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Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Container - Ink Bottle, Prior to 1878
This design of ink bottle was commonly referred to as a ‘penny ink well’ because it was very inexpensive to produce. It is also known as a dwarf ink bottle. Pen and ink has been in use for hand writing from about the seventh century up until the mid-20th century up until around the mid-19th century a quill pen made from a bird’s feather was used. In the 1850s the steel point pen was invented and could be manufactured on machines in large quantities. In the 1880s a successful portable fountain pen was designed, giving a smooth flowing ink and ease of use replacing the quill or dip pen. History of the Loch Ard: The Loch Ard got its name from "Loch Ard" a loch that lies to the west of Aberfoyle, and the east of Loch Lomond. It means "high lake" in Scottish Gaelic. The vessel belonged to the famous Loch Line which sailed many vessels from England to Australia. The Loch Ard was built in Glasgow by Barclay, Curle & Co. in 1873, the vessel was a three-masted square-rigged iron sailing ship that measured 79.87 meters in length, 11.58 m in width, and 7 m in depth with a gross tonnage of 1693 tons with a mainmast that measured a massive 45.7 m in height. Loch Ard made three trips to Australia and one trip to Calcutta before its fateful voyage. Loch Ard left England on March 2, 1878, under the command of 29-year-old Captain Gibbs, who was newly married. The ship was bound for Melbourne with a crew of 37, plus 17 passengers. The general cargo reflected the affluence of Melbourne at the time. Onboard were straw hats, umbrellas, perfumes, clay pipes, pianos, clocks, confectionery, linen, and candles, as well as a heavier load of railway irons, cement, lead, and copper. There were other items included that were intended for display in the Melbourne International Exhibition of 1880. The voyage to Port Phillip was long but uneventful. Then at 3 am on June 1, 1878, Captain Gibbs was expecting to see land. But the Loch Ard was running into a fog which greatly reduced visibility. Captain Gibbs was becoming anxious as there was no sign of land or the Cape Otway lighthouse. At 4 am the fog lifted and a lookout aloft announced that he could see breakers. The sheer cliffs of Victoria's west coast came into view, and Captain Gibbs realised that the ship was much closer to them than expected. He ordered as much sail to be set as time would permit and then attempted to steer the vessel out to sea. On coming head-on into the wind, the ship lost momentum, the sails fell limp and Loch Ard's bow swung back towards land. Gibbs then ordered the anchors to be released in an attempt to hold their position. The anchors sank some 50 fathoms - but did not hold. By this time the ship was among the breakers and the tall cliffs of Mutton Bird Island rose behind. Just half a mile from the coast, the ship's bow was suddenly pulled around by the anchor. The captain tried to tack out to sea, but the ship struck a reef at the base of Mutton Bird Island, near Port Campbell. Waves subsequently broke over the ship and the top deck became loosened from the hull. The masts and rigging came crashing down knocking passengers and crew overboard. When a lifeboat was finally launched, it crashed into the side of Loch Ard and capsized. Tom Pearce, who had launched the boat, managed to cling to its overturned hull and shelter beneath it. He drifted out to sea and then on the flood tide came into what is now known as Lochard Gorge. He swam to shore, bruised and dazed, and found a cave in which to shelter. Some of the crew stayed below deck to shelter from the falling rigging but drowned when the ship slipped off the reef into deeper water. Eva Carmichael a passenger had raced onto the deck to find out what was happening only to be confronted by towering cliffs looming above the stricken ship. In all the chaos, Captain Gibbs grabbed Eva and said, "If you are saved Eva, let my dear wife know that I died like a sailor". That was the last Eva Carmichael saw of the captain. She was swept off the ship by a huge wave. Eva saw Tom Pearce on a small rocky beach and yelled to attract his attention. He dived in and swam to the exhausted woman and dragged her to shore. He took her to the cave and broke the open case of brandy that had washed up on the beach. He opened a bottle to revive the unconscious woman. A few hours later Tom scaled a cliff in search of help. He followed hoof prints and came by chance upon two men from nearby Glenample Station three and a half miles away. In a complete state of exhaustion, he told the men of the tragedy. Tom then returned to the gorge while the two men rode back to the station to get help. By the time they reached Loch Ard Gorge, it was cold and dark. The two shipwreck survivors were taken to Glenample Station to recover. Eva stayed at the station for six weeks before returning to Ireland by steamship. In Melbourne, Tom Pearce received a hero's welcome. He was presented with the first gold medal of the Royal Humane Society of Victoria and a £1000 cheque from the Victorian Government. Concerts were performed to honour the young man's bravery and to raise money for those who lost families in the disaster. Of the 54 crew members and passengers on board, only two survived: the apprentice, Tom Pearce, and the young woman passenger, Eva Carmichael, who lost her family in the tragedy. Ten days after the Lochard tragedy, salvage rights to the wreck were sold at auction for £2,120. Cargo valued at £3,000 was salvaged and placed on the beach, but most washed back into the sea when another storm developed. The wreck of Lochard still lies at the base of Mutton Bird Island. Much of the cargo has now been salvaged and some items were washed up into Lochard Gorge. Cargo and artefact's have also been illegally salvaged over many years before protective legislation was introduced in March 1982. One of the most unlikely pieces of cargo to have survived the shipwreck was a Minton majolica peacock- one of only nine in the world. The peacock was destined for the Melbourne 1880 International Exhibition. It had been well packed, which gave it adequate protection during the violent storm. Today the Minton peacock can be seen at the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum in Warrnambool. From Australia's most dramatic shipwreck it has now become Australia's most valuable shipwreck artifact and is one of very few 'objects' on the Victorian State Heritage Register.This ink well is historically significant as it represents methods of hand written communication that were still common up until the mid-20th century, when fountain pens and ballpoint pens took over in popularity and convenience. The shipwreck of the Loch Ard is of significance for Victoria and is registered on the Victorian Heritage Register ( S 417). Flagstaff Hill has a varied collection of artefact's from Loch Ard and its collection is significant for being one of the largest accumulation of artefact's from this notable Victorian shipwreck of which the subject items are a small part. The collection's objects give us a snapshot of how we can interpret the story of this tragic event. The collection is also archaeologically significant as it represents aspects of Victoria's shipping history that allows us to interpret Victoria's social and historical themes of the time. Through is associated with the worst and best-known shipwreck in Victoria's history.Stoneware penny Ink bottle ironstone salt-glazed, stoneware cylindrical shape with small mouth and squat neck, broad shoulders brown colour, . with light coloured encrustation spots.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, flagstaff hill maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, loch line, loch ard, captain gibbs, eva carmichael, tom pearce, glenample station, mutton bird island, loch ard gorge, penny ink well, writing equipment, domestic, stoneware, clay, ceramic, pottery, ink well, inkwell, ink bottle, dip pen, ink, hand writing, business, vintage, dwarf ink -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Functional object - Cigarette Lighter, c. 1950
Possibly acquired by seafarer Mr Arthur Dixon who served in WW2 merchant vessels. The origin of the lighters appears to be Austria and could have been acquired either during or post his war service. Initial research indicates an approximate date of 1950s for date of manufacture.See Donor details 1727-1737.2 Small, cylindrical, fluted, polished, stainless steel cigarette lighters, with flint action. Includes a flint gauge in the ignition unit. Runs on lighter fuel, with inbuilt wick. Accompanying bronze coloured metal case of flints. Manufacturer name embossed on body. Lid incised with cylindrical grip of 4 ridges. Lighter1: PATENT/BORA/EXTRA/MADE IN/AUSTRIA (stamped alongside body of lighter) Lighter2: PATENT/Made/in/Austria/902. At right angles at base of lighter, REL Flints: Thorens (stamped in brand name logo style on body at right angle to lid)cigarette lighters, smoking accessories, arthur dixon, bora cigarette lighter, arthur oswald dixon, sailors, seafarers, seamen, officers, smoking, lighters, bora -
Montmorency/Eltham RSL Sub Branch
Knife, Clasp, with Marlin Spike and Tin Opener - Carr Fast second pattern, World War Two era
Two patterns of clasp knife were supplied to the Australian Military Forces in the WW2 era by the Carr Fastener Company. These clasp knives were identical to those made by Whittingslowe Engineers that were made in the Whittingslowe factory under contract to Carr Fasteners. William Whittingslowe had a close association with Carr Fasteners prior to WW2 and had been Chairman of Carr Fasteners for some time.Smaller sized canoe shaped body military steel clasp knife. The clasp knife is the Carr Fast second pattern with the improved tin opener, manufactured in Australia in the World War Two era. The clasp knife has a blade, a tin/bottle opener, a marline spike as well as a screw driver and a copper wire shackle used to attach the knife to a lanyard or belt clip. The body of the knife is held together by steel rivets. Indentations to aid opening are located on the top RHS of the blade, and on the top LHS of the tin opener. The end of the tin opener is shaped to a point.CARR FAST CO AUST D (broad arrow pattern) Dclasp knife, world war two, australian military forces, steel -
Montmorency/Eltham RSL Sub Branch
Knife, Clasp, with Marlin Spike and Tin Opener, WW1 era to late 1930s
Knife, Clasp, with Marline Spike and Tin Opener, manufactured in England to the Standard Pattern 6353/1905, as modified in 1913 with specific dimensions to the tin opener. This pattern was used by British forces, and was one of the patterns issued to members of the Australian Infantry Force during WW1. This pattern was used up until the late 1930s, where it was superseded by other patterns.Knife, Clasp, with Marlin Spike and Tin Opener, manufactured to the standard British pattern 6353/1905, as modified in 1913 with changed dimensions for the tin opener. The hilt of the knife has two chequered pattern sides secured by five metal rivets. The underside of the hilt has two recesses to allow storage of the blade and the tin opener. A tapered steel Marline spike is mounted on the other side of the hilt, pivoting at the opposite end to the blade and tin opener. A copper wire shackle is also secured at this end of the hilt that was used to attach the knife to a lanyard or belt clip. A fingernail indentation is located near the top of one side of the blade. The tin opener has bevelled edges tapered to a point on one side, with a steel post mounted in the middle of the other side.J. CLARKE & SON SHEFFIELDknife, clasp, ww1, steel, marline spike, australian infantry force, milirary -
Montmorency/Eltham RSL Sub Branch
Headwear - Helmet, Steel
Steel Helmet, Model "M1916"ET6 (small indented stamp inside near rim). Indicates manufactured by Eisenhuth Werke Thale (spelling?) -
Greensborough Historical Society
Cut-throat razor, Invicta Razor, 1900c
This "Invicta" cut-throat razor was owned and used by Osborne (Ozz) Daniel John Hawkins Abbott of Albury, N.S.W."Cut-throat" razor, stainless steel with cream plastic handle in brown cardboard case"Invicta" inscribed on handle and razor; "The Invicta Razor, manufactured by E. M. Dickinson Ltd., Sheffield England" printed in silver on case; Manufacturer's name inscribed on razorrazors, cutthroat razors -
Glenelg Shire Council Cultural Collection
Machine - Sieve Vibrator, n.d
Port of Portland CollectionVibrator for grading samples of sand. 2 Horse Power electric motor, switch, power cord and plug assembly in green steel frame, container and sieve missing.Front: MANUFACTURED BY A.C. CHEERS, COBURG VICTORIAport of portland -
City of Moorabbin Historical Society (Operating the Box Cottage Museum)
Tools, Screwdriver large, c1900
A screwdriver is a tool, manual or powered, for turning (driving or removing) screws. A typical simple screwdriver has a handle and a shaft, and a tip that the user inserts into the screw head to turn it. The shaft is usually made of tough steel to resist bending or twisting. The tip may be hardened to resist wear, treated with a dark tip coating for improved visual contrast between tip and screw—or ridged or treated for additional 'grip'. Handle are typically wood, metal, or plastic and usually hexagonal, square, or oval in cross-section to improve grip and prevent the tool from rolling when set down. The handle and shaft of screwdrivers have changed considerably over time. The "Perfect Pattern Handle’ screwdriver was first manufactured by HD Smith & Company, which operated from 1850 to 1900. Screwdrivers were probably invented in the late 15th century, either in Germany or France when Screws were used to construct screw-cutting lathes, for securing breastplates, backplates, and helmets on medieval jousting armor—and eventually for multiple parts of the emerging firearms, particularly the matchlock. The jaws that hold the pyrites inside medieval guns were secured with screws, and the need to constantly replace the pyrites resulted in considerable refinement of the screwdriver. The screwdriver depended entirely on the screw, and it took several advances to make the screw easy enough to produce to become popular and widespread Canadian P.L. Robertson, though he was not the first person to patent the idea of socket-head screws, was the first to successfully commercialize them, starting in 1908. In Portland, Oregon, Henry F. Phillips patented his own invention, an improved version of a deep socket with a cruciform slot, today known as the Phillips Screw. Phillips offered his screw to the American Screw Company, and after a successful trial on the 1936 Cadillac, it quickly swept through the American auto industry. A main attraction for the screw was that conventional slotted screwdrivers could also be used on them, which was not possible with the Robertson Screw. A large steel screwdriver with worn wooden handlepioneers, early settlers, market gardeners, moorabbin, bentleigh, cheltenham, brighton, tools, craftsman, carpenters, , blacksmiths, builders, farmers, metalwork, woodwork, screws, philllips head screwdrivers, h.d.smith & co usa, p.l. robertson, henry f.phillips , oregon, canada, american screw company, -
City of Moorabbin Historical Society (Operating the Box Cottage Museum)
Personal Effects, cut-throat razor “Kings Crown’, 20thC
KING RAZOR MFG. CO.Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; moved to Indiana, Pennsylvania in 1911.ca. 1904 - 1919 Marked "Made in Germany", although the company's offices were located at 118 E. 28th Street, New York City. ca. 1934-1943 Used the "THE KING OF RAZORS REGISTERED TRADEMARK" trademark. 47-1/2 and Trademark: Crown and Wolf. For 500 years the Weyersberg family has been producing the finest blades in the world. For centuries the King’s Crown™ mark has been synonymous with exacting precision, hand-craftsmanship and quality. For the first few hundred years the blades, made in Solingen, Germany (the “City of Blades”), were for swords. As times changed, the Weyersberg family transitioned into making cut throat razors. The Greb. Weyersberg™ family business.continue to place our mark on each and every product sold as we have done since first being able to register it in 1774. For over a 100 years, the straight razors continue to be produced in Solingen (Germany). King's Crown™A folding cut-throat razoron blade ; KING'S / CROWN 'a crown trademark' RAZOR / EXTRA HOLLOW GROUND around 'trademark' ; SET READY FOR USE on steel handle; MADE IN GERMANYcut-throat razors, straight razors, shaving equipment, steel blades, swords, weyersberg family, king crown pty ltd., solingen, germany, early settlers, market gardeners, moorabbin, bentleigh, cheltenham, -
City of Moorabbin Historical Society (Operating the Box Cottage Museum)
Personal Effects, Cut-throat razor ‘Bengal’, early 20thC
Bengal’ THOMAS RADLEY CADMAN & SONS St. Mary's Road, Sheffield In business at least 1892-1919 Originally a trademark of Luke Cadman, Sheffield, England from ca. 1748-1906. From ca. 1906 - 1953, used by: Thomas Radley Cadman & Sons St. Mary's Road, Sheffield. In business at least between 1892 and 1965. The Cadman family originally came from Derbyshire and settled in the village of Eckington, to the south of Sheffield. Luke Cadman (1727-1788) moved to Sheffield in 1740 and became apprenticed into the cutlery trade. He became a freeman of the Cutlers' Company of Hallamshire in 1748 and was granted the trademark "BENGALL". (Another branch of the family was granted the trademark "SENEGALL"). Two of Cadman's sons followed him into the business. The Cadmans' business was located at various addresses in Sheffield over the years. In the early 1870s Thomas Radley Cadman (1833-1917) took over the firm. By 1933 the firm had diversified into safety razor and pocket knife manufacture. T.R.Cadman & Sons, Ltd. ceased trading in 1965. A man's cut-throat razor that folds to protect the blade inside the handle , 'Bengal'on blade 'BENGAL'cut-throat razors, straight razors, shaving equipment, steel blades, sheffield steel, england, thomas radley cadman & sons ltd., cutlers, steel manufacturers, ‘bengal’ trade mark, early settlers, market gardeners, moorabbin, bentleigh, cheltenham, -
City of Moorabbin Historical Society (Operating the Box Cottage Museum)
Scales, Shop,Imperial, ‘Dayton Scale’, c1900
This 'Dayton Scale' was used in a grocery shop in Moorabbin Shire in 20thC to measure grain, sugar, fruit, vegetables, lollies, etc as required by the shopkeeper for the purchase by customers. The Dayton Scale Company, originally known as the Computing Scale Company, built and marketed the first computing scale in 1891. It was part of the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company formed in 1911, and became an IBM division in 1933. The Dayton Scale Division was eventually sold to the Hobart Manufacturing Company when IBM decided to stop marketing scales to retail stores. The Computing Scale Company of Dayton was operated from 1891-1914 by two businessmen from Dayton, Ohio who purchased patents on the recently invented computing scale. It was merged with other companies to become the forerunner company for IBM. On July 20 1897 Mr CC Hobart & Herbert L. Johnson formed the Hobart Electrical Manufacturing Company in Troy, Ohio USA. 1915 Hobart continues its growth into the World market, opening a sales office in Australia. Dayton grocery scales, capacity 2 pounds, Imperial Measure. It is made from white painted steel with a large metal scoop that sits on 2 steel rods attached to a balance beam connected to a recording mechanism that displays the ‘weight’ in a glass framed gauge. In window of glass framed gauge ; DAYTON SCALE CO. / OHIO USA ; Computed from 0 – 2LB in 1oz sections weights, measures, shops, scales. balances, grocery stores, early settlers, moorabbin, bentleigh, cheltenham, dayton scales company, ibm pty ltd., hobarrt electrical manufacturing company, hobart c.c., johnson herbert l, computing scale company ohio -
City of Moorabbin Historical Society (Operating the Box Cottage Museum)
Kitchen Equipment, mechanical hand whisk c1940, c1940
An eggbeater is a hand-held device with a crank on the side geared to one or more beaters. The user grips the handle with one hand and operates the crank with the other, creating the rotary action. A hand-turned rotary egg beater was patented by J.F. and E.P. Monroe in 1859 in the US. This egg beater patent was one of the earliest bought up by the Dover Stamping Company, whose Dover egg beaters became a classic American brand. The Monroe design was also manufactured in England. In 1870, Turner Williams of Providence, R.I., invented another Dover egg beater model. The Hobart Manufacturing Company was an early manufacturer of large commercial mixers. A mechanical egg beater with a wooden handle and steel gears and crank c1940cooking, kitchen equipment, dairy, cakes, housework, early settlers, pioneers, baking, nutrition, blacksmiths, market gardeners, cake mixers, moorabbin, cheltenham, bentleigh, brighton, monroe e.p., monroe j.f., egg beaters, williams turner, dover stamping compant ltd., hobart manufacturing company ltd. -
Geelong RSL Sub Branch
Radio, ?1940
The Radio and others were made for the Sig Corps US Army, the serial No is 6269, the Order No is 4671-Phila-42The Radio is an originalSteel Black BoxThe Allen D Cardwell Manifacturing Group -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Saucer Ceramic, circa 1940's to 1950's
... from big steel manufacturing plants in England and Europe could ...This item was used by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in their mess rooms for their workers during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme. The imprint of the year "1921" was to identify the year that the SECV was formed and relieved the private VHEC (Victorian Hydro-Electric Company). As the scheme was of such a huge, isolated and time consuming nature the feeding of its workers was quite demanding of cutlery and crockery. The use of sturdy English cups and saucers was essential. The period of construction and the isolation of the Kiewa Valley area placed heavy demand for "solid" crockery that could wear abusive handling. This period in time was one when crockery, whether for domestic or commercial use, was imported from "mother" England. This scenario was more so for governmental bodies such as rail, jails and electricity providers than domestic users. The influx of cheaper Asian crockery had not yet begun.This type of crockery item was used by the thousands of SEC Victorian staff and construction workers involved in the building of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme, over the extensive period (1938 to 1961). This was a period when Government bodies and other semi- government organisations were still tied to the "establishments" of "mother" England. It was a period in Australia's development when the Asian influence was very weak and the established ties to England and Europe was still very strong. The majority of heavy equipment and machinery was either made in England or Europe. Local/European expertise in dam construction and water management in alpine terrain came from migrants or specially recruited English and Europe specialists. The quality of workmanship from big steel manufacturing plants in England and Europe could not be matched from anywhere else in the developed world.This item is a white ceramic State Electricity Commission Of Victoria saucer (tea /coffee). It is made in England and is of strong and durable ceramic. The bottom cup indent is for either tea or coffee cups of a similar ceramic structure. The 5mm thickness of the ceramic suggests this saucer belongs to a commercial kitchen environment and not domestic. The indent bottom of the saucer is 5mm deep with a side curvature ratio of 2:5. The ceramic is glazed to a commercial standard (worker's mess). See also KVHS 0128 (B to D)The seal of the State Electricity Commission Of Victoria is imprinted on the top inside rim within a curved scroll. Snuggled within the borders of the scroll is a banner with the five stars of the southern cross and an arm with a closed fist projecting from the top with five lightning bolts projecting outwards. On the underside "Vitrified sold by Cafe & Hotel Supplies Pty Ltd Dunn Bennett & Co. Ltd. Burslem Made in England"saucer, plate, secv, state electricity commission of victoria, crockery, mt beauty chalet, bogong mess hall -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Saucer Ceramic, from 1921 to 1961
... and European specialist. The quality of workmanship from big steel ...This item was used by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in their mess rooms for their workers during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme. The imprint of the year "1921" was to identify the year that the SECV was formed and relieved the private VHEC(Victorian Hydro-Electric Company). As the scheme was of such a huge, isolated and time consuming nature the feeding of its workers was quite demanding of cutlery and crockery. The use of sturdy English cups and saucers was essential. The period of construction and the isolation of the Kiewa Valley area placed heavy demand for "solid" crockery that could wear abusive handling. This period in time was one when crockery, whether for domestic or commercial use, was imported from "mother" England. This scenario was more so for governmental bodies such as rail, jails and electricity providers than domestic users. The influx of cheaper Asian crockery had not yet begun.This type of crockery item was used by the thousands of SEC Victorian staff and construction workers involved in the building of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme, over the extensive period (1938 to 1961). This was a period when Government bodies and other semi- government organisations were still tied to the "establishments" of "mother" England. It was a period in Australia's development when the Asian influence was very weak and the established ties to England and Europe was still very strong. The majority of heavy equipment and machinery was either made in England or Europe. Local/European expertise in dam construction and water management in alpine terrain came from migrants or English and European specialist. The quality of workmanship from big steel manufacturing plants in England and Europe could not be matched from anywhere else in the developed world.This item is a white ceramic saucer (tea /coffee). It is made in England and is of strong and durable ceramic. The bottom cup indent is for either tea or coffee cups of a similar ceramic structure. The 5mm thickness of the ceramic suggests this saucer belongs to a commercial kitchen environment and not domestic. The indent bottom of the saucer is 5mm deep with a side curvature ratio of 2:5. The ceramic is glazed to a commercial standard (worker's mess). See also KVHS 0128 (A,C and D) The seal of the State Electricity Commission Of Victoria is imprinted on the top inside rim within a curved scroll. Snuggled within the borders of the scroll is a banner with the five stars of the southern cross and an arm with a closed fist projecting from the top with five lightning bolts projecting outwards. On the underside "Vitrified sold by Cafe & Hotel Supplies Pty Ltd Dunn Bennett & Co. Ltd. Burslem Made in England"saucer, plate, secv, state electricity commission of victoria, crockery, mt beauty chalet, bogong mess hall -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Saucer Ceramic, from 1921 to 1961
... big steel manufacturing plants in England and Europe could ...This item was used by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in their mess rooms for their workers during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme. The imprint of the year "1921" was to identify the year that the SECV was formed and relieved the private VHEC (Victorian Hydro-Electric Company). As the scheme was of such a huge, isolated and time consuming nature the feeding of its workers was quite demanding of cutlery and crockery. The use of sturdy English cups and saucers was essential. The period of construction and the isolation of the Kiewa Valley area placed heavy demand for "solid" crockery that could wear abusive handling. This period in time was one when crockery, whether for domestic or commercial use, was imported from "mother" England. This scenario was more so for governmental bodies such as rail, jails and electricity providers than domestic users. The influx of cheaper Asian crockery had not yet begun.This type of crockery item was used by the thousands of SEC Victorian staff and construction workers involved in the building of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme, over the extensive period (1938 to 1961). This was a period when Government bodies and other semi- government organisations were still tied to the "establishments" of "mother" England. It was a period in Australia's development when the Asian influence was very weak and the established ties to England and Europe was still very strong. The majority of heavy equipment and machinery was either made in England or Europe. Local/European expertise in dam construction and water management in alpine terrain came from migrants and specialist recruited from England and Europe. The quality of workmanship from big steel manufacturing plants in England and Europe could not be matched from anywhere else in the developed world.This item is a white ceramic saucer (tea /coffee). It is made in England and is of strong and durable ceramic. The bottom cup indent is for either tea or coffee cups of a similar ceramic structure. The 5mm thickness of the ceramic suggests this saucer belongs to a commercial kitchen environment and not domestic. The indent bottom of the saucer is 5mm deep with a side curvature ratio of 2:5. The ceramic is glazed to a commercial standard (worker's mess). See also KVHS 0128 ( A,B&D)The seal of the State Electricity Commission Of Victoria is imprinted on the top inside rim within a curved scroll. Snuggled within the borders of the scroll is a banner with the five stars of the southern cross and an arm with a closed fist projecting from the top with five lightning bolts projecting outwards. On the underside "Vitrified sold by Cafe & Hotel Supplies Pty Ltd Dunn Bennett & Co. Ltd. Burslem Made in England"saucer, plate, secv, state electricity commission of victoria, crockery, mt beauty chalet, bogong mess hall -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Saucer Ceramic, Circa 1921
... for England and Europe. The quality of workmanship from big steel ...This item was used by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in their mess huts/rooms for their workers during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme. The imprint of the year "1921" was to identify the year that the SECV was formed and relieved the private VHEC (Victorian Hydro-Electric Company). As the scheme was of such a huge, isolated and time consuming nature the feeding of its workers was quite demanding of cutlery and crockery. The use of sturdy English cups and saucers was essential. The period of construction and the isolation of the Kiewa Valley area placed heavy demand for "solid" crockery that could wear abusive handling. This period in time was one when crockery, whether for domestic or commercial use, was imported from "mother" England. This scenario was more so for governmental bodies such as rail, jails and electricity providers than domestic users. The influx of cheaper Asian crockery had not yet begun.This type of crockery item was used by the thousands of SEC Victorian staff and construction workers involved in the building of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme, over the extensive period (1938 to 1961). This was a period when Government bodies and other semi- government organisations were still tied to the "establishments" of "mother" England. It was a period in Australia's development when the Asian influence was very weak and the established ties to England and Europe was still very strong. The majority of heavy equipment and machinery was either made in England or Europe. Local and European expertise in dam construction and water management in alpine terrain came from migrants for England and Europe. The quality of workmanship from big steel manufacturing plants in England and Europe could not be matched from anywhere else in the developed world. These saucers were used in the mess huts including later in the Bogong mess hall and the Mount Beauty Chalet.This item is a white ceramic saucer (tea /coffee). It is made in England and is of strong and durable ceramic. The bottom cup indent is for either tea or coffee cups of a similar ceramic structure. The 5mm thickness of the ceramic suggests this saucer belongs to a commercial kitchen environment and not domestic. The indent bottom of the saucer is 5mm deep with a side curvature ratio of 2:5. The ceramic is glazed to a commercial standard (worker's mess). See also KVHS 0128 (A to C)The seal of the State Electricity Commission Of Victoria is imprinted on the top inside rim within a curved scroll. Snuggled within the borders of the scroll is a banner with the five stars of the southern cross and an arm with a closed fist projecting from the top with five lightning bolts projecting outwards. On the underside "Vitrified sold by Cafe & Hotel Supplies Pty Ltd Dunn Bennett & Co. Ltd. Burslem Made in England"saucer, plate, secv, state electricity commission of victoria, crockery, mt beauty chalet, bogong mess hall -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Plate Bread & Butter, Circa 1921
... . The quality of workmanship from big steel manufacturing plants ...This item was used by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in their mess rooms for their workers during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme. The imprint of the year "1921" was to identify the year that the SECV was formed and relieved the private VHEC (Victorian Hydro-Electric Company). As the scheme was of such a huge, isolated and time consuming nature the feeding of its workers was quite demanding of cutlery and crockery. The use of sturdy English cups and saucers was essential. The period of construction and the isolation of the Kiewa Valley area placed heavy demand for "solid" crockery that could wear abusive handling. This period in time was one when crockery, whether for domestic or commercial use, was imported from "mother" England. This scenario was more so for governmental bodies such as rail, jails and electricity providers than domestic users. The influx of cheaper Asian crockery had not yet begun.This type of crockery item was used by the thousands of SEC Victorian staff and construction workers involved in the building of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme, over the extensive period (1938 to 1961). This was a period when Government bodies and other semi- government organisations were still tide to the "establishments" of "mother" England. It was a period in Australia's development when the Asian influence was very weak and the established ties to England and Europe was still very strong. The majority of heavy equipment and machinery was either made in England or Europe. Local expertise in dam construction and water management in alpine terrain came from migrants for England and Europe. The quality of workmanship from big steel manufacturing plants in England and Europe could not be matched from anywhere else in the developed world.This item is a white ceramic plate (bread & butter). It is made in England and is of strong and durable ceramic. The bottom of the plate is flat with edges sloping out (to position the bread) and the extended rim is to catch any spillages. The 5mm thickness of the ceramic suggests this plate belongs to a commercial kitchen/eating establishment (mess) and not a domestic dining room. The indent bottom of the plate is 5mm deep with a side curvature ratio of 2:5. The ceramic is glazed to a commercial standard (see KVHS 0128 for its saucer part of a dinner set.The seal of the State Electricity Commission Of Victoria is imprinted on the top inside rim within a curved scroll. Snuggled within the borders of the scroll is a banner with the five stars of the southern cross and an arm with a closed fist projecting from the top with five lightning bolts projecting outwards. On the underside "Vitrified sold by Cafe & Hotel Supplies Pty Ltd Dunn Bennett & Co. Ltd. Burslem Made in England"saucer, plate, secv, state electricity commission of victoria, crockery -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Bowl Ceramic, circa mid to late 1900's
... big steel manufacturing plants in England and Europe could ...This bowl was used by the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in their mess rooms for their workers during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. The imprint of the year "1921" was to identify the year that the SECV was formed which relieved the private VHEC (Victorian Hydro-Electric Company). As the scheme was of such a huge scope, isolated and time consuming nature, the feeding of its workers was quite demanding of cutlery and crockery. The use of sturdy English cups and saucers was essential. The period of construction and the isolation of the Kiewa Valley area placed heavy demand for "solid" crockery that could wear abusive handling. This period in time was one when crockery, whether for domestic or commercial use, was imported from "mother" England. This scenario was more so for governmental bodies such as rail, jails and electricity providers than domestic users. The influx of cheaper Asian crockery had not yet begun.This type of crockery item was used by the thousands of SEC Victorian staff and construction workers involved in the building of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme, over the extensive period (1938 to 1961). This was a period when Government bodies and other semi- government organisations were still tied to the "establishments" of "mother" England. It was a period in Australia's development when the Asian influence was very weak and the established ties to England and Europe was still very strong. The majority of heavy equipment and machinery was either made in England or Europe. Local/European expertise in dam construction and water management in alpine terrain came from migrants and specialist recruited from England and Europe. The quality of workmanship from big steel manufacturing plants in England and Europe could not be matched from anywhere else in the developed world.This item is a white ceramic State Electricity Commission of Victoria bowl. It is made in England and is of strong and durable ceramic. The 5mm thickness of the ceramic suggests this bowl (cereal/soup) belongs to a commercial kitchen environment and not domestic. The indent bottom of the bowl is 5mm deep with a side curvature ratio of 2:5. The ceramic is glazed to a commercial standard (worker's mess). See also KVHS 0128 (B to D) for other ceramic crockery. The seal of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria is imprinted on the top outside rim within a curved scroll and a raised fist with electrical "charges" extending out.. Snuggled within the borders of the scroll is a banner with the five stars of the Southern Cross . On the underside "Vitrified sold by Cafe & Hotel Supplies Pty Ltd Dunn Bennett & Co. Ltd. Burslem Made in England"ceramic crockery, plate, secv, state electricity commission of victoria, crockery, mt beauty chalet, bogong mess hall -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Drill Bit, Circa 1950
This is the cutting bit on the end of a drilling rod. It would have been used to drill holes into rock for placing explosives, for installing steel rock anchors, etc. In hard rock the bits need to be replaced regularly. Compressed air is blown through the holes near the tip of the bit to blow rock fragments out of the drill hole. The main drilling unit would have been powered by compressed air (Pneumatic). Rotary Air Blast Drilling. This drill bit was used by workers in the SEC Vic. Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme. This type of bit although strong needed replacing frequently when the rock composition (type of rock) was extremely compact. The configuration of the tip bit (four star like pattern) was to provide the "teeth" to tear into the rock. This bit was manufactured in 1949 however drilling for rock cores, in the Kiewa Valley and the Victorian Alps, was carried out from the late 1920's.This particular drill bit would have been used by construction workers to drill holes into rock for either explosives or for installing steel anchor points into the rock. The use of compressed air was not only for waste extraction but also for running the main drilling unit.This four star rotary air balst (RAB) drill bit has a central "blow" hole (compressed air outlet to remove the ground rock particles through four extraction holes). There are four raised cutting/grinding lugs which allows the air compression hole(incoming) to always have a clear unblock opening. Extracted ground material is "blown" out from the drill head via the larger hole created by the steel bit.Stamped on the bottom outside shank "FAGERSTA SECO SWEDEN" and below this "102 7041 01 05 049".sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, drilling into rocks in alpine regions -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Tester Direct Current, mid 1900's
This tester was used between 1950 and 1980's. As part of the Occupation, Health and Safety requirements, equipment used to monitor the performance of electricity producing generators, regularly, hand held testers were used to check the insulation and the "earth" pin were up the the required operational levels. As the generators and their ancillary monitoring equipment was spread over a large area and cumbersome to service small hand held devices were required. These had to always be safe for the user to operate. A selected range of high quality meters were recalibrated every two years in the Meter and Calibration Laboratory at Yarraville(near Melbourne) This meter is very significant to The Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme because it was an integral part of maintaining the electricity producing water driven generators of the power stations. The reason why this meter was so essential is that provided the safety check on equipment used to monitor each Hydro Generator that they were complying within the grid network parameters. Grid parameters are set so that if there is an electrical fault on the system, that fault can be attended to with a very small change in the output stability of each generator. It is essential that the voltage of the network remain within the set limits. Generators are at Dartmouth, Mackay, Clover, West Kiewa, Yarrawonga, Cain Curran and three Power Stations in the Thornton area.This hand driven current generator produces 500 volts by winding the handle(on funnel curved side) to keep the voltage constant(one minute per test). The whole body is made from caste aluminium. One of the functions of this meter is to test the isolation resistance of any equipment being tested. This is to see if that equipment is safe to handle(no electrical shocks). The second function is to test the earth pin of any portable electrical equipment. The turn key on one side can direct which function is required(marked insulation or continuity). On the top side(enclosed in a glass fronted marked scale) is a continuity scale(top) and an insulation scale(bottom). This is covered , when not in use by "flip up" lid with manufacturer's details and name of the instrument. Opposite the winder are two screw tight knobs. One marked earth(left side) and one marked line(right side). On the top and next to the glass windowed scales in a post manufacture SEC Vic equipment equipment ID number. For carrying purposes there is chromed steel (fold together) handle.The bottom of the unit has two metal "feet" 150mm long by 114mm wideManufacturer's details on top side "MEG" underneath "INSULATION AND CONTINUITY TESTER" below this "constant 500 VOLT pressure" below this "REGISTERED MEG MEGGER TRADE MARK" below this "REG DESIGN NO. 690326" below this "UNITED KINGDOM PATENT Nos. 193746, 197178, 198182, 202062, 202398, 204649, 350715" below this "SUPPLIED BY THE GENERAL ELECTRIC Co. Ltd OF ENGLAND" below this "MAGNET HOUSE, KINGSWAY LONDON W.C.2" 'sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine feasibility studies temperature, rainfall -
4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment Unit History Room
Field Ration Eating Device (FRED), CMI Pty Ltd, 2009
A standard component of Army ration packs from the 60's to about 2010A pressed steel tool with one end shaped for use as a spoon and the other incorporating a bottle opener. A 2 cm long fold out can opener blade is fitted to the side. A 3 mm hole is drilled through the device at the can opener end. Yellow (anodised ?) finish.Defence Stock No: "7330-66-010-0933" Contractor: "CMI" Year of Manufacture: "2009" Defence broad arrow.army, fred, rations, can opener, ration packs, cmi, field rations eating device -
4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment Unit History Room
Helmet, Steel British, Circa 1939-1945
Background unknownThis helmet although manufactured in WW2, is an almost identical style to the WW1 helmet worn by soldiers of the 4th Light Horse in France and Belgium.helmet steel british, helmet steel british -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Sewing Machine - Singer
This sewing machine was bought by Alex Craig's dad in 1942 for his wife whom he married in 1943. Alex's grandmother used it in 1942. It still works (2013).Historical: Type of sewing machine used by S.E.C.V. wives living in Mt Beauty during the 1940's, 1950's and 1960's. Ladies made the family's clothes and sewed for the Annual Church and School fetes. eg. children's clothes and dolls' clothes. They bought dozens of dolls and made 'fairy' dresses for them using coloured netting.Singer sewing machine - brown wood lid & base. Handle on top of inside of lid as is the wooden bench that clips on to the side of the machine and also the steel knee lever that fits into the front of the machine. Black steel machine with silver fittings. Brown and white electric cord plugged in. "Singer" on front centre of lid. On machine - "Singer" above light. "The Singer manufacturing Co. / Manufactured in Great Britain" top of machine. "Singer" on front side of machine. Front - Gold plate - "The Singer Manfg. Co. / Trade Mark." Decoration on machine base and silver end.singer manufacturing co.. sewing. fetes. clothes. domestic. -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Cartridge Box - B.L.Martin-Henry Arm
A box used to store and carry cartridges safely. It is protcted from moisture entering. Labelled with caliber, quantity and manufacturing date or lot number. The Martini-Henry is a single shot ricle with a lever action used in WWI.Sturdy rectangular wooden box with steel straps. At the top is a sliding opening with yellowish wood and printed black label."680 / Cartridges / Ball / b. L. Martini-Henry Arm / Mark V / R. L. " is printed in black on uellowish wood at the top centre of the box. More printing on the top each side "C & H' and "C?? / 19,2,75?"ammunition box, cartridge box, dederang rifle club -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Whistle Penny, circa 1950s
This item is a cheap Penny Whistle made in Thailand Circa 1955. The item was one of the first wave of imports from the growing Asian steel producers. This was an era where cheaper Asia based steel companies did not compete against the stronger, and well established Australian ones. This Penny Whistle was "roughly" made and possibly purchased by the Victorian Education Department for use in school bands and music classes. Schools within the Kiewa Valley would have used them to integrate students the fundamentals of reading music and playing basic musical scores. Later conversion from steel to plastics would have been more conducive to multiple users in a classroom environment (more hygienic and rust proof.This item shows how the "cheaper" invasion of all types of manufactured goods from the Asian regions have altered the purchasing patterns of rural Australians(the more traditional consumer). The cost imbalance of purchasing from "The Mother Country (England)" or European supply versus the Asian manufacturers was due to not only the financial pressures post World War II but also in the elimination of Tariff restrictions placed on non favoured suppliers.This tin Penny Whistle is made from rolled tin(steel), cylindrical in shape, with a wooden Fipple plug at the mouth end and six note holes starting half way down the front side evenly spaced and ending 35mm from the bottom. This whistle is in the key of D"G steel & Co. D"music, wind instruments, whistle, celtic music -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Camera Box Brownie Folding, Six 20 Folding Brownie KodetteII, Circa 1948 to late 1970s
This camera was made for the mobile photographer and the camera manufacturer Kodak was at the peak of production. Mr. George Eastman, the company's founder, who invented roll film, which could withstand the outdoor activities and therefor replaced photographic plates. In 1900, the Box Brownie camera was first released Kodak's motto was' "You push the button, we do the rest," The film used in this camera was Kodak Verichrome 620 introduced in 1936 and only went out of production 2009. This camera was a vintage 1970s one. Between 1963 and 1970 the company sold 50 million of this type of camera. The production of smaller and more user friendly digital cameras, mainly from Japan finally nailed the coffin lid on the Kodak Company. Ironically, one of Kodak's engineers called Steve Sasson, devised a camera that could save images using electronic circuits. The images were transferred onto a tape cassette and were viewable by attaching the camera to a TV screen, however Kodak tried to maintain its photographic film products beyond its "use by date". In1975 Kodak becomes the first company to make a digital camera, however the Japanese manufacturers could make smaller and more compact cameras ending Kodak's monopoly and eventual demise.This particular "box brownie" was used by Margaret Shefford, nee Turner, who with her husband retired, in the 1980s, to Mount Beauty. The camera was purchased in the 197's and used on their cruise to England. The significance of this item is that at the time of its introduction to Mount Beauty the camera was a "state of the art", for general public, camera introduced by an ever increasing influx of retirees. This identifies the Kiewa Valley not only as an attraction for sightseers and overseas tourists but also retirees. The social implications of this trend will continue to provide a broader requirement for medical and other facilities geared up to the requirements of an aging population. As a lot of cities in Australia have increasing levels of violence (mainly drug related) rural "retreats" are becoming more sought after by sections of "the gentle populous"This is a black metal rectangular camera, rounded on the ends and has silver colored fittings(stainless steel) and a small leather handle on hinges the left side (facing the lens). The folding lens and shutter component fold out from the main compartment. Two metal arms swing out and hold the lens and collapsible lens body to the required length. When not in use this collapsible (folding) lens extension is fastened to the main body structure providing security and preventing damage to the folding material. The camera has a collapsible eye piece or view finder at the top end. The right hand bottom end has a cylindrical film wider (polished steel). Inside there are two cylindrical cavities, one holding the roll of unexposed film and the other (winder) end a cylinder onto which the unexposed film is wound through for each picture frame. There is a locking mechanism to hold the folding lens structure to the main box structure. See KVHS 0419B for its carrying caseNo external makings but when the lens is folded out it exposes manufacturing information on metal base around the lens " Kodette II B I shutter"(B= Bulb and I= Instant), underneath this, in larger print, is "'FOLDING 'BROWNIE' SIX - 20" below the lens and in smaller print, "made in Great Britain" and underneath this "by KODAK ltd"kodak kodette ii, folding brownie camera, photography, hobby personal item, tourist gadgets. -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Tins - Tobacco (Lucky Hit) x4, Mid to late 1900s Possibly c1910
The British Australasian Tobacco Co. (based in Melbourne and Sydney. The parent company was founded in England, circa 1902). This item "Lucky Hit" was the fore runner of the "Lucky Strike" brand name. The ready rubbed tobacco held within the tin was mainly used by those smokers who rolled their own cigarettes. These smokers would have mainly used their palm and formed a cup then placing their choice of the amount of tobacco to be rolled. This would then be placed on the fine cigarette paper and rolled and sealed (using saliva in the mouth) into the required shape. There were mechanical "roll you own" gadgets on the market but most rural users, especially males used their palms. The quantity of tobacco used to make up the cigarette was up to the individual user. The thinner that the cigarette was rolled the longer and more economical did the supply last. The by -products of this method were nicotine stained fingers and hands. "Chain" smokers were easily identified and could therefore be discriminated against obtaining smoke sensitive employment. The two world wars (1914-18 and1939-45) produced a significant rise in the consumption of cigarette use by men and the eventual overflow to women. Cigarette smoking before the 1900s was seen as rough and uncouth (socially frowned upon), however after the introduction of overseas films (U.K. and U.S.A.) and film stars presenting smoking as socially acceptable the rise of smoking cigarettes, especially roll you own (American western movies) in rural areas was an accepted way of life. Things however started to change in the mid 1900s when medical evidence pointed to the health problems of regular smokers. Governments were now implementing non smoking education material. Restrictions on where and when smoking was permitted and acceptable started to creep into all areas of society whether city or rural. This was the era that highlighted the use of roll your own cigarettes, especially when the costs of "tailor made" cigarettes were taxed at an increasing amount. Roll your own cigarettes also provided an avenue for the consumption of illicit drug use.The significance of this ready rubbed tobacco tin to this rural region is, stems from how much influence that the Western novels and overseas films (portraying rural lifestyles) played in shaping the rural social and working mores of the Kiewa Valley. The post war depression (financially) resulted in more smokers turning away from expensive machine (tailor) made cigarettes to the roll your own, using ready rubbed tobacco. This tobacco tin relays a long ago era, when personal contact, and not something that has been written down by some "unknown", was valued as the true appraisal of a member of the community. This was especially relevant in a small regional area such as the Kiewa Valley. Although social networking was not as fast then as the internet provides now, appearances, manners, fashion and etiquette with first impressions high on the order of evaluating someone in the community. Pointer such as the brand of tobacco smoked was part of the rural assessment method. Up until the demise of the Australian Tobacco Industry, circa 2004, the Kiewa Valley and surrounding district was part of a vibrant producer of tobacco leaves. The remnants of this industry still remain today but the drying sheds (for tobacco leaves) are now used to store hay for the valley's dairy and beef cattle industries. Tins 2,3 and 4 were found (in 2009) at Wallace's Hut on the Bogong High Plains. This tobacco tin is constructed from tin plated thin rolled steel. The lid is attached by two pressed and formed (from the main frame) hinges using the nip and tuck construction method. The lid and outside frame have been gold & silver anodised. Tins 2,3 and 4 have the Union Jack on the front lid. One is too rusty to read. The other two have "A blend containing choice selected Australian grown leaf" in white across the bottom on the red border and above the "2oz net weight when packed". In the centre and on the outside of the lid and surrounded by a reproduction of the "Union Jack" is stamped, "Lucky Hit Tobacco" within these words are also stamped "Ready Rubbed". The bottom of the lid is stamped (in smaller script) "2oz NET WEIGHT WHEN PACKED" and underneath this and on the rim of the lid is "THE BRITISH AUSTRALASIAN TOBACCO CO. PTY. LTD. MELBOURNE" on the inside of the lid and stamped in black print on a gold anodised lid is " NOTICE "(underlined) "Every tin of genuine "Lucky Hit has the name of the Manufacturing Company printed on wax paper lining; also on the band or wrapper with which the tin is sealed. THE BRITISH-AUSTRALIAN TOBACCO CO. PTY. LTD., MELBOURNE" and underneath this and underlined is " None genuine without the band or wrapper" On the hinge side of the lid is "LUCKY HIT READY RUBBED TOBACCO" Tins 2,3 and 4 Vary to the above inscription.roll your own, cigarette tins, smoking accessories, personal effects, tobacco containers, tobacco -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Brass Plate, Bruce & McClure Distributer, C early 20th century
Bruce & McClure were manufacturers of windmills and agricultural machinery including motor engines , pumps, tanks,and appliances for supplying and conserving water.Also included was brass,iron and steel foundry works. They won 11 first prizes at the Grand national Show of 1907 and in 1914 designed and manufactured a new water boring machine which could also be used for oil and gold exploration They operated from Lava Street well into the 1940's as well as from the geelong area. This plaque is possibly from one of their machines.A tangible link to one of Warrnambool's manufacturing businesses which was innovative and an essential part of the beginnings of machine use in farms and industry in the district. Cast iron plaque with moulded text which is coloured in gold. rectangular with rounded corners. Back is painted grey.Bruce & McClure Distributer Pat 2480.21warrnambool, bruce & mcclure, bruce & mcclure machinery -
Emerald Museum & Nobelius Heritage Park
Kitchen boiler, Copper Kitchen boiler, Approx 1900
Joseph Fowler (1888-1972), businessman and municipal councillor, was born on 28 February 1888 at Bagworth, Leicestershire, England, one of thirteen children of John Fowler, groom, and his wife Mary, née Ash. With his brother Sydney, in the early 1900s Joseph worked in a fruit-preserving business run by an uncle at Maidstone, Kent, and continued with the firm after 1908 when it was relocated at Reading. At St Andrew's parish church, Leicester, on 7 September 1910 he married a nurse, Elizabeth Harris (d.1965); they emigrated in 1913 and settled at Camberwell, Melbourne. Encouraged by his commercial experience, and by the variety and quality of fruit in Australia, Fowler set up a fruit-bottling business in the rear of his small house in Burke Road. Trading as J. Fowler & Co., by 1915 the company had begun producing home-bottling kits which contained a sterilizer, bottles, lids, rings and a thermometer. To acquire the capital to establish a factory, Fowler travelled the district, selling his kits door-to-door from the back of a cart. In 1920 he bought a shop at the corner of Power Street and Burwood Road, Hawthorn, and registered his business as a private company. During the Depression his kits became a household name. In 1934 Fowlers Vacola Manufacturing Co. Ltd was registered as a public company. Housewives, nationwide, were urged to bottle their own fruits and jams by 'Mrs B Thrifty', the dainty cartoon character who graced the firm's advertisements. Numerous recipes and instruction books, such as From Orchard to Bottle the Fowlers Way, advertised the necessary preserving equipment, extending to jelly bags and juice extractors. Australian-made glass and imported steel and rubber were used in the production of Fowlers Vacola Bottling Outfits. Determined to put something back into the community which had supported him so well, in 1933-60 Fowler represented Yarra Ward on the Hawthorn City Council (mayor 1938-39 and 1945-46). He served as vice-president of Swinburne Technical College (1942) and of the Hawthorn branch of the Australian Defence League (1943); he was also a Rotarian, and a warden and vestryman of St John's Anglican Church, Camberwell. Changed demands in World War II encouraged Fowlers Vacola to diversify their product. Canned goods were manufactured for allied troops in the South Pacific. In 1953 new buildings and plant, including a giant pressure-cooker, were installed to increase productivity: from that time Fowlers Vacola sold canned and bottled food throughout Australia and abroad. By 1960 the factory occupied more than 122,000 sq. ft (11,330 m²) and further expansion was to occur when the firm moved to Nunawading. Fowler retired in 1961, but remained chairman of directors; his son Ronald succeeded him as managing director. Variously described as a generous, jovial man with a sense of humour, and as a strict and astute manager whose company was his life, Fowler was renowned for his straight business dealings and his 'no-nonsense' attitude. Survived by his son and daughter, he died on 24 April 1972 at Camberwell and was cremated. His estate was sworn for probate at $204,424. On Ronald Fowler's death in 1978, the company was bought out by the Sydney firm, Hooper Baillie Industries Ltd; it in turn sold to Sabco Ltd of South Australia; in 1994, when Sabco went into receivership, Australian Resource Recovery Technologies re-established Fowlers Vacola Australia Pty Ltd's headquarters in Melbourne. Copper boiling pot for home preserves, handles, lid and removable thermometer, also acc ompany instruction booklet. "Fowlers Method of Bottling Fruits and Vegetables"Fowler's "Vacola" Reg. No. 68081 Sterilizer