Alexander Mathieson & Sons Ltd ('& Sons', after c. 1890), of the Saracen Tool Works, Glasgow, advertised as 'manufacturers of planes, mechanical, engineering and edge-tools'. They received 'prize medals' at the London, Melbourne and Edinburgh International Exhibitions of 1851, 1862, 1880 and 1886, in their 'quest for perfection in tools'. Mathieson's vast output included specialised craft implements for coopers, ship's carpenters, tinsmiths and wheelwrights. The firm originated when master plane-maker John Manners opened premises in Saracen Lane, Glasgow, in 1792. 4 Alexander Mathieson (c. 1797–1852) took over his business in 1821, which he gave as the foundation date of his firm. He was later succeeded by his son, Thomas A. Mathieson (1822–1899), a prominent Glasgow magistrate and preceptor of Hutcheson's Hospital charitable institution. In 1854, Mathiesons moved to East Campbell Street, and had opened branches in Edinburgh, Dundee and Liverpool by 1876. The third generation comprised Thomas O. and James H. Mathieson (born 1867), the latter being a Glasgow bailie (councillor), whose estate totalled an enormous £150,939 in 1926. Mathieson's hand- and small machine-tools (e.g. bandsaws and beading machines) were exported worldwide, especially their 'heavy duty auger bits used... for boring railway sleepers'. An auger is a drilling device, or drill bit, used for making holes in wood or in the groundMathieson Glasgow (crescent moon trade mark) 2 1/4 " borehand auger, auger, churchill island, farm, woodworking, woodwork, tools

Alexander Mathieson & Sons Ltd ('& Sons', after c. 1890), of the Saracen Tool Works, Glasgow, advertised as 'manufacturers of planes, mechanical, engineering and edge-tools'. They received 'prize medals' at the London, Melbourne and Edinburgh International Exhibitions of 1851, 1862, 1880 and 1886, in their 'quest for perfection in tools'. Mathieson's vast output included specialised craft implements for coopers, ship's carpenters, tinsmiths and wheelwrights. The firm originated when master plane-maker John Manners opened premises in Saracen Lane, Glasgow, in 1792. 4 Alexander Mathieson (c. 1797–1852) took over his business in 1821, which he gave as the foundation date of his firm. He was later succeeded by his son, Thomas A. Mathieson (1822–1899), a prominent Glasgow magistrate and preceptor of Hutcheson's Hospital charitable institution. In 1854, Mathiesons moved to East Campbell Street, and had opened branches in Edinburgh, Dundee and Liverpool by 1876. The third generation comprised Thomas O. and James H. Mathieson (born 1867), the latter being a Glasgow bailie (councillor), whose estate totalled an enormous £150,939 in 1926. Mathieson's hand- and small machine-tools (e.g. bandsaws and beading machines) were exported worldwide, especially their 'heavy duty auger bits used... for boring railway sleepers'. Damaged wooden handle (not original) bit welded on to metal rod, handle welded on to rod,. Surface rustMathieson + (illegible)mathieson, auger, tool, tools, farming, churchill island

Alexander Mathieson & Sons Ltd ('& Sons', after c. 1890), of the Saracen Tool Works, Glasgow, advertised as 'manufacturers of planes, mechanical, engineering and edge-tools'. They received 'prize medals' at the London, Melbourne and Edinburgh International Exhibitions of 1851, 1862, 1880 and 1886, in their 'quest for perfection in tools'. Mathieson's vast output included specialised craft implements for coopers, ship's carpenters, tinsmiths and wheelwrights. The firm originated when master plane-maker John Manners opened premises in Saracen Lane, Glasgow, in 1792. 4 Alexander Mathieson (c. 1797–1852) took over his business in 1821, which he gave as the foundation date of his firm. He was later succeeded by his son, Thomas A. Mathieson (1822–1899), a prominent Glasgow magistrate and preceptor of Hutcheson's Hospital charitable institution. In 1854, Mathiesons moved to East Campbell Street, and had opened branches in Edinburgh, Dundee and Liverpool by 1876. The third generation comprised Thomas O. and James H. Mathieson (born 1867), the latter being a Glasgow bailie (councillor), whose estate totalled an enormous £150,939 in 1926. Mathieson's hand- and small machine-tools (e.g. bandsaws and beading machines) were exported worldwide, especially their 'heavy duty auger bits used... for boring railway sleepers'. Wooden smoothing plane with handle. Adjustable via wedge. Borer holes in handle.Ward blade. Plane made by Mathieson & Son Glasgow Best Guaranteed.plane, block plane, hand tools, carpenter's tools, mathieson, churchill island

This brace would be used to drill into timber. A drill bit would be inserted into one end of the brace and then placed on the timber where the hole is to be drilled. The other end of the brace would be placed against the user’s abdomen, with one hand holding the brace firmly then the free hand would be used to turn the centre of the brace and drill the hole. This type of drilling method was used prior to the use of the electric drill. This brace appears to have been made by the firm of Alexander Mathieson & Sons from Glasgow, Scotland. Alexander Mathieson & Sons Ltd ('& Sons', after c. 1890), of the Saracen Tool Works, Glasgow, advertised as 'manufacturers of planes, mechanical, engineering and edge-tools'. They received 'prize medals' at the London, Melbourne and Edinburgh International Exhibitions of 1851, 1862, 1880 and 1886, in their 'quest for perfection in tools'. Mathieson's vast output included specialised craft implements for coopers, ship's carpenters, tinsmiths and wheelwrights. The firm originated when master plane-maker John Manners opened premises in Saracen Lane, Glasgow, in 1792. 4 Alexander Mathieson (c. 1797–1852) took over his business in 1821, which he gave as the foundation date of his firm. He was later succeeded by his son, Thomas A. Mathieson (1822–1899), a prominent Glasgow magistrate and preceptor of Hutcheson's Hospital charitable institution. In 1854, Mathiesons moved to East Campbell Street, and had opened branches in Edinburgh, Dundee and Liverpool by 1876. The third generation comprised Thomas O. and James H. Mathieson (born 1867), the latter being a Glasgow bailie (councillor), whose estate totalled an enormous £150,939 in 1926. Mathieson's hand- and small machine-tools (e.g. bandsaws and beading machines) were exported worldwide, especially their 'heavy duty auger bits used... for boring railway sleepers'. Iron carpenter's brace, metal handle, rotating knob, thumb screw, rustedATMIEBON (x) Mathiesonbrace, woodwork, carpenter's tools, spofford brace, churchill island

TROVE : Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), Saturday 11 October 1862, page 8 ‘…..AYER'S SARSAPARILLA FOR PURIFYING THE BLOOD; A compound remedy, designed to be the most effectual Alterative that can be made. It is a concentrated extract of Para Sarsaparilla, so combined with other substances of still greater alternative power as to afford an effective antidote for the diseases Sarsaparilla is reputed to cure. It is believed that such a remedy is wanted by those who suffer from Strumous complaints, and that one which will accomplish their cure must prove of immense service to this large class of our afflicted fellow-citizens. How completely this compound will do it has been proven by experiment on many of the worst cases to be found of the following complaints : — Scrofula and Scrofulous complaints, Eruptions and Eruptive Diseases, Ulcers, Pimples, Blotches, Tumora, Salt Rheum, Scald Head, Syphillis and Syphillitic Affections, Mercurial Disease, Dropsy, Neuralgia or Tic Doloreux, Debility, Dyspepsia and Indigestion, Erysipelas, Rose, or St. Anthony's Fire, and, indeed, the whole class of complaints arising from impurity of the blood. This compound will be found a great promoter of health, when taken in the Spring, to expel the foul humors which fester in the blood at that season of the year. By the timely expulsion of them many rankling disorders are nipped in the bud. Multitudes can, by the aid of this remedy, spare themselves from the endurance of foul eruptions and ulcerous sores, through which the system will strive to rid itself of corruptions, if not assisted to do this through the natural channels of the body by an alternative medicine. Cleanse out the vitiated blood whenever you find its impurities bursting through the skin in pimples, eruptions, or sores ; cleanse it when you find it is obstructed and sluggish in the veins ; cleanse it whenever it is foul, and your feelings will tell you when. Even where no particular disorder is felt, people enjoy batter health, and live longer, for cleansing the blood. Keep the blood healthy, and all is well; but with this pabulum of life disordered, there can be no lasting health. Sooner or later something must go wrong, and the great machinery of life is dis ordered or overthrown. Sarsaparilla has, and deserves much, the reputation of accomplishing these ends. But the world has been egregiously deceived by preparations of it, partly because the drug alone has not all the virtue that is claimed for it, but more because many preparations, pretending to be concentrated extracts of it, contain but little of the virtue of Sarsaparilla, or anything else. _ During late years, the public have been misled by large bottles, pretending to give a quart of Extract of Sarsaparilla for one dollar. Most of these have been frauds upon the sick, for they not only contain little, if any, Sarsaparilla, but often no curative properties whatever. bitter and painful disappointment has followed the use of the various extracts of Sarsaparilla which flood the market, until the name itself is justly despised, and has become synonymous with imposition and cheat. Still, we call this compound Sarsaparilla, and intend to supply such a remedy as shall rescue the name from the load of obloquy which rests upon it. And we think we have ground for believing it has virtues which are irresistible by the ordinary run of the diseases it is intended to cure. In order to secure their complete eradication from the system, the remedy should be judiciously taken according to directions on the bottle. Prepared by DR. J. C; AYER and CO., Lowell, Mass. HENRI J. HART, Sole Wholesale Agent, 21 Queen street south. Sub-agents required for all the interior towns.’ TROVE : Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), Monday 12 November 1934, page 4 DOCTORS SHOW QUICK WAY TO END STOMACH TROUBLE Miss Ethel Phillips, Like Numbers of Victorian People, Surprised to Find How Quickly Freedom from Indigestion Improves Health, Increases Vigor and Makes One's Complexion Healthier and More Radiant. More and more Victorian people are finding that the way one looks and feels depends largely on one's digestion. And .they have learned that Ayer's Sarsaparilla — by ending indigestion — gives one increased strength, steadier nerves, clearer skin, and the improved appearance that can come only from improved health. (Photo) : HOSPITAL NURSE ENDS GASTRIC INDIGESTION BY TEMPTING TASTE OF SARSPARILLA AT MEALTIME Tall clear aqua tinted glass bottle, rectangular in section, with rectangular panels impressed on four sides with embossed text in the four panels. A shallow dome impression on the base containing embossed text.Side 1 : 'AYER'S'. Side 2 : 'COMPOUND EXT.' Side 3 : 'LOWELL MASS. U.S.A.'. Side 4 : 'SARSAPARILLA'. Base 'C57'.ayer's, sarsaparilla, compound extraction

TROVE : Earliest entry for Duerdin, Sainsbury, and Co. The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957) Tuesday 28 June 1870 p 4 Article Shipping Intelligence IMP0RTS.-June 25. Childwall Abbey, from London.-360 cases starch, , 4 tanks, 50 cases brushware, 15 casks blacking, Virgoe, Son, and Co. ; 62 tanks malt, Gough and Smith ; 71 bales, Wilson and Mackinnon ; 1 case jewellery. 4 cases hardware, Thos. Williams ; 36 packages drugs, Duerdin, Sainsbury, and Co. ; 9 cases confectionary,...........' C.1924 Dueridin & Sainsbury became a 'limited' company. TROVE: The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957) Saturday 29 November 1924 p 32 Article Duerdin and Sainsbury Ltd. The first annual meeting of Duerdin and Sainsbury Ltd, was held at the company's offices, Flinders lane, Melbourne, yesterday. . Mr. Henry G. McRoberts presided............' TROVE : Gippsland Times (Vic. : 1861 - 1954) Thursday 17 May 1923 p 1 Article GiPPSLAND HOSPITAL -----: O: --------, PAYMENTS Wages £3, £32/2, £83/1SIS, 1.!'/1/8, £26/9/, Kodak Co. £3/14/, Hicks Atkinson & Sons £13/0/8, Duerdin & Sainsbury £2/0/3, Denyer's Pty. £3'/.......' TROVE : Last entry for Duerdin, Sainsbury, and Co. Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 - 1954) Saturday 31 March 1934 p 57 Article "OLD READER" (Hamilton). — Moulds and wicks for candles:— D. & W Chandler Ltd.. 234 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, CI Mention this paper (2) If you have large quantity of gum you could offer It to wholesale chemists such as Rocke Tompsitt & Co., Flinders Street, or Felton Grimwade and Duerdin Sainsbury. 342 Flinders Lane. ✏Fix this text 18/6, Francis & Co. £2/9/1, Melbourne ✏Pink paper packaging (damaged) around a two page leaflet containing a squat cylindrical wooden box with lid, Box with a paper label on the lid, contains round ball shaped cream coloured pills.Paper label of pills box 'Dr. Hains Antibilious Pills', Proprietors....uer....& Sainsbury 340-351 Flinders La. MELBOURNE. 6d Per Box of 24 PILLS'pills, medicine, pharmacy, drug houses of australia

Reference 'Elix TaraxacCo Squam' (Elixar Taraxaccum squamosum or T. squamulosum: Flora of Victoria : 'Taraxacum squamulosum, Soest Dandelion, Acta Bot. Neerl. 6: 413 (1957) APNI, Taxonomic status : Accepted, Occurrence status : Present, Establishment means : Naturalised'. 'AC. TARTAR', 'TR. DIGITAL.' (Digitalis sp.), 'POTASS : CARB' (Potassium Carbonate) , ' ...Quillaia',(Quillaja saponaria), 'Tinct.Calumbae' (Tincture Calumbae : root of Jateorhiza Columba), 'TR.CIMICIF.' (Tincture of Cimicifuga sp. possibly C.racemosa), 'ESS.ROSAS' (Essence of roses), ' ..ubi Acet.' (??? acetate /acetone), 'POISON Liq. Hyd. Perchlor.' (Liquid hydrogen perchloride), 'LIN. CAMPH. CO.', 'INF. AU...', '..RANTI', 'OL. ORIGA..', '..FERR.DIAL'.Numerous entire, most damaged celluloid apothecary jar labels with black text on white background, bounded by red and gold border. Some paper apothecary jar labels, mostly damaged, all in a purple paper covered cardboard box originally containing self adhesive plasters.On side of purple box a white paper label with text inside black rimmed circle 'PODOPHYLL.........Pill....Dose.....One....HOOD & CO CHEMISTS 215 Elizabeth Street, MELBOURNE'. Inside lid of box : 'ZINCOPLACT Regd. SELF ADHESIVE PLASTER. INVALUABLE FOR CUTS,SMALLWOUNDS ETC. ANTISEPTIC Can also be used for binding and sealing jars and bottles, cricket bats and the like. ONE YARD TINS 1/2 inch 1 inch and 1 1/2 inch wide. The same quality as used by Surgeons and ....Hospitals throughout .....World. ZINCOPLAST LESLIES LTD This plaster causes no irritation and withstands washing ........I.....ingredients are exceptionally pure. MANUFACTURED BY LESLIES, LIMD. LONDON ENG'. One damaged paper label '......GLYCERINE......... PASTILLES These pastilles possess very soothing properties and are highly recommended to Singers and Public Speakers. TRADE JD MARK JULES DENOUL & CO. CARLTON WORKS, LONDON, S.E. TRADE JD MARK'. Paper label :'Elix TaraxacCo Squam HOOD & CO., (F. W. BAIRD.) Pharmaceutical Chemists 215 ELIZABETH ST., MELBOURNE.' Series of celluloid bottle labels : 'AC. TARTAR', 'TR. DIGITAL.', 'POTASS : CARB', ' ...Quillaia', 'Tinct. Calumbae', 'TR.CIMICIF.', 'ESS.ROSAS', ' ..ubi Acet.', 'POISON Liq. Hyd. Perchlor.', 'LIN. CAMPH. CO.', 'INF. AU...', '..RANTI', 'OL. ORIGA..', '..FERR.DIAL'.pharmacopeia, nomenclature, labels, packaging

The Watters family moved from Albert Park to Garden City Port Melbourne circa 1934 buying a Bank House at 128 Williamstown Road (later renumbered to 400). The family consisted of Bob Watters senior and his wife Ellen (nee Oakley), children Patsy (b 1920), Bob Junior (b 1922) and Norma (b1924). The children attended Albert Park Primary, Middle Park Central School and then MacRobertson Girls High School and Melbourne Boys High School.Band at Royal Children's Hospital benefit c 1928. Bob Watters junior with bugle second row. Patsy Watters nurse on left. In St Vincents Gardenswatters, bob junior, patsy, st vincents gardens

Donated by Miss Beatrice May Devlin, items that belonged to her paternal grandfather, Dr Henry William Devlin graduated in Medicine from Dublin, worked at the Rotunda hospital, Dublin. He immigrated to Australia and was the first doctor to practice in Parkes NSW.Sphygmomanometer,"Tyco", manufacturer; Short and Mason Ltd London brand, complete and excellent condition in original case.

This was used in the Gynaecology Outpatients Department at the Mater Maternity Hospital, Brisbane. Subsequently stored in Dr Brunello's shed. He has another 3 identical items. A second identical item is held - for archival purposes. James Ernest Ayre was a Canadian; he spent time studying with Papanicolaou in his New York laboratory. Ayre's spatula was developed for taking Pap smears, but was never patented. Received subsequent to the opening of the new museum in early November 1997. This was a replacement for a similar item left after the February 1997 Council meeting. This was apparently lost. Dr Brunello was the president of the College at the time. First item subsequently located.Stainless steel pap smear spatula 18cms in length. The surface is smooth, except for parallel scoring along the spatula's head.pap smear

Francis James Browne died in Sydney 1963. He had a long career in obstetrics and gynaecology. Summary of appointments include: General Practice in Wales, Maternity Department of the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, 1st director of obstetric unit, University College Hospital London. Retired and continued postgraduate teaching in London and NSW. Married to Grace Cuthbert, who was director of Maternal and Baby Welfare in NSW. A collection of objects found amongst Professor FJ Browne's papers were transferred from the Archives to the Museum collections in January 1994.A round metal badge with a green enamelled rim. There is a shield in the centre which is divided into three. In the left hand comer there is a flag, in the right hand comer the medical insignia, and at the bottom of the shield there is a sailing ship. The year 1938 is either side of a central white enamelled plug with the number "106" on it. Attached to the badge is a green grosgrain ribbon, to which is attached an oblong bar with a pin at the back. Inscriptions Around the edge of the badge: "THE BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION PLYMOUTH"; inscribed on the back of the badge: "BRUFORD, EASTBOURNE AND EXETER"; front lower right hand side ofbadge:"M & W"; front of bar: "PRESIDENT/ GYNAECOLOGY and OBSTETRICS"numismatics, browne fj, rcog

These bottles were used in hospital maternity wards to relieve baby's thirst, particularly in the immediate postpartum before the mother's milk came in.Small clear glass bottle tapering to a wide neck with a thread for a screw top. Metal screw top lid. Calibrations embossed on glass in millilitres (0-120). Embossed on front of bottle: 'Nestle'. Printing on paper label adhered to bottle reads 'Sterile Feeding/Water/Name/Ward'.infant feeding, infant care

This is a destructive instrument which, when placed around the neck of the fetus and twisted, succeeded in severing the head. This type of instrument was used in emergency surgery when the fetus was already dead and the mother's condition was critical. This instrument might also have been used to remove tumors. Source: Yale University Library, 'Blunt hook and crochet', https://collections.library.yale.edu/catalog/17322011 This was included with other obstetric instruments, mostly destructive instruments, from Box Hill Hospital labour ward given to RANZCOG in February- March 1998. The maternity service at Box Hill hospital combined with St George's hospital in Kew to be known as Birralee Maternity Service. These instruments were collected by Julie Collette, Unit Manager, St George's Kew and given to RANZCOG Museum Curator, Susan Barnett.Obstetrical crotchet. Nickel plated stainless steel, with large blunt hook at one end and crotchet hook at the other, and fluting at the centre. "B.H.H.L. Ward"destructive instruments

Similar to Willett's placenta praevia forceps [see Down Bros Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances, c1930, p 940]. John Abernethy Willett (1872 -1932) modified an existing pair of surgical scalp forceps for use in bringing down the head of a foetus in the case of placenta praevia. As the safety of c-sections increased and fetal viability became a dominant consideration, these were used only for the dead/pre-viable foetus. (Source: Baskett, Thomas. 'On the Shoulders of Giants - Eponyms & Names in O&G'.) This was included with other obstetric instruments, mostly destructive instruments, from Box Hill Hospital labour ward given to RANZCOG in February- March 1998. The maternity service at Box Hill hospital combined with St Geroge's Hospital in Kew to be known as Birralee Maternity Service. These instruments were collected by Julie Collette, Unit Manager, St George's Kew and given to RANZCOG Museum Curator, Susan Barnett.Pair of long handled forceps, placenta praevia style. Inscribed "B.H.H.L Ward" inner handle."B.H.H.L Ward"destructive instruments

This French Service medal was awarded to F.J. Browne for service in the First World War tending to the wounded soldiers evacuated from France on hospital ships. The places inscribed on the medal are all in the Communaupole (Urban Area) of Lens-Liévin in the Pas de Calais where the broad plain and low hills of Artois saw some of the most savage and bloody fighting of World War I.Francis James Browne died in Sydney 1963. He had a long career in obstetrics and gynaecology. Summary of appointments include: General Practice in Wales, Maternity Department of the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, 1st director of obstetric unit, University College Hospital London. Retired and continued postgraduate teaching in London and NSW. Married to Grace Cuthbert, who was director of Maternal and Baby Welfare in NSW. A collection of objects found amongst Professor FJ Browne's papers were transferred from the Archives to the Museum collection in January 1994. A small round gold medal (.1) with presentation case (.2). The scene on the front of the medal depicts an ancient castle & surrounds with the rising sun in the background, and is inscribed "SUNT LACRYMAE RERUM". On the reverse is a figure of a winged woman against a cross, and the inscription "AUX HEROS", above a list of inscribed place names: "DE GARENCY, VIMY, ABLAIN, AVION, SOUCHEL, LENS, LORETTE, LOOS". The outside of the presentation case is maroon leather. There is a cream velvet mount for the medal and the inside of the lid of the case is lined with cream satin. "A. MAYEUR" is inscribed on both sides of the medal. "SUNT LACRYMAE RERUM", "AUX HEROS", "DE GARENCY, VIMY, ABLAIN, AVION, SOUCHEL, LENS, LORETTE, LOOS", "A.MAYEUR"numismatics, world war i, france, browne fj

Carl Rudolph Braun (1823-1891) was the inventor of this instrument, as well as a type of decapitation hook. Braun was born and practiced in Austria, and followed Semmelweis as assistant to Klein at the Vienna Maternity Clinic in 1847, before becoming its head in 1856. Braud added a gynaecology section to the clinic in 1858, being convinced that obstetrics and gynaecology should be together. (Source: Baskett, Thomas. 'On the Shoulders of Giants: Eponyms and Names in Obstetrics and Gynaecology'). This device was included with a range of other obstetric instruments, mostly destructive instruments, given to RANZCOG from Box Hill Hospital labour ward in February- March 1998. The maternity service at Box Hill Hospital combined with St George's hospital in Kew to be known as Birralee Maternity Service. These instruments were collected by Julie Collette, Unit Manager, St George's Kew and given to RANZCOG Museum Curator, Susan Barnett.Craniotomy forceps, Braun's. Stainless steel forceps, with wingnut. Upper blade has open oval section and ridged grip section on the handle. Lower blade has serrated inner edge and ridged grip section on the handle. Wingnut is used for attaching the upper and lower blades of the forceps. Inscribed "B.H.H.L Ward" on forceps."B.H.H.L Ward"destructive instruments

Used for probing a woman's uterus through the cervix, to measure the length and direction of the cervical canal and uterus. Dilators are primarily used to open and dilate the cervix to gain access to the uterine cavity but can also be used as sounds. This device was included with other obstetric instruments, mostly destructive instruments, given to RANZCOG from Box Hill Hospital labour ward in February- March 1998. The maternity service at Box Hill Hospital combined with St George's Hospital in Kew to be known as Birralee Maternity Service. These instruments were collected by Julie Collette, Unit Manager, St George's Kew and given to RANZCOG Museum Curator, Susan Barnett.Three bladed Sims uterine dilator, consisting of upper blade, lower blade, bridge, and wingnut. Blades are polished stainless steel with matte steel handles. Upper surface inscribed, (trademark) MADE IN GERMANY INOXIDABLE", "21"."21"box hill hospital

Embryotomy is a destructive procedure whereby a fetus is dismembered to facilitate removal from the uterus when delivery is obstructed or impossible. It carries a risk of trauma (such as uterine rupture or vaginal/cervical injury) but aims to reduce the risks of mortality and impaired function to the patient. (Source: Medecins Sans Frontieres, 'MSF medical guidelines - Essential obstetric and newborn care - 9.7 Embryotomy'') This instrument was included with other obstetric instruments, mostly destructive instruments, given to RANZCOG from Box Hill Hospital labour ward in February- March 1998. The maternity service at Box Hill Hospital combined with St George's Hospital in Kew to be known as Birralee Maternity Service. These instruments were collected by Julie Collette, Unit Manager, St George's Kew and given to RANZCOG Museum Curator, Susan Barnett.Embriotomy scissors. Curved-on-flat scissors with take-off point.destructive instruments

A pelvimeter is used in obstetrics for measurement of the female pelvis, with the aim of attempting to determine whether there will be any potential issues with a vaginal birth. The style of this pelvimeter is similar to Collyer's pelvimeter as depicted in Aesculapius Surgical Instruments p. 2195. This instrument was included with other obstetric instruments, mostly destructive instruments, given to RANZCOG from Box Hill Hospital labour ward in February- March 1998. The maternity service at Box Hill Hospital combined with St George's Hospital in Kew to be known as Birralee Maternity Service. These instruments were collected by Julie Collette, Unit Manager, St George's Kew and given to RANZCOG Museum Curator, Susan Barnett.Pelvimeter. Similar in style to Collyer's pelvimeter. Has adjustable arms hinged with a wingnut, and a scale graduated in inches and centimetres.obstetrics

A pelvimeter is used in obstetrics for measurement of the female pelvis, with the aim of attempting to determine whether there will be any potential issues with a vaginal birth. This pelvimeter is similar in style to Martin's pelvimeter (see Aesculapius). This instrument was included with other obstetric instruments, mostly destructive instruments, given to RANZCOG from Box Hill Hospital labour ward in February- March 1998. The maternity service at Box Hill Hospital combined with St Geroge's Hospital in Kew to be known as Birralee Maternity Service. These instruments were collected by Julie Collette, Unit Manager, St George's Kew and given to RANZCOG Museum Curator, Susan Barnett.Pelvimeter, manufactured by Ramsay. Metal device with calibrator graduated to 18 inches/ 45 cms. Inscribed " Ramsay" upper arm."Ramsay"obstetrics

Nipple shields will help some babies attach to the breasts, that are otherwise unable to. They are used occasionally with women who have flat or inverted nipples and their baby is unable to attach to the breast. Shields are made of a fine, silicone material that sits over the areola and nipple. (Source: Mater Mother's Hospital, 'Engorgement and Breast milk Oversupply') The business card [118.4] belonged to W Henderson, who was most likely a sales representative of Surgical Manufacturing C, 191 Lygon Street, Carlton. The card was inserted into the box with the nipple shields, suggesting that the product may have been distributed by Surgical Manufacturing.Opaque plastic nipple shields, with manufacturer's box [118.3] and supplier business card [118.4]. Box is printed with the text "MATER/NURSING/SHIELDS/(Reg. Design)".breast feeding

Nipple shields will help some babies attach to the breasts, that are otherwise unable to. They are used occasionally with women who have flat or inverted nipples and their baby is unable to attach to the breast. Shields are made of a fine, silicone material that sits over the areola and nipple. (Source: Mater Mother's Hospital, 'Engorgement and Breast milk Oversupply') This item may have come originally from Arthur Wilson's rooms, as Ronald McKenzie Rome was his assistant and junior partner and took over Arthur Wilson's rooms.A pair of clear round plastic nipple shields, each with a top and bottom which fit together by twisting in a clockwise direction. Each shield has a small hole in the top, and a central opening in the bases. Test imprinted around rim reads 'OPEN [two way arrow] CLOSE"; "Woolwich/BREAST SHIELD/PAT NO 635433"; "Allenburys".breast feeding

These were intended for use during pregancy, worn as an aid for the correction of inverted or depressed nipples. Nipple shields will help some babies attach to the breasts, that are otherwise unable to. Shields are made of a fine, silicone material that sits over the areola and nipple. (Source: Mater Mother's Hospital, 'Engorgement and Breast milk Oversupply')Two nipple shields with original cardboard box and leaflet. Each nipple shield is plastic and consists of two parts which are separated by turning the top part anti-clockwise. The bottom part of each shield has a central opening 3cm in diameter. Box is cube shaped with olive green writing. Instruction leaflet is printed in red. Text imprinted on shields reads "OPEN [two way arrow] CLOSE"/"ESCHMANN ENGLAND". Text on lid reads "Two/MEREDITH/BREAST/SHIELDS" with some specifications.breast feeding

Artefact may have been used for enema or vaginal irrigation. Mary Howlett (1840-1922) began practising as a country midwife in 1866 in the western district of Victoria. She qualified as a 'ladies monthly nurse' in 1887 and continued to practise as a nurse and midwife until 1920.She began her six months training at the Melbourne Lying-In Hospital. She was known by many as 'Auntie', and her career spanned more than 50 years. Mrs Howlett's midwifery box and contents were given to Dr Frank Forster, and he donated them to the museum collection in 1993.Black bakelite irrigator, resembling a test tube in shape. The irrigator has four entries, a connecting bridge and serrated edged flange. Stopcock attachment and tubing are missing.irrigation, midwifery

This type of steriliser was in use from approximately 1907 onward. Designed for surgeons who frequently moved from hospital to hospital. The body and lid of the steriliser were made from one continuous piece of metal to produce a germ-free surface. Dr Mitchell Henry O'Sullivan worked in the Victorian country town of Casterton as a general practitioner from 1919 until his death in 1977. He also practiced obstetrics. His son, Dr David More O'Sullivan donated his obstetric bag and its contents to the College in 1999. The bag and contents are a unique time capsule of the type of instruments and pharmaceuticals used in the inter-war period.Metal instrument steriliser. Consists of a rectangular metal container with lid, an internal metal tray, and two spirit burners. The lid has a small wire handle at either end. The internal tray also had two handles and in perforated with holes to allow for drainage. The upper edge of each burner has a series of eighteen holes in the rim. disinfection

These type of safety pins were commonly used in hospitals between 1930- 1960. Pins such as these were advertised for sale as "Hospital and Sick Room Sundries" and were generally supplied in boxes of 12 dozen (144). The pins were supplied in sizes ranging from 0 to 6 - the pins catalogued here are sizes 4,5, and 6. Dr Mitchell Henry O'Sullivan worked in the Victorian country town of Casterton as a general practitioner from 1919 until his death in 1977. He also practiced obstetrics. His son, Dr David More O'Sullivan donated his obstetric bag and its contents to the College in 1999. The bag and contents are a unique time capsule of the type of instruments and pharmaceuticals used in the inter-war period.Three nickel plated safety pins (.1 - .3) of differing sizes. .1 is size 4, .2 is size 5, and .3 is size 6.

These types of towels were introduced into hospitals in the 1900s, where they were used mostly in operating theatres and on dressing trays. The towels became too costly to launder and were replaced by more modern disposable materials.Dr Mitchell Henry O'Sullivan worked in the Victorian country town of Casterton as a general practitioner from 1919 until his death in 1977. He also practiced obstetrics. His son, Dr David More O'Sullivan donated his obstetric bag and its contents to the College in 1999. The bag and contents are a unique time capsule of the type of instruments and pharmaceuticals used in the inter-war period.Thick cotton/linen towel, with a 'bubble' or 'chain' design in the material. The word "Hospital" is woven into the central band. There is a 1.25cm machined hem on unsealable sides.obstetric delivery

These types of towels were introduced into hospitals in the 1900s, where they were used mostly in operating theatres and on dressing trays. The towels became too costly to launder and were replaced by more modern disposable materials.Dr Mitchell Henry O'Sullivan worked in the Victorian country town of Casterton as a general practitioner from 1919 until his death in 1977. He also practiced obstetrics. His son, Dr David More O'Sullivan donated his obstetric bag and its contents to the College in 1999. The bag and contents are a unique time capsule of the type of instruments and pharmaceuticals used in the inter-war period.Thick cotton/linen towel, with a 'bubble' or 'chain' design in the material. The word "Hospital" is woven twice into the central band. There is a 1cm machined hem on unsealable sides.obstetric delivery

This douche, with the manufacturers object description of "heisswasserspulungen" which translates as healing water douche, came from the Edward Rowden White Estate. The heisswasserpular designed by Dr Walzer-Frank was used as a vaginal douche by attaching a rubber hose to the glass connector which was then inserted into the vagina. Acquired from Dr Harold Attwood, the Curator of the Medical History Unit, University of Melbourne, 2 April 1996. In a letter to Geoff Bishop ... " I think they are best held in your collection rather than here." (see accession file)Transferred from the collection of the Medical Unit (Brownless Medical Museum) University of Melbourne, from the Sir Edward Rowden White Estate. Sir Edward (1884-1958) was a Foundation Fellow of the Australian Regional Council of RCOG and was the first Chairman of the Arthur Wilson Foundation, and created (with his brother) the EA Rowden White and Edward R White Foundation for Medical Research at the Royal Women's Hospital in 1955. Black bakelite bulb with glass douche nozzle and irrigator connections at each end. Stored in original box. Handwritten in blue pencil on side of box: "Vaginal Douche".vaginal irrigation