The Ithacan Philanthropic Society, 'The Ulysses' celebrated its 80th Anniversary at the Debutante Ball on Saturday 21 September 1996 at the Carlton Crest Hotel Grand Waldorf Ballroom. Much loved Ithacan actress Irini Papas was MC for the evening and guest of honour was the Consul of Greece, Mr. George Veis. Dance instructor and coordinator of the debutante group was Olga Black who worked with the fourteen debutantes and their escorts and the young flower girl to prepare for the memorable night. Pictured (above left) are debutantes Faye Baker and Angela Thomas. For the Ithacan Philanthropic Society to endure as an active organisation for eighty years was a memorable achievement. Debutante balls was an Anglo tradition that was taken up by the Ithacan Philanthropic Society and were particularly popular in the period 1940 - 1960. There was a resurgence in popularity in the 1980s - 2000. A black and white newspaper photograph of five debutants and one flower girl on the dance floor. The photograph has been backed onto white cardboard and laminated. The photograph is one of a pair which was published in the 'Neos Kosmos' newspaper.

The children in the picture were students at the Greek language school which was run by the Greek Community of Melbourne and were attending the '28th October' Greek national day celebration at the Evangelismos Greek Orthodox Church in East Melbourne. The two women, Alexandra Vrachna and Nina Black were teachers at the school. The Evangelismos Church was the first Greek orthodox Church to be established in Melbourne. The foundation stone was laid in December 1900 and church services commenced in August 1902. The 28th October is known as 'OHI' DAY', translated meaning NO DAY. It is an important national day celebrated in Greece and the Greek diaspora and commemorates the anniversary when in 1940 the then Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas said “NO” to an ultimatum made by Italian Prime Minister Benito Mussolini to allow Italian forces to occupy Greece. It marked the beginning of Greece's entry into WW2. The day symbolises values important to the Greek people - freedom, courage and 'filotimo'. The establishment of the Orthodox church in Melbourne in the early years of the twentieth century was was indicative of the number of Greek migrants who came to Australia in those early years of settlement in this country and the desire maintain their religious and cultural traditions. The early Greek migrants were anxious that their Australian born children maintain their language and religion in their adopted country. A black and white photograph of children with three adults standing outside Evangelismos Church in East Melbourne. Three children in the back row are displaying the Greek and Australian flags.Written in red underneath the photograph: 28th OCTOBER 1948. OUTSUDE THE GREEK CHURCH IN EAST MELBOURNE/PHOTO PROPERTY OF STATHI RAFTOPOULOS.wwii

From the outset the Ithacan Philanthropic held at least one family picnic a year. They either took place at a popular seaside locations or at popular picnic sites in the nearby hills around Melbourne. The first annual picnic was held in 1918. The Ithacan Greeks worked long hours in family food and restaurant businesses in Melbourne. On Sundays the shops were closed so it was seen as an opportunity to relax outdoors away from the city. The Ithacan Philanthropic Society continues this tradition holding an annual picnic in late summer.A black and white panoramic photograph of a large picnic group of men, women and children standing in an open area with trees around the perimeter. Eight children are sitting on the ground in front of the adults and a group of ladies are sitting on a bench to the left of the group. Some of the party are holding long walking sticks which must have been used when they went on a hike or walk.families, picnics, leisure time.

Pictured l-r are Bill Florence (Vasilis Florias) playing violin, Peter (Pano) Vlass, Joyce Mason and Stathis Raftopoulos playing banjo. They are continuing the celebrations the day after Pano's and Joyce's wedding. The photo is taken in the back garden of the Golden Key Cafe in Red Cliffs which was operated by Pano's father Demetrios Vlassopoulos (Kopela). Stathi, Bill and Pano were all first cousins.The photograph reflects maintenance of family traditions and celebrations in their adopted country and the love of music. A black and white photograph of a lady and men relaxing outside a weatherboard house. The lady is seated in front of the men. A man on the LHS is playing a violin and the other on the RHS is playing the banjo. A corrugated iron water tank is behind the group. The photograph has been scanned from an original photograph. kopella, mildura

Photograph of Ithacan family group taken following a baptisms.The baptism was an important tradition and opportunity for families and friends to come together to celebrate.Black & White photograph of a baptism in an outdoor setting under trees. c 1920-1930'sMounted on cardboardmildura

Photo possibly taken at a picnic where the young ones are dressed in white outfits, possibly for a celebration of an event or national day. Adults at rear are wearing the traditional shield badges which were given to attendees on arrival at the annual picnic.The celebration of Greek national days was important in the maintenance of Greek identity and traditions.Mounted black & white photo of people in a pavilion. E.Galatis on top right corner on the back.

The photograph was taken at the christening of Freda Lucas' first son, Nicholas at the Greek Orthodox church, Evangelismos. Godparents are Zaharia and Maria Morris (Moraitis). Pictured l-r, Spiro Lucas, Maria Morris, Freda Lucas (nee Benias) holding baby Nicholas, Zaharia Morris, Bill Benias and Nick Lucas (Lekatsas).The 'Evangelismos' Church in Victoria Street, East Melbourne was the first Greek Church in Melbourne. The foundation stone was laid in December 1900 and the first service was conducted in August 1902. Since that date it has been the venue for many important family celebrations. Baptism is an important family tradition for Greek families. A black and white photograph with a white border of three men, two ladies and a child standing outside outside 'Evangelismos' Church in East Melbourne

The photograph was taken when Stathi Vlass (Kopela) returned to Ithaca together with his family in 1952 for the first time since migrating to Australia in 1932. Stathi's wife Annie Vlass, is seated in the foreground with the young Freda Benia behind her. The two children are Annie's and Stathi's sons, l-r Con and Demetri (standing). It was quite rare for families to travel to Greece and Ithaca in the 1950s. However, over the years it has become a tradition for many Ithacan Greeks to return to their island home for the summer or for a longer stay. It is one way that the generations have been able to maintain family ties and their Ithacan heritage.A square black and white photograph with a white border of two women, two men and two young boys in an olive grove where goats are grazing. The two women and boys are in the foreground while the two men are in the background under the shade of the trees. A small message is written in Greek on the back of the photograph.The following translation is written in Greek on the back of the photograph.

The picture is of a Greek dance group, possible organised by the Olympic Club. Nina Black pictured in the middle row was an Australian born Ithacan who was very active in a variety of Greek community activities, including the performing arts and education. She was passionate about fostering Greek culture and language within the Ithacan, Greek and wider Australian community in Melbourne. She went on to establish her Greek dancing classes which were popular with both the Greek and broader Australian community. Her Greek dance group performed Greek dances at many social functions and dressed in traditional Greek costumes, the performances added colour to the events and were widely appreciated. Pictured, back row L-R: . . ? . ., Olympia Cecil, . . ? . . , ...... Green. Middle row L-R: ...... Green, . . . ? . . . , Michael Black, Nina Black, Marguerita Black. Front row L-R: Spiro Polites, Eleni Vrachna, Effie Cecil, Ellie Black, Harry NicholadesThe teaching of Greek dancing to the children of Greek immigrants ensured the maintenance of Greek cultural traditions in their adopted country. A black and white photograph of ten ladies and three men dressed in Greek national costume and posing on a staircase.

Pictured is the open fire used for cooking that would have been found in a traditional Ithacan home. Whilst most now use electric and portable gas appliances, these open cooking areas can still be found in the kitchens of many of the old homes on the island. The mortar and pestle and baking dishes pictured are sill used today in the preparation of traditional dishes.Cooking and food is an intrinsic part of Ithacan culture and plays an important role in maintaining identity and traditions for the Melbourne's Ithacan community. Recipes and particular cooking techniques are passed on from generation to generation. A coloured photograph of the typical kitchen copper pans and cooking utensils used in a traditional Ithacan kitchen.

Stathy Raftopoulos was instrumental in bring Greek films to Melbourne and screened them in various picture theatres in the inner Melbourne suburbs where most post WW2 migrants were living. Prior to the opening of Greek cinemas various venues were used for screenings including Nicholas Hall in Lonsdale Street, Melbourne.With the advent of television many suburban cinemas were no longer drawing the crowds. It was at this time that Stathi Raftopoulos with his partners in the Cosmopolitan Motion Pictures company purchased cinemas in the in suburbs of Melbourne where Greek immigrants were living - in 1960 the National Theatre in Richmond; 1961 the Sun Theatre Yarraville; 1965, the Paramount Theatre Oakleigh, Kinema Theatre Albert Park, and the Empire Theatre Brunswick and Westgarth Theatre Northcote. Here they screened Greek movies which entertained the Greek community supporting them to maintain their link with Greece and their culture and traditions. A black and white photograph of a man standing between two film projectors in a room.

A debutante group presented at a Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne Grecian Ball. The Grecian Ball was a very popular annual event during the 40- 60s with debutantes being a feature. In the late 1960s the Ithacan Philanthropic Society conducted its own debutante balls. Debutante balls fell out of fashion for a period of time but were back in favour in the 80s and 90s. The presentation of debutantes at Greek balls was evidence of the adoption of Anglo traditions within Melbourne's Greek community.A black and white photograph of a debutante group made up of twelve debs and their partners. The photograph has been mounted on white cardboard and the Ithacan Historical Society stamp in printed on the top RH corner of the backing board. vlassopoulos, jim

The photo is at the wedding of Ekaterina Paxinos and Dionysios Lekatsas (Lucas), which took place at Evangelismos Church in Victoria Parade, East Melbourne in 1924. Pictured together with the bride together are her attendants: Picture on far left is Anthi (nee Mavrokefalos)) Chilianis; the others are the daughters of Dimitrios Paxinos who was one of the early Ithacans to arrive in Melbourne in 1886.For the Ithacan community the practice of the orthodox religious ceremonies helped maintain customs and traditions within in an adopted country. Celebrations such as marriages and baptisms played an important social role in the Ithacan community as they were an opportunity for families and friends to come together. A sepia studio photograph of a wedding group of the bride and her two bridesmaids and two flower girls.

The photograph of a group of Ithacan women was taken at an Ithacan Philanthropic Society annual picnic. The women would work hard in the lead up to the picnic to prepare traditional Greek fare to enjoy on the day. At the picnic women catch up with relatives and friends. Ithacan women brought with them their Ithacan traditions and culinary skills and were very much the custodians of the Ithacan cultural heritage. A black and white photograph mounted on grey board of twenty one ladies and five children standing in front of a cluster of trees in a rural setting. picnics

The photograph features the debutante group who were presented at the 1947 Grecian Ball. Fifth from the left are: Mary and Bill Levis, Katina Kostopoulos, Mike Kostos, Desma and Jim Paizis. The Grecian Ball, organised by the Greek Community of Melbourne, was a highlight of the annual social calendar within the Greek community. The Royal Ballroom at the Exhibition Buildings was a popular venue for the event. The Grecian Ball ceased during the 1980s however has enjoyed a renaissance during 2022 and 2023.The early Greek and Ithacan communities adopted the tradition of debutantes at their annual balls. A black and white photograph with a white border at the top and bottom, of six debutantes and their partners standing in a line on a staircase.

The Ithacan Philanthropic Society has been donating to the Royal Children's Hospital since 1922. Easter fundraiser functions have been held at the clubrooms to support the annual Children's Hospital Appeal. The photo shows a group of IPS members presenting a cheque for $10000 to the hospital's Good Friday Appeal. Pictured presenting the cheque to the appeal organisers are committee members Dennis Katsamas, Paul Karavias, Tony Drakopoulos (President) and Kristalenia Collins, together with young three young members.The Ithacan Philanthropic Society is proud of its long held tradition of being a truly philanthropic society and every year donates to worthy causes.A coloured photograph of a lady, three men, a girl and two boys holding a large cheque to the value of $ 10 000 made out to the Royal Children's Hospital. A crowd of people are standing behind there group in a large hallway.

Kioni is a small fishing village on Ithaca where caïque boats were used by fishermen and were once an important form of transport for goods and for people prior. The people in the photograph appear to be lined up along the water's edge awaiting a boat to arrive.A caïque (or kaiki) is a traditional handmade wooden fishing boat found among the waters of the Ionian or Aegean Sea and were once the main form of transport for the many Greek islands, moving people and goods across Greece's archipelago. In the 1980s and 1990s many were destroyed as a result of a European Union decision to subsidize fishermen to scrap their boats to tackle overfishing. Hundreds of beautiful and perfectly sound vessels ended up in landfills resulting in the loss of an integral part of Greece's long seafaring tradition and heritage. Sadly Cyclone Ianos which struck the island in September 2020 destroyed many of the remaining caiques on the island.A sepia photograph, which has a partial white border. The image has been affected by light across the bottom LH corner. The visible section shows a group of people lined up along the side of a wharf like structure. There are four two storey houses in the middle distance with a hillside in the background.

Dimitri (JIm) and Leah (nee Sikiotis) Kandiliotis ran the Trentwood Dry Cleaning business in Doncaster Road, North Balwyn. Jim was very active in the Ithacan Philanthropic Society; he was president from 1965-1966 and is an Honorary Life Member.Leah's parents Costa and Reene (nee Varvarigos) Sikiotis operated Pullars Dry Cleaning in Rathdowne Street Carlton in the 1950s. Jim learnt the trade from his father-in-law and, together with Leah, carried on the family tradition establishing the dry cleaning business in North Balwyn.A coloured polaroid photograph of the exterior views of a Dry Cleaning business in a suburban street. The photograph has a white border with a black square on its reverse side. Printed on the back: 10778121539/ POLAROIDpullards dry cleaning

Index, ill, p.258.non-fictionOrigins of the nursing tradition - Nightingale nurses in Australia - District nursing - Bush nursing - Infant welfare - Border nurses - Male nurses - Army nurses - Expanding horizons - The 1985 strike - Elizabeth Burchill's story. military nursing - history, nursing history - australia

This bridesmaid's dress was owned and first worn by Alice Frances Henty, the daughter of Francis Henty and Mary Ann (Lawrence) Henty. The outfit was worn at the marriage of her friend Miss Hopkins to Mr ST Staughnton in 1874. Alice's father, Francis Henty, was the youngest son of Thomas Henty, who with his family, their retainers and property moved to the Australian colonies between 1829 and 1832. In 1834, Francis’ older brother, Edward, sailed from Launceston in Van Diemen’s Land to what was to become Portland in the western part of Port Phillip District [Victoria]. Francis, together with the first flock of Merino sheep [in Victoria], followed some months later. The first and second generations of the Henty family established vast pastoral properties in the Western part of the Port Phillip District. Francis Henty managed ‘Merino Downs’ near Casterton, while also living in his retirement at ‘Field Place' in Kew. The Henty Collection of nineteenth and twentieth century clothing, including outerwear and underwear, was collected, stored and exhibited over time by female family members descended from Francis and Mary Ann Henty. During the twentieth century, items from the collection were modelled in two fashion parades by various descendants [1937, 1959]. The items in the collection are historically and aesthetically significant, with provenance provided by oral and written tradition within or held by the family. A number of the items in the collection are very rare survivors, and provide researchers with the evidence needed to reconstruct the lives of notable women in the Port Phillip District [later Victoria] during the nineteenth and early twentieth century.An ivory silk skirt and matching jacket worn by Alice Henty, aged 22, at the marriage of her friend Lizzie Hopkins and S.T. Staugnton in 1874. The ivory silk satin peplum jacket is boned, tailored, and fitted with many princess line panels. The front closure has handmade embroidered buttonholes and covered buttons. The collar and sleeves are decorated with gathered silk tulle frills. The peplum back features a silk cord bow decoration. The skirt with bustle and train features a central panel with hand ruching and silk satin piping. It is decorated with five rows of pleated silk tulle frills. Measurements (mm): PEPLUM JACKET Girth - Neck 317.5, Chest 914.4, Waist 698.5, Hip 965.2, Cuff 279.4, Hem circumference 1168.4. Vertical - From neck to hem 558.8, Front waist to hem 254, Back neck to hem 838.2, Back waist to hem 241.3, Sleeve length 279.4. Horizontal - Neck to sleeve head 165.1,Cross back 292.1, Underarm to underarm 393.7. SKIRT Girth - Waist 635, Hip 914.4, Hem circumference 3810. Vertical - Front waist to hem 1092.2, Back waist to hem 1701.8. fashion -- 1870s, alice frances (henty) hindson, women's clothing, bridesmaid's dresses

This wedding gown was worn by Mary Ann Lawrence at 8.00am on 5 January 1842 at St John's Church, Launceston, when she married Francis Henty. The couple were to catch the tide on their way to Portland two hours later. Francis Henty was the youngest son of Thomas Henty, who with his family, their retainers and property moved to the Australian colonies between 1829 and 1832. In 1834, Francis’ older brother, Edward, sailed from Launceston in Van Diemen’s Land to what was to become Portland in the western part of Port Phillip District [Victoria]. Francis, together with the first flock of Merino sheep [in Victoria], followed some months later. The first and second generations of the Henty family established vast pastoral properties in the Western part of the Port Phillip District. Francis Henty managed ‘Merino Downs’ near Casterton, while also living in his retirement at ‘Field Place' in Kew. The Henty Collection of nineteenth and twentieth century clothing, including outerwear and underwear, was collected, stored and exhibited over time by female family members descended from Francis and Mary Ann Henty. During the twentieth century, items from the collection were modelled in two fashion parades by various descendants [1937, 1959]. The items in the collection are historically and aesthetically significant, with provenance provided by oral and written tradition within or held by the family. A number of the items in the collection are very rare survivors, and provide researchers with the evidence needed to reconstruct the lives of notable women in the Port Phillip District [later Victoria] during the nineteenth and early twentieth century.Mary Ann Lawrence's grey silk wedding gown has a v-line waist and a partly smocked bodice. It is lined with muslin throughout. It has hand-tatted cotton lace and handmade piping around the neck and bodice and pleated short sleeves. There was originally trimming on the skirt which was removed at a later date. Orange blossom made of chamois and tiny coiled springs originally decorated the neckline. The outfit was complemented by a bonnet to which a Limerick lace veil was attached. MEASUREMENTS (MM): GIRTH - Neck 914, Chest 812.8, Waist 660.4, Cuff 330.2, Hem circumference 3200.4. VERTICAL - Front neck to hem 1270, Front waist to hem 1016, Back neck to hem 1320.8, Back waist to hem 1041.4, Sleeve length 114.3. HORIZONTAL - Neck to sleeve head 50.8, Chest back 406.4, Underarm to underarm 406.4.mary ann lawrence, francis henty, wedding dresses, fashion -- 1840s, women's clothing

The school bell was donated in February 1982 to Beaconhills College by Errol Robinson (1916-1989) chairman of the local water board. Mr Robinson was the father-in-law of one of the school parents - Mr Ted Fankhauser who was later to be the school's first Business Administrator. The bell was dedicated at the school's annual church service. The dedication was made by Archbishop Sir Frank Woods on 28 March 1982. The bell is no longer in use but serves as a symbol of the founding years of the college. Note there has been some discussion about the original donation date actually occurring in 1983 - this is being investigated.The brass bell, gifted to Beaconhills College in February 1982 by local Water Board chairman Errol Robinson, is a cherished symbol of the College’s formative years. Its donation—facilitated through family ties within the school community—reflects the deep spirit of collaboration and support that defined the early culture of Beaconhills. The bell was formally dedicated by Archbishop Sir Frank Woods at the school’s annual church service on 28 March 1982. Though it is no longer rung, the bell serves as a powerful emblem of tradition and identity, marking a time of growth, faith, and communal vision. Today, it stands not as a functional tool, but as a resonant echo of the College’s beginnings—honouring the people, values, and moments that shaped its foundation. Complete brass bell with brass tongue. Large. Inscription plate on the front. Brass bracket attached to the top of the bell with a brass hexagonal nut and bolt also brass.Presented to Beaconhills Christian College by EG Robinson Dedicated on the 28th March 1982 by Archbishop Sir Frank Woods

The two young women pictured at a Grecian Ball are Dimitra (Toula) Kandilotis (nee Makris) and Eutichia Drakopoulos (nee Vlassopoulos, Kioukiouris).During the 1940s through to the 1960s Grecian balls were organised by the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne. The Ithacan Philanthropic Society also conducted annual balls, the first being held in April 1918. The balls were were a much anticipated social event. Debutantes were also presented at the both the Grecian and Ithacan balls, very much a tradition adopted from Melbourne's Anglo-Australian society. A black and white photograph of a head and shoulders view of two young women in evening dress. They both have flowers in their hair.

The workmen are doing repairs to the arched walkway entrance to the Monastery of Panagia Kathariotissa, a project which the Ithacan Philanthropic Society supported as the Monastery was in need of extensive repairs.The monastery of Panagia Katharon dates back to approx. 1696. According to tradition, the monastery was thus named, because the icon of Virgin Mary was found untouched in burning “kathara”, dry vegetation, bushes, in the exact spot where the monastery was built. The bell tower, where one can view the most breathtaking view of the island and surrounds, was destroyed by the earthquakes of 1953 and was later rebuilt. A coloured photograph of three workmen standing on scaffolding while they lay bricks on an arched open walk way.

non-fictionFor some, home is not simply a matter of place. Gillian Bouras comes and goes between London, where she spends long periods, and the village in the Peloponnese to which she migrated nearly twenty years ago. Unable to settle in either England or Greece, her life is one of perpetual journey, of constant goodbyes and starting again. Even in Australia, where she was born and raised, she feels like an outsider. This journal deals with the complexity of finding your place in the world. Insightful and always engaging, Bouras explores the divide that exists between cultures, between the past and the present, between those who shut the world out and those who too readily let it in.bouras gillian - 1945 - diaries, australian - diaries, women immigrants, social life and customs, cultural assimilation, greek australians, biography & autobiography, psychology, social science, customs & traditions, emigration & immigration, personal memoirs

Mrs F Clark donated this Credence Table to the original St Nicholas Seamen's Church, Williamstown, Victoria, operated by the Missions to Seamen organisation. The oak table is decorated with Gothic trefoils and shaped to fit against the Sanctuary wall. Its purpose is to hold the Eucarist plate and chalice for the Holy Communion service of the Anglican Church. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History): - The Missions to Seamen was an Anglican charity in Great Britain that has served the world's seafarers since 1856. Its symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today, there are centres in over 200 ports worldwide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria, the organisation began in Williamstown in 1857 as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’ in an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000, the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres, such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943, a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981, and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This Chrdence table is historically significant for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for seafarers’ physical, social, and spiritual needs. The organisation originated in Bristol, England, when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. It is also significant for its connection with the church Eucharist service still being performed in the Anglican church as part of its traditional worship.Credence table; traditional design in timber. The solid oak pedestal is shaped like half an octagon with the long side fitting against a flat, vertical surface. The column support has decorative Gothic trefoil cut-away holes. This item is part of the St. Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection. flagstaff hill, warrnambool, religious service, missions to seamen victoria, church furniture, religious worship, pedestal, book rest, book stand, bible rest, church service, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, credence table, pentagonal table, half-table, eucarist, holy communion, anglican church, communion service, tradition, ritual, worship, mrs f clark, ecclesiastical furniture, side table, small table

This font is a piece of church furniture used in a baptism or christening service. It was originally installed in the St Nicholas Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. The church was a branch of the Victoria Missions to Seamen. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History): - The Missions to Seamen was an Anglican charity that has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. Its symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today, there are centres in over 200 ports worldwide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria, the organisation began in Williamstown in 1857 as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’ in an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000, the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres, such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943, a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981, and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This font is significant through its association with the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen Church in Williamstown, Melbourne, established in 1857. The collection of items from the Missions to Seamen in Williamstown, Victoria, has historical and social significance. They show that people of the 1800s and 1900s cared about the seafarers’ religious, moral, and social welfare, no matter what their religion, social status or nationality. It had its origins in Bristol, England, when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The first Australian branch was started in 1856 by the Rev. Kerr Johnston, a Church of England clergyman, and operated from a hulk moored in Hobson’s Bay; later, the Mission occupied buildings in Williamstown and Port Melbourne. Baptismal font: four-legged, varnished oak wood pedestal supporting a wooden box with a hand-beaten, rolled edge, copper ewer, bowl or basin insert. The box has a removable cover that has a round wooden knob. The sides of the box section have a decorative, diamond-shaped motif. The box and lid are octagonal, with four short sides and four long sides. The tops of the legs have an ornamental design. This is one of the original items in our St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, font, baptisimal font, church furniture, religious ceremony, copper ewet, religious furniture, christening font, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, anglican church, flying angel club, copper ewer, copper bowl, flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, maritime museum, maritime village, shipwreck coast, great ocean road, religious worship, worship service, st nicholas seamen’s church, williamstown, st nicholas missions to seamen’s church williamstown, missions to seamen, st nicholas missions to seamen’s church flagstaff hill, baptism, christening, ceremony, tradition, hand-beaten copper ewer

Early form of home heating and because of the copper dish was considered one of the better models|Manufacturing History Museum Victoria|Commentary: Australian manufacturing history Philip Wollen|Many years ago, when I was an ambition young man, I took over a company called Hecla.|This business was formed in 1872, long before Federation was even contemplated. The company established a rich tradition in the Australian manufacturing industry. The prodigious product range included kettles, mixers, toasters, hairdryers, urns, pie warmers, bain maries, and electric blankets for the domestic and commercial market. During the war it even manufactured parts for aircraft. It was one of Melbourne's largest employers.|Hecla was one of the pioneers in TV advertising, led by icons like Bert Newton, Bobby Limb, Evie Hayes and Graham Kennedy who ad Jibbed his way through irreverent and unscripted naughtiness about Hecla electric blankets and foot warmers. The slogan was 'By Hecla, its good.'. One can imagine the fun Bert and Graham had with their double entendres.|In the 60's Hecla entered into a partnership with General Electric and expanded rapidly. The massive factory, on the corner of Alexandra Parade and Chapel Street overlooking the Yarra River was a Melbourne landmark.|The business was formed by one of the scions of Melbourne industry. Mr Marriott was a metal worker of some repute, building the lights in front of Melbourne's Parliament House, the first steam car, the sideboard at the RACY Club, and the first factory to run on electricity.|By the time I acquired the company it was a shadow of its former self, incapable of competing with cheap Chinese imports. Wandering around the warehouse late one night I discovered a large, boarded up storeroom which appeared not to have been opened in decades.|Over several months I combed through the room, unearthing a treasure trove of products from a bygone era. Dusty files, engineering drawings, wooden prototypes, patent records, and correspondence from distributors on every continent.|I decided to track down an old man, Ray, long retired after 50 years with Hecla. He was not well off financially and welcomed the paid work. It turned out that he had done his apprenticeship with the company and there wasn't much he didn't know about it. He had been personally involved in the manufacture of almost every type of product on the Hecla smorgasbord's of products.|So for over 2 years he methodically assembled a mini museum of Hecla products, painstakingly polishing them and ensuring they were in working order. He attached the original brochure of each product and their respective warranty cards. For him it was ,a labour of love. For me it was a fascinating, if vicarious journey, into Australia's manufacturing past.|My colleagues complained that I was wasting money on his salary, our time and factory space on stuff that should have been dumped years ago. I tried to explain that I was merely a steward of the Hecla tradition, not merely an owner. Besides, the look on Ray's face convinced me that there was another dynamic at work. One I could see, but didn't really understand.|After he Passed away I faced a dilemma. What to do with this 'museum' of Hecla history. Nobody was interested.|So I kept the 'stuff' in private storage, hoping that same day someone would be interested in it. And the years passed.|Finally, I had a brainwave. Perhaps the Melbourne Museum would be interested. It was a long shot but I made the call. I had a nagging suspicion that they would think I was simply trying to get them to relieve me of paying for this huge collection to be taken to the tip.|To my surprise they said they would be willing to take a look, I secretly hoped that they would take the whole collection and not leave me with an incomplete jumble of appliances that I would indeed have to take to the tip.|On the appointed day, four serious looking young people showed up. Armed with digital cameras, note books and poker faces they spent four hours analysing the goods and the supporting materials. I asked them if they had any interest and their response was decidedly non-committal. It depends on the acquisitions committee, I was told. I was disheartened and packed up the exhibits to go back into storage.|Imagine my surprise when months later they telephoned to say that they had researched the history of the company, and yes, they would like to take the whole collection. And a truck with 'handlers' would arrive the following day to pick it up. Two years ago all Hecla's archives left me forever and went to the Museum's warehouse.|Well, to my delight I received a call yesterday inviting me to a private viewing of the exhibition at the Melbourne Museum. These young historians had meticulously assembled an impressive display of Melbourne's industry and technology going back to the 1800's. They thanked me like a significant benefactor when it is I who should have thanked them.|I saw the excitement in the eyes of these young people who had somehow managed to dig out and assemble memories from Australia's past. If this is the standard of care that the curators of the Melbourne Museum show all their exhibits, our history is in safe hands.|Their meticulous work took me back to those years long ago when I saw an old man lovingly assembling and cataloging a lifetime of his work.|It took me back to the day when Australians actually made things. Long before we became a nation of quarrymen. Before we became animal-factory 'farmers'. Of a time when products didn't break down, or dumped and replaced before the warranty expired. When men like Mr Marriott cared deeply about what their hands produced.|It reminded me of the call I received from an elderly lady in Tasmania asking for the electrical element for a Hecla K7 kettle. I searched the archives and called her back. The K7 was produced decades earlier and we no longer carried that spare part. She was quite disheartened and told me her kettle had finally 'given up the ghost' and she couldn't bear to part with it. It was a present from her husband on their wedding day 45 years ago. Her final words were 'they don't make them like that, do they? By Hecla they were good.'|I'm glad I followed my instinct and put Ray back on the payroll all those years ago..|I like to think Mr Marriott would have been pleased.Pedestal radiator. Base is cast iron with three feet with rose design on each. Pedestal supports a copper spherical reflector plate which has an electrical connection box at its base. The connection box is joined to the pedestal by a screw and nut to enable the reflector to be tilted. The element is cone shaped and is in the centre of the plate. The element is protected by a wire guard.Hecla Firedomestic items, heating