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Chiltern Athenaeum Trust
Document - Memorial Card from W.C.Busse Collection, c1897
Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern, Victoria in 1898. Busse attended secondary school at Wesley College before graduating and studying law at the University of Melbourne. After graduating from University, Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Busse was also a fictional writer seen by his novels "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" was written in 1928 and published in 1930 and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties" written in 1930. "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties" won the T.E.Role gold medal for the best historical novel published that year and went on to become a best seller. Busse wrote a series of articles for "The Federal Standard" newspaper in Chiltern, about the history of Chiltern. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960. Frederick Busse was born Henry Louis Friedrich in 1827, in Salzgitter Germany. He is the grandfather of Wilfred Busse. Upon his death, he was survived by his sons Reinhold and William and his wife Wilhelmina. This memorial card is important to Chiltern Athenaeum as it is of a resident who spent many years in the region before being buried in a cemetery in Indigo Shire. It is also important as it is a familial extension of Wilfred Clarence Busse who was born and raised in Chiltern and drew inspiration for his novels from his life in Chiltern. A brown rectangular card with golden boarders and writing memorialising Frederick Busse. There is an angel in the top left corner and bible verses in the top right corner and at the bottom. Obverse: The Lord/ Gave/ And the/ Lord hath/ Taken away/ Blessed be/ the name of/ the Lord In/ Loving Remembrance/ Of/ Our Dear Father/ Frederick Busse/ A colonist of 43 Years/ Died September 3 1897, Aged 70 Years/ Tis hard to break the tender cord;/ When love has bound the heart;/ Tis hard, so hard to speak the words:/ We for a time must part./ Dearest loved one, we have laid thee/ In the peaceful grave’s embrace,/ But thy memory will be cherished/ Till we see they heavenly face/ DEEPLY REGRETTED/ The Art Engraving Company (unknown) Street Melbourne wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, busse, law student, barrister, fictional writer, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia", t.e.role gold meda, the federal standard, indigo shire -
Chiltern Athenaeum Trust
Document - Sympathy Card from W.C.Busse Collection
Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern, Victoria in 1898. Busse attended secondary school at Wesley College before graduating and studying law at the University of Melbourne. After graduating from University, Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Busse was also a fictional writer seen by his novels "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" was written in 1928 and published in 1930 and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties" written in 1930. "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties" won the T.E.Role gold medal for the best historical novel published that year and went on to become a best seller. Busse wrote a series of articles for "The Federal Standard" newspaper in Chiltern, about the history of Chiltern. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960. Clara Jane Busse was born in 1870 and was married to William Friedrich Busse. She was the mother of Wilfred Clarence Busse. She survived her son Wilfred by 8 years and died on the 15th of September 1968This memorial card is important to Chiltern Athenaeum as it is of a resident who spent many years in the region before being buried in a cemetery in Indigo Shire. It is also important as it is a familial extension of Wilfred Clarence Busse who was born and raised in Chiltern and drew inspiration for his novels from his life in Chiltern.Off white rectangular card with black cursive writing printed Obverse: Clara Jane Busse/ Passed away at Chiltern/ September, 23rd 1968/ Aged 98 years/ At rest/ Miss Claire Busse and/ Mrs Doreen Martin/ Wish to thank you sincerely for/ Your kind expressions of sympathy/ In their recent sad bereavement/ Reverse: With sincere thanks/ “Roseville”/ Main Street/ Chiltern wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, busse, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties., "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia", clara jane busse, claire busse, doreen martin -
Chiltern Athenaeum Trust
Photograph - Framed Photograph, Unknown
Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern, Victoria in 1898. His family moved to the region during the gold rush and continued to resided in the area, purchasing land adjacent the Murray River. Busse completed his secondary education at Wesley College in Melbourne then studied law at the University of Melbourne. Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Busse was also an avid fictional writer and in 1930 he published two novels "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia” and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties." "The Golden Plague” won the T. E. Role gold medal for the best historical novel which went on to become a best seller. Busse often drew inspiration for his novels from his younger years living Chiltern. His passion for the region lead him to write “The History of Chiltern” which was published in a serial form in the Chiltern Federal Standard from 1922-1923. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a member of Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960This photograph is of considerable importance to Chiltern Athenaeum as it was written by Wilfred Clarence Busse, a barrister and author born in Chiltern. Busse drew inspiration to write novels from his life growing up in Chiltern which is apparent in "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties."Sepia rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper mounted on board placed within a silver frame.photograph, indigo shire, chiltern athenaeum museum, framed photograph, wilfred clarence busse, busse, chiltern athenaeum, "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia”, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", “the history of chiltern” -
Vision Australia
Administrative record - Text, 68th annual report 1961 - 1962 Braille Library of Victoria, 1962
This annual report covers both the AGM of 1962 and a special AGM held in 1961. Articles include: celebration of Alice McClelland's 40 years of service, resignation of A. Brahe and L. Dextor as Trustees and appointment of R Bigwood and E Webb to replace them, extension of membership so that blind readers could become voting members, overview of the decisions and affects of the decision to become an incorporated entity and the name from Victorian Association of Braille Writers to Braille Library of Victoria, the use of subcommittees to handle entertainments, building, publicity, library and braille textbooks, property owned at 4 Margaret Street, South Yarra was subdivided into 2 lots and sold, Braille Boat House has been redecorated and renovate and available for hire, appointment of Alan Woods to assist as a Reviser for music transcription and Ivan Molloy in the Home Teaching Service, resignation of Joyce Bolger, appointment of Doreen Ross, Mr and Mrs Hinchcliffe left as honorary caretakers and death of Mrs J Rowe, past Mayoress of Ballarat, who was a keen subscriber of the Ballarat branch.32 pages of text with drawingsbraille library of victoria, corporation records -
Vision Australia
Photograph - Image, Braille Library Presidents board
... . victorian association of braille writers braille library of victoria ...An honour board listing the current and past presidents of the Braille Library of Victoria, formerly known as the Victorian Association of Braille Writers.Wooden board with gold letteringPresident J.H. Cockayne Past Presidents Thomas Luxton 1895-1900 Sir Malcolm Mc Eachern M.H.R. 1901 Hon. Thomas Luxton M.L.C. 1902-1910 Cr. J.G. Davey, Lord Mayor 1911-1912 Cr. A.J. Weller, JP 1913-1919 W.H. Mac Lennan 1920-1921 F.E. Pettifer, JP 1922-1928 Malcolm M. Brodie 1929-1946 A. Harold Gaze, C.B.E. 1946-1953 A. Lawrence Keep 1954-1963 Dr. R Graeme Orr 1963-1970 F.H. Bathurst 1970-1984 victorian association of braille writers, braille library of victoria -
Hepburn Shire Council Art and Heritage Collection
Public Art Work, Patrick Jones, 'Poemscape: a physical anthology' - Patrick Jones. 1999, 1999
The work was installed at the cnr of Bridgport St and the Midland Hwy, adjacent to the Daylesford Library, in 1999. The work was commissioned by the Friends of the Library, Daylesford and funded by Arts Victoria and the Australia Council. Poemscape: a physical anthology is a much loved site specific installation work commissioned by the Friends of the Library, funded by Arts Victoria and the Australia Council, made by Daylesford resident Patrick Jones in response to his interests in the provision of public food, the development of locavore sensibilities and the rethinking of economies of material accountability and regard. Patrick Jones is a poet and non-fiction writer, a visual artist and ecological thinker. In 2013 Patrick Jones was awarded the degree of Doctor in Creative Arts from the University of Western Sydney for his thesis, 'Walking for food. Regaining permapoesis.'Public Art Environmental installation work installed near the Daylesford Library. Poemscape: a physical anthology comprises of 19 apple trees (18 Fuji apple trees and 1 Granny Smith apple tree) planted on the corner of Bridgport St and the Midland Hwy, adjacent to the library. Adjacent to each tree is a hardwood plinth at topped with a laser engraved brass plate that has been screwed in place. The text of each plate is by 19 poets including the artist and Daylesford resident Patrick Jones, local poets Peter O'Mara, Toby Sime and Robert Campbell, Australian poets Geoff Page, Kath Walker, D T Sime, Judith Wright, Ramona Barry, Jack Davis, Robert Campbell, Christopher Brennan and International Poets Dylan Thomas - Welsh, Sylvia Plath - American, Choku Kanai - Japanese, William Blake - English, Duo Duo - Chinese (translated from the Chinese by John Rosenwald), Yannis Ritsos- Greek (translated from the Greek by Kimon Friar & Kostas Myrsiades), Michel Deguy - French (translated from the French by Clayton Eshleman), Seamus Heaney - Irish and Rainer Maria Rilke - German. The title plate adjacent to the Granny Smith apple tree is by the artist/poet - Patrick Jones. See photographs with images of each of the laser engraved brass plates. permapoesis, artist as family, patrick jones, william blake, kath walker, chaku kanai, peter o'mara, sylvia plath, dylan thomas, geoff page, duo duo, d.t. sime, judith wright, yannis ritsos, michel deguy, ramona barry, seamus heaney, jack davis, rainer maria rilke, robert campbell, christopher brennan, hepburn shire, daylesford library, public art, installation art, environmental art, hepburn shire public art collection -
Uniting Church Archives - Synod of Victoria
Photograph, C1880
Rev. Frederic William MacDonald (1842-1928) was a Methodist minister and President of the Wesleyan Methodist Conference. He was also a writer.Matte, black and white, head and shoulders, studio portrait of Rev. Frederic William MacDonald on card.methodist, macdonald, fw, wesleyan -
Uniting Church Archives - Synod of Victoria
Photograph, Undated c.1970s
Mrs Jean Yule O.A.M. was editor of the "Women in the Church" column of the Australian Presbyterian Life newspaper 1960 - 1975. Member of the Presbyterian Church Freedom from Hunger Victorian committee. President of the Presbyterian Women's Association (P.W.A.) 1966 - 1969. Representative to the East Asian Christian Conference. Presbyterian Church Elder; field officer World Christian Action 1974.B & W gloss, waist length photograph of Mrs Jean Yule.mrs jean yule, presbyterian, presbyterian life, freedom from hunger, p.w.a., writer -
Uniting Church Archives - Synod of Victoria
Photograph, C. 1880
Rev. Mark Guy Pearce (1842-1930) wrote a good deal of hymns and was a prolific writer. He was well known for his book titled Thoughts on Holiness. He promtoed the work of the London West Central Mission.Semi-gloss, sepia, head and shoulders studio portrait of Rev. Mark Guy Pearce.pearse, m. g., methodist, london west central mission -
City of Ballarat
Sculpture - Public Artwork, George Grant, Thomas Moore Memorial Statue George Grant, 1889
Irish poet and balladeer Thomas Moore, best-known for penning The Minstrel Boy and The Last Rose of Summer, is honored in this statue prominently located in Sturt Street created by sculptor George Grant from white Carrara marble. George Grant was trained at the School of Art associated with the National Gallery of Victoria, apparently in the 1880s, and then worked as an artist, specialist house painter, and banner artist. Several of his paintings are held by the Ballarat Art Gallery. Moore`s writings range from lyric to satire, from prose romance to history and biography. His popular "Irish Melodies" appeared in ten parts between 1807 and 1835. Moore was a good musician and skillful writer of songs, which he set to Irish tunes, mainly of the 18th century. This statue is of historic and aesthetic significance to the people of Ballarat.Marble statue of Thomas Moore above a large sandstone pillar West: Presented to the City Council of Ballaarat by the following citizens: H.F. Elliot, The Honorable E. Morey M.L.C., Cr C.R. Retallick, Cr J. Heinz. South: R.S. Mitchell, P. Papenhagen, T. Elliot, J. Snow, G.K. Coutts, C. Bailey, J.J. Goller & Co, W.E. Ballhausen, G. Thompson, W.H. Figgis. North: S. Seward, F.G. Haymes, Craig Williamson, R. Giddings, G. Berry, R. Inge, J.A. Pittard, L. Lederman, H. Bremer, D. Jones. thomas moore -
The Foundling Archive
Letter, Letter from Pat Turner to her husband G. A Turner Jr (ii), Unknown, c 1960-1970
This collection documents correspondence and official documents of the Turner family, of Victoria. This collection dates between the 1930s and 1960s. Please note, featured are three generations of G.A Turner's, grandfather, son and grandson. This collection includes death and birth certificates, military correspondence, personal letters writer between family members and other official documents relating to the physical and mental health of the subjects, military service and everyday life. This letter details the affection Pat has for G. A Jr. He appears to be residing at 'Hoppings',( rehab or hospital?). Pat may be pregnant at this time. 'Friday Evening' victoria, social history, letter -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Legal record (Item), Thomas Judd to James Bonwick: Agreement for Sale of Land at Parish of Boroondara, 1853, 28/02/1853
James Bonwick (1817-1906), the Victorian educator and historian, acquired land in Kew on which to establish a home and school in 1853, not 1854 as more commonly stated. Bonwick returned to England in 1859 for a period, later returning to Melbourne and settling in St Kilda. He was the author of a number of histories and an official transcriber of Government records.This newly acquired document, from a former owner of 'Parkhill' (20 Hillcrest Avenue, Kew), is of statewide importance as it is the original copy of the agreement made between Thomas Judd of Parkhill and James Bonwick in 1853 for the purchase of land in Kew. Both Thomas Judd and James Bonwick were significant pioneers of Victoria.TRANSCRIPT [TITLE] Thomas Judd to James Bonwick Agreement for Sale of Land at Parish of Boroondara [PAGE 1] Articles of agreement made and entered into this the Twentyth eighth day of February One thousand Eight Hundred and fifty three Between Thomas Judd of Melbourne in the Colony of Victoria Gentleman of the one part and James Bonwick of Melbourne in the Colony of Victoria Gentleman of the other part whereby the said Thomas Judd agrees to sell unto the said James Bonwick who hereby agrees to purchase a piece or parcel of land containing two and half acres be the land more or less part of Portion Number Eighty five of the Parish of Boroondara in the County of Bourke commencing at a point on the Northern boundary line of the said Portion Seventeen Chains fifty links East from the North West angle of the same and bounded on the East by other part of said Portion in a line bearing South Eight Hundred and sixty two feet on the South by other part of said Portion Eighty five in a line bearing West one Hundred twenty six and half feet on the West by other part of said Portion Eighty five in a line bearing North Eight Hundred and Sixty two feet on the North by the Northern boundary line of the said Portion Eighty five in a line bearing East one Hundred twenty six and half feet to the commencing point at or for the price or sum of one [PAGE 2] One Hundred Pounds to be paid and payable in the manner hereinafter mentioned that is to say the Sum of Thirty pounds to be paid on the day of the date hereof and the sum of forty pounds by the acceptance of the said James Bonwick for that sum at three months bearing interest thereon after the rate of Eight Pounds per centum per annum and the Sum of Thirty pounds by the acceptance of the said James Bonwick for that sum after Six months with interest thereon after the rate of Eight pounds per centum per annum It is furthermore agreed that the said James Bonwick shall have access by a right of way fifteen feet wide reserved by the said Thomas Judd to the Government Road being the Southern Boundary of Portion Eighty five. That in case default shall be made in the payment of any of any of the Acceptances above mentioned the amount paid shall be actually forfeited to the said Thomas Judd who shall be at liberty to resell the premises. That upon payment of the whole amount of the purchase money the said Thomas Judd shall execute a conveyance of the premises to the said James Bonwick Such conveyance to be prepared by and at the expense of the said James Bonwick who - [PAGE 3] who shall also pay the cost of any attested copies he may require. ---- As witness the hands of the said parties this the twenty first day of February one thousand Eight Hundred and fifty Three. ----- [Signature] T. Judd [Signature] Jas Bonwick Witness [Signature illegible] £ Received Cash on account of the above 30.0.0 Thirty Pounds Bill at three Months with interest 42.4.0 Bill at Six Months with interest 31.4.0 _____ £103.8.0 _____ [Signature] T. Judd [Signature] Jas Bonwick ------------ Transcribed David White 25/08/2020 james bonwick, thomas judd, land titles - kew (vic), pioneers - kew - victoria -
Public Record Office Victoria
Legal record (item) - Criminal Trial Brief for Harry Bruin and Benjamin Morris
This collection of approximately 20 letters between Melbourne men Ben Morris and Harry Bruin, covering a period of several months in 1919, consists of original letters handwritten by Morris and carbon copies of Bruin’s replies. Love letters between men from this period are extremely rare in an Australian context, and globally. They were seized by police from Bruin’s home in Harcourt Street, Auburn in October 1919. The police were investigating a report that Bruin and Morris were conducting an intimate affair. The relationship came to light when the mother of one of Morris’ friends, having failed in her attempt to blackmail Bruin, went to the police. Blackmail was an ever-present danger to homosexual men at that time. Homosexual sex was against the law and even gossip alone could ruin reputations, careers and social standing. In refusing the demands of his attempted blackmailer, Bruin took an enormous risk. However, Morris and Bruin were lucky that their letters contained no descriptions of sex acts. It was not illegal to express love for a person of the same sex and when the matter came before the court, the police had no choice but to let the matter drop without laying charges. Letters like these are rare as potentially incriminating correspondence between men was usually destroyed by the writers or the recipients, to prevent it falling into the hands of the authorities, blackmailers, or disapproving third parties. These letters survived only because they were seized by the authorities for the purpose of prosecution. Morris and Bruin’s letters are also important because, together with the statements taken from the two men and others involved in the case by police prosecutors, they provide insight into the development of the liaison over an extended period. The emotional letters provide rare evidence of a deep romantic affection between two men in their own words. Quoted from "A History of LGBTIQ+ Victoria in 100 Places and Objects" by Graham Willett, Angela Bailey, Timothy W. Jones and Sarah Rood. -
Surrey Hills Historical Society Collection
Photograph, Mrs Mona Webster
Born in 1900, Mona was the daughter of Florence Jane McDowall Stuart (1867-1936) and George Hudson Grant (1864-1910) who married in 1899. He was a surveyor and they lived in Albany Crescent, Surrey Hills. Her full name was Jessie Mona Stuart Grant and she had a sister Mollie. In 1924 she married Clarence William Willoughby Webster (1895-1980) - SERN 33286. Clarence was born in Thorpedale where his father was a teacher. He was living in View Street Mont Albert and was a law student when he enlisted on 3 October 1916. After discharge on 10 May 1919, Clarence returned to his studies. He joined a legal firm in the city which became Pearce & Webster (later Pearce Webster Dugdale). Mona and Clarence lived in Surrey Hills and Mont Albert in a number of homes for the remainder of their lives. A black and white portrait of an older lady wearing round wire-rimmed glasses.writers, authors, view street, surrey hills, mont albert, victoria crescent, mrs mona webster, mr clarence webster, jessie mona stuart grant (miss), jessie mona stuart webster (mrs) -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Photograph, The Noble family, c.1890
One of five group and individual portraits of the Noble family of Kew, two in the rear garden of what is presumed to be ‘Charnwood’, in Station Street, Coburg. The photographs date from the period c.1890-1914. One of the larger framed photographs is a portrait of the entire family group, while another is of two of the children, Frederick and Winifred. The father, Frederick William Noble was a businessman, and, at one period Secretary of the Victorian Creamery & Butter Company in South Melbourne. Later he was to manage J. Bartram & Co., Ice & Cold Storage Department in Flinders Lane. By 1906, the Noble family had moved to Kew, living for almost 20 years at 100 Walpole Street before relocating to 26 Molesworth Street in the mid 1920s. The five photographs in the collection reveal details of family life and social values as expressed through attire. The family is formally costumed in a manner indicative of their social status. Mrs Noble, in one of the large framed portraits, is dressed in a sombre manner in a long, dark-coloured long-sleeved, high-necked gown. It is difficult to know whether she is dressed in mourning wear in this black and white photograph. It was not uncommon for a woman to regularly wear mourning attire due to the high mortality rate in the Victorian era. This situation was compounded for women due to the size of extended families. A woman might rarely be out of mourning due to the death of a parent, a sibling, a husband, a child or a near relative. The portraits of the Noble family children, particularly Frederick and Winifred, show the elaborateness of formal attire worn by the children of wealthy families during the late Victorian era. Winifred is dressed in a long cotton dress and a broad-rimmed hat; both liberally covered in lace. Winifred and Frederick’s lace collars extend to their shoulders. Winifred’s diaries, covering the period 1908-50, are now in the collection of the State Library of Victoria. The most detailed of the diaries is from 1914, just before the outbreak of World War 1, and includes ‘Accounts of my Dancing Evenings - Season 1914’. The diaries were the inspiration for an art exhibition by Jim Pavlidis in 2014. One of the family’s two sons, Frederick, was to work at The Age newspaper for 50 years. His obituary records that “He was regarded as the epitome of accuracy and a fount of knowledge on many subjects, but especially cricket, the Royal Melbourne Show and Gilbert & Sullivan”. With Robert Morgan he compiled Speed the Plough, a history of the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria and its role in developing agriculture in Victoria.A compelling group of family portraits. Members of the family were to achieve important roles as managers, journalists and writers.Framed and gazed albumen silver print of Mr and Frederick Warner Mrs Noble in the garden of their home in Coburg (sic) with their three children. There are minor losses to the gesso and paint of the original frame. Later labels to rear include: "Mr Noble, Mrs Noble’. ‘Frederick, Winifred, Wilfred"noble family, charnwood (coburg), station street (coburg) -
Ringwood and District Historical Society
Mixed media - Video, RDHS Guest Speaker Presentation - "The Value of Natural History in Local Historical Studies" - Dr Gary Presland FRHSV, School of Geography, University of Melbourne
Digitised video (4.41GB). Duration: 63 minutes. Recorded March, 2018. (Video is available for viewing at Ringwood & District Historical Society Archives by appointment)Presenter: Gary Presland is an Australian archaeologist and writer who studied history at LaTrobe University, 1973-76 and archaeology at the University of London, 1977-79. He was a staff member of the Victoria Archaeological Survey from 1983 to April, 1988. His research interests are in the Aboriginal and natural history of Melbourne. -
Ringwood and District Historical Society
Mixed media - Video, RDHS Guest Speaker Presentation - "Chinese Market Gardeners and Miners of Central Victoria" - Ken James
Digitised video (2.07GB) Duration: 50 minutes. Recorded July, 2023 (Video is available for viewing at Ringwood & District Historical Society Archives by appointment)Ken James is a prolific historical writer and is a regular to our Society's meetings. In this presentation, Ken talks about another book he is writing, involving the Chinese community in the small town of Lyal, between Castlemaine and Heathcote. In 1861, there were more than 24,000 Chinese immigrants on the goldfields of Ararat, Ballarat, Beechworth, Bendigo, Castlemaine and Maryborough. The Chinese were particularly industrious, with techniques that differed widely from the Europeans. This and their physical appearance and fear of the unknown led them to being persecuted in a racist way that would be regarded as untenable today. -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Photograph, Between 1890 - 19-12-1937
This photographic postcard of the SS Edina was taken after the 1890’s due to the style and configuration of the vessel. There is a black and white photograph of the same image also in our Collection (RN 3192). It is most likely that both of the photographs were donated by the same person because the people mentioned in the inscription on the black and white photograph’s reverse side connect with two of the people mentioned in the letter on the reverse of the coloured photograph. * RN 3192; Black & White photograph - inscription: "Donated by Mrs. Nancy Mason, Bay View. Owned by Mac Fordham, Chief Engineer, 'Edina', then given to Mrs. Mason's father-in-law Arnold Mason (both Engineers W.W. I)" The “Arnie” to whom the letter was addressed is likely to be Arnold Mason, Engineer. The author of the letter, “Mac”, is likely to be Mac Fordham, Chief Engineer of SS Edina. The transcribed letter tells of two men who know each other well and have an interest in the Edina. “Mac” mentions that he may be “too old” to be at sea again; this would also support the idea that the older writer would give his photographs to the perhaps younger “Arnie”. * RN 3193 (this photograph) - Transcription of pen and ink script handwriting = = = = = = = = = = = = 19-12-37 No. 1 Flat, “Goodwood Lodge” 196 Lennox Street, Richmond [Victoria] Dear Arnie , Been meaning to write for long time but you know, it’s just the usual routine of the seamen within Bay trades. Had a good trip back from Sydney. Took our time, spent almost a week coming back, rather monotonous in parts in the hill country, too many darn curves, still was a good trip. How are you all keeping? Suppose you’ve moved back to Drummoyne [erettris?], expect you can let the house in Manly easily enough. Noticed they had a strike at Cockatoo [Cockatoo Island NSW]. don’t suppose they pulled the boys out. How is Jack doing? Has [Willie?] commenced training yet, or no! too young, isn’t she? Been a lot of “paper” talk about the “Edina” finishing but nothing official that I’m aware of, but it’s always on the cards I suppose, then I suppose it will be to sea again if I’m not too old. Easy Winter only 3 trips per week, running every day from today until further notice. Trust [Mary?] Is well & all’s well with you too. Best wishes from us both for Xmas & New Year. Cheerio Mac = = = = = = = = = = = = ABOUT THE S S EDINA The three masted iron screw steamer SS Edina was built in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1854 by Barclay and Curle. She was adorned with the figurehead of ‘fair maid of Judea’. The many years of service made SS Edina famous world-wide as the longest serving screw steamer. (The term screw steamer comes from being driven by a single propeller, sometimes called a screw, driven by a steam engine.) SS Edina’s interesting history includes English Chanel runs, serving in the Crimean Ware carrying ammunition, horses and stores to the Black Sea, and further service in the American Civil War and later, serving in the western district of Victoria as well as in Queensland and carried gold, currency and gold prospectors Australia to New Zealand. SS Edina had the privilege of being an escort vessel to H.R.H. the Duke of Edinburgh during his visit to Australia in 1867. In March 1863 SS Edina arrived in Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne and was bought by Stephen Henty, of Portland fame, to work the cargo and passenger run from Melbourne – Warrnambool – Port Fairy - Portland. After a short time of working the run from Australia to New Zealand, with passengers and cargo that included gold and currency, she returned to her Melbourne - Warrnambool – Port Fairy run, with cargo including bales of wool produced in the western district of Victoria. The Warrnambool Steam Packet Company purchased SS Edina in 1867; she was now commanded by Captain John Thompson and Chief Engineer John Davies. She survived several mishaps at sea, had a complete service and overhaul and several changes of commanders. In 1870 SS Edina was in Lady Bay, Warrnambool, when a gale sprung up and caused a collision with the iron screw steamer SS Dandenong. SS Edina’s figurehead was broken into pieces and it was not ever replaced. SS Edina was re-fitted in 1870 then was used as a coastal trader in Queensland for a period. She was then brought to Melbourne to carry cargo and passengers between Melbourne and Geelong and performed this service 1880-1938. During this time (1917) she was again refitted with a new mast, funnel, bridge and promenade deck, altering her appearance. In 1938, after more collisions, SS Edina was taken out of service. However she was later renamed Dinah and used as a ‘lighter’ (a vessel without engine or superstructure) to be towed and carry wool and general cargo between Melbourne and Geelong. In 1957, after 104 years, the SS Edina was broken up at Footscray, Melbourne. Remains of SS Edina’s hull can be found in the Maribyrnong River, Port Phillip Bay. [Reference: A Brief Review of Steam Navigation in Victoria; C Dickson Gregory; Centenary Maritime Exhibition catalogue, 1934; published by Shiplovers' Society of Victoria Dandenong, Passengers in History, http://passengersinhistory.sa.gov.au/node/924034 Edina, Victorian Heritage Database VHR S199 http://vhd.heritage.vic.gov.au/shipwrecks/heritage/199 SS Edina, Coastal Trader and Passenger Ship 1853-1938, Museum Victoria Collections, https://collections.museumvictoria.com.au/articles/6227 SS ‘Edina’ – the Longest Serving Screw Steamer in the World, POI Australia, https://poi-australia.com.au/ss-edina-the-longest-serving-steamer-in-the-world/ ]This photographic postcard with the letter on the revers tell about the SS Edina and are significant for its association with the screw steamer SS Edina. The SS Edina is heritage listed on the Victorian Heritage Database VHR S199. She had endeared herself to the people of Port Phillip Bay as a passenger ferry, part of their history and culture. She played a significant role in the Crimean War, the American Civil War and the gold rush in New Zealand. She also served western Victoria for many years in her cargo and passenger runs. The SS Edina is famous for being the longest serving screw steamer in the world. After spending her first nine years overseas she arrived in Melbourne and her work included running the essential service of transporting cargo and passengers between Melbourne and the western Victoria ports of Warrnambool, Port Fairy and Portland. The SS Edina was purchased in the late 1860’s by local Warrnambool business, the Warrnambool Steam Packet Co. and continued trading from there as part of the local business community. The SS Edina’s original ‘fair maid of Judea’ figurehead was broken to pieces in a collision with another vessel (the SS Dandenong) in a gale off Warrnambool, Victoria, in 1870.Coloured (hand coloured) photographic postcard of SS Edina. Letter on reverse, hand written in pen and ink, from Mac to Arnie, dated 19-12-37 [1937]. The photograph shows the SS Edina moving under steam power, many people on both the bow and stern and a few people in the centre of the vessel. There are buildings on the shore in the background. The ship's configuration is dated post 1890.Hand written in pen on base of front “1854-1957” Hand written on back in blue pen and crossed out “REC 409” Hand written on back in pen ‘EDINA,’ “3173,” “086.2” Hand written letter dated 19-12-37, from Mac to Arnie. Script writing in pen and ink letter on reverse of photograph – see “Context” section for transcription. warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, shipwrecked artefact, barclay & curle, figurehead 'fair maid of judea', centenary maritime exhibition 1934, a brief review of steam navigation in victoria, pleasure steamer edina, trade and travel late 19th and early 20th century, trade melbourne to geelong, screw steamer edina, coastal trader edina, lighter dinah, cargo carrying for cremean war, cargo carrying for american civil war, passenger and trade in western district of victoria, export gold and currency and gold diggers to new zealand, export vessel to h r h the duke of edinburgh, melbourne - warrnambool - port fairy - portland cargo run, warrnambool steam packet company, stephen henty, captain john thompson, chief engineer john davies, lady bay warrnambool, lighter edina, shipping victoria, port phillip bay steamers, steamship great britain, edina, vhr s199 victorian heritage database, photographic postcard of ss edina 1854-1957, letter by mac fordham chief engineer ss edina, letter to arnold mason, engineer -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Functional object - Marine Lamp, James Paterson Lamp Manufacturer, 1880s to 1930s
The item is a kerosene marine ships lamp used onboard ships and smaller vessels for general lighting and navigation the subject lamp was made in Melbourne by a known maker James Paterson. The writer at this time cannot ascertain any significant historical information regarding the company or its founder, however lamps made by James Paterson of Melbourne are rare and regarded as collector's items and would command significant sale prices. All that is currently known is that the James Paterson Lamp manufacturing company were located at 30 Little Collins St Melbourne, and were active in Dec 1885 and in 1886 from newspaper articles of the time. Therefore the assumption is that the subject lamp was made in the late 19th to the first quarter of the 20th century.A significant item used in the marine industry on many ships, the company made kerosene lamps for other industries as well and was a well-known Melbourne based company in the late 19th and early part of the 20th centuries.Marine masthead copper ship's lamp with a handle at the top and holders at the side. It has a lamp glass and reflector mounted on a removable fuel tank. It was made in Melbourne by James Paterson.Stamped James Paterson Lamp Manufacturer 30 Little Collins St Melbourneflagstaff hill, warrnambool, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, lamp, masthead brass ship's lamp, masthead lamp, james paterson, marine kerosene lamp -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Instrument - Musical, Piano, Aucher Freres, circa 1880-1920
This piano was made by Aucher Freres of Paris, said to be famous for its pianos in the mid-late 1800s. Aucher Freres (Aucher Brothers) produced a model of piano that was built specifically for use on sailing vessels, the upright yacht-style piano. Pianos were amongst the domestic goods brought to Australia by many colonial immigrants. They were also imported by Australian distributors by the shipload and sought after by settlers. A piano was often found in a Missions to Seamen club room, where visiting seafarers would entertain or be entertained by music and song as part of their relaxation in port. A sarcastically written news article of January 2nd 1869 reported that the Secretary of the Loyal Liberals of Ballarat, Mr Henry Bell, was presented both with a “illuminated address” and a piano. The piano was made by Aucher Freres of Paris and was purchased for sixty guineas (which converts to around $7,500 Au in 2019). The gift was criticised for encouraging foreign industry rather than native Australian products, thus going against what the Loyal Liberals own protectionist policy. The writer goes on to state that several pianos made in the Colony compared very favourably at the International Exhibition with those manufactured by the English or French. He then says that “… the secretary … might learn a lesson from his piano ... the name Aucher Freres, Paris emblazoned on its front should be … a perpetual reminder of the hollowness of that protectionist imposture …” [Refer to Intercolonial News, Victoria, originally published in The Argus, was repeated in the Wallaroo Times and Mining Journal of South Australia 2-1-1869.] Aucher Freres pianos were still around in 1930. A second-hand model was advertised for sale as a good practice piano. The advertisement was placed by the Mount Gambier, SA, agents for Saver’s Pianos Ltd of Adelaide. The piano was described as “a sound little instrument of good tone and appearance”. The asking price in November 1930 was 32 pounds and ten shillings (which converts to about $2,500 Au in 2019). [Refer to Savery’s advertisement, Mt Gambier Border Watch 11-11-1930]This piano is significant for its connection with the time period of chapel and club room at Flagstaff Hill's St Nicholas Seamen's Church. It represents the form of entertainment enjoyed by seafarer's world wide, which is appropriate for a maritime village. The maker of the piano is famous for its quality pianos of the 19th and early 20th century.Piano, upright, polished wood. The wooden hinged keyboard cover lifts up to allow access to the keyboard. The piano also has two brass candlesticks. The top of the piano is hinged and lifts up to allow access to the piano mechanic's inside for tuning and maintenance. The inside flap has a music stand incorporated into it. It also has the usual two hard-soft pedals at the base. There are two brass decorated hooks at each end to allow for ease of movement when the position of the piano is changed. Maker's name inscribed inside keyboard lid in gold lettering. Made in Paris by Aucher Freres (Aucher Brothers)."AUCHER FRERES / Paris" (NOTE: the "C" is sometimes mistaken for a "G")flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, piano, music, upright piano, paris, france, aucher freres -
Orbost & District Historical Society
book, Key to the System of Victorian Plants, 1887 - 1888
Ferdinand von Mueller was born at Rostock, Germany, on 30 June 1825 , died at Melbourne, Australia, on 10 October 1896. He studied pharmacy and took his Doctor of Philosophy at the University of Kiel in 1847. He came to Australia in 1848 for health reasons and became a great botanical collector and writer. He was Victorian Government Botanist from 1853, and for a time Director of the Botanic Gardens. He travelled widely in Victoria and was on the A.C.Gregory expedition to northern Australia in 1855-57. He supported botanical exploration and collecting throughout the colonies. Charles Henry [Carl] Grove died on 17/4/1938 at Box Hill at the age of 88 and was buried in Orbost. Prior to coming to the Snowy River district, Carl worked as overseer on Buchan Station. In 1880, he selected land at Newmerella after first coming here in 1874 with early selector James A Robertson. He married Annie Robertson in 1876. Carl was a farmer, hop and seed grower and nurseryman. He was an elected Councillor of the newly formed Tambo Shire in 1882, and then in 1892 to the Orbost Shire where he served for many years filling varioius public roles. In 1911, he shifted to Queensland, but later returned to Victoria and died at Box Hill. (Ref. Nov 2014 Newsletter) Mueller was one of the first people to take a scientific interest in Victorian forests, and argued against indiscriminate clearing of land. This item is a useful research tool. It is associated with Carl Grove, a prominent early resident of Orbost.A black book with the title "Key To The System of Victorian Plants 1" in gold print.inside cover - "To Carl Grove from Baron Von Mueller March 1896"von-mueller-ferdinand botany-victoria plants-victoria grove-carl -
Orbost & District Historical Society
books, Robt. S. Bain, Key to the System of Victorian Plants 2, 1885
Ferdinand von Mueller was born at Rostock, Germany, on 30 June 1825 , died at Melbourne, Australia, on 10 October 1896. He studied pharmacy and took his Doctor of Philosophy at the University of Kiel in 1847. He came to Australia in 1848 for health reasons and became a great botanical collector and writer. He was Victorian Government Botanist from 1853, and for a time Director of the Botanic Gardens. He travelled widely in Victoria and was on the A.C.Gregory expedition to northern Australia in 1855-57. He supported botanical exploration and collecting throughout the colonies. 681.3 was presented to Carl Grove from G. Tadgell of Flemington. Charles Henry [Carl] Grove died on 17/4/1938 at Box Hill at the age of 88 and was buried in Orbost. Prior to coming to the Snowy River district, Carl worked as overseer on Buchan Station. In 1880, he selected land at Newmerella after first coming here in 1874 with early selector James A Robertson.He was one of the first selectors at Orbost - in 1880 he selected 320 acres at Newmerella, which he called „Ulinda‟ He married Annie Robertson in 1876. Carl was a farmer, hop and seed grower and nurseryman. He was an elected Councillor of the newly formed Tambo Shire in 1882, and then in 1892 to the Orbost Shire where he served for many years filling varioius public roles. In 1911, he shifted to Queensland, but later returned to Victoria and died at Box Hill. (Ref. Nov 2014 Newsletter) Mueller was one of the first people to take a scientific interest in Victorian forests, and argued against indiscriminate clearing of land. This item is a useful research tool. It is associated with Carl Grove, a prominent early resident of Orbost.Three copies of fabric bound book with a deep blue cover and the title, "Key To The System Of Victorian plants" in gold print. It has an ornate border around the edge.inside cover of 681.1 - To H. Grove, March 1891 Ulinda, Newmerella, Victoriaferdinand-von-mueller grove-carl botany plants-victoria -
Orbost & District Historical Society
book, George Robertson & Co, The Gumsucker At Home, 1914?
Nathan Frederick Spielvogel (1874-1956), teacher, writer and historian, was born on 10 May 1874 at Ballarat, Victoria. as well as his stories he published a number of Books about the history of Ballarat. Spielvogel taught at Orbost for at least a year and this book reflects that time. Spielvogel was a teacher, writer and historian. As a country schoolteacher, he traveled widely in the eastern Australian outback and also made a journey to London. Spielvogel gained distinction as one of the only Australian Jewish writers of his time. Many of his early books were best-sellers. He has an association with the history of Orbost having spent a year as a teacher at Orbost. The book also has an association with J.W. Bird an early auctioneer and estate agent in Orbost.A small 124 pp book with a pink, white and red cover with an illustration of a fisherman at a river. It is titled "The Gumsucker at Home" by N. F. Spielvogel.inside cover - J. W. Birdspielvogel-nathan the-gumsucker-at-home australian-literature -
Orbost & District Historical Society
book, Butler & Tanner, The Land of the Sun, 1924
This is the author's account of life in Northern Queensland. Edwin James Brady was an Australian poet. He was born at Carcoar, New South Wales, and was educated both in the United States and Sydney. He worked as a wharf clerk, a farmer, and journalist, and edited both rural and city newspapers. Brady established a writers' and artists' colony at Mallacoota, in 1909, and he continued to live there until his death in 1952. E. J. Brady was a leading figure of Australian literature. He has an association with Mallacoota, a small town in the East Gippsland region of Victoria, Australia. A 303 pp book with a hard back cloth covered bright orange cover. It is titled in black print " The Land of the Sun" and has black print illustrations of crops and the sun. It contains black/white plates and a fold-out map of Queensland.brady-edwin-james book--the-land-of-the-sun queensland-northern -
Orbost & District Historical Society
book, McCarron, Bird & Co, Second Systematic Census Australian Plants, 1889
Ferdinand von Mueller was born at Rostock, Germany, on 30 June 1825 , died at Melbourne, Australia, on 10 October 1896. He studied pharmacy and took his Doctor of Philosophy at the University of Kiel in 1847. He came to Australia in 1848 for health reasons and became a great botanical collector and writer. He was Victorian Government Botanist from 1853, and for a time Director of the Botanic Gardens. He travelled widely in Victoria and was on the A.C.Gregory expedition to northern Australia in 1855-57. He also founded the National Herbarium of Victoria. He named many Australian plants.Mueller was one of the first people to take a scientific interest in Victorian forests, and argued against indiscriminate clearing of land. This item is a useful research tool.A 244 pp book, cover missing, botany victoria-botany baron-ferdinand-von-mueller -
Orbost & District Historical Society
book, George Robertson & Co Prop. Ltd, A Gumsucker on the Tramp, 1910?
This is the second edition. The letters were written by Nathan Spielvogel, a country school teacher for the 'Dimboola Banner'. It cost one shilling. Nathan Frederick Spielvogel (1874-1956), teacher, writer and historian, was born on 10 May 1874 at Ballarat, Victoria. As well as his stories he published a number of books about the history of Ballarat. Spielvogel was a teacher, writer and historian. As a country schoolteacher, he traveled widely in the eastern Australian outback and also made a journey to London. Spielvogel gained distinction as one of the only Australian Jewish writers of his time. Many of his early books were best-sellers. He has an association with the history of Orbost having spent a year as a teacher at Orbost.A small brown soft covered booklet of 108 pages, titled "A Gumsucker on the Tramp" in black print. On the front cover is an illustration of It contains an Australian's impression during a lengthy trip to Europe.literature spielvogel-nathan gumsucker-on-the-tramp -
Orbost & District Historical Society
book, The Cocky Farmer, 1907
Nathan Frederick Spielvogel (1874-1956), teacher, writer and historian, was born on 10 May 1874 at Ballarat, Victoria. as well as his stories he published a number of Books about the history of Ballarat. Nathan Frederick Spielvogel (1874–1956) was a teacher, writer and historian. As a country schoolteacher, he traveled widely in the eastern Australian outback and also made a journey to London. Spielvogel gained distinction as one of the only Australian Jewish writers of his time. Many of his early books were best-sellers. A paper back book with 146 pp.written by Nathan Spielvogel. On the front cover is a drawing of a farm-house in a green paddock. The book is about school life and farming at Sale, Stawell, and the Wimmera district. the-cocky-farmer spielvogel-nathan literature -
Orbost & District Historical Society
black and white photograph, early 20th century - 1910?
From L-R : Nathan Spielvogel, Hector Young, Percy Watt and George Holden. . Taken on the front porch at Illfracombe in 1908 after the four men had enjoyed a weekend fishing There appears to be a photo hanging on the wall in the background which looks like it could be of a young Marion Watt and the family's dog, a golden retriever In "The Gum Sucker at Home: Bound for Croajingolong 1908" by Nathan Spielvogel, published in Mary Gilbert's Personalities and Stories of the Early Orbost District, 3rd edition, p. 107-116, Spielvogel talks of his trip to Orbost, and fishing with Watt, Bruce and Young aboard Percy Watt's boat, the Maris Stella. Spielvogel's story says Young was the secretary at James & Birds auctioneers and "was one of the builders of the first foot bridge over the Backwater". It says George Holden was a Bank Manager at the Bank of Victoria. (info. from Campbell Watt) This photograph shows Mr Nathan Spielvogel on the left. He was a school teacher at the Orbost State School following Mr Rowe. Nathan Frederick Spielvogel (1874-1956), teacher, writer and historian, was born on 10 May 1874 at Ballarat, Victoria, son of Newman Frederick Spielvogel, pawnbroker, and his wife Hannah, née Cohen. As well as his stories he published a number of books about the history of Ballarat. Spielvogel taught at Orbost for at least a year Nathan Frederick Spielvogel (1874–1956) was a teacher, writer and historian. As a country schoolteacher, he traveled widely in the eastern Australian outback and also made a journey to London. Spielvogel gained distinction as one of the only Australian Jewish writers of his time. Many of his early books were best-sellers. He has an association with the history of Orbost having spent a year as a teacher at Orbost. The Watt family were early Marlo settlers.A black / white photograph / postcard of four men sitting around a small table playing cards. Two of the men have pillows behind their heads. Three are smoking pipes.on back - "On R - N. Spielvogel"spielvogel-nathan-orbost -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book, The Ghost Camp
This book was part of a large group of books referred to as the Pattison Collection, which belonged to the Warrnambool Public Library, part of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute. About RALPH ERIC PATTISON and the ‘PATTISON COLLECTION’ The ‘Pattison Collection’ is a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, 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 WMI was led to ask the City Council to take it over in 1911 due to lack of financial support. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Public Library as it was then called. 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 when Pattison accepted the 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 areas 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 from 1942 to 1945 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. THE NEW WARRNAMBOOL LIBRARY 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 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. 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 per cent of the reading population. The collection of books was made up of around 60 per cent reference and 40 per cent 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 have 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 1850s to the late 1950s 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. Rolf Boldrewood (1826-1915) ‘Rolf Boldrewood’ is the pen-name used by Thomas Alexander Browne as a writer. Browne was the eldest child of Captain Sylvester John Brown and Elizabeth Angell nee Alexander. He was born in London on 6th August 1826 and arrived in Australia with his parents and siblings when he was 5 years old and grew up in Sydney. In the 1860s Browne added the ‘e’ to his surname. As a 17-year-old Browne took up land in the Western District of Victoria between Portland and Port Fairy on a property named “Squattlesea Mere”. He remained there until 1858, enjoying the squatters’ life on his 32,000-acre property, growing potatoes and running cattle and horses. He sold in 1858 and purchased a sheep station on the Murray River near Swan Hill. He later sold this and bought another sheep station near Narrandera until bad seasons and severe droughts eventually caused him to change his career after 25 years as a squatter. Over the next 25 years Browne held the position of Police Magistrate and as a gold commissioner in various locations. His third career as an author lasted approximately 40 years. In 1865 he wrote two articles on pastoral life while he was recovering from a riding accident. In the 1870’s his writing was bringing in the income to support his family, changing his focus to the writing of novels. A series of these was written for the Australian market and published in The Sydney Mail and the Centennial Magazine. His later novels were aimed at the overseas markets. His best known novel “Robbery Under Arms” was written from 1882 to 1883 and has been serialised on radio in Australia and Britain. The novel was filmed in 1907, 1920 and 1957, and in 1985 it was made into a television series. It is now an Australian Classic. He also wrote short stories, several nonfiction graziers’ guides, and an autobiography named “Old Melbourne Memories” in 1884. [This information has been taken from Wikipedia; Australian Authors-Perry Meddlemiss; Australian Dictionary of Biography, Browne, Thomas Alexander (1826-1915)] 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 Ghost Camp Author: Rolf Boldrewood Publisher: MacMillan & Co Ltd Date: 1902 Further Information: The Ghost Camp Or The AvengersThe spine is handwritten in black ink giving the books name, authors name, and R.S. 899.3 BOL Front loose endpaper has a sticker from Warrnambool Public Library that notes that this book was reconditioned in 1955 flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, the ghost camp, rolf boldrewood, the ghost camp or the avengers -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book, Jonathan Cape, It Can't Happen Here, 1935
This book “It can’t happen here” is a novel written by Sinclair Lewis. It was first published in 1935 in America. About SINCLAIR LEWIS (1885-1951) The author was born as Harry Sinclair Lewis in 1885 in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. He was renowned as an American novelist, playwright and short story writer. His first writings were romantic poems and short stories. Six of his novels were published by the time Lewis was 36. Lewis won the 1926 Pulitzer Prize for his book “Arrowsmith” but declined because he had been helped in the writing of it by science writer Paul de Kruif, who received 25% of royalties on the sales. However, Lewis is listed as the sole author. Lewis received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1930 for his “vigorous and graphic art of description and his ability to create, with wit and humour, new types of characters." He was the first author from the United States to receive this award. Lewis graduated from university in 1907. He worked as a reporter and editor for several publications. He was a prolific writer, publishing dozens of works and numerous articles, and became popular for his satire. Lewis married and divorced twice and died alone from a heart attack due to advanced alcoholism) near Rome on 10th January 1951, aged 66. This book was part of a large group of books referred to as the Pattison Collection, which belonged to the Warrnambool Public Library, part of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute. About RALPH ERIC PATTISON and the ‘PATTISON COLLECTION’ The ‘Pattison Collection’ is a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, 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 WMI was led to ask the City Council to take it over in 1911 due to lack of financial support. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Public Library as it was then called. 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 when Pattison accepted the 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 areas 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 from 1942 to 1945 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. THE NEW WARRNAMBOOL LIBRARY 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 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.Lewis’s book is significant for its association with the writer, who was the first American to be awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature (1930). This book is significant for its connection with the Pattison Collection which, 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. Title: It can’t happen here Author: Sinclair Lewis Publisher: Jonathan Cape, London Date: 1935 Hardback board book covered with mustard-brown linen, with a clear plastic protective cover over it. The book’s title is printed across the front cover and on the spine. Also on the spine the author’s name, a symbol, and a white adhesive label with a typed library call number. On the loose front endpaper is an oval, purple stamp with text. Paper labels are on the inside endpaper. The book, a novel, is part of the Pattison Collection originally belonging to the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, and the Warrnambool Public Library.Adhesive label - “PAT / FIC / LEW” Inside front loose endpaper stamped in purple “WARRNAMBOOL MECHANICS’ INSTITUTE” Front endpaper label from Warrnambool Public Library and Corangamite Regional Library Serviceflagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool public library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, warrnambool books and records, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool children’s library, american novel, jonathan cape, sinclair lewis, harry sinclair lewis, 1930 nobel prize for literature, it can’t happen here