division, 25th February 1915 per transport 'Runic'. Disembarked Alexandria and to camp Heliopolis, Egypt. Operation Gallipoli from 5th May 1915 with 5th Battalion. Sick with dental problems 2nd Field Ambulance 17th September 1915. To hospital Lemnos 20th December 1915. To Alexandria hospital with pluerisy 12th January 1916. Returned to Australia with enteric per 'Nestor' 9th February 1916.To duty Broadmeadows 4th April 1916. Wmbarked with 4th reinforcements group for the 58th Battalion, 15th Brigade per transport 'Themistocles' 1st August 1916 Returned to England 14th September 1916. Operations France and Flanders from 6th December 1916. To 59th Battalion 29th December 1916. To 5th Division Infantry School 18th February to 28th March 1917 as Lance Corporal. Corporal 7th April 1917. Sergeant 2nd May 1917. To 3rd Southern General Hospital Oxford 4th October 1917. Returned to Melbourne per Transport 'Persic' 12th February 1918. Discharged 14th March 1918. Second World War. Regimental Number V5571 Emlisted in the Australian Military Forces in Royal Park, Melbourne 22nd August 1940 and to 2nd Infantry Training Battalion, Fyansford. Staff Sergeant 24th August 1940. To 2/14th Training Battalion Wangaratta 11th October 1940. To 2/23rd Training Battalion, Wangaratta 18th October, 1940.To Southern Command Training School 26th May 1941.to Camp Bonegilla 15th May 1942. To Camp Caulfield 11th November 1942. Discharged to Reserve Occupation 19th November 1942. Remarks. Awarded 1915-15 Star, British War Medal, and Victory Medal 1914-1919 Awarded Distinguished Conduct Medal as Lance Corporal vide London Gazette 30111 of 31st July 1918. Citation for action on 9th July 1917 during the third Battle of Ypres reads- " For conspicous gallantry and devotion to duty. He rendered invaluable service during operation in carrying important messsages through heavy fire" Awarded War Medal and Australian Service Medal 1939-45 in 1951. Described as 71.5inches tall, medium complexion, blue eyes and brown hair. He died 11th September 1962.WW1 - Distinguished Conduct Medal 1914/15 Star 1914/18 British War Medal Victory Medal WW11 - 1939/45 British War Medal Australian Service Medal 1939/45 All medals with associated coloured ribbons. These are replica medals made in the exact metals as the originals. Also in display is a record of War Service which can be found in the narrative. Noneservice, medal, 1918, citation, ww1, military, gazette, london, ww11, medals, 30111, 31st, july, ypres, distinguished -
Whitehorse Historical Society Inc.
Letter - Correspondence, WW2 army camp, Esdale Road, Nunawading, n.d
Note from Beryl Gray on an interview with Mr Mion of Haines St., Mitcham. Who stated that there was an army camp in Esdale Road, Nunawading during World War 2.Note from Beryl Gray on an interview with Mr Mion of Haines St., Mitcham who stated that there was an army camp in Esdale Road, Nunawading during World War 2.Note from Beryl Gray on an interview with Mr Mion of Haines St., Mitcham. Who stated that there was an army camp in Esdale Road, Nunawading during World War 2.mion, (mr), world war 1939-1945, esdale street, nunawading -
Otway Districts Historical Society
Book, Lavers Hill Choir recalls end of World Wart II, 3 Jun 1995
A programme for the Choir covering songs during World War II with spoken word interludes.The Otways remembers World War II. Display and concert. Lavers Hill Choir. Lavers Hill (Vic); Lavers Hill Choir; 1995. 4 p. Soft cover.lavers hill choir; world war ii; recollections; memories; -
Port Melbourne Historical & Preservation Society
Document, ANZAC 2014-2018 - Centenary. Sharing Victoria's stories and Making connections, 19 Oct 2014
Collected by Ann Gibson at the event on Sunday October 19, 2014 at Princes Pier, Port Melbourne. The commemoration of the departure of the World War I first convoy 1914.'ANZAC 2014-2018 - Centenary. Sharing Victoria's stories and Making connections" "Victoria's World War One Legacy - Recipients of the Victoria Cross" - bookletwar - world war i, piers and wharves - princes pier, celebrations fetes and exhibitions, armed services - army, armed services - navy, anzac centenary, city of port phillip, victorian government, world war i first convoy, victoria cross -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Magazine, Black & White Budget
The South African (Boer)War 1899-1902 involved troops from the British Empire including Australia. This magazine filled a growing demand for news back home.Tho magazines published in 13 and 27 January 1900, thirty two pages of illustrations and summary of recent events in the South African (Boer) War.boer war, south artica -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Badge - Fundraising Button, Our Day Nation & Honor, 1915-1919
Frances Rigg was a local business identity in Kew, at one stage managing the local branch of the English, Scottish and Australian (ES&A) Bank at 175 High Street from c. 1920 until the 1940s. After Francis Rigg’s death, the collection of buttons and medallions was inherited by his son, Ken Rigg (1922-2014). The collection was subsequently donated to the Kew Historical Society in 2015 by Francis' grandson, Adrian Rigg, at the time of the Gallipoli & Beyond Commemoration in 2015. The collection covers a period of almost 40 years. The majority of the buttons are patriotic buttons, issued and sold during and immediately after the First World World War (1914-1918) to raise funds for national and overseas causes. The collection also includes a number of locally significant sporting event buttons and sporting club medallions, issued in the 1920s and 1930s.Patriotic and other pressed tin buttons and badges were produced in large numbers in the first decades of the twentieth century. By nature, insubstantial and ephemeral, they have not always survived. The collections of badges, buttons and medallions in the Kew Historical Society collection is homogenous and yet diverse, ranging from buttons sold to raise funds for the war efforts in 1914-18 and 1939-45, to those used at festivals and sporting events. Because of the manufacturing process, many surviving buttons and badges have been affected by inadequate storage, suffering from oxidisation and physical damage. These survivors are now historically and socially significant artefacts, revealing much about the attitudes and values of the period in which they were produced. Their widespread distribution means that they are frequently significant at a local, state, national and international level.A First World War button inscribed ‘Our Day Nation & Honour’, and featuring an image of British nurse Edith Louisa Cavell, who died at the hands of a German firing squad in 1915. She became a heroic figure of sacrifice in World War I, and was used to increase military recruitment in Britain and win support for the war in the United States."Our Day / Nation & Honor"patriotic buttons, first world war (1914-18), badges -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book, War Economy 1939-1942
This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1942 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. WARRNAMBOOL PUBLIC LIBRARY The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) was formed by a voluntary community group in 1863, within six years of Warrnambool’s beginnings, and its Reading Room opened in 1854. The WMI operated until 1963, at which time it was one of the oldest Mechanics’ Institutes in Victoria. Mechanics’ Institutes offered important services to the public including libraries, reading rooms and places to display and store collections of all sorts such as curiosities and local historical relics. In 1886 a Museum and Fine Arts Gallery were added to the WMI and by the beginning of the 20th century there was also a billiards room and a School of Art. By this time all Mechanics’ Institutes in country Victoria had museums attached. Over the years the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Library was also known as the Warrnambool Public Library the Warrnambool Library and the Free Library. Early funding from the government was for the “Free Library”. The inscription in a book “Science of Man” was for the “Warrnambool Public Library”, donated by Joseph Archibald in 1899. Another inscription in the book “Catalogue of Plants Under Cultivation in the Melbourne Botanic Gardens 1 & 2, 1883” was presented to the “Warrnambool Library” and signed by the author W.R. Guilfoyle. In 1903 the Warrnambool Public Library decided to add a Juvenile Department to library and stock it with hundreds of books suitable for youth. In 1905 the Public Library committee decided to update the collection of books and added 100 new novels plus arrangements for the latest novels to be included as soon as they were available in Victoria. In July 1911 the Warrnambool Council took over the management of the Public Library, Art Gallery, Museum and Mechanics’ Institute and planned to double the size of the then-current building. In 1953, when Mr. R. Pattison was Public Librarian, the Warrnambool Public Library’s senior section 10,000 of the 13,000 books were fiction. The children’s section offered an additional 3,400 books. The library had the equivalent of one book per head of population and served around 33 percent of the reading population. The collection of books was made up of around 60 percent reference and 40 percent fiction. The library was lending 400 books per day. In 1963 the Warrnambool City Council allocated the site of the Mechanics’ Institute building, which included the Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery, for the new Municipal Offices and the Collections were dispersed until 1971. The Warrnambool Library took over the Mechanics’ Institute Library’s holdings on behalf of the Warrnambool City Council. Since the closure of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute the exact location and composition of the original WMI books and items has become unclear. Other materials have been added to the collection, including items from Terang MI, Warrnambool Court House and Customs House. Many of the books have been identified as the Pattison Collection, named after the Librarian who catalogued and numbered the books during his time as Warrnambool Public Librarian in the time before the Mechanics’ Institute closed. It seems that when Warrnambool became part of the Corangamite Regional Library some of the books and materials went to its head office in Colac and then back to Warrnambool where they were stored at the Art Gallery for quite some time. Some then went to the Warrnambool Historical Society, some stayed at the Art Gallery and some were moved to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. The various stamps and labels on the books held at Flagstaff Hill show the variety of the collection’s distribution and origin. The books in the collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village date from the 1850’s to the late 1950’s and include rare and valuable volumes. Many of the books are part of the “Pattison Collection” after the Warrnambool’s Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, and to reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. As with many Mechanics' Institutes in Australia, the one which operated in Warrnambool was established and overseen for many years by key individuals associated with the development of the city itself. The WMI publication collection is historically significant because of its association with local people, places and the key historical themes in the development of Warrnambool of rural development, industry, farming, education, and community. The collection documents and illustrates the changing interests, focus and tastes of Victorians, especially those in regional cities. Generally the individual items in the collection are not particularly rare, as examples of all probably exist in other public collections in Victoria. It is primarily because there are so very few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections in Victoria, which lends this overall collection its significance. Many items in the WMI Collection have the potential to support further research, both as individual objects and through the collection in its entirety. This material is significant for its ability to assist in the interpretation of the history of the area and adds to the general understanding of the development of the township. Many components of the WMI publication collection complement and reinforce the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum Collection, the Warrnambool Art Gallery Collection, and that in the Warrnambool Historical Society, and also contribute to a clearer understanding of the original Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute collections. This will greatly enhance the appreciation of the few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections across Victoria, and also in New South Wales. The similarities and differences between the small number of collections that have survived can provide further insights into how the people of Victoria in general, and Warrnambool in particular, constructed a civic culture of adult learning to foster an informed citizenry. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute publication collection is of both local and state significance. (This Statement of Significance is quoted from the Significance Assessment : Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Book Collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, February 2009, by Annette Welkamp, Cultural Connections, for Delise Oldfied, FHMV) References Juvenile Department in Warrnambool Public Library In August 1903 The Age newspaper reported in its Warrnambool news section that “With the object of discouraging boys from reading literature of the “penny dreadful” class, the committee of the local public library has decided to open a juvenile department and to stock it with hundreds of suitable books attractive to the youthful mind.” 100 new novels added to Warrnambool Public Library Shelves In November 1905 The Argue newspaper’s Warrnambool news section announced “The committee of the Public Library is bringing the collection of books more up to date. It has recently added 100 new novels to the shelves, and arrangements have been made for a supply of the latest novels immediately they arrive in the state.” Warrnambool Town Council takes over Mechanics’ Institute, Art Gallery, Public Library, Museum – and will double the building’s size In 1912 The Age reported in its Warrnambool news section “Considerable improvements are being effected by the town council in the most picturesque part of Liebig Street. Between the fire brigade station and the mechanics’ institute and art gallery a vacant block of land is being transformed a garden for carpet bedding and flowering plants. The council, which recently took over the control of the art gallery, public library, museum and mechanics’ institute, is doubling the size of the substantial stone building containing these institutions. The new building will contain a supper room for use in conjunction with functions in the town hall, adjoining, and a new reading room.” Mr Pattison, Public Librarian, says Library has a book per head of population In 1953 The Age reported an interview with the Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison, who said “Warrnambool has an insatiable thirst for reading. And its reading recipe contains a strong dash of fiction – 73 percent of it. Fiction makes up 10,000 of the 13,000 books in the senior section of the public library. That works out at a book per head of population. Warrnambool today is really book minded. This city has an almost insatiable thirst for knowledge as well as fiction. We’re lending 400 books a day. We supply 33 percent of the reading population of Warrnambool.” The reporter goes on to say “Warrnambool Public Library also has an ultra-modern children’s section of 3,400 books, open to every boy and girl attending school in Warrnambool. Mr Pattison hopes to show travel-talk films and install a radiogram in the children’s section “later on”. But it won’t disturb adult reading next door because the junior section is sound proof. “ Mechanics’ Institutes and Museums Mechanics’ Institutes were important sites for collecting in country Victoria … Warrnambool … all had museums attached to Mechanics’ Institutes before the end of the twentieth century” Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Ms Tierney said FHMV holds the collection of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute in three different locations on its site. “The Mechanics’ Institute opened in 1871, was demolished in the 1960s and was one of the oldest in Victoria. “FHMV intends to create a new storage area and bring the collection together in one place which will greatly facilitate access and research. “The collection consists of books and archives dating from the 1850s to 1959s. “Some of the books are rare and valuable but it is unclear as to their relevance to the history of Warrnambool or Victoria,” Ms Tierney said. Warrnambool TAFE History South West TAFE has a long and proud history of providing technical and specialist education, with links back to the formation of the Mechanic’s Institute in 1853. Warrnambool Art Gallery’s History The Warrnambool Art Gallery began in 1886 when retired police officer Joseph Archibald opened its doors in a building behind the mechanics institute in Liebig Street. The Gallery began with an eclectic mix of artworks and museum curios. Before long Archibald mobilised public support and paid for a new gallery annex. Loans and grants allowed the Gallery collection to grow with significant early acquisitions by French, German, and Belgian artists, which were less expensive than British works. Despite its enthusiastic start the economic downturn of the 1890s brought the Collection to a halt. In 1910 the Council took control of the Mechanics Institute and ran the Gallery there until 1963 when the building was allocated for municipal offices. The Collection was dispersed on loan to galleries in Shepparton and Hamilton and not reunited until 1971. In 1986 the Gallery’s Centenary year, a permanent home was built next to the ‘Civic Green’ and named in memory of one its champions Sir Fletcher Jones O.B.E. 2016 Warrnibald Entries Joseph Archibald established the Warrnambool Museum and Art Gallery in 1886 while his son Jules Francois Archibald founded the Archibald Prize through his bequest of 1919. His aim was to foster portraiture, as well as support artists, and perpetuate the memory of great Australians. War Economy 1939-194 Australia in the War of 1939-1945 Author: S J Butlin Publisher: Australian War Memorial Date: 1955Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 994.04 AUS Front pastedown endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Public Library Front loose endpaper has a sticker from Corangamite Regional Library Servicewarrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, pattison collection, warrnambool library, ralph eric pattison, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, war economy 1939-194, australia in the war of 1939-1945, s j butlin, australian war memorial