This is part of a crosscut saw raker/jointer/guage set used to bend the tip of each cutter tooth for cross cut logging saws. The logging saws used in the early 1900's for the clearing of forests required constant sharpening of their "cutting teeth". The logging of forested areas during these times was very much a "hands on" method of either one or two men by the use of saw or hand axe. This item was used by the surveyors commissioned by The S.E.C. Victoria Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme project mapping the relevant Alpine region. Chain saws, chain and ball(clearing) and bulldozing methods came in the mid 1900's.This particular saw sharpening method was used by surveyors laying down boundaries for the S.E.C. Victoria Hydro Electricity Scheme (1920's). This item was given to a local Kiewa Valley lad who accompanied the initial surveyors. The lad was responsible for the tendering and feeding of the surveyors "pack horses". Surveys work during this period and in these dense mountainous terrain of the Victorian Alps was both exhausting and hazardous. Overnight accommodation at various log cabins was not always possible and swag/tent alternative was the "fall back".This cast iron Spring Setting tool has a main body of angle iron contours with one end tappered into a flat circular extension with a slit (3/32" wide) running from the top to nearly the centre(15mm). This slit is to allow the bending of each "cutter tooth" of the cross cut saw. The "bottom of this slit has a semi circular ending. Protruding from one side of the bar body, and close to the "slit" is a tounge like extension (wedge) to fasten the spring set tool into a tree stump. See KVHS 0090 (A) for its Raker/Jointer saw sharpening guage set partner. Also see KVHS 0090 (C) for the associated wrench. On one side of the bar "DISSTON U.S.A."hand tool, saw, sharpening method, tree felling

This spanner, part of a raker/jointer/guage set which is a sharpening tool for cross cut logging saws. The logging saws used in the early 1900's for the clearing of forests required constant sharpening of their "cutting teeth". The logging of forested areas during these times was very much a "hands on" method of either one or two men by the use of saw or hand axe. Chain saws, chain and ball(clearing) and bulldozing methods came in the mid 1900's.This particular spanner was part of a crosscut saw sharpening tool and method was used by surveyors laying down boundaries for the S.E.C. Victoria Hydro Electricity Scheme (1920's). This item was given to a local Kiewa Valley lad who accompanied the initial surveyors. The lad was responsible for the tendering and feeding of the surveyors "pack horses". Surveys during this period and in the dense mountainous terrain of the Victorian Alps was both exhausting and hazardous. Overnight accommodation at various log cabins was not always possible and swag/tent alternative was the "fall back"This small spanner is part of the Raker/Jointer Gauge saw set and is made from forged steel. The nut grip is of the two tightening nuts on the main construction frame. See KVHS 0090 (A &B) for the other items making up the sharpening tools.hand tool, saw, sharpening method, tree felling.

The "nib" pen was the preferred scribe method up until the "fountain" pen was produced (1940's), both could use specific inks that had longer life periods on paper surfaces. Ink wells such as those incorporated in this desk set allowed the user to select the colour and "type of ink" required. The nib pen was the only writing pen that could tolerate "Iron gall" ink. Legal documents were at the start of the mid 1980's required by law(in Australia) to be signed by "well" filled pens. The inks used were either "indian" or "iron/oak gall" because their infusion into paper could not be erased and they had a longer "paper" life and were harder to forge. Bottled ink was superior to that supplied in fountain pens or "biro pens" because the user's choice to a greater range of inks covered a variety of scenarios. Forging a nib signature is extremely hard compared to that of a "biro pen" because a nib settles in to the users particular style of pen movement and arm pressure.This desk writing set was typical of those used by administrators, businesses or quasi legal sectors within the Kiewa Valley, before the lifting of the ban on the use of biros "to sign" legal documents. Fountain pens were used extensively before cheaper biros (throw away) writing implements (1940's) came into the market place.This glass ink well desk set has two circular ink wells connected to their respective nib holders. The nib holders are smaller circular receptacles and feed off the larger ink reservoirs. Between the two larger ink wells is a shallow bottomed elongated "oval" sphere able to contain "slide on" clips, two pronged fasteners (require a hole to be punched in papers) or small "bulldog" clips. At the front edge is an elongated and grooved (two) place for writing nibs. The grooves keep each nib or fountain pen separated.The glass structure is made from clear glass and only the outside "boxed" walls of the desk set make contact with the desk surface. The ink wells can also securely accommodate small bottles of ink. This would have been the case for refillable fountain pens.stationery, fountain pens, nib pens, ink receptors, glass ink wells

This bottle was used in a period when "soft" drink ginger beer was "brewed" not only in homes but also in specific breweries. Most rural areas had families which produced their own ginger beer. Medium to large towns and cities had ginger beer "factories". These factories had large "on bottle" advertising who the producer was. This producer advertising was firmly infused into the bottle and not on removable labels (late 1900's on wards). Regional breweries had a strong following, similar to State beer producing breweries. The competition between breweries of ginger beer was regional and not state or international. Return of bottles was not a sign of saving the environment or becoming eco- friendly but a requirement to keep production costs low. This is highlighted by "This bottle Remains the Property", in other words return when empty. Up to the end of the second World War Australian "soft drink" demand was for local produce. The American invasion of other flavours of "soft drink" came in the 1950's. Multi -Corporations producing non alcoholic beverages at lower production costs reduced local manufacturers considerably. This however had little effect on semi isolated rural areas where home brews flourished.This bottle shows the impact that small regional towns had and still have on semi isolated rural communities(Kiewsa Valley). With better communications (radio/television/newspapers) and a better transport connections specialised breweries such as the Wangaratta Brewery had an extensive customer "hinterland" to serve. The "canny" rural population would be able to reuse this bottle for their own specific purpose. Because of the long distances between Kiewa Valley residences and the major towns available to them, the issue of adaptability of any purchases made was always closely linked to their long term usefulness.This bottle is made from thick clear glass and has a capacity of one and a half pints. It has a flat top with a wooden screw stopper (internal thread). On one side "THIS BOTTLE REMAINS THE PROPERTY OF WANGARATTA BREWERY PTY LTD" On the top rim of bottle on both sides "17". On the bottom of the base are "AGM" AND "346"ginger beer bottle, soft drink bottles, cordial bottles, wangaratta drinks

This gilt plate is from an era where master crockery manufacturers where either located in Britain or Europe.The cost of transportation and the time taken to receive items limited the availability of first class goods. This was an era that was "British is best" in all manufactured goods. With the slow influx of European immigrants European manufactured goods also became of high value. This social requirement was more of a prerequisite for the more affluent rural population, especially at a time when Australia "rode on the sheep's back". Fine British and European goods were a "status symbol", even in rural Australia. After World War II, the invasion of American and Japanese merchandise opened up the market place for cheaper "throw away" items. Longevity and quality of goods fell away as the "throw away" society rolled on.This item demonstrates the time when the rural sector was at its most affluent and influential in dictating the strong ties between Australia, Britain and Europe. The very influential "Country Party" ensured that the protection of the rural sector was well entrenched. The ability of the "well off" rural sector, in this period, were not only able to travel abroad but also to purchase expensive items "overseas" cutlery and crockery. The significance of this item is that it highlights a period in time when the "rural" affluence was at its peak.This hand painted floral gilt plate is a cream fluted china plate decorated with pink and yellow orchid flower arrangement. It is in the "Art Nouveau" period 1880-1920.underneath and within the circular base and in gold freehand script "4" underneath "1562". Pressed into the base is the manufacturer's monogram.Circled around the FAM mark is "* FRANZ ANT. MEHLEM*BONN A/RHEIN*"hand painted china, floral gilt plate, decorative china

This item was produced by a Melbourne Tea, Coffee and Cocoa Merchant importers(1898-1960). It was a time when local production of, coffee had yet not begun. Imports from India and the Asian region had dominance in the market place. The blending of coffee with chicory was a cheaper method of providing a flavour enriched drink which was marketed as "containing not less than 55 parts per cent by weight of coffee" The coffee weighed heavier than the chicory. This was a time before strict accurate consumer information/content became mandatory and legally enforceable.This empty container of "Sunbeam" Coffee and Chicory finely ground "instant - just add boiling water" beverage was the start of the "fast" breakfast drink. The use of grinding the coffee beans and percolation to obtain the final drink was at the start of the rural sector's decreasing the time for casual drinking. The once casual countryside psyche was now (mid to late 1900's) becoming more "on the go".This cylindrical container (coffee and chicory) is constructed from pressed cardboard with both ends enclosed by tin(pressed) lid and bottom. The outside wrapping is promotional and descriptive in the colours of purple background and information label areas with purple lettering on a white and silver background. The cylinder is made from 2 mm pressed cardboard.Main label " No.1" underneath "Sunbeam" underneath "COFFEE and CHICORY" UNDERNEATH "Containing Not Less than %% Parts Per Cent By Weight of Coffee" underneath in Hand Writing" Griffiths Bros Limited", below this "TEA ,COFFEE & COCOA MERCHANTS" Below this" Mellbourne, Sydney, Adelaide" and lastly "net 1lb weight". Alternate side "The Following Well Known Economical & Flavoury Teas" underneath this "Packed Specially For The Trade" underneath "SUNBEAM & VICTORY SIGNAL COCOA" and in smaller print "Absolutely Pure, Made in Australia" underneath Equal To The Best Imported"breakfast containers, food storage, instant coffee, speed breakfasts, domestic

This money, belt made of soft leather, would have been used in the mid 1900's by horse riding traders or wealthy property owners. It could also have been used by miners or other commercial business men. The main criteria for such a belt is security for valuables during travel on horseback. Commercial traders who plied their wares on horseback or caravans during a period where poor roads and flood prone rivers could dislodge wallets or money "sacks".The Kiewa Valley in the early 1900's was an environment which was frequented by the "canny" travelling salesman using dirt tracks and having to cross swollen rivers and creeks throughout the year. Travelling times within the rural areas in and surrounding the valley called for more frequent stops in bush lands. Camping presented itself with great challenges not to loose small cumbersome coin and notes. Local banks were of short supply and although bartering was a thriving method of transactions within the Valley traders from other regions were not so forth coming. Where ever possible local "trades" were called upon more than in city areas for limited products of a rural incline.This "vintage" handcrafted money belt has been professionally made circa 1950's. It appears as though it might have been made in a saddlery. There are five pockets each fastened by black painted "press studs". The stitching is of a high standard and the pockets are large and well defined. The buckle is circular with one fastening pin.handcrafts, leather work, vintage money belt, personal effects.

The period when kerosene was extensively used for indoor lighting was before electrical reticulation was installed in rural areas. In remote areas this was up to the mid 1900's. The kerosene lantern however was still in use, for camping and outdoor activities, well beyond this period and was eventually replaced by LPG and battery powered lighting. The transition phase to "modern" outdoor and domestic lighting lingered on the rural areas where the electrical reticulation suffered from reliable constant supply.In the Kiewa Valley, being a rural region, had reliable electrical domestic and farm supply only after the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme had been fully operational. The supply was relative to how close the homestead was to the major electricity substation. This kerosene lamp was in use during the period when it was the only reliable source of domestic night time lighting. The strength of refractive light produced by this lantern/lamp hinged upon the size of the lamp(wick and glass bowl). The small size of this lamp suggests that it was for use in a small room(children's bedroom) or as providing a light for a safe walk to the outside ablutions (toilet) area. This small kerosene lamp has an enclosed "cup" body which would have contained the kerosene fuel. The top wick holder, made from brass, has an extended enclosed spout which raises the wick approximately 20mm from the bottom of the holder. The wick holder screws into the the top of the kerosene reservoir bowl and has a wick adjustment screw (light control) at one side. The small white glass light reflector bulb nestles securely onto the wick holder and is kept snug by snap designed extending "fingers". The section between the bottom of the refractive glass "light" bowl and the top of the kerosene bowl has perforations to allow air passage to feed directly to the wick.The light refracting bulb is open at the top to allow heat and smoke from the burning wick to escape upwards.On the wick control screw "CWB BRITISH MADE"kerosene reading lamp, domestic lighting, bedside light

This "sewing and darning" box was purchased before 1952 (the date that the Clark Brothers merged with J&P Coats). It was in an era where the production and alteration/modification to any household or personal clothing was carried out by a family member/s. This was at the period where self sufficiency in rural and especially remote areas was a requirement and not just a hobby. Clothing modifications and "hand me downs" was a way of life. The long and tiresome journey from home to millinery shops was a great force to ensure that home sewing was carried out in the majority of residential and farm areas.This sewing box was donated by a pioneer family in the Kiewa Valley. Its significance points to an era before the establishment of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme and the establishment of the Mount Beauty Township. It was a time when the rural industries of the Kiewa Valley was rich in production of beef, dairy products, tobacco leaf and before the mass of alpine adventurers that tourism sparked. It was a time rural enterprises out shone tourism.This wooden sewing box is covered with decorative paper. The lid is fastened to the bottom section with two small hinges each having four screws. Each side is fixed to the other by a mortise groove. At the front of the box is a small clasp for complete closure. The box contains needles, darrning thread, thimble, a glass vial with metal screwtop and a red plastic cylindrical container with a thimble screw on top(contains a small reel with three different cotton thread compartments).On outside lid "FROM A FRIEND. I DO NOT WISH THEE GRANDEUR, NOR YET A STORE OF WEALTH, I WISH THEE RICHER TREASURE, CONTENTMENT, PEACE & HEALTH", On inside lid "USE CLARK & CO ANCHOR COTTONS FOR HAND & MACHINE SEWING ANCHOR MILLS, PAISLEY" Each of the different sewing boxes from the Clark Bros. has a label with different "friend" passages.sewing box, hand stitching, domestic clothes alterations, haberdashery

This sketch of a tree whose bark was cut, by aboriginal craftsmen, to produce a canoe for fishing in the rivers running through the Kiewa Valley either before or just after the 1800's. The tree trunk depicted in the sketch would have been used at the beginning of European settlement in the Kiewa Valley or just before contact was made.As this sketch was of a tree found along the Kiewa River it indicates that Aborigines lived by the river. This sketch depicts the usage of tree bark by the Aboriginal fisher person in crafting a canoe to cross rivers and to fish in the deeper sections of the river course.This freehand sketch detailing the outline of bark removed to provide a canoe is in ink portraying a tree trunk with one branch which has a plaque in front a gravel section to the right and open fields in the mid background and scattered trees on a hill slope in the far background. The sketch is on thick cardboard with a plastic protective cover over it (fastened on the flip side). It is a sketch of the tree now exhibited at the Kiewa Consolidated School.Written in black ink on the top section (heading) "ABORIGINES CUT CANOE FROM TREE. NOW AT KIEWA SCHOOL"crafted canoe, aboriginal craftsmanship, tree usage, early aboriginal craftsmen, kiewa river. kiewa consolidated school

Bottled Phenyle cleaner was used throughout the 1900's in domestic kitchens, toilets and other "clean, germ free" environments. Some of these environments would encompass dairying milk handling rooms and hospital kitchens and ablution areas. It is a product which has resulted in the poisoning of some unwitting users (newspaper accounts of a woman in 1928 who drank some phenyle mistakenly for wine and died). The reliance of effective poisonous cleaning products in kitchens, especially in the 1900's was and is still a very hazardous element that the "most pivotal place in a house" contains. In the era when this particular bottle was used (1920's) the main means where consumed around the kitchen table, and this was especially so in rural areas. Keeping this area "germ" free was a mandatory requirement.This bottle is significant to the Kiewa Valley because this area was mostly rural with "out houses" and milk collection areas that required that "extra attention" of sanitation. Rural areas also where more prone to have the kitchen area as a general meeting place for the family before dinner and other meals. Sanitation was of greater importance in rural areas, due to the greater distances to hospitals and doctors if contamination occurred. City homes at this time frame had lounge rooms for the daily get together of the family unit. This was an era before the television and computer age fragmented and isolated family members from one another. This was a time that family members grouped together in the kitchen to find out "the latest news".This amber glass, diamond shaped bottle with cork stopper once contained Phenyle. Phenyle is a highly poisonous liquid. The amber opaque glass was used and not a clear glass to highlight it's content. It has a cork stopper at the top of a slender neck. All the glass embossed writing is highlighted by a string of crosses. The cross was used to enforce a visual danger sign.On one side "THIS BOTTLE IS THE PROPERTY OF" and in large print underneath "KITCHEN'S" and below this and underlined "POISONOUS". On the next side "NOT TO BE TAKEN" and next side in very large print and surrounded by a border "PHENYLE" with crosses enclosing it. On the bottom of a "blank side is "REGd. No. 2140" On the base is M 959 and Mkitchen cleaners, food preparation area, ablutions

This pin cushion was in use when home spun "fashion" clothing was manufactured or altered. When this item was used it was in a period when distances from haberdashery stores was too far and mail ordered clothing would take weeks to arrive.The ability to make and alter clothing for families within the Kiewa Valley and its regions was a domestic requirement up until the later period(1960's onwards)This pin cushion, although rarely used in the 21st Century, with the availability of "cheap" throw away clothes, was very important to a well run rural household. The emphasis for girls to be able to sew and repair clothing was generated by mothers and continued at high schools. Part of the role of women(in this time frame) within the family was to manufacture children's clothing and adjust the growing waistline of their men folk. This item is very significant to the rural households in the Kiewa Valley because of the relative isolation of the region and the amount of wear and tear that clothes go through in a typical rural environment.This pin cushion is "home" made, circular and covered in a blue floral material, encircled with a light blue ribbon (glued on) for extra adhesion. The material encloses a padded surface(allows pins to be safely inserted for storage(future use).sewing, pin-cushion, haberdashery

This clear, light green, glass "hand blown" fruit preservation jar was used before the mass manufacturing of "screw topped" fruit preservation glass jars imported from Asia or great Britain. The "Mason's Patent" on the jar was for the screw-neck form of the jar top. The screw neck provided the jar with a vacuum seal (preservation) method of fruit jar storage. The reference on the jar of the actual date that the patent was established was in effect for 13 years with extension of a further 7 years. It was an American world wide patent which resulted in only specific manufacture to Glass Works that had paid the manufacturing levy imposed. The air bubbles in the glass suggests that this jar was "hand blown". This would then place the manufacture date before 1900. Preserves came in glass jars bought at the local grocery store or at a large city store on a shopping expedition. The shape of the jar changed as did the stopper used to seal it. Jars were recycled remaining the property of the manufacturer. History of Mason's.This fruit jar is significant to a rural area such as the Kiewa Valley and in the early 1900's when the preservation of fruit and vegetables was an intrinsic part of the typical rural farm/property family. Local shops could only supply fruit and vegetables as seasons permitted. The travelling "green grocer" was more prevalent in towns and cities but not in semi remote rural areas. Historical: Change of jars - shape, glass, stopper, embossing & use. Aesthetic: Display showing embossing & shape especially if in good condition.This vintage "Mason's Patent", screw on thread lid fruit jar was hand blown (air bubbles). It was produced for the home canning of local fruit. The jar is made from thick glass and is tinted light green. Clear glass jar with slight green tinge used for preserves. sides almost straight but jar has a slight bulge almost all the way to the top. Heavily embossed on 1 side. Horizontal print in large capital letters. At the top - manufacturer's name with emblem beneath it. The base has a slight bulge inwards with embossing.In a half ecliptical form "MASON'S" and underneath the Mason's logo.Under the logo "PATENT/ NOV 30 th / 1858". On the base "C201" (double molded).fruit and vegetable preserves, domestic fruit and vegetables bottling, off seasonal fruit and vegetable storage, jar, bottle, preserves, mason's preserves

Bushells tea and coffee producers started in Brisbane(1883) and expanded to Sydney, Melbourne(1899), Fremantle and finally to Auckland(1937). Like other Pacific Island sourced condiments Tea and coffee were a lot easier to import than British or European goods. Local Australian industries were starting to develop and grow to overcome the long transportation times and the high costs of goods from traditional suppliers. Bushells Pty Ltd is a prime example.This "Bushells" Coffee tin is a good example of Australian "grown" condiment suppliers serving the "whole" of the Australian marketplace. Rural areas were not neglected and the purchase price for goods were a reasonable levels. Kiewa Valley experienced a population growth from the late 1940's and due to the migrant works in the Kiewa Hydro Scheme the greater use of coffee was initiated. Rural areas, on the whole, where the population was more connected to some degree with a British heritage lineage were predominately tea drinkers. The American film productions, however, screened in Australia post 1950's showing a greater degree of coffee drinking "stars" had a long term effect upon the drinking habits of the rural populous. This round tin of coffee with lid is made from pressed steel lid framed top and bottom. Sturdy cylindrical body is made of cardboard. Paper information label is pasted onto the container with promotional and logo information.In large print and on opposite sides are two manufacturers labels.The topprint and on a diagonal slant in gold letters on a dark blue background is "BUSHELLS" underneath this "PURE" and below this on a red background "COFFEE". On one side in smaller print "EASY TO MAKE" and below this "Use one dessert-spoonful for each cup of coffee desired. Place in the pot and pour over it fresh water briskly boiling. Let stand for five minutes, then strain". Below this "1 IB. net" and underneath is a signature "BUSHELLS" below this in small print "Pty. Ltd." Below this, in a vertical row are"SYDNEY MELBOURNE fREMANTLE AUCKLAND"coffee and tea processors and distributors, hot drink suppliers

This canister which contained a blend of Rasawatte tea was produced in the early 1900's and for the most of those who acquired it for its contents it was useful (because it was made from solid pressed steel) as a tea caddy or container for other kitchen utensils or loose grains etc. It was also a good advertising item for a general agent W.M. Peterson & Co. in Melbourne. This company along with neighbouring tea importers offices were burnt down in a horrific building fire in Melbourne.This item was used in a period of time when the tea beveridge was the main hot beveridge to accompany meals, and "high tea" was a special treat to enjoy quality teas and "finger" food. In the rural sector of the Kiewa Valley, the favourite hot drink at "smoko" or other rest times was a freshly "brewed" pot or "billy" of tea. The hot drink tea was later in time challenged by the hot cup of coffee. This change occured at a later time in the rural sector than in cities or larger towns. The rural sector in this time frame was a lot more "traditional" in a lot of their day to day learned mores. Life style changes took longer to evolve mainly due to lack of media bombardment (mainly from city based advertisers) within the family home . "The latest jadgets" took longer to permeate into "isolated or semi isolated rural regions" such as the Kiewa valleyThis cylindrical tin container, which originally contained fine Ceylon tea is totally constructed from pressed light steel. It is embossed with content details and the name of the general tea agent. The main body has been fastened by pressed, not soldered connections.Embossed with the following "Ceylon Flavoured" and in bold large letters "RASAWATTE TEA" and below this in smaller print "ONE POUND NETT" This is encapsulated by Tea plant petals and vines. On the opposite side and in script writing "3M" below this in an unfolded banner presentation "BLENDED & PACKED BY" below this "Peterson & co Melbourne" This is also encapsulated by Tea plant petals and vines.kitchen storage, tin container, cannister/caddy, kichen advertising

Printed by the Argus and Australasian Limited in 1948 as a general text book for students. The Argus Newspaper had been printing interesting, informative and instructive articles on various phases of the work in schools every Saturday in their newspaper and the students were expected to cut these articles out and paste them in a convenient form for study and revision. The decision to publish the articles, by the Argus, in one volume was welcomed by the Director of Education, Victoria, J.A. Seitz and stated that it "can be recommended confidently to teachers and pupils."Gives a general overview of a lot of different subjects that students were being taught in the 1940's.It includes such areas as the three layers of government, simple mechanics and electrical theory, nature and general science. It is typical of what was being taught during the construction days in the Kiewa Valley and the owner would have possibly attended either the Tawonga State School or the Mt. Beauty State School. A green paper back text book of general knowledge. Contains nature notes, general science, Australian exploration, civics, and how the wheels go round. This is an Argus Production and the price is stated as two shillings.On the front cover, written in ink, is a name Helen Gunn, A1. This is repeated on the first page with two crosses underneath the inscription.argus newslpaper, general knowledge, education, pupils, text book

A reader for use in Primary Schools in Victoria in the 1940's. It contains both poetry and prose with a section on notes and exercises to be undertaken by the students. User is unknown.An historical record of the type of literature that students were expected to read, and be able to answer questions on the content, in the 1940's.A Victorian Primary school book. Has a hard grey cover. Title: Victorian Readers Fourth Book, Second Edition. Inside the cover is a stamp, oval in shape, with the words "State School 1563 Ardmona" and written in ink in the centre of stamp is '11/46'.primary school, reader, education

This refillable ink bottle was extensively in use in the early 1900's, firstly with the nib pen and then with the fountain pen. Both these pens required to be refreshed with ink as they had no long term self storage capacity. The requirement, before the 1970's, for all legal documents, wills and heath certificates etc. forms had to be signed with penned ink and not biro(1950's onward). This caveat was to prevent forgeries (signatures) from ocurring. Hand writing experts can clearly distinguish forgeries because by using nibs, the "natural" and distinctive hand inflections whilst forming the signiture cannot be replicated by forgers.This item is significant to the Kiewa Valley because it details that even in the rural sector,(Kiewa Valley) the legal requirements of the day had to be adhered to. This was even at a time when in the rural areas a "man's word and handshake" was his bond", especially between neighbours or others in a small rural region. This however was not the case for Government Departments , banks and the hospital. To highlight certain words or paragraphs due to their importance, the red ink application was not only highly visible but also less likely to be tampered withThis is a clear thick glass bottle with shoulders tapering up to the neck. The red stain on the cork stopper indicates that the bottle contained red ink.On one side is embossed "ANGUS & C0" and on the base "J 32" and below this "M" (the manufacturer's mark)dip pen ink, ink bottle, writing methods, nib.

The mid 1900's provided the start of "the body beautiful" revolution. The cosmetic industry, with the help of quasi scientific selling advertising slant targeted those "customers" that needed the "extra care" factor that only their product could offer. At this period in time their advertising power was based on in store, radio and newspaper media channels with saturation levels relatively low. In the later years of the 1900's saturation levels and a wider range of products and increased competition further increased the product saturation levels available to the buying residents. With the introduction of television the advertisements become more elaborate and "catchy" words, phrases and comedy type situations helped boost the advertising "pitch" and subliminal undertones to effective levels required for a highly competitive health related market place. 'sellingThis subliminally,"medically" endorsed product was one of many during the great "spin" revolution of product marketing and selling. This item is significant in that it demonstrates that greater infusion of product awareness throughout rural areas was highly successful through a greater variety of advertising media. It also demonstrates that in a highly competitive marketplace there are no physical boundaries that impinge upon the distribution of products and services. The rural sector is a highly lucrative region for any product that helps protect the body from all the "nasty's" that become more noticeable in a rural environment. This rectangular box which had contained cuticle soap is constructed from cardboard and reinforced by a black nylon impregnated sheeting. This impregnation was required to keep the box from soaking up any water from the user's hands. The top section of the box(lid) has and in large print "KELSEY'S" top line followed by "CUTICLE" off to the right and underneath and to the right "SOAP". Below this and in smaller print is "MEDICINALLY..." below this and in smaller print "EMOLLIENT AND REFRESHING, REDOLENT, CLEANSES, CURES, PRESERVES, PURIFIES." and last line underneath "SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR TENDER SKIN" On each of the sides of the top lid are, side 1 "INVALUABLE FOR THE NURSERY." underneath in smaller print "JOHN M. KELSEY CO." to the left of this and on a green backed highlighter "No. 1744 - Guaranteed under Pure Food Act, 1908, N.S.W. by John M. Kelsey Co. - No. 1744. Melbourne, Victoria." On the right side and in large print "KELSEY'S CUTICLE SOAP" on the next side and also a similar sign on the opposite side "SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR TENDER SKIN." below this "JOHN M. KELSEY CO." "Registered" and on the other long side in large print "SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR TENDER SKIN" underneath in smaller print JOHN M. KELSEY CO. Registered"specialised soap, toilet requisites, nursery health., bathroom, domestic

Published by George Allen & Unwin, Ltd., Ruskin House, Museum Street, London. There is no clue as to the owner of this bookThis book provides a factual scientific account of sex and human reproduction as taught in the 1950's. It is particularly interesting to compare the expected conduct of young women in this era with the standards of today.A grey, hard covered text book with the title "Attaining Womanhood" in blue print on the front cover and "Attaining Womanhood George Corner" on the spine of the book Written by George W. Corner M.D., Director, Dept. of Embryology, Carnegie institute of WashingtonOn the first page is the title "Attaining Womanhood" and below this "A Doctor Talks to Girls About Sex". Written by George W. Corner, M.D. and an introduction by Dr. Eustace Chessersex education, book, school, reproduction

This early 1900's tin which contained loose leaf blended tea was imported into Australia by those tea merchants who wanted to provide the Australian tea drinkers with quality tea. It could well be early Lipton distributors to both city and rural clients and consumers. This was in a period when most rural families were heavy tea drinkers. It was well before the introduction of coffee as a drink (especially instant) for the early morning, after meals and general "drink any time" pick me up beverage.This relatively large tea tin marks a period in time when loose leaf tea was in great demand and large quantities were not only used by families but also restaurants, workers mess halls and remote large rural families. The ability to obtain a quick tea supply in semi remote rural areas such as the Kiewa Valley was not possible due to the factors of all weather road access and the economics of traders going out of their way. Stocking up with important beverages, such as tea, was a "one of those things" that early rural communities had to endure with. Bulk storage tins such as this item were not only a requirement but also offered storage for other household items. This usefulness was not overlooked by the "canny" rural family.This large metal tin container was specifically manufactured for the kitchens requiring a bulk storage "bin" type of loose leaf tea content. When emptied, it could also be used as a general kitchen storage container for other bulk consumables.On the front side and in the background, there are three sketches of Egyptian pyramids(increasing in size from left to right). At the forefront there is a camel "train" loaded with supplies and handlers, making their way over the sandy desert going towards a large sign(in a freehand script) "PYRAMIDS BLEND". The left side "Specially Selected" and underneath "PURE TEAS" below this and within a circle is the figure of a Geisha clad of Asian appearance (with a fan in a raised hand with boxes(of varying sizes) around her. All these are in (off white design and wording on a green background. On the back in green print on off white background "PYRAMIDS BLEND" and underneath "OF SPECIALLY SELECTED PURE TEAS". On either side are columns of similar print. To the left "THESE UNRIVALLED BLENDS ARE GUARANTEED TO CONTAIN ONLY PURE TEAS".To the right "SPECIALLY SELECTED FROM THE CHOICE GROWTHS OF CHINA INDIAN & CEYLON". Below both columns is "for delicacy & fragrance of flavor, combined with great strength, and are confidently recommended to the public as the best values in teas obtainable" On the last side is a sketch of an " Indian encircled, holding a staph with palm trees in the background and four tea containers on his left, with "PYRAMID BLEND" as a subject heading. There are two Oxen pulling a two wheeled cart with a load of six large boxes. On lid and barely readable "FIVE POUNDS NET"loose leaf tea containers, food storage tins, kitchen tidies

This biscuit/tea caddy was probably targeting the "theatre going" family or those who liked looking at the colourful shakespearian scenes. This item however demonstrates that the rural (Kiewa Valley) appreciation of classic English plays was, in this time period (early 1900's), just as strong as in the larger towns and cities. This item also presents the period in which the "olde" Elizabethian phrases and words were taught in regional high schools. Although this speech pattern and phraseology was of a specific time period and going out of fashion when Australia was first settled it was an inherited form of communication(higher social/economical level). In the context of the rural Australia "scene" and in this time frame of the elite "boarding school" generation this item was a visual reinforcement of the education level and position of the family who owned this tin.This item is highly significant because it not only presents the social aspects of early life in the Kiewa Valley but also the variety of educational levels and economical variations of the rural population within the Kiewa Valley. The egalitarian perception of the inhabitants of the Kiewa Valley was still at the infancy of early Australian social interactions. This biscuit /tea container was however a leveling of the socio-economic playing field of the time.This biscuit or tea tin, has besides having an outer lid (hinged), it also has an internal lid(with a circular finger grip). Although the shape is rectangular it has a slight concave bulge at each side of the centre of each of its main frame. It is made of pressed light steel and has a raised floor. The corners are bevelled and the outer lid has a bevelled slope ridge in parallel to the extremities of the main tin frame. There are painted scenes from the following Shakespearian plays on each side of the tin; "As you like it", "Hamlet" and on each of the bevelled corners are the portraits of Shakespeare(in the middle), the caricature mask faces of "the theatre" above and on the bottom section the "Director's chair"food storage, kitchen table container, domestic educational storage, shakespeare illustrations

This covered glass bowl with lid was made in a period when there was a strict discipline in the use a various dishes and accompaniments with respect to the type of crockery used. This was in the English style, especially in well to do rural family estates. This period was part of the early 1900's, when large rural acreage was family owned and the economical return to rural produce was very high. It was a time when the Australian economy "rode on the back of sheep"This item has relative significance to the Kiewa Valley as part of the rural and mining(gold) era when the strong return from local gold mining and grazing was demonstrated by the "landed gentry" and significant household cutlery, crockery, etiquette and old English mores, influenced by "Mother Britain"This green opalescent covered bowl is similar to the French PV cabbage form. When the lid is on the bowl appears as a small cabage with three sets of half peeled leaves. There are five outer leaves, next row are five inner leaves and finally three core leaves. The main bowl has a lip encircling the inside of the bowl for the lid to rest upon with closed. The glass has been pressed to show the leaves with their web like stalks. The inside area of the bowl and lid are smooth. This is to allow the mashed up contents to be easily scraped into a serving ladle.Barely visible "VALLERYSTHAL"glass bowls, kitchen crockery, serving etiquette, meal presentation

The egg preservation material offered in this tin was during a period in Australia's history (especially in the rural areas) when the "freshness" of produce was not able to be maintained by refrigeration means. Rural towns did rely on the "Ice Works" providing block ice for prolonging "produce shelf life" however semi remote and smaller communities did not have that facility. It was products such as this egg preserving ability that enabled these smaller rural communities to maintain a constant source of healthy "short life" organic produce.This tin which contained egg preservative powder is very significant to a rural region (Kiewa Valley) in the late 1800's to early 1900's. It details the type of food preservative methods that were available to rural areas which lacked proper refrigeration means at their disposal. Basic foodstuff which required "special" preservation means to extend their "shelf" life were sometimes regarded as luxuries by semi remote communities. Kiewa Valley and its regions were typical of these remote communities in the time frame of this egg preservation product. The ability to keep products that deteriorate due to "normal" outdoor temperature (bacterior prone produce) was a factor of rural living.This round "tubular" tin has a indented lid which fits snugly into the top opening. The lid has a rolled out lip which ensures a degree of "air" tightness. The tin is pressed and folded together and has no synthetic inner cover to protect the egg preservative powder from the raw tin surface. This "raw" method was the typical application for all tins containing dry food stuffs in this period(mid 1900's) of goods manufacture. The outer tin surface has a tightly pressed laminated paper label with product and manufacturer's information (promotional, preservation "tips" and usage details - will preserve sixteen dozen eggs). On the "front" side "EGG PRESERVATIVE" underneath "OVO" ,underneath "REGISTERED" and in a double lined enclosed square "AWARDED TWO GOLD MEDALS" underneath is a sketch of a mixing dish containing fourteen visible eggs. The bottom label has within an oval boundary (white print on a blue background) "FOR HOUSEHOLD USE" underneath "OVO" and underneath "PRESERVES EGGS PERFECTLY WITHOUT MESS OR TROUBLE" On the opposite side of the tin is printed "VICKERY'S FIRST & ONLY ORIGINAL EGG PRESERVATIVE - in red print. Underneath this is a "round stamp" with the figurehead(royalty) and these encircling words" TASMANIAN INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION" with a scrolled "GOLD MEDAL HOBART 1895" with another medal like "medallion" showing another female face with a "warrior" headdress and these encircling words "HONOR TO WHOM HONOR IS DUE". Below this within a scrollis printed "GOLD MEDAL BALLARAT 1896" underneath this is printed "MANUFACTURED BY OVO PROPRIETARY LIMITED BALLARAT"egg preservation, rural food storage, kitchen preservation facilities

This brown wool felt hat with a broad brim was, by its style, used by a adolescent child for church services. This was worn in a period where church services on Sunday was an important weekly ritual by the whole family. Special (church only) dresses and hats were worn not only to show respect to the church but also part of expected community mores relating to religious beliefs. This behavioural pattern was more entrench in the rural communities than within larger cities. The closeness of smaller rural communities is the main factor regarding social norms. The visible standing within the community was uppermost. The period pre 2000 was a more coheasive family environment ( due to greater intra family activities) which provided better communication and family activities.This "church styled" hat is very significant to the rural lifestyle and its mores. It clearly demonstrates the coheasive force that religion has on the Valley population. The closeness that the semi isolation (at this time) brought about by the Valley's physical land formation and the poor roads within the valley brought families closer together. Not turning up for important social functionsw was duely noted by all (and frowned upon). Mrs E. Fisher lived at Mongan's Bridge in the Kiewa Valley.Brown child's all felt hat size 6 1/4. A broad brim with a lighter brown velvet ribbon head band. Head band has a crossover to the left front with 100 mm extension flowing over the brim. The top of the inside of the head pocket is lined with a soft silk fabric.6 and one quarter (size tag). Unreadable crest / monogramchildren's head wear, social head dress, church hats

This box of matches was up until the 1980's the major source of lighting "small" fires, mainly for cigarettes, pipes (smoking), BBQs, gas/ kerosene heaters and "clearing" rural shrub by small fires. It was not until flint based battery and lighter fluid (hand held lighters) were introduced did the need for "matches" (a more dangerous application of instant fire starters) become relegated to a lower level "demand" item. The limited quality supplied in a box could also not compete with hand held gas and "lighter fluid" lighters. Box of matches belonged to the "yesteryear" fashion accessory's most important list. Matches had become obsolete for the major stream of users as cheaper, easier to use and longer lasting "cigarette" lighters were produced.This match box of Australian make and vintage in origin, was originally manufactured by a British Match Box Company (Bryant and May in Bow London), which expanded to the Australian "Colonies". The Australian subsidiary was at Cremorne, Melbourne. It was typical of goods, which had their "founding fathers" based in "the Mother Country" (England). The early settlers in the Kiewa Valley found these matches an important necessity for not only rural life but also for the recreational "smoko".This small box of "safety" matches has an inner "drawer" which can be slid open to reveal the "match" sticks. The small bowl shaped phosphorous at one end of a "match" is the fire starter(phosphorus) which when lit would "flare" up and provide a small flame. This typical box of matches held an average of sixty matches. The top of the match box has a "glued on" signage with manufacturer's details. In brown script and on a blue background "BRYANT & MAY'S and below this "CROWN" below this and on a red background with faded and worn letters "SAFETY MATCHES" On either side of the top side and in smaller print "MADE IN AUSTRALIA" and opposite "AVERAGE CONTENTS SIXTY"fire starters, cigarette lighters, bbq lighters, domestic fire starters

A typical book of general education considered suitable for use in schools in the last two decades of the 19th century. It contains a variety of subjects e.g. Victorian Constitution, Australian Zoology, Life in Saxon England, and poetical pieces, with notes and questions on the text in each section for guidance of the teachers.It is doubtful that this book was used in any schools in the Kiewa Valley but is valuable as a resource to explore how and what topics were being taught in this era .Book, hard cover, dark blue in colour with embossing on the front cover. Spine cover has separated from most of book. There are pages missing from the back of the book.There is a red stamp on the first page and apart from 'Education Department' the remaining four lines are almost illegible. Above the stamp is handwritten in blue ink S.S. 2733. The front cover is embossed and is titled Royal School Series, and underneath this is Royal Readers VI. education, schools, 19th century

This book is not dated but, using some of the illustrations as a guide, an approximation can be made at last two decades of the 19th century.There is no direct link to the Kiewa Valley but it demonstrates the way reading was taught, to children commencing school, using the phonic system and would have been a valuable resource to the small schools in the area A moroon, cloth covered school book of 64 pages.On the front cover is Victoria, The Primer, Illustrated. On the bottom right hand corner is Price 3d. There are no personal markings. The directions for use are on the inside of the front cover and continued on the inside of the back cover.schools, education, book

This type of mobile spring weighing scales were in high use before legislative Weights and Measure standards where in force throughout Australia. This was in a time when a "mans word and handshake" was his legal document. It was a time, especially in rural areas that the term "she'll be right" was extensively used and these types of scales (the accuracy over time) would produce a near "enough is good enough" measure. These scales are very significant for the rural produce within the Kiewa Valley. Rural produce such as hay milk and butter tubs,tobacco bundles could be easily weighed (in relatively smaller packages) for both markets and for use within the valley.This spring scale (!/2 Once to 4lb) was used as general weight scale. Because it is spring loaded the accuracy would fade over time and by over weighted loads. The spring enclosure is made from cast iron painter black. There is an iron ring at the top (attaching/holding) and an iron hook at the bottom (holding). There is a brass front plate with engraved markings(on the left side) running from top to bottom and a movable pin weight indicator running in the middle indicating the weight of the item being weighed.At the front top"SALTER'S SPRING BALANCE 4LB BY 21/2 OZ" underneath "No 1A" At the bottom in smaller print "MADE IN ENGLAND PATENT"weighing instruments, spring balances

A text book designed as an aid to teachers in Victorian Primary Schools in the 1940's. It teachers the value of art and handwork as a necessary part of general education.This text book shows the importance and the growing recognition of various hand crafts as part of general education in Victorian schools in the 1940's and also that handcrafts are an integral part of the curriculum, leading towards an improvement in artistic appreciation by raising handwork from the level of manual exercises to that of creative applied art.A hard covered text book, faded blue cover.Front cover: Handwork for Schools, W.R. Dean and H. Jolly, and at the bottom of cover 'Oxford University Press, Leighton House, Melbourne, London: Humphrey Milford.' On the first page, handwritten in red, is a signature 'N. Rodgers' and the title is repeated. The price is marked as 6/6 ( Six shillings, six pence)hand crafts, schools, curriculum, education