This photograph was taken at the presentation of a bust of Dick Richards to the Ballarat School of Mines. Dick Richards joined the Ballarat School of Mines (SMB) in 1914, and soon afterwards was granted leave to join an expedition to Antartica. In 1915 he sailed from Australia with the Antartic Exploraton Expedition, led by Sir Ernest Shackleton. Dick Richards was the physicist and sled manager for Shackleton's Ross Sea Party - with the task to meet Shackleton on the other side of the continent. When Shackleton planned his transcontinental crossing he decided to use supply depots as loads of supplies were too heavy to pull. The depots would enable Shackleton's party to carry just enough to reach the Pole, relying on the depots which were to be left by the Aurora's crew every 60 miles, stowed in 2 sledge journeys in 1915 and 1916. Dick Richards spent 3 freezing years in Antarctica between 1914 and 1917. Travelling south with Sir Ernest Shackleton Richards' worst experience was when his ship Aurora, tethered offshore, was blown away in a gale leaving Richards marooned for two years with nine other men on the ice floe. The Ross Sea Party arrived in McMurdo Sound aboard the Aurora in January 1915. The going was tough on the sledging trips as the sledges were overloaded. Temperatures were as low as minus 68F. In June 1916 the party crossed on foot to Cape Evans, occupied Scott's Hut (from his Terra Nova Expedition, erected in January 1911) in May 1915, for two months. On 10 January 1917 Richards was hunting for seals when he saw a ship on the horizon. It was 'The Aurora'. Picking up the relieved survivors 'The Aurora' arrived in New Zealand on 9 February 1917 to a hero's welcome. Joyce, Wild, Hayward and Richards later won the Albert Medal for their heroic devotion to duty. Later an inlet on the Antartic continent was named after Richards. Dick Richards wrote the following years after the ordeal "To me no undertaking carried through to conclusion is for nothing. And so I don't think of our struggle as futile. It was something the human spirit accomplished." After returning to Australia Dick Richards resumed his work at SMB as Lecturer in Physics and Mathematics, and developed many pieces of experimental equipment. During World War Two he acted as a scientific adviser in the production of optical apparatus in Australia. In 1946 he was appointed Principal and twelve years later he retired after a total of 44 years service. Dick Richards has been honoured through the naming of a Ballarat School of Mines prize - The R.W. Richards Medal. This medal later became a University of Ballarat prize. It has been awarded annually since 1959 to the Bachelor of Applied Science graduate considered to have achieved the most outstanding academic performance of their course. The award was was introduced to commemerate the long years of service to tertiary education in Ballarat by Mr Richards. See http://guerin.ballarat.edu.au/aasp/is/library/collections/art_history/honour-roll/honourroll_Richards,Dick.shtmlBlack and white photograph featuring 4 men who had serves as Principal of the Ballarat School of Mines. Left to Right: E.J. (Jack) Barker, Peter Shiells, Richard W. Richards, Graham Beanland.ballarat school of mines, dick richards, antarctica, ernest shackleton

This photograph was taken at the presentation of a bust of Dick Richards to the Ballarat School of Mines. Dick Richards joined the Ballarat School of Mines (SMB) in 1914, and soon afterwards was granted leave to join an expedition to Antarctica. In 1915 he sailed from Australia with the Antartic Exploration Expedition, led by Sir Ernest Shackleton. Dick Richards was the physicist and sled manager for Shackleton's Ross Sea Party - with the task to meet Shackleton on the other side of the continent. When Shackleton planned his transcontinental crossing he decided to use supply depots as loads of supplies were too heavy to pull. The depots would enable Shackleton's party to carry just enough to reach the Pole, relying on the depots which were to be left by the Aurora's crew every 60 miles, stowed in 2 sledge journeys in 1915 and 1916. Dick Richards spent 3 freezing years in Antarctica between 1914 and 1917. Travelling south with Sir Ernest Shackleton Richards' worst experience was when his ship Aurora, tethered offshore, was blown away in a gale leaving Richards marooned for two years with nine other men on the ice floe. The Ross Sea Party arrived in McMurdo Sound aboard the Aurora in January 1915. The going was tough on the sledging trips as the sledges were overloaded. Temperatures were as low as minus 68F. In June 1916 the party crossed on foot to Cape Evans, occupied Scott's Hut (from his Terra Nova Expedition, erected in January 1911) in May 1915, for two months. On 10 January 1917 Richards was hunting for seals when he saw a ship on the horizon. It was 'The Aurora'. Picking up the relieved survivors 'The Aurora' arrived in New Zealand on 9 February 1917 to a hero's welcome. Joyce, Wild, Hayward and Richards later won the Albert Medal for their heroic devotion to duty. Later an inlet on the Antartic continent was named after Richards. Dick Richards wrote the following years after the ordeal "To me no undertaking carried through to conclusion is for nothing. And so I don't think of our struggle as futile. It was something the human spirit accomplished." After returning to Australia Dick Richards resumed his work at SMB as Lecturer in Physics and Mathematics, and developed many pieces of experimental equipment. During World War Two he acted as a scientific adviser in the production of optical apparatus in Australia. In 1946 he was appointed Principal and twelve years later he retired after a total of 44 years service. Dick Richards has been honoured through the naming of a Ballarat School of Mines prize - The R.W. Richards Medal. This medal later became a University of Ballarat prize. It has been awarded annually since 1959 to the Bachelor of Applied Science graduate considered to have achieved the most outstanding academic performance of their course. The award was was introduced to commemerate the long years of service to tertiary education in Ballarat by Mr Richards. See http://guerin.ballarat.edu.au/aasp/is/library/collections/art_history/honour-roll/honourroll_Richards,Dick.shtml Black and photo portrait of Richard W. (Dick) Richards, Principal of the Ballarat School of Mines. dick richards, r.w. richards, ballarat school of mines, antarctic explorer

Frank Wright was a renown resident of Smeaton, where he was born on 2 August 1901. He lived at Laura Villa, and attended Smeaton State School. His father William was a gold miner and his mother's name was Sarah. Their family won many singing and instrumental awards. Frank was tutored by Percy Code and was awarded a gold medal for the highest marks in the ALCM examinations in the British Colonies at the age of seventeen years. He became the Australian Open Cornet Champion by the age of eighteen. A year later, Frank conducted the City of Ballarat Band, and later the Ballarat Soldiers’ Memorial Band. He formed the Frank Wright Frisco Band and Frank Wright and his Coliseum Orchestra. These bands won many South Street awards, and Frank as conductor won many awards in the Australian Band Championship contest. In 1933 Frank Wright sailed to England to conduct the famous St Hilda’s Band and was later appointed Musical Director of the London County Council, where he organized many amazing concerts in parks, in and around the London district. He was made Professor of Brass and Military Band Scoring and conducted at the Guildhall of Music and Drama. Frank was often invited to adjudicate Brass Band Championships around Europe, in Australia, including South Street and in New Zealand. The Frank Wright Medal at the Royal South Street competition is awarded to an individual recognized as making an outstanding contribution to brass music in Australia.Letter from Frank Packer of Belle Vue (Manchester) Limited to Frank Wright, 1952Frank Wright Esq., 14, Highbury Grange, London, N.5. Dear Mr. Wright, We have pleasure in enclosing cheque for 10 pounds 10 shillings being the fee and expenses for adjudicating at our 100th Annual September Brass Band Contest held on Saturday, the 6th inst. The Centenary Contest was certainly the greatest of them all, the competing Bands being twenty of the World's best. It was the finest entry the Belle Vue "September" has ever obtained. The awards were very well received, your decisions appear to have given entire satisfaction. I would like ot place on record my appreciation of the able and efficient manner in which you carried out your duties, and trust that the arrangements made for your comfort were in every wat satisfactory. I send along my best wishes and kind regards, and hope to have the pleasure of your co-operation again on some future occasion. Yours faithfully, Belle Vue (Manchester) Limited Frank Parker Brass Band Contest Manager. belle vue, frank wright, letter, adjudicator, brass band

The Dead Man’s Penny is a commemorative medallion which was presented to the next-of-kin of the men and women from England and the Empire who died during World War One. The Dead Man’s Penny was accompanied by a letter from King George V, stating ‘I join with my grateful people in sending you this memorial of a brave life given for others in the Great War’.[http://nma.gov.au/blogs/education/2010/11/14/dead-mans-penny/] Popularly known as the "Dead Man’s Penny", because of the similarity in appearance to the somewhat smaller penny coin. 1,355,000 plaques were issued, which used a total of 450 tonnes of bronze, and continued to be issued into the 1930s to commemorate people who died as a consequence of the war. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memorial_Plaque_(medallion)] It was decided that the design of the plaque was to be picked from submissions made in a public competition. Over 800 designs were submitted and the competition was won by the sculptor and medallist Edward Carter Preston with his design called Pyramus, receiving a first place prize of £250.[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memorial_Plaque_(medallion)] They were initially made at the Memorial Plaque Factory, 54/56 Church Road, Acton, W3, London from 1919. Early plaques did not have a number stamped on them but later ones have a number stamped behind the lion's back leg. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memorial_Plaque_(medallion)] Ted Cannon's plaquette does not have a stamped number. Ted Cannon was a gifted artist and cartoonist who studied at the Ballarat School of Mines Technical Art School. During the Battle of Pozieres on the Western Front Ted Cannon worked with the Scout Platoon sketching the enemy's gun emplacements. Ted proved invaluable to the Brigade and brought he came under the attention of the Australian High Command. On 13 September 1916 Ted was given a special assignment for General C.B.B. White. Ted was sent out forward of the Old Mill at Verbrandenmolen (in the Ypres Salient) to draw a panorama of the German lines in the area from Hill 60 to The Bluff. It was a hazardous task and Ted was warned to be careful. Tragically he was sniped by an enemy machine-gunner and sustained severe abdominal wounds. Stretcher-bearers rushed him to the 17th Casualty Clearing Station where he was operated on by the doctors at 8.30 that night. With little chance of success, but ever resilient, Ted remained conscious almost to the end. He died early in the morning of the 14 September 1916. His body was buried in the large Military Cemetery at Lijssenthoek. The effects of the late Ted Cannon were returned to his parents. These were an autograph book, three brushes, prayer book, housewife, whistle, book, hymn book, curios. Another listing gives his effects as "identity disc, letters, photos, wallet, 2 books, Mexican Dollar, 1 cent (Ceylon), 3 German Straps, Fountain Pen, Cigarette-holder, Franc Note, 50 centimes Note, devotional book, mirror, rosary, scapula, metal ring, two combs, book of views, nail clippers, badges, tie clip, Egyptian stamp.[http://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/scripts/Imagine.asp?B=3202589] Ted Cannon was an only child. It is not known how the 'Dead Man's Penny' came into the ownership of the donor, but it is thought that it may have been left in a house owned by the donor's mother. Further information on Ted Cannon can be found at http://bih.ballarat.edu.au/index.php/Edwin_J._Cannon and http://www.ballarat.edu.au/about-ub/history/art-and-historical-collection/ub-honour-roll/c/edwin-joseph-ted-cannon-1895-1916Large bronze medallion or plaquette featuring an image of Lady Britannia surrounded by two dolphins (representing Britain’s sea power) and a lion (representing Britain) standing over a defeated eagle (symbolising Germany). Around the outer edge of the medallion are the words ‘He died for freedom and honour’. Next to Lady Britannia is the deceased solider’s name, with no rank provided to show equality in their sacrifice. (http://nma.gov.au/blogs/education/2010/11/14/dead-mans-penny) The plaque was distributed throughout the British Empire, and the first plaques were distributed in Australia in 1922 "Returned home" by W. & O. Mayne, 2013. ted cannon, edwin joseph cannon, cannon, world war 1, world war

Nessa Jenkins was born at Ararat in 1980. She was a student of the University of Ballarat. At the 2002 Manchester Commonwealth Games Nessa Jenkins won the Women's Trap Pairs and was 5th in the Shooting Women's Trap. "At the 2002 Manchester Commonwealth Games Nessa Jenkins and Diane Reeves took gold from England by one point. The National Shooting Centre in Bisley provided the scene for some thrilling entertainment the Australian pair of Nessa Jenkins and Diane Reeves completed a hat trick of victories in world-class shooting events. Jenkins said: “I’m wrapped – the hardest thing is that you are trying to shoot your own score, but you’re still thinking about what your partner’s shooting, and I could hear Di calling for her targets. Sometimes you can hear the buzzer if someone misses and I didn’t hear it so I thought things were okay.” “We’ve had a lot of competition practice before coming to the Commonwealth Games – we’ve been to the World Cup and the World Championship so it’s been a big build up, but this just topped it off today.”(http://m2002.thecgf.com/Sports/Shooting/News/default.asp?id=579&folder=Shooting, accessed 07/08/2014) Colour photograph of Nessa Jenkins.jessa jenkins, commonwealth games, manchester, trap shooting

Colonne Vendôme is located in the centre of the Place Vendome square and was erected by Napoleon as the Colonne d'Austerlitz. The column in 44 metres tall and is modeleld after Rome's Trajan Column. It was built to commemorate the victory at Austerlitz in 1805, one of Napoleon's greatest. The column's continuous ribbon of bas-relief bronze plates by the sculptor Pierre-Nolasque Bergeret were made from 1200 cannons taken from the combined armies of Russia and Austria during that battle. The reliefs depict scenes during the Napoleonic Wars between 1805 and 1807. The Column was later was given the names of Colonne de la Victoire (Victory Column) and Colonne de la Grande Armée (Column of the Great Army). Today it is commonly known as the Colonne Vendôme. A statue of Napoleon was installed at the top of the column in 1810. Later, the statue of the emperor was removed and the bronze melted down to provide the bronze for the recast of the equestrian statue of Henri IV on the Pont Neuf. A new statue was installed in 1833 which was later replaced by the statue that is seen today. It was erected by Napoleon III and depicts Napoleon I as a Roman emperor.Black and white postcard of a sculptural column in Paris. chatham-holmes family collection, sculpture, napoleon, paris, vendome, world war, world war 1, world war one, column

129 page book with soft beige, brown and black cover depicting three soldiers at the front during World War One. The book includes many photographs and artwork of Australians at the French front from November 1917 until the end of the war. Photographers include Frank Hurley, E. Brooks, H.F. Baldwin and G.H. Wilkins. Artists include Crozier, W.L. King, Alan Lewis, Lothian, John Davis, S. Perks, I. Picking, Daryl Lindsay, Alf Saville, L.H. Howie, Stuart Shaw, P. Huthnance, Stiggo, S. Perks, C.H. Gould, Ted Canon, Bernie Bragg, S. Shaw, Will Dyson, An introduction is written by W. Birdwood, France, 28 September 1917. A number of pages have written notes on them by someone who had obviously been on the French Front. (These pages have been scanned and uploaded onto Victorian Collections. non-fictionPhotographic history of Australians during World War Onechatham family collection, chatham, world war one, world war 1, world war i, france, trenches, front line, birdwood, mark ridgeay, harold williamson, flanders, poziers, somme, becourt, mouquet farm, rupert whiteley, ypres, montauban, field cooker, gueudecourt, band, bapaume, bullecourt, h. murray, hindernburg wire, messines, howitzer, w. holmes. canon, ted canon, hill 60, gas masks, siege battery, menin road, ambulance, dressing station, glencorse wood, prisoners, pigeons, australian commonwealth military forces, sgs, chatham - holmes family archive

Horace Pickford was born at Clunes. His mother was Bessie and his wife was Ida. Horace enlisted on 22 June 1915. He was killed in action on 27 September 1917. He was buried in the vicinity of Polygon Wood. Horace was the brother of Edith Pickford ( m Holmes) and the maternal uncle of Elizabeth Mary Holmes ( m Chatham)Images relating to Australian World War One Soldiers from Ascot. . 2 Black and white carte postale of 17 Australian soldiers in uniform. Many hold a bugle and 5 drums are placed in the foreground. The Battalion colonel sits in the centre. The card was written by Horace Pickford (2282) of 'C' Company, 58th battalion. .3 Certificate of Marriage for Henry Robbins Pickford Family Tree .7 John Pickford Written in ink verso "France 14 July 17 Dear Edie I received your ever welcome letter a few days ago, this is but a card, but you will hear from other letters Ed. This is our batt bugle band, one of my friends belongs to it. I will march him out. Our colonel is in the center. Keep this little photo, it will be a little momento of the old battalion. We have a brass-band also. I have just received a letter from Ethel Pickford from England. Ta Ta now old kid with love. Horace (2882)chatham family collection, chatham, world war one, world war 1, france, horace pickford, ethel pickford, polygone wood, band, music, edith pickford, clunes, brass band, bugle band, henry robbins, family history, william pickford, charles pickford, elizabeth millard, sarah pickford, john pickford, alexander pickford

Tom is probably a part of the Pickford familyAn AIF soldier stand in coat. He is wearing a slouch hat and holds a stick.In ink on lower right corner: "Yours sincerely Tom 1.3.18world war one, world war 1, world war i, chatham, chatham family collection, pickford, soldier

Two young women pose in military uniform. One on the left is Edith Pickford of Clunes. Edith married Henry Smerdon Holmesworld war one, world war 1, world war i, chatham, chatham family collection, pickford, soldier, edith pickford, unform, music, women, clunes

HENRY SMERDON (Harry) HOLMES was born in 1897 at the family property, ’Sauchieburn’, 17 km north of Ballarat, in the Ascot district. He was the youngest of four children. After finishing his education at St Patrick’s College, Ballarat, Henry joined the Holmes family farming interests. At the age of 18 he enlisted and served with AIF in Egypt, France and Belgium 1915-1918. Henry served at the famous battlegrounds of Ypes and Somme in the Australian Army 8th Battalion https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U51448 He was a Driver with the 4th D.A.C.https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U51219 According to his Soldier's Pay Books (Cat. No. 20112) Holmes Registration number was 7983. He was Catholic and enlisted in the Third Military District on 17 September 1915, and embarked on 8 November 1915. Holmes was in the 18th AASC Unit with the rank of Driver at that time. On 15 November 1918 Holmes was promoted to Lance Corporal. He received leave on: * 3 August 1917 - London (10 days) * 19 February 1918 - Paris (10 days) * 27 August 1918 - London (14 days) In 1922 Harry married Edith Pickford of 'Yeovil', Clunes, and they lived at 'Sauchieburn' with Henry's brother Willie. In 1933 Harry and Edith built a new timber home 'Launchley' (Ascot) on the rise east of 'Sauchieburn' on the Ballarat - Maryborough Road. The home was built by Con Zilles to the designs of Clegg and Morrow. In 1938 Harry and Edith purchased a property at Derrinallum, Victoria and called it 'Launchley Park' on their first son's return from World War 2. In 1953 Harry purchased William and Charlotte's portion of 'Sauchieburn' for his son, Bill, and daughter-in-law Margaret. [Source: Unpublished notes by Jane Dyer ( nee Chatham)]Sepia photographic postcard of a World War 1 Australian soldier in uniform, Henry Smerdon Holmes from Ascot Victoria.Verso in pen "The boys say this isn't to (sic) bad so it will show you any changes. Heaps of love to all. Harrychatham, chatham family collection, holmes, harry holmes, henry holmes, smerdon, world war, world war 1, world war i, uniform

Holmes Family Ascot World War One memorabilia This postcard was sent from France during World War One. The writer, Gordon Spittle, enlisted with the brother of the recipient, Mary Coghill Holmes. Postcard with embroidered detail on white silk. The embroidery includes a crowned crest, and the flags of England, France, and Italy and the words "Souvenir d'Amiens".Verso "Somewhere in France July 14th '17 My dear Mary, In the first place I have to thank you for your letter of April 30th which came to hand by the last mail, and also very kindly the tin of biscuits sent per Miss B. which came to hand by the last Sunday. I also received a tin from Violet and will be writing her to-morrow and the next day it it is not to hot and muggy. I can assure you both that I appreciate your continued kindness more than words can tell, and only regret that I am unable to do something in return. Who can believe it is just two years ago since Harry & I enlisted, & the war doesn't appear to be any nearer ending than it did then, however let us hope and trust the end is not very far off, for goodness only knows how utterly tied (sic) of it we all are. His Majesty the King paid our division a visit on Thursday, & yesterday I went to Amiens for the day. Must now ring off for the present with kindest regards to your Mother, Violet, Willie and Self. From S. Gordon S." chatham family archive, chatham, holmes, harry holmes, mary holmes, amiens, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, gordon spittle, embroidery, france, western front, mary coghill holmes, postcard

Australian World War One Soldier memento. This postcard was possibly sent home from France during World War One, most probably from Harry Holmes of Ascot, Victoria. HENRY SMERDON (Harry) HOLMES was born in 1897 at the family property, ’Sauchieburn’, 17 km north of Ballarat, in the Ascot district. He was the youngest of four children. After finishing his education at St Patrick’s College, Ballarat, Henry joined the Holmes family farming interests. At the age of 18 he enlisted and served with AIF in Egypt, France and Belgium 1915-1918. Henry served at the famous battlegrounds of Ypes and Somme in the Australian Army 8th Battalion. He was a Driver with the 4th D.A.C. The postcard is of "The Ascot" boys. Includes [Samuel] Gordon Spittle, Henry [Harry] Holmes's first cousin, and other Ascot and Tourello lads and district connections: neighbours (including a Wrigley boy), Ascot State School classmates and football mates from Clunes / Creswick districts. (Research by Jane Dyer) Postcard with embroidered detail on white silk, with top flap. The central embroidery depicts two small soldiers dressed in brown outside a gate leading to house in a peaceful setting surrounded by trees. Below is a blue embroidered "Best Compliments" and red embroidered garland of red flowers.chatham family collection, chatham, world, war, world war one, world war 1, world war i, france, harry holmes, holmes, embroidery, postcard

Postcard sent from the French theatre of war during World War One by Harry Holmes. HENRY SMERDON (Harry) HOLMES was born in 1897 at the family property, ’Sauchieburn’, 17 km north of Ballarat, in the Ascot district. He was the youngest of four children. After finishing his education at St Patrick’s College, Ballarat, Henry joined the Holmes family farming interests. At the age of 18 he enlisted and served with AIF in Egypt, France and Belgium 1915-1918. Henry served at the famous battlegrounds of Ypes and Somme in the Australian Army 8th Battalion. He was a Driver with the 4th D.A.C. The postcard is of "The Ascot" boys. Includes [Samuel] Gordon Spittle, Henry [Harry] Holmes's first cousin, and other Ascot lads and district connections: neighbours, Ascot State School classmates and football mates from Clunes / Creswick districts. (Research by Henry's grand-daughter, Jane Dyer nee Chatham) White postcard with embroidery on white silk. The embroidery includes 5 flags (England, France, Italy, Belgium, Russia), a blue horseshoe, a green sprig rosemary and the words 'United We Stand".Verso: With best love from Harry 13/5/16chatham, chatham family collection, holmes, harry holmes, henry holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one.

Soldier Harry Holmes of Ascot, Victoria sent this postcard to his family while serving in the Australian Imperial Forces (AIF) in France. HENRY SMERDON (Harry) HOLMES was born in 1897 at the family property, ’Sauchieburn’, 17 km north of Ballarat, in the Ascot district. He was the youngest of four children. After finishing his education at St Patrick’s College, Ballarat, Henry joined the Holmes family farming interests. At the age of 18 he enlisted and served with AIF in Egypt, France and Belgium 1915-1918. Henry served at the famous battlegrounds of Ypes and Somme in the Australian Army 8th Battalion. He was a Driver with the 4th D.A.C. The postcard is of "The Ascot" boys. Includes [Samuel] Gordon Spittle, Henry [Harry] Holmes's first cousin, and other Ascot lads and district connections: neighbours, Ascot State School classmates and football mates from Clunes / Creswick districts. (Research by Jane Dyer) White Postcard with embroidery on white silk. The embroidery features green ivy leaves and red berries, and the words "Happy Christmas".Verso "All good wishes to all the dear ones at home for a happy Xmas and a bright New Year from Harry 11/11/16."chatham - holmes family archive, chatham, holmes, harry holmes, world war, world war 1, world war one, world war i, france, christmas

Ernest William Dark was born at Ballarat East. Before his enlistment on 10 April 1915, aged 19, Dark was a boot salesman. His next of kin on the enlistment papers was his mother Sarah Dark of 40 Bridge Street, Ballarat East. Ernest Dark was a very early World War One enlistment with the regimental number of 19A. He was a member of the 6th Field Ambulance. Black and white photograph of soldiers pushing an ambulance through the mud during World War One. The scene is most probably in France. Verso: "Dear Miss Holmes, I am sending this P.C. to thank you for a pair of sox which I received from the red cross, (sic) with a note inside on which was your your name and address. My unit, the 6th Aus. Field Ambulance, had received quite a lot of red cross goods from the Ballarat district, and I am writing to let you know how much the boys appreciate them. Please accept my best thanks. Yours sincerely. Pte E.W. Darkchatham, chatham family collection, ernest dark, dark, world war one, world war i. world war 1, ambulance

Frank Anthony Thomas was born at Daylesford and enlisted at Ballarat. On his enlistment papers of 9 August 1915, his next of Kin was Saul Thomas of Ascot, Victoria. This photo was found with a number of other World War One material associated with the Holmes family of Ascot, Victoria. Black and white photographic portrait of a World War One soldier in the Australian Imperial Forces (AIF). It is Frank A. Thomas. Verso "Sincerely yours F.A. Thomas, France March 1918."chatham family archive, chatham, holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, france, frank anthony thomas, ascot

Ray Blight from Ballarat, Victoria was an Australian soldier during World War One. John Raymond (Ray) Blight enlisted on 19 July 1915. He was an electrical engineer, having studied at the Ballarat School of Mines. On 23 June 1916 Ray Blight disembarked at Marseilles. On 3 February 1917 he was hospitalised with scabies. Ray Blight's next of kin was his mother, Mary Jane Blight of 116 Lyons Street South, Ballarat. This photograph was with a number of other World War One photos relating to the Holmes family of Ascot, Victoria.Black and white photographic portrait of Ray Blight a soldier of the Australian Imperial Forces (AIF). Verso "Sincerely Yours Ray Blight France 1918."chatham family archive, chatham, holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, france, blight, ray blight, france

This item was created while on service during World War One. A group of eight uniformed Australian soldiers casually dressed while posing for a photograph. The image was taken at Serapeum during World War One.Verso "Group taken at Serapeum, left to right front row, Frank S., Jack Nase, Joe Fawcett, B.R., H.H. Gordon, Theo Jones at back, Harold Holmes, Reid, Les Walters.chatham family archive, chatham, holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, france, nase, fawcett, gordon, theo jones, reid, h.reid, harry holmes, walters, gordon spittle, joe fawcett, joseph fawcett, harold holmes, les walters

The postcard was sent by Harry Holmes who was a member of the Australian Imperial Force based in Egypt at the time. He sent a number of postcards home to his family in Ascot, Victoria. Egypt was a major base for the AIF from December 1914. A number of campaigns were fought in this theatre. There were two campaigns involving the AIF. Note that not all the fighting was actually geographically in Egypt. (http://www.aif.adfa.edu.au:8888/about3.html) This photograph is significant because it was taken by a soldier (rather than an official war artist) and shows one of the daya to day activities experienced by Australian Soldiers in Egypt during World War One.A number of tents and soldiers in a dry landscape. They are Australian Soldiers At Metras, Egypt during World War One. Verso: 'Breaking Camp at Metras prior to making our departure from there on March 28th.'chatham family archive, chatham, holmes, harry holmes, world war, world war 1, world war one, world war i, metras, egypt

Gordon Spittle was the youngest of Three brothers. He grew up in Creswick and attended Creswick Grammar School. Gordon purchased 'Mt Cavern' in 1912. It had 4 years of a 10 year lease to run. His mother and father took delivery of it on 1 April 1916. They lived there and farmed it until Gordon returned from active service in May 1919. S. Gordon Spittle married Violet Holmes and both lived at "Mt Cavern" until their deaths. Gordon died in 1942 aged 51. Violet Holmes-Spittle died in 1949 aged 56. Handwritten lower front 'Do we look down hearted?' Handwritten verso 'Egypt, March 23rd 1916. Dear Mrs Troup. Your very fine and interesting letter dated Feb 15th came to hand to-day and needless to add was delighted to receive it, and can promise you that I'll answer it at my earliest opportunity. We are now having a better time since we came to this part, as we are able to enjoy a little of city life, although we have a good deal more work to do, & which is mostly carting goods to & from the ships & railway stations etc, all of which is interesting & quite a change from our life on the Desert. Hope this card finds you in good health. I will now have to say au revoir for the present with kindest regards to Mr Troup, self and family. From your very sincere friends, A. Gordon Spittle."Two uniformed Australian soldiers pose for a photograph during World War One.chatham family archive, chatham, holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, france, spittle, gordon spittle

Gordon Spittle was the youngest of Three brothers. He grew up in Creswick and attended Creswick Grammar School. Gordon purchased 'Mt Cavern' in 1912. It had 4 years of a 10 year lease to run. His mother and father took delivery of it on 1 April 1916. They lived there and farmed it until Gordon returned from active service in May 1919. He married Violet Holmes and both lived at "Mt Cavern" until their deaths. Gordon died in 1942 aged 51. Violet Holmes-Spittle died in 1949 aged 56. Image of eight Australian soldiers during World War One. They stand in front of damaged palm trees alongside their horses. Each of the soldiers are from Ascot, Victoria. They are Harry [Holmes], Jack Nase, Harold Reid, Gordon Spittle, Les Walters, Archie May, Frank Thomas, Joe Fawcett.'Verso 'A group of the Ascot boy. Taken with our own horses. from left to right:- Harry [Holmes], Jack Nase, Harold Reid, Gordon Spittle, Les Walters, Archie May, Frank Thomas, Joe Fawcett.'chatham family archive, chatham, holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, france, ascot, harry holmes, gordon spittle, les walters, archie may, frank thomas. mase, reif, spittle, walters, may, thomas, fawcett

Harold Reid, dressed in Australian Army uniform poses for a photograph during World War One. Verso 'Harold Reid, taken at place where we have our maps printed.'chatham family archive, chatham, holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, france, harold reid, reid

Harry Holmes and his battalion friends photographed aspects of their time on the Suez Canal, Egypt. Egypt was a major base for the AIF from December 1914. A number of campaigns were fought in this theatre. There were two campaigns involving the AIF. Note that not all the fighting was actually geographically in Egypt. (http://www.aif.adfa.edu.au:8888/about3.html) This photograph is significant because it was taken by a soldier (rather than an official war artist) and shows one of the day to day activities experienced by Australian Soldiers in Egypt during World War One.1) Four Australian soldiers during World War One in Egypt .2) Soldiers watch while two men 'fight' on a greasy pole during World War One .3) Australian soldiers stand at the grave of a German Officer at the Suez Canal, Egypt.2) Verso - "greasy Pole Fight" .3) verso: - Snap taken at grave of German officer killed in the first tussel (sic) with Turk at the Canalchatham family archive, chatham, holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, egypt, cam williamson, greasy pole, ship, vessel, burial

Australian soldiers unload the ration launch at Serapeum..1) Verso - Ration launch being unloaded at Serapeum. .2) Verso - 'Joe and Harry in front taken after stoking down the fold on Bakara.'chatham family archive, chatham, holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, france, serapeum, bakara

This photo was taken at Ferry Post, Suez Canal. .2) Two Australian Soldiers around a camp fire at Ferry Post boil a billy for tea..1) Verso: Harry [Holmes] and Gordon [Spittle] make afternoon tea for Cam, who snaps them in tea-making operation. (Ferry Post, Ismailia, Egypt). .2) S.G.S. [S. Gordon Spittle] and Harry [Holmes] making coffee to entertain Cam Williamson on his first visit to our camp. The hat hides Harry's face. These snaps are taken by Cam's Kodak."chatham family archive, chatham, holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, france, suez, ferry post, billy tea

This photograph was with a number of others associated with Harry Holmes of Ascot, Victoria. The postcard was written on by Harry Holmes who was a member of the Australian Imperial Force based in Egypt at the time. Nurse Kirkham is Laurie Hemsley Kirkham She was admitted to the Suez Public Hospital (Abbassia) post 06 January 1916. She left Australia with a group of South Australian nurses. Egypt was a major base for the AIF from December 1914. A number of campaigns were fought in this theatre. There were two campaigns involving the AIF. Note that not all the fighting was actually geographically in Egypt. (http://www.aif.adfa.edu.au:8888/about3.html) The Nurse Kirkam mentioned by the writer is probably Sarah Alice Kirkham, Staff Nurse with the Australian Army Nursing Service. Nurse Kirkham was from North Perth, Western Australia. She was posted to the Auxiliary Hospital, Egypt on 09 November 1915 leaving for France on 23 June 1916. Samuel Gordon Spittle (8005) enlisted into the AIF on 17 July 1915, a member of the 18th Australian Army Service Corps (AASC). He left Alexandria on 15 June 1916 disembarking at Marseilles 24 June 1916. Harry Holmes was discharged from a hospital in Egypt on 15 August 1919. He was awarded the Military Medal promulgated on 11 December 1919. (NAA: B2455, Spittle Samuel Gordon) Not only does this photograph portray life in Egypt during World War War, it highlights the role played by members of the Australian Army Nursing Service in both professional and social activities in the theatre of war.Two Australian nurses and a number of Australian soldiers in Hospital Uniform pose for a photograph in Egypt during World War One. Verso: "A little group of Australians at Suez Hospital Joe F[awcett] & I [Gordon Spittle] are standing in the back row with Nurse Kirkham standing between, she is on the short side so stood on a box. Gordon S."chatham family archive, chatham, holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, france, gordon spittle, kirkham, suez, egypt, samuel gordon spittle, joe fawcett, laurie kirkham, nurse kirkham, suez hospital, laurie helmsley kirkham, l.a. kirkham, harry holmes, nurses, ascot

Black and White image of a donkey and cart covered with fabric and featuring the Red Cross Symble. It is an Indian Ambulance, Suez Canal.Verso: "An Indian Ambulance Cart with myself (Harry Holmes) at the donkey's head."8.7 x 14.0 cmchatham family archive, chatham, holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, france, ambulance, harry holmes, horse drawn waggon, egypt

Verso "Our horse lines at [censored in blue pencil - probably Serapeum]. Notice the camp in the background also the fine plantation."chatham family archive, chatham, holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, france, harry holmes

An image of a number of Australian Soldiers During World War One posing in front of tents in Egypt.Verso: "Our Camp at [censored with blue pencil - probably Sereapeum]. In the background can be seen the plantation which grows for miles along the [Suez] Canal, and for miles back you see masts of the shows in the Canal."chatham family archive, chatham, holmes, world war, world war 1, world war i, world war one, suez