This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. WARRNAMBOOL PUBLIC LIBRARY The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) was formed by a voluntary community group in 1863, within six years of Warrnambool’s beginnings, and its Reading Room opened in 1854. The WMI operated until 1963, at which time it was one of the oldest Mechanics’ Institutes in Victoria. Mechanics’ Institutes offered important services to the public including libraries, reading rooms and places to display and store collections of all sorts such as curiosities and local historical relics. In 1886 a Museum and Fine Arts Gallery were added to the WMI and by the beginning of the 20th century there was also a billiards room and a School of Art. By this time all Mechanics’ Institutes in country Victoria had museums attached. Over the years the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Library was also known as the Warrnambool Public Library the Warrnambool Library and the Free Library. Early funding from the government was for the “Free Library”. The inscription in a book “Science of Man” was for the “Warrnambool Public Library”, donated by Joseph Archibald in 1899. Another inscription in the book “Catalogue of Plants Under Cultivation in the Melbourne Botanic Gardens 1 & 2, 1883” was presented to the “Warrnambool Library” and signed by the author W.R. Guilfoyle. In 1903 the Warrnambool Public Library decided to add a Juvenile Department to library and stock it with hundreds of books suitable for youth. In 1905 the Public Library committee decided to update the collection of books and added 100 new novels plus arrangements for the latest novels to be included as soon as they were available in Victoria. In July 1911 the Warrnambool Council took over the management of the Public Library, Art Gallery, Museum and Mechanics’ Institute and planned to double the size of the then-current building. In 1953, when Mr. R. Pattison was Public Librarian, the Warrnambool Public Library’s senior section 10,000 of the 13,000 books were fiction. The children’s section offered an additional 3,400 books. The library had the equivalent of one book per head of population and served around 33 percent of the reading population. The collection of books was made up of around 60 percent reference and 40 percent fiction. The library was lending 400 books per day. In 1963 the Warrnambool City Council allocated the site of the Mechanics’ Institute building, which included the Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery, for the new Municipal Offices and the Collections were dispersed until 1971. The Warrnambool Library took over the Mechanics’ Institute Library’s holdings on behalf of the Warrnambool City Council. Since the closure of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute the exact location and composition of the original WMI books and items has become unclear. Other materials have been added to the collection, including items from Terang MI, Warrnambool Court House and Customs House. Many of the books have been identified as the Pattison Collection, named after the Librarian who catalogued and numbered the books during his time as Warrnambool Public Librarian in the time before the Mechanics’ Institute closed. It seems that when Warrnambool became part of the Corangamite Regional Library some of the books and materials went to its head office in Colac and then back to Warrnambool where they were stored at the Art Gallery for quite some time. Some then went to the Warrnambool Historical Society, some stayed at the Art Gallery and some were moved to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. The various stamps and labels on the books held at Flagstaff Hill show the variety of the collection’s distribution and origin. The books in the collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village date from the 1850’s to the late 1950’s and include rare and valuable volumes. Many of the books are part of the “Pattison Collection” after the Warrnambool’s Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, and to reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. As with many Mechanics' Institutes in Australia, the one which operated in Warrnambool was established and overseen for many years by key individuals associated with the development of the city itself. The WMI publication collection is historically significant because of its association with local people, places and the key historical themes in the development of Warrnambool of rural development, industry, farming, education, and community. The collection documents and illustrates the changing interests, focus and tastes of Victorians, especially those in regional cities. Generally the individual items in the collection are not particularly rare, as examples of all probably exist in other public collections in Victoria. It is primarily because there are so very few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections in Victoria, which lends this overall collection its significance. Many items in the WMI Collection have the potential to support further research, both as individual objects and through the collection in its entirety. This material is significant for its ability to assist in the interpretation of the history of the area and adds to the general understanding of the development of the township. Many components of the WMI publication collection complement and reinforce the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum Collection, the Warrnambool Art Gallery Collection, and that in the Warrnambool Historical Society, and also contribute to a clearer understanding of the original Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute collections. This will greatly enhance the appreciation of the few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections across Victoria, and also in New South Wales. The similarities and differences between the small number of collections that have survived can provide further insights into how the people of Victoria in general, and Warrnambool in particular, constructed a civic culture of adult learning to foster an informed citizenry. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute publication collection is of both local and state significance. (This Statement of Significance is quoted from the Significance Assessment : Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Book Collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, February 2009, by Annette Welkamp, Cultural Connections, for Delise Oldfied, FHMV) References Juvenile Department in Warrnambool Public Library In August 1903 The Age newspaper reported in its Warrnambool news section that “With the object of discouraging boys from reading literature of the “penny dreadful” class, the committee of the local public library has decided to open a juvenile department and to stock it with hundreds of suitable books attractive to the youthful mind.” 100 new novels added to Warrnambool Public Library Shelves In November 1905 The Argue newspaper’s Warrnambool news section announced “The committee of the Public Library is bringing the collection of books more up to date. It has recently added 100 new novels to the shelves, and arrangements have been made for a supply of the latest novels immediately they arrive in the state.” Warrnambool Town Council takes over Mechanics’ Institute, Art Gallery, Public Library, Museum – and will double the building’s size In 1912 The Age reported in its Warrnambool news section “Considerable improvements are being effected by the town council in the most picturesque part of Liebig Street. Between the fire brigade station and the mechanics’ institute and art gallery a vacant block of land is being transformed a garden for carpet bedding and flowering plants. The council, which recently took over the control of the art gallery, public library, museum and mechanics’ institute, is doubling the size of the substantial stone building containing these institutions. The new building will contain a supper room for use in conjunction with functions in the town hall, adjoining, and a new reading room.” Mr Pattison, Public Librarian, says Library has a book per head of population In 1953 The Age reported an interview with the Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison, who said “Warrnambool has an insatiable thirst for reading. And its reading recipe contains a strong dash of fiction – 73 percent of it. Fiction makes up 10,000 of the 13,000 books in the senior section of the public library. That works out at a book per head of population. Warrnambool today is really book minded. This city has an almost insatiable thirst for knowledge as well as fiction. We’re lending 400 books a day. We supply 33 percent of the reading population of Warrnambool.” The reporter goes on to say “Warrnambool Public Library also has an ultra-modern children’s section of 3,400 books, open to every boy and girl attending school in Warrnambool. Mr Pattison hopes to show travel-talk films and install a radiogram in the children’s section “later on”. But it won’t disturb adult reading next door because the junior section is sound proof. “ Mechanics’ Institutes and Museums Mechanics’ Institutes were important sites for collecting in country Victoria … Warrnambool … all had museums attached to Mechanics’ Institutes before the end of the twentieth century” Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Ms Tierney said FHMV holds the collection of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute in three different locations on its site. “The Mechanics’ Institute opened in 1871, was demolished in the 1960s and was one of the oldest in Victoria. “FHMV intends to create a new storage area and bring the collection together in one place which will greatly facilitate access and research. “The collection consists of books and archives dating from the 1850s to 1959s. “Some of the books are rare and valuable but it is unclear as to their relevance to the history of Warrnambool or Victoria,” Ms Tierney said. Warrnambool TAFE History South West TAFE has a long and proud history of providing technical and specialist education, with links back to the formation of the Mechanic’s Institute in 1853. Warrnambool Art Gallery’s History The Warrnambool Art Gallery began in 1886 when retired police officer Joseph Archibald opened its doors in a building behind the mechanics institute in Liebig Street. The Gallery began with an eclectic mix of artworks and museum curios. Before long Archibald mobilised public support and paid for a new gallery annex. Loans and grants allowed the Gallery collection to grow with significant early acquisitions by French, German, and Belgian artists, which were less expensive than British works. Despite its enthusiastic start the economic downturn of the 1890s brought the Collection to a halt. In 1910 the Council took control of the Mechanics Institute and ran the Gallery there until 1963 when the building was allocated for municipal offices. The Collection was dispersed on loan to galleries in Shepparton and Hamilton and not reunited until 1971. In 1986 the Gallery’s Centenary year, a permanent home was built next to the ‘Civic Green’ and named in memory of one its champions Sir Fletcher Jones O.B.E. 2016 Warrnibald Entries Joseph Archibald established the Warrnambool Museum and Art Gallery in 1886 while his son Jules Francois Archibald founded the Archibald Prize through his bequest of 1919. His aim was to foster portraiture, as well as support artists, and perpetuate the memory of great Australians. Once A Grand Duke Author: Grand Duke Alexander of Russia Publisher: Cassell & Co Date: 1932Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 920 ALE Pastedown front endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Public Library coverec by a sticker from Corangamite Regional Library Service warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, once a grand duke, grand duke alexander of russia

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. WARRNAMBOOL PUBLIC LIBRARY The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) was formed by a voluntary community group in 1863, within six years of Warrnambool’s beginnings, and its Reading Room opened in 1854. The WMI operated until 1963, at which time it was one of the oldest Mechanics’ Institutes in Victoria. Mechanics’ Institutes offered important services to the public including libraries, reading rooms and places to display and store collections of all sorts such as curiosities and local historical relics. In 1886 a Museum and Fine Arts Gallery were added to the WMI and by the beginning of the 20th century there was also a billiards room and a School of Art. By this time all Mechanics’ Institutes in country Victoria had museums attached. Over the years the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Library was also known as the Warrnambool Public Library the Warrnambool Library and the Free Library. Early funding from the government was for the “Free Library”. The inscription in a book “Science of Man” was for the “Warrnambool Public Library”, donated by Joseph Archibald in 1899. Another inscription in the book “Catalogue of Plants Under Cultivation in the Melbourne Botanic Gardens 1 & 2, 1883” was presented to the “Warrnambool Library” and signed by the author W.R. Guilfoyle. In 1903 the Warrnambool Public Library decided to add a Juvenile Department to library and stock it with hundreds of books suitable for youth. In 1905 the Public Library committee decided to update the collection of books and added 100 new novels plus arrangements for the latest novels to be included as soon as they were available in Victoria. In July 1911 the Warrnambool Council took over the management of the Public Library, Art Gallery, Museum and Mechanics’ Institute and planned to double the size of the then-current building. In 1953, when Mr. R. Pattison was Public Librarian, the Warrnambool Public Library’s senior section 10,000 of the 13,000 books were fiction. The children’s section offered an additional 3,400 books. The library had the equivalent of one book per head of population and served around 33 percent of the reading population. The collection of books was made up of around 60 percent reference and 40 percent fiction. The library was lending 400 books per day. In 1963 the Warrnambool City Council allocated the site of the Mechanics’ Institute building, which included the Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery, for the new Municipal Offices and the Collections were dispersed until 1971. The Warrnambool Library took over the Mechanics’ Institute Library’s holdings on behalf of the Warrnambool City Council. Since the closure of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute the exact location and composition of the original WMI books and items has become unclear. Other materials have been added to the collection, including items from Terang MI, Warrnambool Court House and Customs House. Many of the books have been identified as the Pattison Collection, named after the Librarian who catalogued and numbered the books during his time as Warrnambool Public Librarian in the time before the Mechanics’ Institute closed. It seems that when Warrnambool became part of the Corangamite Regional Library some of the books and materials went to its head office in Colac and then back to Warrnambool where they were stored at the Art Gallery for quite some time. Some then went to the Warrnambool Historical Society, some stayed at the Art Gallery and some were moved to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. The various stamps and labels on the books held at Flagstaff Hill show the variety of the collection’s distribution and origin. The books in the collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village date from the 1850’s to the late 1950’s and include rare and valuable volumes. Many of the books are part of the “Pattison Collection” after the Warrnambool’s Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, and to reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. As with many Mechanics' Institutes in Australia, the one which operated in Warrnambool was established and overseen for many years by key individuals associated with the development of the city itself. The WMI publication collection is historically significant because of its association with local people, places and the key historical themes in the development of Warrnambool of rural development, industry, farming, education, and community. The collection documents and illustrates the changing interests, focus and tastes of Victorians, especially those in regional cities. Generally the individual items in the collection are not particularly rare, as examples of all probably exist in other public collections in Victoria. It is primarily because there are so very few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections in Victoria, which lends this overall collection its significance. Many items in the WMI Collection have the potential to support further research, both as individual objects and through the collection in its entirety. This material is significant for its ability to assist in the interpretation of the history of the area and adds to the general understanding of the development of the township. Many components of the WMI publication collection complement and reinforce the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum Collection, the Warrnambool Art Gallery Collection, and that in the Warrnambool Historical Society, and also contribute to a clearer understanding of the original Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute collections. This will greatly enhance the appreciation of the few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections across Victoria, and also in New South Wales. The similarities and differences between the small number of collections that have survived can provide further insights into how the people of Victoria in general, and Warrnambool in particular, constructed a civic culture of adult learning to foster an informed citizenry. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute publication collection is of both local and state significance. (This Statement of Significance is quoted from the Significance Assessment : Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Book Collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, February 2009, by Annette Welkamp, Cultural Connections, for Delise Oldfied, FHMV) References Juvenile Department in Warrnambool Public Library In August 1903 The Age newspaper reported in its Warrnambool news section that “With the object of discouraging boys from reading literature of the “penny dreadful” class, the committee of the local public library has decided to open a juvenile department and to stock it with hundreds of suitable books attractive to the youthful mind.” 100 new novels added to Warrnambool Public Library Shelves In November 1905 The Argue newspaper’s Warrnambool news section announced “The committee of the Public Library is bringing the collection of books more up to date. It has recently added 100 new novels to the shelves, and arrangements have been made for a supply of the latest novels immediately they arrive in the state.” Warrnambool Town Council takes over Mechanics’ Institute, Art Gallery, Public Library, Museum – and will double the building’s size In 1912 The Age reported in its Warrnambool news section “Considerable improvements are being effected by the town council in the most picturesque part of Liebig Street. Between the fire brigade station and the mechanics’ institute and art gallery a vacant block of land is being transformed a garden for carpet bedding and flowering plants. The council, which recently took over the control of the art gallery, public library, museum and mechanics’ institute, is doubling the size of the substantial stone building containing these institutions. The new building will contain a supper room for use in conjunction with functions in the town hall, adjoining, and a new reading room.” Mr Pattison, Public Librarian, says Library has a book per head of population In 1953 The Age reported an interview with the Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison, who said “Warrnambool has an insatiable thirst for reading. And its reading recipe contains a strong dash of fiction – 73 percent of it. Fiction makes up 10,000 of the 13,000 books in the senior section of the public library. That works out at a book per head of population. Warrnambool today is really book minded. This city has an almost insatiable thirst for knowledge as well as fiction. We’re lending 400 books a day. We supply 33 percent of the reading population of Warrnambool.” The reporter goes on to say “Warrnambool Public Library also has an ultra-modern children’s section of 3,400 books, open to every boy and girl attending school in Warrnambool. Mr Pattison hopes to show travel-talk films and install a radiogram in the children’s section “later on”. But it won’t disturb adult reading next door because the junior section is sound proof. “ Mechanics’ Institutes and Museums Mechanics’ Institutes were important sites for collecting in country Victoria … Warrnambool … all had museums attached to Mechanics’ Institutes before the end of the twentieth century” Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Ms Tierney said FHMV holds the collection of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute in three different locations on its site. “The Mechanics’ Institute opened in 1871, was demolished in the 1960s and was one of the oldest in Victoria. “FHMV intends to create a new storage area and bring the collection together in one place which will greatly facilitate access and research. “The collection consists of books and archives dating from the 1850s to 1959s. “Some of the books are rare and valuable but it is unclear as to their relevance to the history of Warrnambool or Victoria,” Ms Tierney said. Warrnambool TAFE History South West TAFE has a long and proud history of providing technical and specialist education, with links back to the formation of the Mechanic’s Institute in 1853. Warrnambool Art Gallery’s History The Warrnambool Art Gallery began in 1886 when retired police officer Joseph Archibald opened its doors in a building behind the mechanics institute in Liebig Street. The Gallery began with an eclectic mix of artworks and museum curios. Before long Archibald mobilised public support and paid for a new gallery annex. Loans and grants allowed the Gallery collection to grow with significant early acquisitions by French, German, and Belgian artists, which were less expensive than British works. Despite its enthusiastic start the economic downturn of the 1890s brought the Collection to a halt. In 1910 the Council took control of the Mechanics Institute and ran the Gallery there until 1963 when the building was allocated for municipal offices. The Collection was dispersed on loan to galleries in Shepparton and Hamilton and not reunited until 1971. In 1986 the Gallery’s Centenary year, a permanent home was built next to the ‘Civic Green’ and named in memory of one its champions Sir Fletcher Jones O.B.E. 2016 Warrnibald Entries Joseph Archibald established the Warrnambool Museum and Art Gallery in 1886 while his son Jules Francois Archibald founded the Archibald Prize through his bequest of 1919. His aim was to foster portraiture, as well as support artists, and perpetuate the memory of great Australians. Louisa May Alcott Author: Madeleine B Stern Publisher: Peter Nevill Date: 1952Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 920 ALC Pastedown front endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Mechanics Institute and Free Library covered by a sticker from Corangamite Regional Library Service Front endpaper has a small sticker that reads " F. W. Cheshire Pty. Ltd., 338 Little Collins Street, Melbourne."warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, louisa may alcott, peter nevill

In April 1869 when the foundation stone of the Mortlake Mechanics' Institute was laid by Thomas Shaw of Wooriwyrite, this parchment scroll was sealed with other documents in the foundation stone. In 1891 when further alterations were made the hall these documents were retrieved from the stone. This building was erected to house the local library whichup until that time had been housed in the Morllake Common School.Discoloured foolscap parchment with copperplate lettering, some water damage which has caused the obliteration of the names of the Members of the Building Committee, Hon.Secretary and Architect. At a Public Meeting presided over by John Grieve Esq. President of the Shire/The foundation stone/of this building/was laid by - /Thomas Shaw Junior Esquire the President of the Institute on Monday/the 29th day of March A. D. 1869 in the 32nd year of the Reign of Her/Most Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria Sir I. A. T. Manners Sutton/being Governor of this Colony of Victoria/With this Scroll is Deposited/A copy of The Argus Newspaper of 28th March 1869/A copy of The Warrnambool Examiner of ? March 1869/A copy of The Belfast Examiner of 17th March 1869/Members of/The Building/ Committee/Hon.Secretary and Treasurer/Architect/Contractors/Messrs Jenkins and Harvey,Mason/Mr Joseph Wyatt,Carpenter.institute, free, libraries, public buildings, mortlake, mechanics

Greensborough magician Zeke Butterworth has sprinkled his magic to win the Australian Junior Championship of close up magic.News article 1 page, black text and colour image .zeke butterworth, australian junior championship of close up magic, magicians, greenhills primary school

Young athletes from Diamond Valley Athletics Club were successful at the 2015 Victorian All Schools Track and Field Championships.News clipping, black text, colour image.victorian all schools track and field championships, diamond valley athletics club, emmet brasier, chelsea owen-smith

A newspaper clipping about five of Watsonia High School's students gaining entry to the State Junior Championships. One was for basketball and the other four were for hockey. Names are: Sharon Firebrace was the basketball representative and Colin Slow, Lance Scholes, Donald Ayres and Adrian Lumb all played hockey. Digital copy of newspaper clipping, black and white text and image.watsonia high school

Blazer from Watsonia High School. The Watsonia High School and Watsonia Technical School were merged to form Greensborough Secondary College for the beginning of the 1990 school year, with the high school campus serving as a senior school for years 11 and 12, and the larger technical school used as a junior campus. It was renamed Greensborough College when the former high school campus was closed in 1992. This land was redeveloped into housing lots.This blazer is part of a small collection of Watsonia High School memorabilia.Blazers were Maroon in colour. Pocket Badge depicted the School Logo and motto "Nothing Without Labour". For standard uniform the thread was white and yellow thread for Prefects and included the word Prefect. watsonia high school, uniform, blazer, mina garment, doctor flannel, school uniform

Watsonia High School tie. The Watsonia High School and Watsonia Technical School were merged to form Greensborough Secondary College for the beginning of the 1990 school year, with the high school campus serving as a senior school for years 11 and 12, and the larger technical school used as a junior campus. It was renamed Greensborough College when the former high school campus was closed in 1992. This land was redeveloped into housing lots.This tie is part of a small collection of Watsonia High School memorabilia.Red with ble and white stripe, school tie made from wool.Australian Pure New Wool Logowatsonia high school, school uniform, austico, ties

Watsonia High School socks. The Watsonia High School and Watsonia Technical School were merged to form Greensborough Secondary College for the beginning of the 1990 school year, with the high school campus serving as a senior school for years 11 and 12, and the larger technical school used as a junior campus. It was renamed Greensborough College when the former high school campus was closed in 1992. This land was redeveloped into housing lots.This pair of socks is part of a small collection of Watsonia High School memorabilia.Winter uniform long socks. Grey with stripe around top.This pair is brand new - never worn.watsonia high school, school uniform, brandella, socks

This paper records local, national and International news with events such as elections news, sports news, and 807 entries for the Warrnambool May Races.Other local articles relate to curriculum at Warrnambool High School,Port Fairy Sea Scouts as well as football results for many local teams of all levels. There are also photographs of Junior tennis A grade champions. Likewise there are many advertisements for local businesses such as Swintons Rock A bye Cradle shop and Stephens Stores. The film The graduate was playing at the Capitol Theatre and still drawing large crowds The Warrnambool Standard was established in 1872 and had remained locally owned until taken over by the Melbourne Age in 1980. Both were subsequently taken over by Fairfax media in 1983As the only daily local newspaper in the Western District,The Warrnambool Standard contains much that is of interest socially and historically. Black text with photograph of young boy on horseback ,jumping fence. back page has articles about sport with photograph of three footballers contesting for the ball. 12 PagesThe Warrnambool Standard Monday April 21 1969.warrnambool, warrnambool standard, standard 1969,

This photo shows Bert May addressing a group of ladiers at the 1962 Golden Jubilee of the Orbost High School. Bert May served as the Member for Gippsland in the Legislative Council from 1957 until 1973. With earlier levels of schooling available at the Orbost State School or nearby schools of Newmerella and Jarrahmond School, it was not until April 1912, and after much campaigning from parents and other notable community members, that the Orbost Higher Elementary School was opened. Mr Richard Trembath was appointed the new Head teacher of Orbost Higher Elementary School and was assisted by Miss Olga Hirst. The senior class consisted of 26 pupils, and the junior class, 16 pupils. A limited curriculum was available which included lessons in Latin, Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Geography, History, Drawing and advanced English. (ref. O.S.C. website)Orbost High School / Orbost Secondary College has played a significant part in the education of senior students in the Orbost district . It is the sole senior educational institution. This item is representative of its history and is a useful reference tool.A black / white photograph of a man giving a speech to a group of ladies in a classroom. all are standing.on back - Bert May, Orbost H.S. Jubilee 1962orbost-education orbost-high-school

This photograph was taken at the Golden Jubilee of Orbost High School in 1962. Bert May is addressing crowds. Bert May served as the Member for Gippsland in the Legislative Council from 1957 until 1973. With earlier levels of schooling available at the Orbost State School or nearby schools of Newmerella and Jarrahmond School, it was not until April 1912, and after much campaigning from parents and other notable community members, that the Orbost Higher Elementary School was opened. Mr Richard Trembath was appointed the new Head teacher of Orbost Higher Elementary School and was assisted by Miss Olga Hirst. The senior class consisted of 26 pupils, and the junior class, 16 pupils. A limited curriculum was available which included lessons in Latin, Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Geography, History, Drawing and advanced English. (info. from O.S.C. website.Orbost High School / Orbost Secondary College has played a significant part in the education of senior students in the Orbost district . It is the sole senior educational institution. A black / white photograph of Mr Bert May, on a stage, addressing an audience, most seated, some standing behind him.back - hand-written - "Orbost H.S. Jubilee, 1962 - Bert May".orbost -education orbost-high-school

In 2012, Orbost Secondary College and the wider community celebrated 100 years of secondary education in Orbost. With earlier levels of schooling available at the Orbost State School or nearby schools of Newmerella and Jarrahmond School, it was not until April 1912, and after much campaigning from parents and other notable community members, that the Orbost Higher Elementary School was opened. Mr Richard Trembath was appointed the new Head teacher of Orbost Higher Elementary School and was assisted by Miss Olga Hirst. The senior class consisted of 26 pupils, and the junior class, 16 pupils. A limited curriculum was available which included lessons in Latin, Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Geography, History, Drawing and advanced English. (info. O.S.C. website)Orbost High School / Orbost Secondary College has played a significant part in the education of senior students in the Orbost district . It is the sole senior educational institution. A black / white photograph of a group of ladies seated on chairs outside the Orbost High School.on back - hand-written - " Orbost H.s. Jubilee, 1962 - Welfare Ladies & Edna Towns, Joan Liddell"

This is a photograph of Bruce Evans, Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, signing the visitors' book at the Orbost High School Golden Jubilee in 1962. In 2012, Orbost Secondary College and the wider community celebrated 100 years of secondary education in Orbost. With earlier levels of schooling available at the Orbost State School or nearby schools of Newmerella and Jarrahmond School, it was not until April 1912, and after much campaigning from parents and other notable community members, that the Orbost Higher Elementary School was opened. Mr Richard Trembath was appointed the new Head teacher of Orbost Higher Elementary School and was assisted by Miss Olga Hirst. The senior class consisted of 26 pupils, and the junior class, 16 pupils. A limited curriculum was available which included lessons in Latin, Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Geography, History, Drawing and advanced English. (inf0. from O.S.C. website)Orbost High School / Orbost Secondary College has played a significant part in the education of senior students in the Orbost district . It is the sole senior educational institution. A black / white photograph of a man in a suit signing a book.on back - hand-written -" Orbost H. S. Golden Jubilee 1962. Bruce Evans M.L.A. signing Visitors' Book>"

Ringwood Primary School - Albums of history and school photos from the laying of foundation stone in 1921Collection of nine A3 scrap books documenting Ringwood Primary School, with photos from pre 1940 to 1983 with coloured covers and plastic spines plus one Junior Teachers record book; Ringwood Primary School - Literature and photos pre 1940; Ringwood Primary School - School photos 1940s; Ringwood Primary School - Photos and Literature 1940s and 1950s; Ringwood Primary School - School photos 1950s; Ringwood Primary School - School photos 1970 to 1974; Ringwood Primary School - School photos 1975 to 1979; Ringwood Primary School - School photos 1980 to 1983; Ringwood Primary School - School photos 1983 to 1997 ; Ringwood Primary School - Literature and photos relating to the library and Miss Paddock; Education Department Junior Teachers Record Book for Ringwood Primary School 2997 from 1932 to 1942 +Additional Keywords: Paddock, Janet (Daisy)

This photograph was taken at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Orbost High School in 1962. the group is singing "Old Lang Syne" after the celebratory dinner. There had been a cake on the small table at the front. With earlier levels of schooling available at the Orbost State School or nearby schools of Newmerella and Jarrahmond, it was not until April 1912, and after much campaigning from parents and other notable community members, that the Orbost Higher Elementary School was opened. Mr Richard Trembath was appointed the new Head teacher of Orbost Higher Elementary School and was assisted by Miss Olga Ernst. The senior class consisted of 26 pupils, and the junior class, 16 pupils. A limited curriculum was available which included lessons in Latin, Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Geography, History, Drawing and advanced English. this school eventually became the Orbost High School.Orbost High School / Orbost Secondary College has played a significant part in the education of senior students in the Orbost district . It is the sole senior educational institution. This item is representative of its historyA black / white photograph of a large group of people with linked hands. The photograph has been taken at night. There is a table at the front covered with a tablecloth.education-orbost orbost-high-school celebration

These are photographs of students who participated in The Orbost High School Swimming Carnival in 1939. 3181.1 is of the winners in the Senior Breast Stroke. Included are R. Russell (3rd place); P. Gall (2nd place) and B. Russell (1st place). 3181.2 is of the winners of the Junior Dive. In the photograph are: Ray Russell (1st); Dot Lynn (2nd). 3181.3 has five girls who were members of Rowe A Team, the winning bteam. The girls are: M. Robinson; Ray Robinson; M. Herbert; P. Gall; Nance Gilbert. 3181.4 is of three place-getters in the Junior Freestyle. They were: Marion Herbert (1st); Annette D, (2nd) and Ray Russell (3rd)Orbost High School / Orbost Secondary College has played a significant part in the education of senior students in the Orbost district . It is the sole senior educational institution. These photographs are representative of its history.Four small black / white photographs of girls wearing swimming costumes. orbost-high-school swimming school-sports recreation-swimming

Booklet Inside cover includes photo of student Tony McKenna"Tony McKenna, a Ringwood Lanes Junior Bowler of the Month. Ringwood Lanes Junior Leagues bowl every Saturday Morning"rts, ringwood tech

Black and White Photographrts, ringwood tech

Black and White Photographrts, ringwood tech

Black and White Photographrts, ringwood tech

This copy book is for the practice of copperplate handwriting and was used at the Orbost School. It was not until the mid-20th century that Australian schools were investigating the modern cursive styles being taught overseas. Writing slates and slate pencils had been a commonplace item of everyday life in colonial Australia. Slates were generally only used by school children in the most junior grades By Class III, however, school children in Victoria had normally passed beyond the need for slates in shaping letters and used ink and copybooks instead. Writing slates often continued to be used for arithmetic exercises. the use of slates was discontinued mainly because paper became cheaper and writing on paper was deemed to be more hygienic.This item is an example of a school text book commonly used for the practice of handwriting in most primary schools in Australia. It shows a style of handwriting not commonly used today. The Cameron family is significaant in the history of Orbost.A school handwriting copy book. It contains examples of copperplate writing for copying and practice. On the front cover there are drawings of a kangaroo, emu, platypus and echidna in each corner. The book is titled "AUSTRALIAN COPY BOOK FIFTH GRADE No. 4". It is designed for use in all states and New Zealand. Inside a banner is "small hand proverbs geography commercial terms". All print is black.on front cover: Jean Cameron Inside front cover: Jean Cameron 1924, J.M. Ralston 1924handwriting education cameron

No dust cover. Front cover has an illustration of some men sitting around a camp fire. The name of the author and the series is on the spine. On the back cover is a list of books published in the same series.fictionA book of stories and poems by Henry Lawson collected and published in 1949 especially for children.henry lawson, poetry, fiction, junior library of australian books

This framed watercolour was created by 20th-century landscape painter Harold Morse Ward. He was born in Brooklyn New York in 1889 and died in Sacramento, California, in 1973. Ward graduated from the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn and furthered his studies in Paris. He was a high school art teacher for many years, later establishing the art department at the Sacramento Junior College in 1923. In 1949 he won a Carnegie Grant for further research in fine arts. He wrote and illustrated the book ‘The Thing Called Art’. His subjects were often taken from the Sacramento area.This is the only example of artwork by early-to-mid 20th-century recognised artist H M Ward in our collection. It is representative of the artwork displayed in homes during that era. Harold Morse Ward received a Carnegie Grant for research in art. He was a descendant of the inventor of the telegraph, Samuel Morse.Painting; the timber framed watercolour painting behind glass depicts a cottage on a hill beside a winding creek with trees and bushes. Artist is H M Ward. Signed "H M Ward"flagstaff hill, flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, warrnambool, maritime museum, maritime village, great ocean road, shipwreck coast, watercolour, landscape, h m ward, harold morse ward, 20th century art, sacramento artist, the things called art