The International Committee of the Red Cross was formed in 1862. Initially its purpose was to try and find ways of overcoming the inadequacy of army medical services so as to alleviate the suffering of those wounded in armed conflict. Over time it has extended its work to include many forms of humanitarian aid in times of peace and war. The Australian Red Cross Society (ARCS) was formed just after the outbreak of the First World War in August 1914, originally as a branch of the British Red Cross. It is especially remembered in the provision of “comforts” for soldiers overseas. Enormous sums of money were raised, and thousands of women volunteers contributed their time by making vast quantities of clothing: socks, vests, mittens, mufflers, pyjamas and a variety of linen. Items were sent to headquarters located in the state capitals, often using government houses as depots, where, after being sorted and packed by yet more volunteers, they were sent to Britain or the front. The effect of this work for the recipients was to bring comfort in its truest sense, for a seemingly trivial gift of a bar of chocolate of a pair of dry socks could bring the most profound relief for a soldier on the Western Front. From the date of its inception until the armistice the ARCS dispatched 395,695 food parcels and 36,339 clothing parcels Between 1914 and 1918 more than £3,500,00 was collected and spent on Red Cross services to the Australian Forces and Empire Forces. During WW1 and WW2 Red Cross raised funds selling buttons.This Carnival was an example of the support given to Red Cross by market gardeners, early settler families and schools in Moorabbin ShireDandenong Red Cross Carnival 1917red cross, dandenong, springvale, chelsea, dingley, keysborough

Builders Number 3354 Build for Inkerman Mill Queensland in 1951 Displayed at the British Industrial Fair at Castle Bromwich, England 1951 prior to delivery to Australia Weight: 10 Tons Known at Inkerman mill as "LI'L TOOT" Major Ernest E. Baguley (1863–1948) was a British engineer.- In the years leading up to the First World War, Baguley served in the Territorial Army and became Second-in-Command, 6th Battalion, North Staffordshire Regiment, rising to the rank of Major. He served in France from 1914 to 1915. Baguley (Engineers) Ltd After the War there was a decline in the production of road vehicles (probably due to competition from other manufacturers) and an increase in the production of railway equipment. The name of the company was changed from Baguley Cars Ltd to Baguley (Engineers) Ltd on 10 April 1923. Following a dispute with their partners Drewry Cars. Ltd, Baguley (Engineers) Ltd went into decline and entered liquidation in 1931. Most of the plant and effects, including Major Baguley's own Baguley car, were sold at auction on 10 November 1931. E. E. Baguley Ltd Major Baguley was a great survivor of WW1 and, he set up a small repair business for Baguley products at Clarence Street, Burton-on-Trent. A new company, E. E. Baguley Ltd, was registered on 30 April 1932 and was soon building locomotives again. In 1934 E. E. Baguley Ltd moved to larger premises at Uxbridge Street, Burton-on-Trent. The company merged with Drewry to form Baguley-Drewry Ltd in 1962.Historic - Industrial Narrow Gauge Railway Diesel Mechanical Locomotive - Pioneer Sugar Mills - Inkerman Sugar Mill, Home Hill, Queensland, AustraliaRail Mine and Plantation (RMP) 0-6-0 Diesel Mechanical 2' Gauge - " LI'L TOOT " Builders Number 3354 Steel (Painted)RMP / 3354 "LI'L TOOT"rmp, diesel, mechanical, locomotive, 2', 2' gauge, puffing billy, inkerman, li'l toot, industrial narrow gauge railway, e. e. baguley ltd, pioneer sugar mills - inkerman sugar mill, rail mine and plantation (rmp)

In 1879, James Griffiths established one of Australia’s first tea and coffee distribution companies at 30 Flinders St, Melbourne, which is now, occupied by the boutique Lindrum Hotel. Established with his brother John, recent immigrants from England, Griffiths occupied the highest position in the commercial world during their many years as distributors of tea, coffee, cocoa and other products throughout Victoria and Australia. The Griffiths brand was a guarantee for quality of product and service as it still is today. This extensive service was provided to customers via horse drawn carts serviced by rail from Melbourne. As a spirited entrepreneur, Griffiths made his company a household name through his pioneering use of outdoor advertising by installing the infamous blue and white enamel “Griffiths Tea” promotional signs affixed to the railway boundary fences highlighting to travellers the distance to or from Melbourne, indicating so many “— miles to Griffiths Tea”. These signs, much sought after today, were well known through out the eastern states. Photographs have been published of a sign erected by a Digger in France during the First World War with the words “1100 miles to Griffiths Bros”. Tragically, James and his wife Emily with friends died in a level rail crossing accident at Bayswater in 1925. Despite this unfortunate accident, Griffiths and its culture of innovation has survived as one of the few 100% Australian owned coffee roasters, with only three owners in 128 years. http://www.griffithscoffee.com.au/about-us/back-to-1879/ Sign - Advertising - Griffiths Tea Sign - 30 MilesHistoric - Sign - Advertising - Griffiths Tea Sign - used along side of Victorian Railway lines and at StationsSign - Advertising - Griffiths Tea Sign - 30 Miles Griffiths Tea sign made of Enamel paint on metal sign30 Miles to Griffiths Tea Sign puffing billy, sign - advertising - griffiths tea sign - 30 miles

After the first world war there was a decision made to create a memorial. Legatees were involved in the process at various times and capacities. In particular Legatee Kemsley was vocal in idea of a structure over a utilitarian memorial (such as a hospital or a park) - see letter at 01182. These notes include the resolution that passed at the Melbourne Town Hall at a public meeting: "That this meeting of citizens confirm the launching of an appeal by the Lord Mayor to establish a National War Memorial by means of a monument and that an executive committee with the Lord Mayor as Chairman with power to add and point sub-committees be formed to carry out the project." Also that 20 sites were selected for consideration in 1921. Although the St Kilda Road site was favoured early on, by 1926 there was pressure to change to a "provision of square" and Cenotaph at the intersection of Spring and Bourke Streets. Legacy Clubs voiced their opposition to this proposal by passing a resolution "That the Melbourne Legacy Club, representative of the returned soldiers in business in this city, whilst welcoming the Anzac Square Scheme as a city improvement, cannot support it as a War Memorial scheme and affirms its support for the Shrine of Remembrance in the Domain as the only War Memorial worthy of Victoria's unparalleled efforts in the Great War." The document was in an envelope with a letter dated 30 April 1971 (01182) that also outlines the efforts Legacy (especially L/- Kemsley) went through to promote the construction of the Shrine of Remembrance over a proposed square. The envelope says 'The Origin of the Shinre of Remembrance p/p Legatees Kemsley and Joynt'. And the initial 'JMBA'?. It was in a file with other documents concerning the Shrine and it's history.A record of the events that led to the construction of the Shrine of Remembrance as noted by a Legatee at the time. There was an effort to record historical events for the "Archive Committee" which collected this an other documents relating to the Shrine together in a file (see items 01181 - 01190)Five white foolscap pages of black type recording major events in the history of building the Shrine (covering the years from 1926 - 1928).memorial, shrine of remembrance

The letter is Legatee Kemsley's response to an article published on 20 April 1946 discussing War Memorials. The article suggested that war memorials were better to be utilitarian, such as hospitals, parks and community centres. Legatee Kemsley's reply is that such necessary amenities should be provided but not as memorials of sacrifice. "The plain fact is that unless sacrifices and deeds of heroism and national patriotism are expressed in non-utilitarian memorials they lose then special significance they are designed to provide." "As a Trustee of the National War Memorial, I ask, what hospital or park could as fittingly provide a Mecca for for national solemnity, or rejoicing, or thanksgiving, as the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne?" After the first world war there was a decision made to create a memorial. Legatees were involved in the process at various times and capacities. In particular Legatee Kemsley was vocal when the idea of the St Kilda Road site, which was favoured early on, was overturned and in 1926 there was pressure to change to a "provision of square" and Cenotaph at the intersection of Spring and Bourke Streets. Legacy Clubs voiced their opposition to this proposal by passing a resolution "That the Melbourne Legacy Club, representative of the returned soldiers in business in this city, whilst welcoming the Anzac Square Scheme as a city improvement, cannot support it as a War Memorial scheme and affirms its support for the Shrine of Remembrance in the Domain as the only War Memorial worthy of Victoria's unparalleled efforts in the Great War." The document was in an envelope with the History of the Shrine (01181). The envelope says 'The Origin of the Shinre of Remembrance p/p Legatees Kemsley and Joynt'. And the initial 'JMBA'?. It was in a file with other documents concerning the Shrine and it's history.This is a record of the debate that was occurring in 1946 about the appropriate way to commemorate the war. There was an effort to record historical events for the "Archive Committee" which collected this an other documents relating to the Shrine together in a file (see items 01181 - 01190)File copy of a letter x 2 pages typed on white quarto paper. Dated 2 May 1946, it is from Legatee Kemsley to the Editor of the Australian Municipal Journal in response to an article they had printed. Plus a page from the journal.memorial, shrine of remembrance

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

Series of Black & White Photos Hill Family & Friends Life During The Final Years of The First World War. Hilda Hill and another, seated on steps , background building weatherboard construction and glass windows,girl at rear wearing dark dress with check scarf around her neck, girl at front wearing a lighter colour dress and white blouse, and medal on ribbon around her neck, S.H.L.C. November 1917. Jack & Frank, both dressed in dark suits white shirts and dark ties, man standing outside of vehicle with right arm resting on the car and one foot on the running board, with the family car, dark colour with wooden spoke wheels. Francie, wearing dark skirt and white blouse & the dog, kneeling in front of a netting fence with top rail, background is corrugated iron shed wall. Easter 1918. Man in dark suit white shirt and dark tie holding a tennis racquet over his head, brick wall to left and doorway, on the verandah of 'The Ranche' property. Horse & Gig, man and boy seated on the gig and boy standing behind all dressed dark clothing, man wearing a hat, boy at rear wearing shorts and long socks with boots, to right gable roof shed, 'Durvol' property Kyneton Victoria Australia. Frank & Sweep the dog up a ladder, high paling fence in right background. Six young ladies , three standing and three seated on a white wooden railing fence, all dressed in lightly coloured outer wear, some showing white blouses Kyneton Mineral Springs 27th September 1918. Group of four young ladies all dressed in white and wearing broad brimmed hats, two men one sitting and one lying on the ground, man at rear white shirt and dark tie with broad brimmed hat, man at front, dark trousers and white shirt with dark waistcoat, no person has been identified in this photo, In the shade Hanging Rock?Hilda Hill Personal Colllectionaustralia, history, post war life

This is a photograph of the four daughters of Mrs George Thomas. L -R : Elleen Parsons, Julia Eaton, Eva Murray and Violet Gay. George Thomas and Gtranny Thomas lived at Newmerella on Grand View Road until the 1950's. In the Newmerella Koorie Community, there were about 15 families. The family was a very well-respected local Aboriginal family. . George was a stockman for Jas Stirling. From Colin Thomas "I learned that George Thomas was Kitty Johnson’s oldest son. As a young boy George had been found by the Reverend John Bulmer, in addition to other young Aboriginal children in the bush around the Lake Tyers area. He had gathered them all together and took them onto the reserve at the Mission. After quite a number of years had passed George had met and fallen in love with a young half-caste girl, known as Agnes Patterson. Agnes was of Monaro descent and came from New South Wales. George and Agnes got married at Lake Tyers. Because of the half-caste act George and Agnes had to leave the reserve along with their nine girls. They moved to Newmerella, situated outside the township of Orbost. This was the place that George and his wife and children came to call home. Soon after, George and Agnes would add to their family bringing the total of children to fourteen, the last five of whom were boys. At the time of the First World War George’s boy’s volunteered their services and joined the army. When in Europe one of the boys sustained an injury which caused the loss of an arm. Following the end of the war the boys came home, as men." The Thomas family was a well-respected family in Newmerell in the late 19th and first half of the 20th century. The daughter were well known for their needlework and craft skills.A black / white photograph of four women wearing log skirts / dresses and elaborate hats, two sitting on a log and two standing on either side.thomas-family newmerella koori-family

Robert Baden-Powell was born in 1857. After school he joined the British Army as an officer and was posted to India. In the early 1880s he served in the Natal province of South Africa amidst the Zulu He learnt advanced scouting skills during his time in South Africa where knowledge of countryside was vital for gaining information. In 1896 he returned to Africa and served in the Second Matabele War in the expedition to relieve British South Africa Company personnel under siege in Bulawayo. From 1899 to 1900, Baden-Powell commanded the garrison at Mafeking during the Second Boer War. The siege of Mafeking lasted 217 days and the successful defence of the town raised his national profile. In 1900 Baden-Powell was promoted to Major General. In 1901 he was invested as Companion of the Order of Bath by King Edward VII. After some controversies he retired from the Army in 1910. At the beginning of the First World War he put himself at the disposal of the War Office but no command was given to him. Awards obtained include Ashanti Star (1895), British South Africa Company Medal (1896), Queen's South Africa Medal (1899), King's South Africa Medal (1902), Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George, Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order, Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath, plus numerous Scouting Medals. Baden-Powell married in 1912 at the age of 55. He and Olave had three children. Baden-Powell died in 1941 and buried in St Peter's Cemetery, Nyeri, Kenya. Olave died in 1977 and her ashes were sent to Kenya to be interred beside her husband.Individual image from photographed poster of tobacco and cigarette cards. See 09350.baden-powell, british army, natal, south africa, zulu, india, officer, scouting, second matabele war, british south africa company, bulawayo, mafeking, second boer war, major general, companion of the order of bath, ashant star, british south africa company medal, queen's south africa medal, king's south africa medal, knight grand cross of the order of st michael and st george, knight grand cross of the royal victorian order, knight commander of the order of the bath

St Hilda's Church Everton, WW1 Roll of Honour - contains 16 names of members of the Everton Community in Victoria who served during the First World War including Nursing Sister Alma Louisa BENNETT (1890-1922) who trained at Melbourne General Hospital. She moved to Western Australia and continued nursing until the advent of World War 1. She immediately sought to enlist but was not granted her request until 1916 and was eventually sent for nursing duties in India. Her arrival coincided with the first convey of wounded after the fall of Kut in Mesopotamia. She was immediately given charge of a ward at Victoria Hospital. The following year she was appointed Matron of the hospital ship "Herefordshire" which transported sick and wounded soldiers from the mouth of the Tigris River to Bombay. Her next appointment was to the 34th Welsh Hospital at Deolali 150 miles from Bombay. The hospital was huge and she took charge as Matron. After 17 months at Deolali BENNETT was awarded the Royal Red Cross Medal First Class one of the highest distinctions in the British Nursing Service. When peace was declared she travelled to England where she continued to nurse in an Army Hospital. During her stay she was invited to Buckingham Palace where she was presented with Red Cross Medal by King George V. BENNETT returned to Victoria and was invited to join the nursing staff at Melbourne's Epworth Hospital with prospects of becoming Matron. Ill health intervened and she died in September 1922. Item said to be made by the family of Gilbert and Richard Heywood both KIA and listed on honour roll.St Hilda's Church Everton Honour Roll contains 16 names of members including Nurse BENNETT, from the Everton Community in Victoria who served in WW1 Carved timber frame and mounting with 16 names in gold coloured paint listed in two columns."St Hilda's Church Everton' "Roll of Honour" "The Great War 1914 to 1918" Sister Bennett/Heywood G/Heywood R/Levett W/Lowry F/Mason T.A/Mason E.H/Mason H.G/MacKay M/Morrison J/Morrison W/Norman W/Rickards R/Steens C.T/Ward C/Welch J.everton, 1914-1918, roll of honour

The photo shows a Junior Legatee, now Captain Len Frazer being inducted into Melbourne Legacy as a senior legatee by L/- Stan Savige on 26 January 1943. Notes with another photo taken at the event (see 01368) identifies the man as Captain Len Fraser, who had been a Junior Legatee after his father died in the first World War at Ypres. He then served in World War 2 and on his return qualified to become a member of Melbourne Legacy. His service number was VX15205, full name Leonard Thomas Frazer. From Trove a newspaper article describes his background. "Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), Wednesday 27 January 1943, page 5 FIRST JUNIOR LEGATEE IN SENIOR CLUB Capt L. T. Frazer was initiated to membership of Legacy Club by Maj-Gen S. G. Savige, founder of the club, at a simple ceremony yesterday. He was the first returned soldier of this war, and first junior Legatee, to be admitted to membership. Joining junior Legacy in 1928, Capt Frazer, whose father was killed in the last war, was a foundation member of the Intermediate Club, of which he became president, and he gained the right to admittance to the senior club by having seen active service with the AIF. Enlisting in April, 1940, he served in the Middle East, Greece, and Crete. His father was killed in action with the first AIF at Ypres. Capt Frazer, who joined the Melbourne City Council as an engineering junior in 1928, graduated to senior MCC engineering assistant before he enlisted. At present he is attached to Army Engineers, LHQ. His wife and 3 children live at Canterbury."Sir Stanley Savige was the founder of Melbourne Legacy. A record of the first Junior Legatee becoming a Senior Legatee after his war service.Black and white photo of the induction of a new Legatee by L/- Stan Savige in 1943.savige, legatee event, len frazer, membership

Doris Mercy Willmott was born in May 1896 in Stamford Hill, London, the eldest of three daughters of Albert and Minnie Willmott. The family lived in various parts of north London until the beginning of the First World War, when they moved to Redhill in Surrey. It was in Redhill that Doris met her future husband, Frederick John (Jack) Bennett. Jack had met Eric Mercy, a cousin of Minnie’s, in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) and visited the Wilmotts with him whilst on leave from France. Although Jack Bennett returned to Melbourne in March 1919, he and Doris continued to correspond and they were engaged in March 1923. She came to Melbourne on her own, and was married in the Congregational Church in Canterbury on 23 December 1923. By 1931 Doris and Jack and their three sons - John Willmott, Winfield Robert Curtis and Peter Reginald Dane - moved to 21 Tooronga Road, Hawthorn but moved back to his father’s home, Therapia, 2 (now 6) Hepburn Street, Auburn, shortly before his father’s death. In 1937, the Bennett family moved back to the United Kingdom, spending the war years in Uxbridge and Torquay. The family returned to Melbourne in October 1946, after the deaths of Doris’ parents. The family lived at 12 Stanhope Grove, Camberwell and 51 The Ridge, Canterbury before Jack died in February 1952. After this Doris moved to 12 Stanley Grove, Canterbury, her home until c. 1970 when she moved to 25 Corhampton Road, North Balwyn. She died in May 1980 in Princeton Nursing Home, 3 Bellett Street, Camberwell. (Adapted from notes provided by Sue Barnett, the donor).The collection of evening clothes owned and worn by Doris Mercy Bennett, of which this item is one, date from the 1930s and may have been purchased in Australia or in the United Kingdom. Each of the items, apart from the evening dress, which has a few minor tears in the lace, is of fine quality and evidences Doris Bennett’s love of glamour and style. While the evening dress and the mantilla are of the same fabric, the two capes might have been worn with the dress as alternative fashion accessories. None of the items has a maker’s mark, however each displays evidence of fine dressmaking skills. It is however probable that the two fitted capes were commercially made.Long black lace, floor-length evening dress extending to a short train at the back. The dress has a belt at the waist that is joined by two white metal clasps studded with diamentes. With the dress there is also a matching lace square (2017.00921) that might have been used as a mantilla or as a shawl. The dress was owned and worn by Doris Mercy Bennett (nee Willmott) [1896-1980], and donated to the Society by her grandaughter. women's clothing, evening wear, evening dresses, doris bennett (nee wilmott)

Doris Mercy Willmott was born in May 1896 in Stamford Hill, London, the eldest of three daughters of Albert and Minnie Willmott. The family lived in various parts of north London until the beginning of the First World War, when they moved to Redhill in Surrey. It was in Redhill that Doris met her future husband, Frederick John (Jack) Bennett. Jack had met Eric Mercy, a cousin of Minnie’s, in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) and visited the Wilmotts with him whilst on leave from France. Although Jack Bennett returned to Melbourne in March 1919, he and Doris continued to correspond and they were engaged in March 1923. She came to Melbourne on her own, and was married in the Congregational Church in Canterbury on 23 December 1923. By 1931 Doris and Jack and their three sons - John Willmott, Winfield Robert Curtis and Peter Reginald Dane - moved to 21 Tooronga Road, Hawthorn but moved back to his father’s home, Therapia, 2 (now 6) Hepburn Street, Auburn, shortly before his father’s death. In 1937, the Bennett family moved back to the United Kingdom, spending the war years in Uxbridge and Torquay. The family returned to Melbourne in October 1946, after the deaths of Doris’ parents. The family lived at 12 Stanhope Grove, Camberwell and 51 The Ridge, Canterbury before Jack died in February 1952. After this Doris moved to 12 Stanley Grove, Canterbury, her home until c. 1970 when she moved to 25 Corhampton Road, North Balwyn. She died in May 1980 in Princeton Nursing Home, 3 Bellett Street, Camberwell. (Adapted from notes provided by Sue Barnett, the donor).The collection of evening clothes owned and worn by Doris Mercy Bennett, of which this item is one, date from the 1930s and may have been purchased in Australia or in the United Kingdom. Each of the items, apart from the evening dress, which has a few minor tears in the lace, is of fine quality and evidences Doris Bennett’s love of glamour and style. While the evening dress and the mantilla are of the same fabric, the two capes might have been worn with the dress as alternative fashion accessories. None of the items has a maker’s mark, however each displays evidence of fine dressmaking skills. It is however probable that the two fitted capes were commercially made.With the black lace evening dress (2917.0093.1) there is also a matching lace square with long lace ties (2017.0093.2) that might have been used as a mantilla or as a shawl. The outfit was owned and worn by Doris Mercy Bennett (nee Willmott) [1896-1980], and donated to the Society by her grandaughter. women's clothing, evening wear, shawls, lace, doris bennet (nee willmott)

Doris Mercy Willmott was born in May 1896 in Stamford Hill, London, the eldest of three daughters of Albert and Minnie Willmott. The family lived in various parts of north London until the beginning of the First World War, when they moved to Redhill in Surrey. It was in Redhill that Doris met her future husband, Frederick John (Jack) Bennett. Jack had met Eric Mercy, a cousin of Minnie’s, in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) and visited the Wilmotts with him whilst on leave from France. Although Jack Bennett returned to Melbourne in March 1919, he and Doris continued to correspond and they were engaged in March 1923. She came to Melbourne on her own, and was married in the Congregational Church in Canterbury on 23 December 1923. By 1931 Doris and Jack and their three sons - John Willmott, Winfield Robert Curtis and Peter Reginald Dane - moved to 21 Tooronga Road, Hawthorn but moved back to his father’s home, Therapia, 2 (now 6) Hepburn Street, Auburn, shortly before his father’s death. In 1937, the Bennett family moved back to the United Kingdom, spending the war years in Uxbridge and Torquay. The family returned to Melbourne in October 1946, after the deaths of Doris’ parents. The family lived at 12 Stanhope Grove, Camberwell and 51 The Ridge, Canterbury before Jack died in February 1952. After this Doris moved to 12 Stanley Grove, Canterbury, her home until c. 1970 when she moved to 25 Corhampton Road, North Balwyn. She died in May 1980 in Princeton Nursing Home, 3 Bellett Street, Camberwell. (Adapted from notes provided by Sue Barnett, the donor).The collection of evening clothes owned and worn by Doris Mercy Bennett, of which this item is one, date from the 1930s and may have been purchased in Australia or in the United Kingdom. Each of the items, apart from the evening dress, which has a few minor tears in the lace, is of fine quality and evidences Doris Bennett’s love of glamour and style. While the evening dress and the mantilla are of the same fabric, the two capes might have been worn with the dress as alternative fashion accessories. None of the items has a maker’s mark, however each displays evidence of fine dressmaking skills. It is however probable that the two fitted capes were commercially made.Black silk chiffon or georgette fitted evening cape,let entirely covered in silver metal rectangles and black sequins. The cape gives the appearance of being joined at the front, however it is made in one piece. The cape has open scalloped sections bordering the lower band of silver metal rectangles. The cape was owned and worn by Doris Mercy Bennett (nee Willmott) [1896-1980], and donated to the Society by her grandaughter. evening wear, capelets, doris bennett (nee wilmott), women's clothing

Doris Mercy Willmott was born in May 1896 in Stamford Hill, London, the eldest of three daughters of Albert and Minnie Willmott. The family lived in various parts of north London until the beginning of the First World War, when they moved to Redhill in Surrey. It was in Redhill that Doris met her future husband, Frederick John (Jack) Bennett. Jack had met Eric Mercy, a cousin of Minnie’s, in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) and visited the Wilmotts with him whilst on leave from France. Although Jack Bennett returned to Melbourne in March 1919, he and Doris continued to correspond and they were engaged in March 1923. She came to Melbourne on her own, and was married in the Congregational Church in Canterbury on 23 December 1923. By 1931 Doris and Jack and their three sons - John Willmott, Winfield Robert Curtis and Peter Reginald Dane - moved to 21 Tooronga Road, Hawthorn but moved back to his father’s home, Therapia, 2 (now 6) Hepburn Street, Auburn, shortly before his father’s death. In 1937, the Bennett family moved back to the United Kingdom, spending the war years in Uxbridge and Torquay. The family returned to Melbourne in October 1946, after the deaths of Doris’ parents. The family lived at 12 Stanhope Grove, Camberwell and 51 The Ridge, Canterbury before Jack died in February 1952. After this Doris moved to 12 Stanley Grove, Canterbury, her home until c. 1970 when she moved to 25 Corhampton Road, North Balwyn. She died in May 1980 in Princeton Nursing Home, 3 Bellett Street, Camberwell. (Adapted from notes provided by Sue Barnett, the donor).Black silk, with multi-coloured embroiderery Manton de Manila shawl. The shawl was owned and once worn by Doris Mercy Bennett (nee Willmott) [1896-1980], and donated to the Society by her grandaughter. It probably dates from the 1930s.evening wear, piano shawl, manton de manila, doris bennett (nee wilmot), women's clothing

A diary written by Legatee Frank Doolan as he sailed to Perth and then visited Legatee Ivan Davies and his wife Mercy. He mentions docking at King George Sound which was the harbour from which transport assembled to convoy to the Middle East for the first World War. He was greeted by a member of Perth Legacy, Keith Manwell. He mentions visiting Mt Clarence and The Anzac Desert Mounted Monument "which was destroyed by Nasser's Gyppos at Port Said, and of which the pieces were transported back to Australia, stone base and all complete. Where a new model was made by Ray Ewen at Frankston and was sent back to Italy to be melted down and recast. It is double life size and very striking, depicting an Anzac charging from a horse which has been shot down under shellfire, to a new charger - rearing to go." He leaves the SS Kangaroo for a few days to visit a "Legacy pal", Ivan Davies. They toured his farm 'Carngham'. His observation at the end shows the comradeship of Legatees. "time to depart after several glorious days of perfect hospitality. To be accepted spontaneously as one of the family is the test of true friendship, and we received the full treatment from Mercy and Ivan at 'Carngham'". The year is unknown but the trip was in March. It could have been before a Legacy Conference in Perth. Was with other memorabilia that has come from Frank Doolan from both his war service and his time with Legacy. Frank Doolan posted this copy of his diary to Ivan Davies in 1978. Not sure how it and the cover letter (01131) were returned to Legacy's collection. The diary shows that Legatees from different regions of Australia visited each other and had strong friendships over the years. A carbon copy of a diary x 11 pages, written by L/- Frank Doolan on a trip on the SS Kangaroo and a visit to L/- Ivan Davies.Dairy is handwritten. Pages are numbered 67 to 78 in printed numerals in top right of each page.comradeship, frank doolan

After the first world war there was a decision made to create a memorial. Legatees were involved in the process at various times and capacities. In particular Legatee Kemsley was vocal in idea of a structure over a utilitarian memorial (such as a hospital or a park) - see letter at 01182. Also that 25 sites were selected for consideration in 1921. Although the St Kilda Road site was favoured early on, by 1926 there was pressure to change to a "provision of square" and Cenotaph at the intersection of Spring and Bourke Streets. 'Melbourne Legacy decided to support and work for the Shrine of Remembrance as the National War Memorial.' It is notable that the initial design 'incorporated certain features of the Mausoleum at Hellicarnasus, which is listed as on of the Seven Wonders of the World and, also, many of the refinements of the ancient Grecian architecture.' This note describes how the ray of light shining on the Rock of Remembrance was 'something of an afterthought' as Philip Hudson (one of the architects) saw something similar on a trip abroad, in a chapel in France. The final paragraph is significant 'All materials in the Shrine are of Australian origin. Indeed, with the exception of the marble in the Shrine floor which was quarried at Carloola in NSW, and the Hawksbury freestone in the bas relief panels, the remaining materials are all of Victorian origin.' This account is written by a Legatee who was heavily involved in the building of the Shrine. It is presumed to be Legatee Kemsley but it is not certain (the handwriting might be a clue if more documents written by him are found). Also the date is not known. Items were in an envelope with other photos and programmes from different items relating to the Shrine of Remembrance - including discussions on its location and design. Labelled 'Shrine of Remembrance S1 - S14' it was part of an old archive numbering system, that showed there has been efforts in the past to collect, order and save items of Legacy's history. (01181 - 01190, 01206 - 01211).A record of the events that led to the construction of the Shrine of Remembrance as noted by a Legatee shortly after. There was an effort to record historical events for the "Archive Committee" which collected this an other documents relating to the Shrine together in a file (see items 01181 - 01190, 01206 - 01211)Four white foolscap pages of black type recording major events in the history of building the Shrine (starting from 1921). Plus several hand written notes which were the draft version, including notes on an envelope and on scrap paper of various sizes.Handwritten 'S1 History Shrine' in red pen on top left of first page. Handwritten notes on scrap paper.memorial, shrine of remembrance

Frances Rigg was a local business identity in Kew, at one stage managing the local branch of the English, Scottish and Australian (ES&A) Bank at 175 High Street from c. 1920 until the 1940s. After Francis Rigg’s death, the collection of buttons and medallions was inherited by his son, Ken Rigg (1922-2014). The collection was subsequently donated to the Kew Historical Society in 2015 by Francis' grandson, Adrian Rigg, at the time of the Gallipoli & Beyond Commemoration in 2015. The collection covers a period of almost 40 years. The majority of the buttons are patriotic buttons, issued and sold during and immediately after the First World World War (1914-1918) to raise funds for national and overseas causes. The collection also includes a number of locally significant sporting event buttons and sporting club medallions, issued in the 1920s and 1930s.Patriotic and other pressed tin buttons and badges were produced in large numbers in the first decades of the twentieth century. By nature, insubstantial and ephemeral, they have not always survived. The collections of badges, buttons and medallions in the Kew Historical Society collection is homogenous and yet diverse, ranging from buttons sold to raise funds for the war efforts in 1914-18 and 1939-45, to those used at festivals and sporting events. Because of the manufacturing process, many surviving buttons and badges have been affected by inadequate storage, suffering from oxidisation and physical damage. These survivors are now historically and socially significant artefacts, revealing much about the attitudes and values of the period in which they were produced. Their widespread distribution means that they are frequently significant at a local, state, national and international level.A small circular pressed metal badge with a white outline of Australia against a dark blue background. Flags of Australia’s World War I allies are depicted within the Australian outline, including that of Imperial Russia."Allies For Freedom and Life"patriotic buttons, first world war (1914-18)

Frances Rigg was a local business identity in Kew, at one stage managing the local branch of the English, Scottish and Australian (ES&A) Bank at 175 High Street from c. 1920 until the 1940s. After Francis Rigg’s death, the collection of buttons and medallions was inherited by his son, Ken Rigg (1922-2014). The collection was subsequently donated to the Kew Historical Society in 2015 by Francis' grandson, Adrian Rigg, at the time of the Gallipoli & Beyond Commemoration in 2015. The collection covers a period of almost 40 years. The majority of the buttons are patriotic buttons, issued and sold during and immediately after the First World World War (1914-1918) to raise funds for national and overseas causes. The collection also includes a number of locally significant sporting event buttons and sporting club medallions, issued in the 1920s and 1930s.Patriotic and other pressed tin buttons and badges were produced in large numbers in the first decades of the twentieth century. By nature, insubstantial and ephemeral, they have not always survived. The collections of badges, buttons and medallions in the Kew Historical Society collection is homogenous and yet diverse, ranging from buttons sold to raise funds for the war efforts in 1914-18 and 1939-45, to those used at festivals and sporting events. Because of the manufacturing process, many surviving buttons and badges have been affected by inadequate storage, suffering from oxidisation and physical damage. These survivors are now historically and socially significant artefacts, revealing much about the attitudes and values of the period in which they were produced. Their widespread distribution means that they are frequently significant at a local, state, national and international level.World War I-era pressed metal fundraising badge, featuring an olive wreath encircling in red text: ‘ANZAC Apr. 25. 1915’, on a white background. "ANZAC Apr. 25. 1915 / Copyright"anzac day, first world war (1914-18), patriotic buttons, world war one, numismatics, badges

Frances Rigg was a local business identity in Kew, at one stage managing the local branch of the English, Scottish and Australian (ES&A) Bank at 175 High Street from c. 1920 until the 1940s. After Francis Rigg’s death, the collection of buttons and medallions was inherited by his son, Ken Rigg (1922-2014). The collection was subsequently donated to the Kew Historical Society in 2015 by Francis' grandson, Adrian Rigg, at the time of the Gallipoli & Beyond Commemoration in 2015. The collection covers a period of almost 40 years. The majority of the buttons are patriotic buttons, issued and sold during and immediately after the First World World War (1914-1918) to raise funds for national and overseas causes. The collection also includes a number of locally significant sporting event buttons and sporting club medallions, issued in the 1920s and 1930s.Patriotic and other pressed tin buttons and badges were produced in large numbers in the first decades of the twentieth century. By nature, insubstantial and ephemeral, they have not always survived. The collections of badges, buttons and medallions in the Kew Historical Society collection is homogenous and yet diverse, ranging from buttons sold to raise funds for the war efforts in 1914-18 and 1939-45, to those used at festivals and sporting events. Because of the manufacturing process, many surviving buttons and badges have been affected by inadequate storage, suffering from oxidisation and physical damage. These survivors are now historically and socially significant artefacts, revealing much about the attitudes and values of the period in which they were produced. Their widespread distribution means that they are frequently significant at a local, state, national and international level.World War I-era pressed metal fundraising badge, advertising ANZAC Remembrance Day"ANZAC Remembrance Day"patriotic buttons, remembrance day, badges

Frances Rigg was a local business identity in Kew, at one stage managing the local branch of the English, Scottish and Australian (ES&A) Bank at 175 High Street from c. 1920 until the 1940s. After Francis Rigg’s death, the collection of buttons and medallions was inherited by his son, Ken Rigg (1922-2014). The collection was subsequently donated to the Kew Historical Society in 2015 by Francis' grandson, Adrian Rigg, at the time of the Gallipoli & Beyond Commemoration in 2015. The collection covers a period of almost 40 years. The majority of the buttons are patriotic buttons, issued and sold during and immediately after the First World World War (1914-1918) to raise funds for national and overseas causes. The collection also includes a number of locally significant sporting event buttons and sporting club medallions, issued in the 1920s and 1930s.Patriotic and other pressed tin buttons and badges were produced in large numbers in the first decades of the twentieth century. By nature, insubstantial and ephemeral, they have not always survived. The collections of badges, buttons and medallions in the Kew Historical Society collection is homogenous and yet diverse, ranging from buttons sold to raise funds for the war efforts in 1914-18 and 1939-45, to those used at festivals and sporting events. Because of the manufacturing process, many surviving buttons and badges have been affected by inadequate storage, suffering from oxidisation and physical damage. These survivors are now historically and socially significant artefacts, revealing much about the attitudes and values of the period in which they were produced. Their widespread distribution means that they are frequently significant at a local, state, national and international level.Circular pressed tin button featuring the Red Cross flag. Beneath the flag is a two-tiered scroll with red text ‘Australian Red Cross Appeal 1918’, against a gold background with a white and red border."Australian Red Cross Appeal 1918"patriotic buttons, first world war (1914-18)

Frances Rigg was a local business identity in Kew, at one stage managing the local branch of the English, Scottish and Australian (ES&A) Bank at 175 High Street from c. 1920 until the 1940s. After Francis Rigg’s death, the collection of buttons and medallions was inherited by his son, Ken Rigg (1922-2014). The collection was subsequently donated to the Kew Historical Society in 2015 by Francis' grandson, Adrian Rigg, at the time of the Gallipoli & Beyond Commemoration in 2015. The collection covers a period of almost 40 years. The majority of the buttons are patriotic buttons, issued and sold during and immediately after the First World World War (1914-1918) to raise funds for national and overseas causes. The collection also includes a number of locally significant sporting event buttons and sporting club medallions, issued in the 1920s and 1930s.Patriotic and other pressed tin buttons and badges were produced in large numbers in the first decades of the twentieth century. By nature, insubstantial and ephemeral, they have not always survived. The collections of badges, buttons and medallions in the Kew Historical Society collection is homogenous and yet diverse, ranging from buttons sold to raise funds for the war efforts in 1914-18 and 1939-45, to those used at festivals and sporting events. Because of the manufacturing process, many surviving buttons and badges have been affected by inadequate storage, suffering from oxidisation and physical damage. These survivors are now historically and socially significant artefacts, revealing much about the attitudes and values of the period in which they were produced. Their widespread distribution means that they are frequently significant at a local, state, national and international level.A button designed to raise funds in Deepdene and Balwyn for the Alfred Hospital Appeal of 1921. The central image on the button is of cricket bats, ball and a wicket, all designed in red. The Argus was to report that ‘Yesterday on behalf of the Deepdene and Balwyn committee who organised the event, Constable F. Kloster and Mrs. F Quin handed in a cheque for £150/3/9, representing the proceeds of a fete at Deepdene on behalf of the appeal fund’.deepdene, alfred hospital, fundraising buttons, badges

Frances Rigg was a local business identity in Kew, at one stage managing the local branch of the English, Scottish and Australian (ES&A) Bank at 175 High Street from c. 1920 until the 1940s. After Francis Rigg’s death, the collection of buttons and medallions was inherited by his son, Ken Rigg (1922-2014). The collection was subsequently donated to the Kew Historical Society in 2015 by Francis' grandson, Adrian Rigg, at the time of the Gallipoli & Beyond Commemoration in 2015. The collection covers a period of almost 40 years. The majority of the buttons are patriotic buttons, issued and sold during and immediately after the First World World War (1914-1918) to raise funds for national and overseas causes. The collection also includes a number of locally significant sporting event buttons and sporting club medallions, issued in the 1920s and 1930s.Patriotic and other pressed tin buttons and badges were produced in large numbers in the first decades of the twentieth century. By nature, insubstantial and ephemeral, they have not always survived. The collections of badges, buttons and medallions in the Kew Historical Society collection is homogenous and yet diverse, ranging from buttons sold to raise funds for the war efforts in 1914-18 and 1939-45, to those used at festivals and sporting events. Because of the manufacturing process, many surviving buttons and badges have been affected by inadequate storage, suffering from oxidisation and physical damage. These survivors are now historically and socially significant artefacts, revealing much about the attitudes and values of the period in which they were produced. Their widespread distribution means that they are frequently significant at a local, state, national and international level.Small circular pressed tinplate badge featuring a gold-bordered art nouveau style heart within a green wreath, surmounted by a yellow seven-pointed star, all on a brown background. The words ‘Discharged Soldiers’ Fund For Our Returned Soldiers’ feature within the heart, on a buff background. A gold and white border encloses the whole design.first world war (1914-18), patriotic buttons, badges

Frances Rigg was a local business identity in Kew, at one stage managing the local branch of the English, Scottish and Australian (ES&A) Bank at 175 High Street from c. 1920 until the 1940s. After Francis Rigg’s death, the collection of buttons and medallions was inherited by his son, Ken Rigg (1922-2014). The collection was subsequently donated to the Kew Historical Society in 2015 by Francis' grandson, Adrian Rigg, at the time of the Gallipoli & Beyond Commemoration in 2015. The collection covers a period of almost 40 years. The majority of the buttons are patriotic buttons, issued and sold during and immediately after the First World World War (1914-1918) to raise funds for national and overseas causes. The collection also includes a number of locally significant sporting event buttons and sporting club medallions, issued in the 1920s and 1930s.Patriotic and other pressed tin buttons and badges were produced in large numbers in the first decades of the twentieth century. By nature, insubstantial and ephemeral, they have not always survived. The collections of badges, buttons and medallions in the Kew Historical Society collection is homogenous and yet diverse, ranging from buttons sold to raise funds for the war efforts in 1914-18 and 1939-45, to those used at festivals and sporting events. Because of the manufacturing process, many surviving buttons and badges have been affected by inadequate storage, suffering from oxidisation and physical damage. These survivors are now historically and socially significant artefacts, revealing much about the attitudes and values of the period in which they were produced. Their widespread distribution means that they are frequently significant at a local, state, national and international level.A small white yellow and blue fundraising (sic) button with the initials or logo of ‘CE’ in the centre. It has been suggested that CE stands for Christian Endeavour. Christian Endeavour was run at most Churches of Christ in the early 20th century and perhaps comes from a member of the Kew East Church of Christ (1923-1993). CEchristian endeavour, religious badge, buttons

Frances Rigg was a local business identity in Kew, at one stage managing the local branch of the English, Scottish and Australian (ES&A) Bank at 175 High Street from c. 1920 until the 1940s. After Francis Rigg’s death, the collection of buttons and medallions was inherited by his son, Ken Rigg (1922-2014). The collection was subsequently donated to the Kew Historical Society in 2015 by Francis' grandson, Adrian Rigg, at the time of the Gallipoli & Beyond Commemoration in 2015. The collection covers a period of almost 40 years. The majority of the buttons are patriotic buttons, issued and sold during and immediately after the First World World War (1914-1918) to raise funds for national and overseas causes. The collection also includes a number of locally significant sporting event buttons and sporting club medallions, issued in the 1920s and 1930s.Patriotic and other pressed tin buttons and badges were produced in large numbers in the first decades of the twentieth century. By nature, insubstantial and ephemeral, they have not always survived. The collections of badges, buttons and medallions in the Kew Historical Society collection is homogenous and yet diverse, ranging from buttons sold to raise funds for the war efforts in 1914-18 and 1939-45, to those used at festivals and sporting events. Because of the manufacturing process, many surviving buttons and badges have been affected by inadequate storage, suffering from oxidisation and physical damage. These survivors are now historically and socially significant artefacts, revealing much about the attitudes and values of the period in which they were produced. Their widespread distribution means that they are frequently significant at a local, state, national and international level.Metal badge with a printed illustration of a Red Cross flag and printed text on a red ink background surrounded by a white border. The Commonwealth Button Fund issued buttons of this design for a Victorian Red Cross appeal in July 1915. All funds raised during the appeal were to be used for the support of the Australian Red Cross and the servicemen in their care. Between 300,000-400,000 of these buttons were distributed."For Kith and Kin"patriotic buttons, badges, first world war 1914-1918

Frances Rigg was a local business identity in Kew, at one stage managing the local branch of the English, Scottish and Australian (ES&A) Bank at 175 High Street from c. 1920 until the 1940s. After Francis Rigg’s death, the collection of buttons and medallions was inherited by his son, Ken Rigg (1922-2014). The collection was subsequently donated to the Kew Historical Society in 2015 by Francis' grandson, Adrian Rigg, at the time of the Gallipoli & Beyond Commemoration in 2015. The collection covers a period of almost 40 years. The majority of the buttons are patriotic buttons, issued and sold during and immediately after the First World World War (1914-1918) to raise funds for national and overseas causes. The collection also includes a number of locally significant sporting event buttons and sporting club medallions, issued in the 1920s and 1930s.Patriotic and other pressed tin buttons and badges were produced in large numbers in the first decades of the twentieth century. By nature, insubstantial and ephemeral, they have not always survived. The collections of badges, buttons and medallions in the Kew Historical Society collection is homogenous and yet diverse, ranging from buttons sold to raise funds for the war efforts in 1914-18 and 1939-45, to those used at festivals and sporting events. Because of the manufacturing process, many surviving buttons and badges have been affected by inadequate storage, suffering from oxidisation and physical damage. These survivors are now historically and socially significant artefacts, revealing much about the attitudes and values of the period in which they were produced. Their widespread distribution means that they are frequently significant at a local, state, national and international level.A round pressed metal button in red, white and blue. The pale border is designed to look like a belt. The button was initially sold on the 24 March 1916, the day set aside as ‘Button Day For Our Fighting Men’ to raise funds for the servicemen fighting overseas."For Our Fighting Men"patriotic buttons, first world war (1914-18), badges

Frances Rigg was a local business identity in Kew, at one stage managing the local branch of the English, Scottish and Australian (ES&A) Bank at 175 High Street from c. 1920 until the 1940s. After Francis Rigg’s death, the collection of buttons and medallions was inherited by his son, Ken Rigg (1922-2014). The collection was subsequently donated to the Kew Historical Society in 2015 by Francis' grandson, Adrian Rigg, at the time of the Gallipoli & Beyond Commemoration in 2015. The collection covers a period of almost 40 years. The majority of the buttons are patriotic buttons, issued and sold during and immediately after the First World World War (1914-1918) to raise funds for national and overseas causes. The collection also includes a number of locally significant sporting event buttons and sporting club medallions, issued in the 1920s and 1930s.Patriotic and other pressed tin buttons and badges were produced in large numbers in the first decades of the twentieth century. By nature, insubstantial and ephemeral, they have not always survived. The collections of badges, buttons and medallions in the Kew Historical Society collection is homogenous and yet diverse, ranging from buttons sold to raise funds for the war efforts in 1914-18 and 1939-45, to those used at festivals and sporting events. Because of the manufacturing process, many surviving buttons and badges have been affected by inadequate storage, suffering from oxidisation and physical damage. These survivors are now historically and socially significant artefacts, revealing much about the attitudes and values of the period in which they were produced. Their widespread distribution means that they are frequently significant at a local, state, national and international level.World War I-era pressed tin fundraising button featuring a sprig of wattle on a dark brown background. In this ‘Wattle Day’ badge, the word copyright is emphasised on the rim of the button."For Our Own"patriotic buttons, first world war (1914-18)

Frances Rigg was a local business identity in Kew, at one stage managing the local branch of the English, Scottish and Australian (ES&A) Bank at 175 High Street from c. 1920 until the 1940s. After Francis Rigg’s death, the collection of buttons and medallions was inherited by his son, Ken Rigg (1922-2014). The collection was subsequently donated to the Kew Historical Society in 2015 by Francis' grandson, Adrian Rigg, at the time of the Gallipoli & Beyond Commemoration in 2015. The collection covers a period of almost 40 years. The majority of the buttons are patriotic buttons, issued and sold during and immediately after the First World World War (1914-1918) to raise funds for national and overseas causes. The collection also includes a number of locally significant sporting event buttons and sporting club medallions, issued in the 1920s and 1930s.Patriotic and other pressed tin buttons and badges were produced in large numbers in the first decades of the twentieth century. By nature, insubstantial and ephemeral, they have not always survived. The collections of badges, buttons and medallions in the Kew Historical Society collection is homogenous and yet diverse, ranging from buttons sold to raise funds for the war efforts in 1914-18 and 1939-45, to those used at festivals and sporting events. Because of the manufacturing process, many surviving buttons and badges have been affected by inadequate storage, suffering from oxidisation and physical damage. These survivors are now historically and socially significant artefacts, revealing much about the attitudes and values of the period in which they were produced. Their widespread distribution means that they are frequently significant at a local, state, national and international level.World War I-era pressed tin fundraising button. The button features the French flag and a red cross over a starburst, against a gold background. Encircling the image is a white ring with the text ‘French Red Cross’ in blue."French Red Cross"first world war (1914-18)

Frances Rigg was a local business identity in Kew, at one stage managing the local branch of the English, Scottish and Australian (ES&A) Bank at 175 High Street from c. 1920 until the 1940s. After Francis Rigg’s death, the collection of buttons and medallions was inherited by his son, Ken Rigg (1922-2014). The collection was subsequently donated to the Kew Historical Society in 2015 by Francis' grandson, Adrian Rigg, at the time of the Gallipoli & Beyond Commemoration in 2015. The collection covers a period of almost 40 years. The majority of the buttons are patriotic buttons, issued and sold during and immediately after the First World World War (1914-1918) to raise funds for national and overseas causes. The collection also includes a number of locally significant sporting event buttons and sporting club medallions, issued in the 1920s and 1930s.Patriotic and other pressed tin buttons and badges were produced in large numbers in the first decades of the twentieth century. By nature, insubstantial and ephemeral, they have not always survived. The collections of badges, buttons and medallions in the Kew Historical Society collection is homogenous and yet diverse, ranging from buttons sold to raise funds for the war efforts in 1914-18 and 1939-45, to those used at festivals and sporting events. Because of the manufacturing process, many surviving buttons and badges have been affected by inadequate storage, suffering from oxidisation and physical damage. These survivors are now historically and socially significant artefacts, revealing much about the attitudes and values of the period in which they were produced. Their widespread distribution means that they are frequently significant at a local, state, national and international level.A tin buttonhole button from a series of 16 badges issued by Amalgamated Press. George Geary (1893-1981) was an English Cricketer who played in a number of tests against Australia including the 1928-29 tour. The button includes a tab which states ‘Bend Me’ which was a simple method of attaching the badge to a lapel."Geary"george geary, cricket, test cricket