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Friends of Ballarat Botanical Gardens History Group
Work on paper - The Will of James R. Thomson, Dated 1886, c May, 1886
Thomson made his WIll not long before he died. The Will testifies to his wealth, generosity and strong bonds with other gentlemen in Ballarat. In particular, the purchase of statues is detailed.Importantly, the Will details Thomson's instructions and names the Trustees for the purchase of Statues for the Ballarat Botanical Gardens.4 pages of Thomson's WIll photocopied. Handwriting on grey copy.Two stamps, p.1 which read "Master in Equity Office", Melbourne. The 2nd stamp is dated 22/6/1886. p.2 Handwriting in the left hand margin.doctor john garner, ballarat botanical gardens, james r.thomson's will, statues, john noble wilson, thomas stoddart, horatio arthur sewell, thomas drummond, ballarat art gallery, ballarat club, david wilson, j.r. thomson's estate., j.r. thomson's family members., john garner collection, gardens, ballarat -
Bacchus Marsh & District Historical Society
Ceremonial object, Presentation Gavel and Sound Block presented to Shire of Bacchus Marsh in Memory of Alec William Bond, 1968
Alec William Bond was Secretary and Engineer for the Shire of Bacchus Marsh from 1924 until his death in 1968. The position of Secretary was similar to a Chief Executive Officer in contemporary terminology. Mr Bond was a prominent figure in the Bacchus Marsh community for nearly 50 years and as Shire Engineer was responsible for the design of a number of local infrastructure projects including the buildings and water scheme at the Lady Northcote Children's Farm at Glenmore and the public swimming pool in Grant Street, A physical memento that recognises the long and notable contributions of an important local government official and their service to the Bacchus Marsh Shire and community.A sound block with a green felt base and inscribed brass plaque with accompanying small hardwood mallet in a cradle.Engraved text on a brass plaque which reads: Presented by May Bond and Family to the Shire of Bacchus Marsh in memory of Alec William Bond Shire Secretary & Engineer 1924 – 1968.alec william bond, bacchus marsh shire council, gavel and sound blocks, local officials and employees, local government -
Mont De Lancey
Functional object - Knitting Stick, Unknown
The attached card states - 'Mother's knitting stick'. There is a brass hole one end with four brass nails where the tip of a knitting needle is inserted for support. The curved and fits into a belt or tape around the waist. Knitting was carried out on curved metal needles, one of these needed to be kept rigid by being held between the hand and knitting sheath held at the side of the body either tucked into a belt or held under the armpit. The sheath would allow someone to to knit with one hand whilst performing chores with the other. They also took the weight of the work and stopped stitches from slipping off the bottom of a double ended needle. Many were given as love tokens but there were plenty made by men for their daughters or other close family members.An antique curved carved wooden knitting stick or treen Knitting Sheath for hand knitters. It is approximately 23cm (9 inches) long with simple carving on one side of M H R in large letters as well as a nine pointed star next to them. There is a brass hole one end with four brass nails where the tip of a knitting needle is inserted for support. The curved end fits into a belt or tape round the waist. 'M H R' and a 'nine pointed star' is carved into the curved part of the stick . There is an attached card - 'Grandma's (crossed out) Mother's knitting stick. When using four needles the "working" one goes into the hole at the brass end of stick. Curved end fits into belt or tape round waist'accessories, knitting equipment, knitting -
Melton City Libraries
Photograph, Edna Barrie, 1920, 1924, 1933 and 1940
SUMMARY - Edna (Myers) Barrie, 1918 – 2018, Profile Early Life Edna was born at Melton and delivered by Hannah Watts. Her mother Martha walked in the dark at night with her basket under her arm to the bridge over the Toolern Creek Bridge and into Sherwin Street to the corner of Yuille Street to Hannah’s house Lynch Cottage. Martha’s husband was away shearing and eventually heard the news of the birth of their blue eyed third child and second daughter. She was born into a family that was surrounded by music; her father played the “squeeze box” and mother the mouth organ. From an early age the family were aware of the great composers, a framed picture of Beethoven, Chopin, Schubert and Wagner hung above the door to the lounge room of their 4 roomed cottage, the room where the piano stood. Her life on stage started as a singer aged 6 years at the Melton Mechanics Institute Hall. Edna was born with a natural ear for music learning piano and singing from her older sister Marjorie who became an accomplished pianist and soloist and renowned music teacher in Melton and district. In the 1920s and 1930s concerts at the Melton Mechanics Institute were regular events were the local talent was fostered. The Myers children, like other children of Melton and Rockbank, studied singing, piano and elocution, sat examinations, entered in competitions in South Street Ballarat, Footscray and Melbourne. In 1929 a Sacred Concert was broadcast by 3AR from the Hall as part of the Back to Melton Celebrations. Marjorie Myers performed two of the items on the piano. Edna attended Melton State School 430 from 1924 – 1933. Her father Fred had also attended the same school. In 1924 the School staged Cinderella at the Melton Mechanics Institute Hall with a cast of 33 students. After completing her education a Melton she boarded in South Melbourne and attending Melbourne Girls High School (MacRobertson Girls High School), a school which recognized her musical attributes. She travelled home on the train on the weekends, sometimes getting off at Rockbank to save a few pennies in fares. Working life The early 1930s the Depression was a difficult time for a young woman to find work. Jobs were often menial and given to the youngest and therefore cheapest applicant. She worked as sales assistant at Polonskis and Myer in the city, and Irvines Modes in Footscray. Working to 1pm on Saturday, and when held up by a customer meant missing the train home. While at Myer Department store she lived at home and rode her bike to the Melton railway station. On one occasion she had a nasty fall when a part of her bicycle came loose causing the bike to crash rendering her concussed and injuring her nose. During the 1930s she was given a camera “a little snap” by Mrs Kelly her landlady. This began her interest in photography documenting family life at their “Burnbank” home. Musically, while at Myers she participated in annual performances held at The Kings Hall and the Myer Mural Hall. Working in the basement at Myers she was often embarrassed when her name was called, customers assuming she belonged to the Myer Family. Ken Myer worked in the basement at the same time handling the ‘Wheeler’, a wicker basket used for moving goods around the store. The family philosophy was for the children to start at the bottom and work their way up. Social life Social life in her teenage years was connected also with Scots Presbyterian Church. She attended Sunday School classes and received book prizes for attendance. She loved to read and welcomed the times when she received new book. She took part in the Sunday School Anniversaries and was presented with a Bible from the Superintendent, Henry Robinson for her assistance with the music. Marriage and War years In 1941 Edna married Ernest “Bonnie” Barrie. War in the Pacific was soon to break out. While in Sydney on their honeymoon they met up with Jim Barrie who was on his way to Canada via Hawaii just missing Pearl Harbour by two days. Jim became a Spitfire Pilot and joined the RAF and was based in England. He returned to Australia later in RAAF to fight the Japanese off the coast of New Guinea. The three eldest Barrie brothers were farmers and food producers and were thus except from military service. Edna and Bon were members of the VAOC- Volunteer Air Observers Corp entailing being rostered on duty as plane spotters. The women took shifts during the day and the men at night which involved staying overnight in the Shire Offices. Later the spotting tower was built in the plantation opposite the Post Office. Edna and Bon carried on with this from their home in Ferris Rd when the threat of invasion had ceased Community life Community life in Melton revolved around fund raising events for the Melton Mechanics Institute for the War effort and keeping up with maintenance for the Hall. In 1944 the Minister for Health gave approval for the Shire of Melton to open and Infant Welfare Centre inviting Edna to form part of the Committee with seven other women. In 1948 she was President of Melton Branch of the Victorian Health Centres Association. She volunteered this use of her car driving the person in charge, Sister Smith to visit mothers and their babies. In 1963, along with Betty Jones and Isabel Snell, Edna was instrumental in forming the 1st Melton Cub Pack and later supported the formation of the 1st Melton Scouts. During 1963 – 1968 she completed the Australian Boy Scout Association Cub Pack Preliminary Training and achieved her Wood Badge. Country Women’s Association In 1944-1996 she was a member of the Melton Branch Country Women’s Association (CWA), Melton Branch, Secretary of the Branch in 1945 – 1946 and Branch International Secretary 1970-1971. She worked with choir, music and drama interest groups within the branch attaining both first and second place in 1959, second place in 1952 Exhibition and second in Music in 1960 in the state. She was involved in their handicraft craft events, fund raising and musical events and singing competitions. During the 1950s she trained Trios and Quartets in part singing for the CWA competitions in Ballarat and Melbourne. It was at this time that she developed her skill as a conductor and trainer of choirs. She later auditioned for the Victorian Choir for alto parts believing she would stand a better chance of being chosen, because of her ability to sing in natural harmony. In 1962 she participated in the Tenth Australian Country Women of the World (ACWW) Triennial Conference “Australia Presents: CWA Massed Choir” in the Melbourne Town Hall. This event was recorded by Super Sound Spotlight on 45 extended play vinyl record. The songs were Australian music and words, for example The Silver Stars are in the Sky, The Graceful Swaying Wattle and Kookaburra. Edna continued with her interest in the Victorian Choir regularly meeting at the CWA Headquarters in Toorak for rehearsals. In 1974 she took part in the Australian Choir at the fourteenth Triennial conference of the ACWW Interfaith Service held at the Perth Concert Hall on the 13th of October. Arts and Culture Edna was also in the Choir of 3KZ Carols by Candlelight at the Myer Music Bowl in 1963 and 1964. Melton Choral Society. Edna was Director and Conductor in the 1970s performing at many community events such as Carols by Candle Light, Church Services, Easter and Palm Sunday services, Mothers Union and the 1976 Community Services Week Combined Church Service. The October – November 1978 Program covered the following: songs from the Musicals, Choral and Solo with Narratives, Guest Instrumental Item, Recitation Negro Spirituals and Australian Songs. Her involvement with church choirs included the Scots Presbyterian Church Choir Easter and Christmas performances and the 1967 Centenary Service. In 1980s the Melton Uniting Church Sacred Music Performances included The Crucifixion by Stainer, The Olivet to Calvary and other church Hymns. Edna was Musical Director of the Melton Amateur Theatrical Society and worked on performances in collaboration with Mabel Rogers on script and musical interpretation. Melton and District Historical Society Annual Art and Craft Show. First held in Melton Mechanics Institute Hall in 1973, it later took place in the in the Melton Community Hall. The Art Show was also run in conjunction with other community organizations such as Rotary and Girl Guides. Community history and research Melton streetscape and society Over 20 years commencing in the 1970s, Edna undertook extensive photographing of the changing streetscape of Melton’s High Street. She anticipated the impact of change on the community during the time of Melton’s rapid transition from a small farming district to a large urban community and this led to her extensively document and photograph many of the structures and landscape features of the township that have since been lost. She also meticulously recorded much of the contemporary life of the town and has left a significant legacy of archival material. Melton State School 100 Years Celebration, October 1970 Co-author with Mabel Rogers “The First 100 Years, 1870 – 1970” Assembled a collection of School Class Photograph and identified and compiled lists of names for future school history. She also assembled a photographic display for the 125th anniversary in 1995. Melton and District Historical Society (M&DHS) Foundation Member, 1968 Held President and Secretary positions from its inception Research associated with the classification of Heritage buildings Christ Church Classification C Scots’ Presbyterian Church Classification D Set up the storage and Catalogue system in the Office at the Willows Organised society visits to Heritage sites in and beyond the Shire of Melton, including Stathtulloh, Eynesbury, Deanside, ToolernVale sites including Merrywood (now demolished) Staughton Vale, Chirnside, Point Cook, Shwerkolts Cottage. 1970 – 1983 Melton and District Historical Society Letterhead. Staughton Memorial Light from early newspaper cutting in its location before restoration to present location. Sketch by Wendy Barrie. Designing and printing pamphlets, stationery, and other sale items with Willows title. M&DHS street naming research for new housing developments (1970 – 2000). Collaborated with Mary Tolhurst to research the names of early landowners and pioneer families connected to the first settlers. Researched Aboriginal names for inclusion on lists submitted to developers. An early example is the naming of Kuranjang and the street names associated with the McPherson family. Plains of Promise (Shire of Melton history) by Joan Starr (1985). Edna assisted with Historical Society materials and contributed her own research and photographs. Contacted and organised for Hubert Opperman to launch the book. (She was also present at his last bike ride at Rochester in 1995.) Western Metropolitan Groups of Historical Societies. Member attending meetings and representing Melton, also hosted the Group at Melton The Willows Member of the Committee of Management for the restoration of the “Willows” house the establishment of The Willows Park 1982 March - Official Opening of the Willows Park- Preparation and planning for the event. Involved in the collecting of items in the furnishing of the display rooms in the Willows house. Donated items and furniture from the Myers and Daley family houses. (19th century) Machinery Shed Establishment. Involved with Jeff Robinson in the construction and collection of machinery display Other significant sites Championed and participated in the restoration and preservation significant sites in Melton, including: restoration of the Staughton Memorial Light and its return to its present site restoration of the Pykes Grave (using EW Barrie earthmoving equipment) restoration and reconstruction of Dunvegan restoration and reconstruction of Macs Cottage, the management and Caretakers residence Melton State School War Memorial Gates removed from Unitt Street entrance and relocated to the Willows Park Donated the Barrie family single furrow plough which was standing at the Court House Plaza. It removed and to Council Depot and later missing. The plaque was taken to the Willows. Jimmy Melrose (aviator) cairn restoration at crash site in Melton South Donald Mackintosh (Olympic gold medallist marksman) grave site at the Melton Cemetery (Historical items held by the Myers family collection.) Houdini first flight at Diggers Rest. Edna’s father was shearing at Diggers Rest at the time and witnessed the flight. She attended the 90 year anniversary of the event at the site in 2000. Radio and electronics Edna’s husband Bon interest in wireless communication dates in the 1920s with the building of a crystal set in the early days of public broadcasting. At the Back to Melton Celebrations in 1929, 3AR broadcast a concert from the Melton Mechanics Institute on the 20th February at 8pm featuring Footscray City Band, James Hill baritone, Vera Carew Soprano, James Foran Tenor, Marjorie Myers Piano, and James Williamson Entertainer. Accompanists: Miss Agnes Ross and Mrs James Hill. The Myers children had recordings of their piano playing made onto the aluminium records, Martha Myers’ voice can be heard introducing an item. These were made in a studio in Melbourne. Marjorie was given a upright Gramophone by Donald Mackintosh in recognition of her talent and her contribution to the cultural life of Melton. The family were then able to listen to 78rpm recordings of the famous classical recordings. The turntable was hand wound metal stylus needles had to be regularly replaced. The aluminium disk needed a bamboo needle to prevent damage to the surface. Before electricity was introduced to Melton in 1939 the Mechanics Hall relied on generators to produce electricity. Bon Barrie, being mechanically minded, built a public address system for be used a community functions at the Hall and Recreational Park. By 1939 this was up and running and used for over three decades. A large Collection of 78rpm records provided music for dances, marching, parades and any public event needing music and microphones. The early system was portable and worked on batteries. CFA Radio Communication In the 1950s with the introduction two-way HF and later VHF very high frequency radio sets. Melton Rural Fire Brigade was part of the Bacchus Marsh Group. Radio sets where located in the Melton Fire Truck, and in the house of the Barrie family at Ferris Road. This was an ideal location to observe a 360 degree view in all directions when smoke appeared on the horizon. An antenna was erected beside the house. The set OX 7 was located in the kitchen and monitored 24 hours by the family. When an electrical fire occurred at the junction of the electricity to the house there was time to radio the fire station and summons the men working in the paddocks, thus saving the house from possible destruction. With the introduction of UHF – ultra high frequency Vinten Radios the signal was clearer and static and interference lessened and radio traffic became easier to read, and reduced noise levels in the household. VL3 LY Radio Base became the Group Headquarters was established in 1967. By 1970 the Brigades were: Melton, Rockbank, Sydenham, Toolern Vale, Diggers Rest, Truganina, and Werribee. In 1974 when the family moved to First Avenue, another antenna and a small building were erected adjacent to the residence and used to house the equipment, maps. Radio traffic consisted of regular schedule times and communication with adjoining groups of brigades such as Bacchus Marsh, Mt Macedon and Little River Groups. Many of the brigade and group base radios were situated in private residences and operated primarily by fire fighters wives who held the position of Communications Officer, either registered as a brigade member or informally. Edna was never registered as an operational brigade member but operated informally as an assistant to her husband Bon. She was however a member of the Melton Fire Brigade Ladies Auxiliary from its inception in 1968, a non-operational position. Edna kept up to date with radio procedure following the 1967 handbook; preparing maps, plotting compass points and taking notes on weather forecasts from the SA Border and Western District. Daily notes were taken in anticipation of fire warnings. These log books and daily radio traffic were incidental to the regular radio schedules. Emergency turnouts noted, burning off times and predicted location of smoke. In the summer fire season all TBF (total fire ban days were recorded.) In times of emergency the Barrie family assisted Bon the base radio operator to plot the position and location of fire trucks and to help clarify garbled radio traffic, keep notes and make telephone calls. These log books are held in the EE and EW Family Archive. Melton Uniting Church Edna founded the Church Opportunity with Maisie Robinson in 1975 in the Melton South Methodist Church building. Methodist and Presbyterian Churches of Melton had combined severing their long held connection with Bacchus Marsh. A Manse had been recently built for the Melton Minister. At a Parish Committee meeting at the Melton South Church it was suggested to use the building as an Opportunity Shop. It opened in July 1975, and it raised $1,600 contribution to the church budget in 1976. In 1977 The Uniting Church in Australia was formed and the Melton South Uniting Church Opportunity shop continued to go from strength to strength expanding the buildings providing the welfare needs of the community. Archive Set up by Edna Catalogued items dating from 1857 Minute Book and set ongoing system and storage of items of heritage. Melton Un Awards and recognition of service to the Melton community Rotary Award for Community Service, 1980 Victoria 150th Anniversary Celebrations contributions, 1985 Life Membership of the Melton and District Historical Society (M&DHS), 1989 Extra-Ordinary Contribution for years of service to M&DHS, 1992 Long Service for Exceptional Service MD&HS, 1993 Royal Historical Society of Victoria Award of Merit, 1997 Shire of Melton Certificate of Appreciation for continued support and dedication as a member of MD&HS to the preservation of Melton’s History, 1998 Centenary of Federation Peoplescape (Canberra) Melton Shire nomination, 2001 Uniting Church Melton Life Membership of the Opportunity Shop Uniting Church in Australia Commission for Mission for 30 years of hard work and dedications to the Uniting Church, 2007 Uniting Church Adult Fellowship Certificate appreciation in recognition of valuable support through the “Sammy” Stamp Fund Neighbourhood Watch 5 year award Photographs of Edna at different ageslocal identities -
Melton City Libraries
Photograph, Wendy Barrie, Unknown
Eldest daughter of Edna and Bon Barrie, born on 03 November 1943 in Melbourne, Victoria, Memoirs of Wendy Barrie, recalling the early formative years of life in Melton: In 1949 I started school at Melton State School no 430 and was driven the 2½ miles to there by my parents at first. Later we walked home in the afternoons or were picked up by car as we made our way home along the Western Highway. In 1956 I went to Bacchus Marsh High School. There were 4 students in grade 6 and 3 of us went to the High School. The students from Melton, Melton South and Toolern Vale State Schools went by bus to Bacchus Marsh High School as far a fifth form. My parents drove me to the pick up point and during the five years of travel to High School. The bus travelled via Toolern Vale and later went through Exford and through Parwan. On the return journey in the afternoon the bus went in the reverse direction. The bridge at Exford was an old narrow wooden one, and the students had to get off the bus and walk across, with the driver crossing in the empty bus for safety reasons. There was a travelling allowance paid to parents and it was estimated from the distance the crow flies, a straight line. We lived a Ferris Lane, just where the Harness Racing entrance is now situated about 2 ½ miles by road to school too close to qualify for the subsidy. While at State School Melton we would walk home in a group with the Nixon and Gillespie children, along the main road over the bridge near the Shire Offices and down a hill. I was being dinked on Joyce Gillespie’s bike while holding onto the seat, toppled off the bike striking my chin and teeth on the bitumen and cracking my jaw. I was about 9 years old and stayed a couple of days in the Quamby Hospital in Bacchus Marsh, it seemed like and eternity at the time and quite traumatic being separated from my family. I can remember contemplating how I could get out of the window and run away but realised it was too far to walk home. Often we would cut across the Common on our way home from school picking up stray golf balls and collecting them from the creek when it dried out. We were warned about not accepting lifts from strangers passing along the Melbourne/ Ballarat Road. The only danger we faced was being swooped by the magpies particularly on the open ground on the Common. We were also fairly cautious when the Gypsies camped on the Common in the area just about opposite the small reservoir. “Mum” grandma Myers loved to have us call in on our way home, and usually would cut a slice of Jongebloed’s bread and spread it with home made butter. Sometimes we waited there until we were collected by car, usually driven by our mother. Margaret Nixon and Joyce Gillespie were a few grades ahead of me and Barbara Nixon was born just two months earlier than me. Our mothers were great friends for over 6o years, born in the same month three years apart. They lived within a few days of the same age as each other at the time their deaths. Dad and George Nixon attended Melton school at the same time. Sarah nee Hornbuckle Nixon and my grandfather Frederick Myers Snr were at school together at the same in the 1880s. The Nixon family lived in Keilor Road just past the Toolern Creek near the turnoff. Tom and Ann Collins lived on the southern side of the Western highway and Keilor road intersection. Jim and Ruby Gillespie’s house was further long Keilor road on the right. They backed onto the Myers who lived on the north side of Western Highway east of Myers Gully (Ryans Creek). The Bridge over the Toolern Creek as very narrow and as truck traffic increased there were accidents. One truck took out the side railing and plunged upside down into the bank and into the shallow water. Another fatal accident happened between a car and a truck right in front of the Myers house. Grandfather Fred had been a bike rider all his life, as far as the Riverina in his younger years, wryly made the comment about the drivers the speeding along the Ballarat Road were setting out to kill themselves. The road was busy particularly after the Races at Ballarat when the crowds were hurrying home to Melbourne. Train travel had changed very little from the time my mothers generation to mine. The timetable meant the usual rush to Melton South by bike in her case and if she was running late the train pulled up on the crossing. I was driven to the Station from home past Keith and Mary Gillespie’s house near the Ferris Road rail crossing to Bridge road to Melton South for the 7.32 train. While attending Sunshine High School in 1961 I would meet up with three other students, two of whom I knew from Bacchus Marsh High School days. We usually got into the same compartment on the train, it was a typical country train with a corridor along the side and compartments with a door, roof racks and sometimes heated metal containers for the feet in the winter. Some of the trains came through from Horsham and Ballarat, and the Overland from Adelaide passed through in the evening, we could hear it in the distance from the Ferris Lane home. The carriages had 1st and economy class compartments showing photographs of county scenes and holiday destinations. The engine was the large A class diesel. They are still running to Bacchus Marsh 50 years later, due to the need for the greatly increased number of commuters travelling to work in the city. Sometimes the carriages were pull by a Steam engine, these were a problem in the summer time because the sparks caused fires along the train lines and then quickly spread into the dry grass, crops and stubble. The Motor Train left Spencer Street at 4.23 pm and was the best train for me to catch. Ferris Road was a designated stop and train pulled up on the road crossing. It had steps at the door and rungs to hold while alighting to the ground. The ballast along the tracks was rough and uneven and awkward to land on. The train was painted blue and yellow with the letters VR pained on the front. This saved may parents the afternoon trip to collect me from the Station. On the walk home on the gravel road I would pass Uncle Tom and Aunty May’s house before reaching home. Melva Gillespie was studying at Sunshine Technical School and we sometimes both got off the train at the same time. On other occasions the Motor Train was replaced with a diesel engine with carriages, it was also required to stop and the driver had to be notified in advance. This meant getting into the guards van a Rockbank. It was more difficult alighting from the carriage as the gap was greater and more precarious to swing out and land on the ground. A few times in my last year of study at Melbourne Teachers College in Grattan Street Carlton. I managed to catch the 2.30 pm train to Serviceton, it was express to Melton and was very quick trip. The last train, was the 5.25 pm diesel to Ballarat and I usually caught this train to Melton South Station. On one occasion after being held up on the tram in Bourke street I had to make a mad dash to the platform chasing the train as it was just moving off and yelling to the guard, fortunately I was noticed and the train ground to halt. I scrambled into the end door and took most of the journey home to recover. After the last year at High School I continued to travel on the train, 2 years to Prahran Technical School changing at North Melbourne. There were a lot school children travelling to private schools and some at the primary level and mainly from Bacchus Marsh. Rockbank children also travelled by train from the beginning of their high school years, quite a few went to Sunshine High School. During my third year of teacher training I travelled to Flinders Street to RMIT for ceramics classes and Grattan St Teachers College located in the grounds of Melbourne University. There were many teachers being trained at the Secondary Teachers College due to the baby bulge creating a great shortage of teachers. Sunshine High School was very well represented amongst the different courses in Primary, Secondary and Art and Crafts. I attended Melbourne University lectures, studying a Fine Art subject. Bernard Smith was the most notable of the lecturers. he replaced Professor Joseph Bourke who had taken leave for the years. In 1962 he published the art book “Australian Painting”. The secondary art and craft student teachers from the College were in the majority, taking this subject and were well regarded due to their practical art and craft methods and their teaching round experience. In December 1964 I graduated as a Trained Secondary Teacher – Art and Crafts. The graduating ceremony was held at Wilson Hall. I received my appointment to work at Maryborough High School. Uncle Max and Aunty Rosemary Myers arranged my accommodation. Uncle Max was a teacher at the Maryborough Technical School fat the time. The appointment was suddenly changed when just before the school year was about to start when I received notification that I was now required to move to Warracknabeal High School. I was subject to a bond for the three years of training and three years of teaching and was under an obligation to comply with the directive of the Education Department. My father stood as guarantor when I was accepted as student at the Melbourne Teachers’ College, thus enabling me to receive my teacher training, and a 5 pounds a week allowance for expenses. After teaching for two years at Warracknabeal High School I was fortunate enough the gain a transfer to Sunshine West High School, returning to live at home in Melton and travelling by car to work with a fellow colleague, Jock Smith who lived at Station road Melton. I completed bond obligation and resigned at the end of the year. The employment regulations at that time did not allow the option of leave of absence for, indefinite overseas travel. I returned to Australia in October 1969. Visiting Arthur Hart the Principal of Sunshine High School he arranged with the Education Department for my re-employment at Sunshine High School until the end of the year. In 1970 I was transferred, and returned to Sunshine West High School where I worked for the next three years. In January 1968 I sailed on the “Oriana” to South Hampton with two teaching friends from Warracknabeal High School on a travelling and working holiday. Doreen Kiely, a former Bacchus Marsh High student and fellow train traveller from Bacchus Marsh, was already working in London, had arranged our accommodation at the London Travellers Club Hotel, Braham Gardens, Earls Court SW5. We based our stay at this address in London and travelled around Scotland, Ireland and England. In the summer we took a four month trip around the Continent and the Mediterranean. I registered with The Royal Borough Of Kingston Upon Thames as a Supply teacher, and worked at Chessington School form autumn to spring the following year and living with Mrs Rose Gillies at Kinross Avenue, Worcester Park, Surrey. In the spring of 1969 visiting Norway, Sweden and Finland joining an organised camping group to the Artic Circle, entered Russia at Leningrad (St Petersburg) Moscow, Minsk, to Poland and Czechoslovakia. In August returning to Worcester Park for the flight to Montreal to stay with cousin Lynette and husband Jurgen. A side trip was taken to Toronto, Niagara Falls and New York. The flight home from Montreal to Melbourne took 52 hours. A ½ day break in Vancouver before boarding the Qantas boeing 707 via San Francisco, Honolulu, Fiji, Sydney to Melbourne. Around the world in 21 months. Photographs of Wendy local identities -
Melton City Libraries
Photograph, Frederick and Martha Myers wedding day, 1908
Frederick and Martha were married on the 30th April 1908. Martha (Mattie) Mary (Watson) MYERS, b. 11 Oct 1888, d. 23 Mar 1976 and Frederick Thomas MYERS, b. 20 Jan 1877, d. 30 Apr 1963. Frederick was the son of Henri MIERS and Ann DOWLING. Frederick worked as a labourer, road builder and sheep shearer all his life. He often worked away and travelled long distances by bike with his swag. He travelled into the Riverina shearing at many of the well known sheep stations. In 1907 he met Martha Mary Watson. She came to the Golden Fleece Hotel to work for the Shebler family. Mr Shebler was getting older and support was needed in the running of the hotel. Mattie was born in 1888 in Ballarat. She had a firm dislike for alcohol. She had experienced the ill effects of the excesses of alcohol with her Grandmother Watson. They lived at 1 Burnbank Street Ballarat and drink was close by and easily obtained. While serving drinks at the Golden Fleece she got to know Fred, in time as the friendship developed she began to water down his drinks while serving full strength to his mates. Fred and Martha were married in 1908 and she moved into the Myers family home. Martha had a life long aversion to the excessive use of alcohol forbidding it in the household. Martha lived in the family home naming it Burnbank after the street in Ballarat where she spent her childhood where she lived with her grandmother Robina Watson, her mother was Robina (Ruby Watson). They lived a No 1 Burnbank Street Ballarat. Her grandfather was John Smith Watson. His early address was Macarthur Street just opposite the Burnbank street house. John was a member of the Ballarat City Fire Brigade. John died at the Macarthur Street home in 1895. The death certificate gives the ages of the children as Robina 26, Adam Arthur 22 and Alex 18 years.Wedding was in Fitzroy, Victorialocal identities, pioneer families -
Melton City Libraries
Photograph, Martha (Watson) Myers, 1907, c.1930 and 1953
Martha Watson was born on 17 October 1888 in Ballarat, Victoria, Australia as the first child of Robina (Ruby) WATSON. She died on 23 March 1976 in Geelong, Victoria, Australia. Memories of Martha by Valcia nee Twigg Lowrie, granddaughter of Arthur Watson. My memories and recollections as told to me my Grandmother ‘Mum’ Myers. As a child she had scarlet fever and did not attend school during the illness and missed a lot of school (Macarthur Street State School). When she was meant to return to school having fallen behind her classmates, confused and behind with the school work, she instead spent her time wandering around Lake Wendouree feeling too ashamed to attend school. Her uncle Arthur, born in 1874, whom she idealized, was a type of father/mentor figure who played and important part in her early life. He moved to Queensland in the early 1900’s and they did not meet again until he visited Melton in 1949, he died in 1954. He was a champion rower in Victoria and Queensland and a noted cyclist who rode in three Warrnambool to Melbourne races, and footballer. Her mother’s death certificate reveals her place of death as the Ballarat Hospital on 8th September 1903 aged 36. Martha was not told of the death of her mother, it was some time later when she found out her mother had died. She was greatly distressed when she eventually found out. The grief and the circumstance of her mothers death and her unfortunate life had a permanent effect on Martha’s life. Robina was buried in Open Ground at the New Cemetery Ballarat. Marjorie likened to this to the death of Mozart at the age of 35 who was also buried in a common grave. Martha also told me the stories about how as a child she played at the cemetery, taking the oranges placed as offerings on the Chinese graves and being chased away in fright when caught by a Chinese man. Her description left a vivid impression on my mind. The Burnbank street house was just across the road from the cemetery. The pieces of this story I had heard made sense when I visited the location in recent years. Martha’s described how Nanna would sing on the front verandah, and send her off to t get drink for her. This situation might help explain the reason for Martha’s strong aversion to alcohol. As a young girl it had been distressing to her. Nanna was a colourful and theatrical personality and danced with the Duke when he visited Ballarat. She was also known to have stated that she would marry a man who could give her a bucket of gold, possibly around the time after her first husband, Charles death, she had her young boy Edward to bring up. Martha was about 13 years old when Nanna Watson left Ballarat going to Queensland to visit her son Arthur. Martha slept that night afraid and alone in the empty house. The person who was meant to collect her did not come until the next day. She went to work for a family, a woman with children, they took most of the money that Nanna had left with Martha. There was a new baby in the house and the Scottish man in the house behaved suspiciously towards Martha. She was afraid of him and would hide from him under the bed. At this young age she managed to survive on her wits and sense of self preservation. It is not known how long she worked with this family. The place was from my impression, away from the town of Ballarat. Her very difficult formative years are testament to her strength of character and determination to succeed in life and ambition to provide the best opportunities for her own children. In 1905 Martha received a post card from Uncle Arthur in Brisbane addressed – c/o Mrs Styles 14 High Street Ballarat. Dolly Styles was a Ballarat friend and she kept in contact with her for many years. A letter reveals her living in Minyip in her older years. Martha is thought to have spent a few years working before she arrived in Melton. Miss Shebler hired Martha to help her in the care of her father and to assist with work in the Golden Fleece Hotel. Mr Shebler was a nice old man and mostly confined to his room and somewhat childlike as described by Martha. [The elderly Mr August Shebler died in February 1908]. Martha’s exact arrival in Melton is not known, but could be estimated as late 1906 to early 1907. In her room at the hotel she could hear the spring cart of Mr Minns going on the milk delivery rounds in the very early hours of the morning after coming across the creek from his house When she was 19, she married Frederick Thomas MYERS, son of Henri MIERS and Ann DOWLING, on 30 April 1908 ( Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia). Frederick Thomas MYERS and Martha Mary WATSON had the following children: 1. Frederick John Watson MYERS was born on 01 October 1908 in Melton, Victoria, Australia.He died on 07 February 2001.He married Mary June BATTYE on 18 September 1948 in Victoria, Australia. 2. Marjorie Gretchen MYERS was born on 21 February 1912 in Melton, Victoria, Australia.She died on 10 September 2004 in Frankston, Victoria, Australia.She married Herbert Vivian BUTLER on 07 January 1939 in Victoria, Australia. 3. Eva Edna MYERS was born on 15 October 1918 in Melton, Victoria, Australia.She died on 31 January 2008 in Bacchus Marsh, Victoria, Australia.She married Ernest Wesley BARRIE on 25 October 1941 in Melton, Victoria, Australia. 4. Arthur Bruce MYERS was born on 29 April 1925 in Melton, Victoria, Australia.He died on 26 March 2015 in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.He married Olive Irene NORTON in April 1953 in Balliang, Victoria, Australia (or Church of Christ Footscray? (WB)). 5. Maxwell Douglas MYERS was born on 10 August 1927 in Melton, Victoria, Australia.He died on 03 May 2005 in Geelong, Victoria, Australia.He married Rosemary Rebecca BARRIE on 31 August 1951 in Melton, Victoria, Australia. Valcia nee Twigg Lowrie granddaughter of Arthur Watson, daughter of Mercia and Val Twigg did extensive research on the Marshall family of Lerwick Shetland Isle obtaining birth information of the Scottish forebears. She also got the birth/marriage and death certificates of the Ballarat connection of Robina’s husbands and children. Copies were sent to Edna and Wendy during the early 1990’s. Bruce and Irene also obtained certificates and Myers family information. Wendy applied for certificates at this time.Photographs of Martha (Watson) Myers taken at different times of her life -
Melton City Libraries
Photograph, Tom and May Barrie, 1935
Ferris Road–Ferris Lane family farm of John and Elizabeth Ferris until 1939, until daughter Marion married Thomas Linsday Barrie. Marion Elizabeth nee Ferris born 29th of August 1914 -died 5th of June 1990 SUMMARY - Thomas Lindsay Barrie 1914 – 1990 A life long resident of Melton Son of Jessie and Charles Ernest Barrie of Darlingsford Melton Married Marion Ferris at Christ Church Melton on 11th May 1939. They lived on the family farm at Ferris Road Melton. They had one son, Ian who has continued in farming in Melton. He served the community in the following – Shire of Melton Councillor Member for 32 years 1941 – 1970 Elected as Councillor for Melton South 1970 – 1973 Councillor for Rockbank 1943 – 1944 Shire President for three terms 1958 – 1959 ditto 1964 – 1965 ditto Council Representative: Bacchus Marsh High School and Western Suburbs Municipalities. Representative on delegation to prevent Melton post primary students being sent to Deer Park prior to the establishment of Melton High School. Melton Bush Fire Brigade 1941 Member Melton Bush Fire Brigade Registered No. 425 1942 1942 2nd Lieutenant 1943 – 1944 4th Lieutenant Country Fire Authority Rural Services Award 1963 20 Years Long Service Badge Scots Presbyterian Church Melton Member of the Board of Management 1947 – 1969 information from Annual Reports note more research needed at Uniting Church Archives Tom farmed the family property with his father and brothers, and later the Ferris Road property which continued with his son Ian. His childhood interest in horses began with the draft horses kept at the bluestone stable and barn at Darlingsford. When the stables were empty in the late 1980s visit, he vividly recalled the names of the horses he had handled in his youth. When the draft horse became obsolete with the introduction of tractors and trucks this interest continued with the breeding and training of harness racers. Darlingsford Drafts and Ponies. Order of Stalls Clydesdales – Dick, Dolly, Flower, Nugget, Blossom, Lofty, Prince. Roger, Rose, Violet, Don, Beauty, Baldy, Diamond. Cart and Mounts Creamy, Digger, Popsy Couple at Francis McGregor Barrie and Linda Willaton's wedding at Sunshine Methodist Church 20th April 1935?local identities -
Melton City Libraries
Photograph, Horace Lang, 1917
Date of birth 27th April 1893 Born at Spring Hill – Kyneton Parents – Thomas and Mary Elizabeth nee Coates Lang. The family lived in High Street Melton 1896. He started his schooling at Melton State School in Nov 1897. Mr Lang was the Head Teacher from 1896 – 1917. Horace enlisted on the 29th March 1915 24th Battalion D Company and sailed on the Euripides on the 8th May to Egypt. They landed on Gallipoli in early September returning to Egypt at the end of the year. In April on 1916 Horace and his brother Thomas had an opportunity to meet for a few hours before he moved onto France. He received the military medal in 1916 “For conspicuous gallantry in constructing and holding an advanced bombing post near Flers on 18/19 November within close range of the enemy. The garrison had to remain motionless throughout the day but Corpl. Lang refused to be relieved until his company left the trenches, setting a most encouraging example of endurance.” In May 1917 the Battalion was near Arras – Bullecourt. On 3rd May he was last seen alive carrying a Lewis Gun, and wounded making his way to the casualty station according to witnesses reporting to the court of enquiry. The family, in Melton had a first heard that he had been wounded, or was a prisoner. My grandmother Jessie Barrie and the Lang family went to Port Melbourne as the troop ships arrived hoping they would find someone who might know of his fate. AWM records and Red Cross files reveal the extent of the efforts that family and friends made enquiring about his fate. In December 1917 he was declared Killed in Action on May 3rd at Bullecourt where he is commemorated. Horace Lang postcardRear: Dear Jessie & All, I am in the pink not doing to bad. Haven't had any letters from you for some time. Hope you haven't forgotte me. Don't be so long nest time. Letter later from your loving bro Horace. (PS) Photo is very crook. (Front: Yours Horace, France 28/2/17)local identities -
Melton City Libraries
Photograph, Peter Barrie, 1963, Unknown
Peter Ernest born Nov 7th 1945. Peter and his brother Robert continued operating the farm on Ferris Road. Peter remembers the horses being used. Robert and Peter worked with their father uncles and cousins until the decline of farming and the impending division of the properties and the encroaching urban development made farming no longer viable. The remaining connection of the Barrie family with property known as Darlingsford finally ceased in 1982. Peter continues to combine a small farm with his earth moving business, known as Melton Plant Hire (MPH) . Peter’s wife Jennie and daughters Deborah and Coralie administer the MPH (Melton Plant Hire) Office, and assist with operation the machinery. Photographs of Peter Barrie from different eraslocal identities, agriculture -
Melton City Libraries
Document, Minns Family Reunion, 2004
"A perpetual spring in the adjacent creek provided a steady supply of fresh water to the site on which the homestead is built. Although we can not be certain of the identity of the builder, the first stage of ‘The Willows’ homestead appears to have been constructed in the mid 1850s. The house is situated on Crown Allotment No.1 (No Section), Parish of Kororoit, an allotment of 5 acres 3 roods 4 perches. Although it had surveyed the land, the Crown did not offer it for sale until 22nd November 1861, at which time it was purchased by Charles March Williams. (Although the property is directly opposite and immediately adjacent to the Township of Melton, and was sold as ‘Suburban Allotment 33’, it was situated within the Shire of Braybrook rather than the Shire of Melton until 1917.) Considerable improvements had taken place on the land prior to the Crown sale. When CM Williams purchased the allotment in November 1861 he paid £23.5.0 for the land itself, and valued the improvements at £400. Even allowing for some exaggeration by Williams, this is an extremely high valuation for improvements, and must have included a house. Some local research has claimed that in 1858 Williams had taken over the interest of a Mr Parkinson in the property, and that Parkinson built the house upon taking possession of the land c.1855. It was definitely built by 1861, when a map shows a square building on the site marked as ‘House’. The property is important in the district for its association with the establishment of the pound. The district pound had been established in 1854, when George Scarborough of Mount Cottrell (Mt Cottrell Road, south of Greigs Road) was appointed pound-keeper. Scarborough resigned in 1857. The pound was moved to Melton following agitation from local farmers and Charles March Williams appointed pound-keeper on 26th April 1858. Williams, the son of a doctor, had been born in London. Reminiscences of local residents of the time, as recorded in the Express newspaper, note Williams’ success in breeding horses on the property. Sales of up to 60 guineas were noted. Whether this was from Williams’s own stock or from unclaimed pound stock is not made clear. Williams appeared before a government inquiry in 1860 and advocated registration of all stock brands in the State. Williams died in 1862 leaving a widow, Catherine, and five living children aged 15 years to five months. At the time of his death Williams had entered negotiations with one Matthew Devenish and had a mortgage of £100 on allotments 1 and 2, Parish of Kororoit. Catherine Williams was appointed pound-keeper on 2 September 1863, with her eldest son Charles as her assistant. Her tenure was short for on 22nd March 1864 George Minns senior paid Matthew Devenish £135 for allotments 1 and 2 Parish of Kororoit (considerably less than Williams had claimed the property was worth in 1861) and on the same day paid William Tullidge £45 for the adjoining allotments 3 and 4. In April 1867, James Ebden Minns, the newly married son of George senior became the owner of The Willows property having entered into a mortgage arrangement with his father to the extent of £200. At the time George Minns was residing in Kaarimba having left Melton in 1867 for a short trip to England and upon his return having taken up a selection in the Kaarimba district with his son Frederick who had a hotel licence there. James paid out the mortgage on 2-1-1873. James Minns was appointed pound-keeper in 1872; in 1885 the pound was moved elsewhere and Minns purchased the old pound site and added it to his farm. The Willows residence underwent a major change about this time. A two room extension, similar in style but with a lower elevation was added to the original rear of the house with a chimney matching the distinctive originals. Window arrangements did not match the original but became a feature of the façade when the new addition became the front of the building. Six buttresses were attached to the east and west walls of the old building, two to the south wall and the whole rendered with mortar to give the appearance of dressed stonework around the windows. Galvanized iron was placed over the shingles and a verandah added on three sides. By 1876 The Willows was the homestead for a thriving mixed farm of 340 acres of which 156 was rented from a H. Ruck. In October of that year the Australasian travelling reporter visited and reported on the property. In common with the nearly every other property in the district the farm had ‘recently’ (generally within the last two years) abandoned cultivation of crops, and turned over completely to cattle pasture. Butter making was the principal occupation of the farm, which had about 50 head of cattle, a large proportion of which were milking cows. The reporter also noted that a ‘large number of pigs are kept upon this farm and are found to be very profitable stock’. Their manure was used in an orchard and garden in which ‘large quantities of lucerne and prairie grass are grown for the use of stock when ordinary feed is scarce’. Two bores attached to deep brick lined wells supplied water for the house in addition to the farm. A commodious timber barn and necessary sheds had also been constructed. Access to the property was improved following the construction of the bluestone ford across the creek c.1887, when the recreation ground came into use. Prior to this date it may have been that the crossing referred to as ‘Mr Minns bridge’ was used. This appears to have been a flimsy structure and has but two references in Council reports in the Melton Express in the 1880’s. It is believed that in the late 1890’s a timber building was added near the rear of the building to house a kitchen, ablutions and laundry rooms and rooms for seasonal workers. This was attached to the house by means of a trellised walkway using the original front entry to the house (long since the back door). A photograph of this building appears in a local history of Melton. This was demolished in recent decades during the period when the house was tenanted (after the Minns family had left). James Minns son, George, took over the property following his marriage to Alice Walsh in 1903. James and Caroline moved into a house on the former JH Games property at the eastern end of Henry Street. George held the position of Shire Secretary for Melton for 40 years. He was a most prominent member of the community being Secretary to, among others, the Melton Coursing Club, the Shooting Club and the Cemetery Trust. He also rode with the hunting parties who sported across the Plains and were entertained at Mount Kororoit. George and Alice had one son, Norman who followed his father into local government and became Secretary of the Shire of Werribee completing a record term in this position. George retired to Werribee in 1951, where he died in 1965. The National Trust records note that James Ebden Minns and his sons were ‘leading men of the district, Justices of the Peace, and Shire Councillors’. It claims that Sir Thomas Bent was a frequent visitor. The Willows passed into the hands of George’s grandson, Bruce Minns and the property was let for a number of years. In the 1960s it became vacant and was subject to vandalism. Major structural problems arose with the part demolition of the roof, the loss of windows and doors and holes dug into and under the floorboards. The outbuildings were particularly targeted. Following widespread public support, the Shire of Melton purchased the house, with 3.75 acres of land, in 1972. In 1975 the Shire of Melton and the Melton and District Historical Society were successful in nominating the building for National Trust classification, and then the Australian Heritage Commission’s Register of the National Estate. The AHC particularly noted its ‘townscape importance’. It was envisaged that the farmhouse would form ‘a picturesque centrepiece to Melton’s planned … historical park, along with Dunvegan bluestone cottage … and similar structures as they become available.’ In a time of great Melton’s ‘satellite city’ development the Council spelt out its broader vision in its submission to the AHC: ‘Melton is destined to become, by the end of the present century, a city of between 75,000 and 100,000 people. Significant relics of the past, such as ‘The Willows’, regrettably will be rare in that situation. It is essential that sufficient tangible links with Melton’s pioneering days remain to promote in the new community a sense of history and continuity’. Under the direction of ‘The Willows’ Restoration Committee and consultant architect John Hitch, all outbuildings, with the exception of the garage and toilet, were demolished and the dwelling house restored. Finances were provided by the Shire of Melton and the National Estate Grants Program, and considerable amount of voluntary labour was provided by the local community. The orchard was removed, and remaining wooden buildings were relocated to provide an open vista for visitors to the Park. The property was furnished with donations from district families keen to preserve this example of pioneer life in the area. The Willows became the headquarters of the Melton and District Historical Society". Invitation to the family reunion at the Willowslocal identities, pioneer families -
Kilmore Historical Society
Clothing - Christening underskirt, Unknown for this item
Christening ensemble first worn in 1858 by William Thomas (Tom) Poulter, eldest living child of James & Mary Poulter. Ensemble comprises a short underskirt, long underskirt, robe, 'shawl' & silk bonnet. The robe is reliably dated to 1858, however, the underskirts, shawl & bonnet may have been added to the ensemble at a later date. Used by many generations of family & extended family.White cotton underskirt to christening robe. Pin tuck detail to skirt. Tear at left shoulder.poulter, chapman, christening -
Canterbury History Group
Document - Jean Marie Evison ( 3.11.1920 - 23.4.2006 ), 26/04/2006 12:00:00 AM
Copy of the eulogy for Jean Marie Evison (nee Money) a founding member of the Canterbury History Group and a long time committee member. Presented by her neice Marion Elliston at Highfield Road Uniting Church 26 April 2006.canterbury, canterbury history group, evison> jean marie, money family -
Canterbury History Group
Ephemera - Maling's Estate , Surrey Hills, 6/10/1923 12:00:00 AM
... Family Duncan & Weller Dimmick & Long Land Subdivision Brochure ...Brochure for the auction on Saturday 6 October 1923 of 110 home sites comprising the Maling Estate, Surrey Hills.surrey hills, maling estate, whitehorse road, weybridge street, james street, ross street, grovedale road, land sales, maling family, duncan & weller, dimmick & long, land subdivision -
Tarnagulla History Archive
Photograph of Comrie family in Tarnagulla, Comrie family in Tarnagulla, 31st January 1924
Murray Comrie Collection. The house in this photo was the residence of the town police officer. The town block where the house was located was the base for policing in Tarnagulla from 1878 until the 1990s. At the time of this photo (1924), the father of these children, Angus Comrie Snr was the constable for Tarnagulla. Adjacent to this house was a lockup, office and stable (shown in THA-2019.0031). Behind the residence and outbuildings (in background of this photo) was an adjoining paddock for the police horses. This house was sold for removal in in the 1960s and replaced with a prefabricated residence and small office from Bealiba. These as well as the lockup are still in place (as of 2019), but are no longer used. There are now private residences built on the former police horse paddock. A later image of this house is THA-2019.0032. For almost 100 years the Comrie name has been involved with the Victoria Police. Angus Comrie Snr, joined the force in 1899 and served as constable in Kaniva and Avoca and then in Tarnagulla from late 1909 until 1927. His son Murray Comrie, born in Tarnagulla in 1912 also became a policeman and later a Chief Superintendent, retiring in 1972 and passing away in 1983 after a long illness. Murray Comrie's son Murray Jnr., to avoid confusion became known by his middle name, Neil. Neil Comrie also joined Victoria Police and rose through the ranks to become Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police from 1993 to 2001. The Murray Comrie Collection held by Tarnagulla History Archive was collated in the 1970s by Murray Comrie (1912-1983). Sepia photographic postcard, image depicting members of the Comrie family outside their home in Tarnagulla. According to the note on reverse, the subjects are as follows: On the verandah (left to right) are Murray Comrie, 'Mother' (Mary Ellen Comrie), and Keith Comrie. Angus Comrie Jr. is holding a roped mare. Standing at centre are 'Hilda' and 'Roy' (small child). See second image for handwritten notes on reverse.tarnagulla, police, policing, comrie -
Tarnagulla History Archive
Photograph of police buildings in Tarnagulla, Police buildings in Tarnagulla, 31st January 1924
Murray Comrie Collection. The buildings in this image are (from left to right) the lockup, stable and office of the Tarnagulla Police complex. At far left a small part of the rear of the policeman's residence is visible. This residence is clearly depicted in THA-2019.0030. Behind the residence and outbuildings (in background of this photo) was an adjoining paddock for the police horses. This town block was the base for policing in Tarnagulla from 1878 until the 1990s. At the time of this photo (1924), Angus Comrie Snr was the constable for Tarnagulla, living at the police residence with his family. The residence was sold for removal in in the 1960s and replaced with a prefabricated residence and small office from Bealiba which were used until the 1990s. These as well as the lockup are still in place (as of 2019) on the corner of Victoria and Gladstone Streets. There are now private residences built on the former police horse paddock. For over 100 years the Comrie name has been involved with the Victoria Police. Angus Comrie Snr, joined the force in 1899 and served as constable in Kaniva and Avoca and then in Tarnagulla from late 1909 until 1927. His son Murray Comrie, born in Tarnagulla in 1912 also became a policeman and later a Chief Superintendent, retiring in 1972 and passing away in 1983 after a long illness. Murray Comrie's son Murray Jnr., to avoid confusion became known by his middle name, Neil. Neil Comrie also joined Victoria Police and and rose through the ranks to become Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police from 1993 to 2001. The Murray Comrie Collection held by Tarnagulla History Archive was collated in the 1970s by Murray Comrie (1912-1983).Sepia photographic postcard, image depicting members of the Angus Comrie family standing among police outbuildings in Tarnagulla. Based on the note on reverse of THA-2019.0030, the subjects are probably (left to right): Hilda Comrie (b.1904, married in1907 to Alf Clarke), Roy Comrie (b.1921), Keith Comrie (b.1911, d.1934) and either Angus Comrie Jr. (b.1909) or Murray Comrie (b. circa 1912). See second image for handwritten notes on reverse.tarnagulla, police, policing, comrie -
Tarnagulla History Archive
Box of Murray Comrie's Research Notes (Set 2), Murray Comrie's Research Notes (Set 2), circa 1960s-80s
Murray Comrie Collection. Murray Comrie, born in Tarnagulla in 1912 also became a policeman and later a Chief Superintendent, retiring in 1972 and passing away in 1983 after a long illness. Murray Comrie's son Murray Jnr., to avoid confusion became known by his middle name, Neil. Neil Comrie also joined Victoria Police and rose through the ranks to become Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police from 1993 to 2001. Blue-grey archive box containing research notes of Murray Comrie. Contains: A series of 17 notepads in which Comrie has annotated historical information from local newspapers. A very long rolled up piece of paper on which is printed the Comrie family tree A yellow envelope containing photogrpahs which are low-quality and/or duplicates of other images in the Murray Comrie Collection. A ledger in which Comrie has listed every Police Station in Victoria and its establishment date. Four vinyl non-archival document binders in which Comrie's research notes and photographs were housed when donated. Material was transferred out of these for preservation reasons. The contents of this box were compiled or used by Murray Comrie during his research for a book about Tarnagulla. tarnagulla, comrie, research, banks, lodge, gold & mining, war/military, local people, buildings, businesses, local government, post offices, policing, recreation reserve, railway, clubs & societies, band/music, hotels, churches, schools, fire brigade, laanecoorie, names -
Melton City Libraries
Photograph, Mrs Knox and Beryl Gillespie at the First Hundred Years Celebration of Melton State School 430, 1970
... there, she was only a baby in a pram and the family had not long... was only a baby in a pram and the family had not long arrived from ...Beryl Knox speaking about early life in Melton. Page 1 1949 – 64 years ago. We began our married life at Melton Sth. The house on the corner of the Exford Rd and Staughton St-- dusty gravel roads, box thorns and noxious weeds everywhere and a sprinkling of houses and vacant land. It was a friendly community consisting of old family names. McDonalds, Blacks, Dodemaide, Cahill, Coopers, Minns, Tinklers, Nesbitts, Cochranes, Wickhams, Exells. Mavis Butler. The home owned by Mr. Robinson and Miss Robinson had been shifted in two parts transported from Diggers Rest and it is still standing 2013. Bruce’s father purchased the house and two adjoining blocks, the Conways built on one and the Rawlinson family on the other block. Eileen still resides there, she was only a baby in a pram and the family had not long arrived from England. The railway line was close to the house and the contents would rattle when heavy steams trains went through, and on a clear frosty night the 1am paper train would echo roar through very loudly when labouring towards the Exford Bridge. Then the two carriage motor train was introduced, this was great for the workers and schoolies who travelled to Melbourne. The train pulled up at the crossing or riding to pick up or drop off. Melva Gillespie (nee Hirt) Bill Cahill delivered the milk by the billy and then in bottles. Len Kennedy (Paul Kennedy’s father, Norma Murrays son) delivered Jongebloeds bread, he always had a sweep going for the Melbourne Cup and raffles for the footy club. Mr. Woodgate owned an old bus and pick up point was the Post Office when there was a Saturday film on a Melton. There were no doctors or dentists in the district. If we need a Doctor we had to travel to Bacchus Marsh or discuss problems over the phone. In later years a Bacchus Marsh Doctor rented the Bluestone building in McKenzie St a couple of days a week. If we needed the Dentist we had to travel to West Footscray or Footscray. We did our banking at “State Savings” then the Miss Minns had the agency and then Bardsleys Store. We travelled to Bacchus Marsh to the National and Commercial banks. Station Rd to Western Highway, now (High Street) was a narrow stretch of bitumen and gravel farmland either side and a couple of farm houses and large gum trees on the properties. Page 2 North of the Railway line Mrs Bessie Jones, mother of Chas and Betty Jones managed the Post Office, next door to her Chas and Betty had the Shell Centre, and later moved the business to Melton. Hughie Nesbitt and mother owned the grocery and hardware store, and I bought my first set of saucepans there. On the opposite side of Station road Mr Coombe owned the fruit shop, and also provided soft drinks and lollies for children. The Chaff Mill was on the corner of Station Rd and Brooklyn Rd. Mr Lumsden was manager and later years Bernie Trethowan and Jack Butler were partners. It finally burnt down and is a Service Station now. Along Brooklyn Rd there were a few houses and Victoria Hall, not a very big hall, but catered for lots of functions, Balls, Fancy Dress, Bazaars, Square Dancing and meetings. The Bacchus Marsh Baptists held Sunday School in the hall. A group of shops were built south of the railway line Molly and Len Skinner managed the Post Office and handled a few essential groceries. Tom McDonald and Ron Lunsberg were the butchers. Mary and Syd Cooper lived next door to us and often in turn would run out of something when we had a baking spree we would borrow or exchange, sugar flour etc over the fence. Mavis and Jack Butler lived there before the Coopers. Bernie and Iris Trethowan lived two doors up. Neighbours were invited into their home to view the first black and white television in Melton Sth. Bill Exell was one of the first Melton Sth farmers to sell his land to developers, the land was idle for years before housing developed. I joined the Melton Valley Golf Club in 1960. The Gun Club as our Club House, an old tin shed consisting a water tank, trestle table and forms and dirt floor. It was a 9 hole course with sand scraps and landscape putting before greens. The Common or parkland was part of the Golf Course. It was open for every ones recreation. Roy Norton an old identity trained his trotters on the Common and wouldn’t clear the track for the golfers. The golfers had to avoid him to continue to play. We had to keep clear when the young youths came in their paddock cars and motorbikes. Over the years the Toolern Creek flooded its banks, water and debri covered the course on one year our first Club house was flooded out. It took several working bees to clean it up. We lived at Melton Sth for 15 years and moved to Melton on the farm “Croxton Park.” The Nixon family farm “Mowbray” adjoined the farm. Bruce worked the land cropping the farm when Mrs Nixon died. Page 3 (page 4 on the handwritten script) Bruce had the first offer to buy, in those days it wasn’t easy to get good bank loans. Part of the land is the Golf Course now and Mr O’Shea purchased the bulk. Moving to Melton was totally different – I became involved with Committees, Scouts, Guides, Mothers Clubs, CWA, Church Op shop (8 years). Melton Amateurs players produced and tutored by Mabel Rogers exerts from Pyjama Game, South Pacific, Carousel - later years a group of ladies did gentle water exercise at Essendon and Station Road swimming pool. I was 20 or so years in Probus. The local followed the football, there was always a Gymkhana on the long weekend in June. The tennis always created a lot of interest during the finals. It didn’t matter which team played the supporters were treated to a cup of tea and leftovers from their afternoon tea. In 1978 were the first residents to move into the Jennings Estate Kurunjang and lived there 31 years and retired 4 years ago into Unit. The amazing changes I have experienced. Merrimu supplied our water, after depending on tanks. The landscape changed completely when developers came in, no more dusty plains \ typed web Sept 2013 McFarlane, Mrs Knox and Beryl Gillespie at the First Hundred Years Celebration of Melton State School 430. The event was held at Mechanics Hall, Melton.local identities, local significant events, education -
Melton City Libraries
Photograph, Signboard, 1972
Edna Barrie handwritten notes – copied 18th October 2013 web The early story of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Victoria At Melton between Bal [Ballarat] and Melb [Melbourne] was introduced by the Revd Wlm Blamires in 1862 ably seconded by the late Mrs Westlake (afterwards Mrs Spargo). Mr J James, the active and indefatigable Revd Eb Taylor and such workers as Atkinson Corr and Ferris. Mawson and John Dare 1867 the foundation stone of the present church was laid. Revd D Waugh 1867. Melton and Toolern Vale have benefited by the generous help of Mr J Browne esquire of White Hills Station Diggers Rest and are now comprised in the Sunshine Circuit. Written at a later date – Wesleyan 16-4-1867 then Methodist 3-10-1867. Bluestone building cost Lsd 350-13-6. Seating 40 pounds Rev Ken Moore Methodist opened at Brooklyn Rd Melton South c1940 closed c 1972. Timber Church shifted from Staughton Vale, prior to this Services held in Victoria Hall Melton South. The source of the information – ? and date notes were made On the Chart outlining Melton Churches the following additional notes- At opening (nil Plaster, nil ceiling) Slate roof. Closed 1910-1911- most likely from 1867 Express My research - Melton Express noted 15th Aug 1939 porch added to Church at Melton South making the date earlier than 1940. Photographs taken when the building was being used as the UC Opp Shop and demolition of the building showing the porch. Charles Ernest Barrie was prominent in the life of the Methodist Church and established a thriving Sunday School. He built the Chaff Mills at Melton South in 1900. In 1910 he sold the Mill to Glover Onians and moved to a farm at Trundle NSW, where he lived for about a year. In May 1911 he purchased “Darlingsford” in Melton when it came on the market. The address Elizabeth St Moonee Ponds appears in the family records during this period and during WW 1 they also lived at Ascot Vale where the Lang parents lived. On returning after the war to Melton to occupy the Darlingsford house, which had been occupied by a caretaker. The family joined the Presbyterian Church. Evidenced in the Church Minute Book. 1920 What happened to the Methodist Church between 1910 – 1920? How long did it exist while in the Bluestone building in Palmerston St (Heritage listed 2008) When did the church commence in Victoria Hall? Built 1910 on land donated by C E Barrie. I attended the Methodist Church Melton Sth when monthly services were held in the afternoons. We were members of the Presbyterian Church and also supported the Melton Sth Church during the 1950’s Signboard from Melton South Methodist Churchchurches -
Melton City Libraries
Photograph, Property of the Raleigh family, 1970
Raleighs Road - Property of the Raleigh family descendants of Reiersen family from Norway. Henry and wife Catherine had a small wooden house near Djerriwarrh Creek. Their daughters Catherine married Robinson, and Henrietta married Isaac Robinson of “Creighton” Toolern Vale Road. Henry’s Brother Oliver married Margaret McLean. Their children were, Elsie, Rupert, Lois, Annie, Albert and Olga. She died in September 1986. She was a long term organist at the Presbyterian Church. Lois and Annie were dressmakers ref 100 Years at Melton Isaac and Henrietta - Jeanette Robinson 1985Miss Raleigh's Shop, High Street Meltonpioneer families, local identies -
Melton City Libraries
Photograph, Opening of the Shire Hall, c.1964
Summary of Thomas Lindsay Barrie (1914 – 1990) A life long resident of Melton Son of Jessie and Charles Ernest Barrie of Darlingsford Melton Married Marion Ferris at Christ Church Melton on 11th May 1939. They lived on the family farm at Ferris Road Melton. They had one son, Ian who has continued in farming in Melton. He served the community in the following – Shire of Melton Councillor Member for 32 years 1941 – 1970 Elected as Councillor for Melton South 1970 – 1973 Councillor for Rockbank 1943 – 1944 Shire President for three terms 1958 – 1959 ditto 1964 – 1965 ditto Council Representative: Bacchus Marsh High School and Western Suburbs Municipalities. Representative on delegation to prevent Melton post primary students being sent to Deer Park prior to the establishment of Melton High School. Melton Bush Fire Brigade 1941 Member Melton Bush Fire Brigade Registered No. 425 1942 1942 2nd Lieutenant 1943 – 1944 4th Lieutenant Country Fire Authority Rural Services Award 1963 20 Years Long Service Badge Scots Presbyterian Church Melton Member of the Board of Management 1947 – 1969 information from Annual Reports note more research needed at Uniting Church Archives to determine the earliest and last date. Tom farmed the family property with his father and brothers, and later the Ferris Road property which continued with his son Ian. His childhood interest in horses began with the draft horses kept at the bluestone stable and barn at Darlingsford. When the stables were empty in the late 1980s visit, he vividly recalled the names of the horses he had handled in his youth. When the draft horse became obsolete with the introduction of tractors and trucks this interest continued with the breeding and training of harness racers. Darlingsford Drafts and Ponies. Order of Stalls Clydesdales – Dick, Dolly, Flower, Nugget, Blossom, Lofty, Prince. Roger, Rose, Violet, Don, Beauty, Baldy, Diamond. Cart and Mounts Creamy, Digger, Popsy Compiled by Wendy Barrie 2013 Councillor Tom Barrie, Shire President and a group of children at the opening of the building.council, local identities -
Mont De Lancey
Christening gown
Worn by family of late Mrs. W.J. SebireWhite infant's long Christening gown - eyelet linen with tucked panels. Puffed sleeves. Cotton Batiste.christening clothing, baby clothing -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Domestic object - Small tea cup and Saucer, c1921
This item is from a collection donated by descendants of John Francis Turner of Wodonga. Mr. Turner was born on 6 June 1885. He completed all of his schooling at Scotts Boarding School in Albury, New South Wales. On leaving school, he was employed at Dalgety’s, Albury as an auctioneer. In 1924 John was promoted to Manager of the Wodonga Branch of Dalgety’s. On 15/03/1900 he married Beatrice Neal (born 7/12/1887 and died 7/2/1953) from Collingwood, Victoria. They had 4 daughters – Francis (Nancy), Heather, Jessie and Mary. In 1920, the family moved From Albury to Wodonga, purchasing their family home “Locherbie” at 169 High Street, Wodonga. "Locherbie" still stands in Wodonga in 2022. The collection contains items used by the Turner family during their life in Wodonga. The designation "Nippon porcelain" refers to porcelain made in Japan for export to the west, and stamped with the word Nippon on their bases. This practice began in 1891 in response to the U.S. McKinley Tariff Act, which forbade the import of items that weren't "plainly marked, stamped, branded, or labelled in legible English words." Unfortunately, many reproduction or fake pieces were also produced. In 1921 "Nippon" was no longer accepted by U.S. Customs Agents as the correct name of origin so from then on, imported Japanese porcelain was supposed to be marked "Japan". This information helps us to establish provenance of this item as after 1921.This item comes from a collection used by a prominent citizen of Wodonga. It is also an excellent example of Japanese porcelain of the early 20th century.A small teacup and saucer with a design of a couple in a garden. The design is repeated on the saucer. There is a circular pattern in red and gold around top of the cup and the rim of the saucer. Gilt decorations are included on the handle and around the inside of the cup.Under the saucer: Maker's mark inside a triangular shape and below a crown: "FINE CHINA/ Royal Nippon/ MADE IN JAPAN"domestic items, chinaware -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Domestic object - Hand painted coffee cup and saucer, c1920
This item is from a collection donated by descendants of John Francis Turner of Wodonga. Mr. Turner was born on 6 June 1885. He completed all of his schooling at Scotts Boarding School in Albury, New South Wales. On leaving school, he was employed at Dalgety’s, Albury as an auctioneer. In 1924 John was promoted to Manager of the Wodonga Branch of Dalgety’s. On 15/03/1900 he married Beatrice Neal (born 7/12/1887 and died 7/2/1953) from Collingwood, Victoria. They had 4 daughters – Francis (Nancy), Heather, Jessie and Mary. In 1920, the family moved From Albury to Wodonga, purchasing their family home “Locherbie” at 169 High Street, Wodonga. "Locherbie" still stands in Wodonga in 2022. The collection contains items used by the Turner family during their life in Wodonga. The designation "Nippon porcelain" refers to porcelain made in Japan for export to the west, and stamped with the word Nippon on their bases. This practice began in 1891 in response to the U.S. McKinley Tariff Act, which forbade the import of items that weren't "plainly marked, stamped, branded, or labelled in legible English words." Unfortunately, many reproduction or fake pieces were also produced. In 1921 "Nippon" was no longer accepted by U.S. Customs Agents as the correct name of origin so from then on, imported Japanese porcelain was supposed to be marked "Japan". This information helps us to establish provenance of this item.This item comes from a collection used by a prominent citizen of Wodonga. It is also an excellent example of Japanese porcelain of the early 20th century.A hand painted coffee cup and saucer with gold trim and floral design. The image includes tones of green shading and pink flowers.The cup and saucer have a gold trim. There are also embossed flowers on the saucer.Under saucer- Backmark - An hourglass surrounded by an upside down laurel wreath. Above the laurel wreath; "Hand Painted" Beneath the laurel wreath "NIPPON"domestic items, japanese porcelain -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Functional object - Earthenware Bottle - Brown Brothers Milawa, 1970s - 1980s
In 1885 John Francis Brown first planted 10 acres of vines in Milawa, Victoria. Brown Brothers was founded in 1889 when the vines were ready to produce their first crop, as John hoped his brothers would join him in this new and promising venture. This did not happen but the name remained. Since 1899 Brown Brothers has grown into one of Australia’s largest family-owned wine businesses and now operates several vineyards in Victoria and Tasmania. These ceramic jars were used by Brown Brothers in the 1970s and 1980s to package Port, Muscat and Tokay. Fortified wines packaged in this manner would maintain their quality for decades as long as the wax seal was unbroken. Elischer Pottery was started in Sandringham, Melbourne Victoria in 1947 by well-known sculptor John (Johann Wolfgang) Elischer (1891-1966) and his son, also named John, (known as Wolly). John (Snr) was born in Vienna and trained at the Academy of Vienna from 1908 to 1911 and was an Associate of the Royal Academy Vienna. John (Senior) died in 1966 and the business was continued by his son John (Wolly), until 1987 when it was sold. Prior to that, at some time, he started making pieces the brand NCP. The business continues today as “Unique Ceramics” in Highett, Victoria. They continue to use the “Elischer” brand on some of their products.This jug is representative of an historic and continuing leading Australian Winemaker located in Northeast Victoria.An earthenware wine jug created for Brown Brothers Milawa Vineyard manufactured by John Elischer Pottery. The jug has a tradition loop handle. The bottom half of the jug is a traditional beige colour with a darker brown top section. The logo is imprinted in black and is covered in a clear glaze. The cork stopper is still intact although before being opened would have been sealed with wax.Company logo on one side: at top a central male image between the text "Founding Father /John F Brown. In a central oval around the name "Milawa", BROWN BROTHERS/ VINEYARD AUSTRALIA" On base: "97"brown brothers milawa, elischer pottery, northeast victorian wineries -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Functional object - Cream Stirrers, 1940s
These stirring rods with long handles and base referred to as a dasher were common in the dairy industry. They were made to agitate milk or cream in milk cans and were used on dairy farms and in old creameries. They helped to cool the milk and stop it from separating. They were used on the properties of the Conway and Lemke families in Wodonga.These items are significant as they are representative of tools used in the early dairy industry and were owned by families in Wodonga.Milk / cream stirrers made from steel with a circular blade attached to enable milk to flow through.dairy industry wodonga, dairy tools, dairy machinery -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Ceremonial object - Baptismal Font, c1863
St Luke’s Anglican Church officially opened on 15 March 1863. It was constructed from locally hewn stone. After serving the congregation for more than a century, the Church was closed by the Health Commission due to its deteriorated condition which was judged to be beyond repair. It was demolished by voluntary labour on the 10 – 11 August 1968. St Luke’s originally operated as a branch of the Albury church. The first resident minister at Wodonga was Rev. J. H. White who came in 1879. Much of the demolition of the church was organised and carried out by Raymond John Schmidt, a long-time parishioner of St Luke’s. After the demolition, the font was relocated to the Schmidt family garden. It was the wish of Ray Schmidt and his wife Elizabeth that the Font should come to the Wodonga & District Historical Society after their deaths. It is now displayed at Hut 97.A baptismal font made from hewn stone from the Wodonga area. Central bowl for holy water is surrounded by an inscription.Around bowl "SUFFER THE LITTLE CHILDREN WHO COME UNTO ME"st luke's church wodonga, religious ceremonial items, anglican church wodonga -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Tool - Brass Folding Ruler, c1941
This style of rule was very popular in the 1930s and 1940 and was a necessity in any tradesman or handyman's tool kit. It was donated to our Society by Ray Fischer of Barnawartha near Wodonga. Rabone & Sons were a long established rule manufacturer. Michael Rabone carried on a business as a rule maker at 8 Snow Hill, Sheffield, England from about 1780. The business was continued by John Rabone and his (John's) grandson, Eric Rabone. It operated under the name of John Rabone & Sons from 1784 -1953, becoming a public company in 1948. The company's headquarters were in Birmingham, England. Lasting through to the early 1960s as an independent family business, the company merged with James Chesterman and Co of Sheffield.This rule was donated by a member of the Wodonga district from his farm workshop.A brass 24" folding ruler made by J. Rabone & Sons, Birmingham, England. It is marked No. 1243. It consists of two twelve inch sections, hinged at one end.J. RABONE & SONS BIRMINGHAM NO> 1243j. rabone & sons, carpenters' tools -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Functional object - Haeusler Collection unidentified medical object c.1800s
The Wodonga Historical Society Haeusler Collection provides invaluable insight into life in late nineteenth and early twentieth century north east Victoria. The collection comprises manuscripts, personal artefacts used by the Haeusler family on their farm in Wodonga, and a set of glass negatives which offer a unique visual snapshot of the domestic and social lives of the Haeusler family and local Wodonga community. The Haeusler family migrated from Prussia (Germany) to South Australia in the 1840s and 1850s, before purchasing 100 acres of Crown Land made available under the Victorian Lands Act 1862 (also known as ‘Duffy’s Land Act’) in 1866 in what is now Wodonga West. The Haeusler family were one of several German families to migrate from South Australia to Wodonga in the 1860s.This item has well documented provenance and a known owner. It forms part of a significant and representative historical collection which reflects the local history of Wodonga. It contributes to our understanding of domestic and family life in early twentieth century Wodonga, as well as providing interpretative capacity for themes including local history and social history.A long slender instrument turned from ebony (wood). A twist top cap at one end can be removed to reveal steel spikes in the body of the instrument. A thin handle at the opposite end of the instrument can be pushed inward to move the steel spikes out of the body of the instrument. There is cotton stored in the instruments cap.Nonemedical history, medical, medicine, disease, healthcare, health, medical instrument, medical equipment, haeusler collection, nineteenth century medicine, 19th century -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Functional object - Haeusler Collection Child's Metal Recorder
The Wodonga Historical Society Haeusler Collection provides invaluable insight into life in late nineteenth and early twentieth century north east Victoria. The collection comprises manuscripts, personal artefacts used by the Haeusler family on their farm in Wodonga, and a set of glass negatives which offer a unique visual snapshot of the domestic and social lives of the Haeusler family and local Wodonga community. The Haeusler family migrated from Prussia (Germany) to South Australia in the 1840s and 1850s, before purchasing 100 acres of Crown Land made available under the Victorian Lands Act 1862 (also known as ‘Duffy’s Land Act’) in 1866 in what is now Wodonga West. The Haeusler family were one of several German families to migrate from South Australia to Wodonga in the 1860s. This recorder belonged to Alfred Haeusler (b.1922) and was played during his childhood in Wodonga in the 1920s-1930s. The recorder is one of several objects in the Haeusler Collection concerning early childhood that provides insight into family and home life in early twentieth century Wodonga. Recorders belong to the family of woodwind instruments and were first produced in the early eighteenth century. The instrument was popularly revived in 1919 by English instrument maker Arnold Dolmetsch. This item has well documented provenance and a known owner. It forms part of a significant and representative historical collection which reflects the local history of Wodonga. It contributes to our understanding of domestic and family life in early twentieth century Wodonga, as well as providing interpretative capacity for themes including local history, social history, and women’s history. Plated iron alloy recorder with visible rust, roughly 20cm long. "MADE IN JAPAN"/"SK"music, musical instrument, recorder, wind instrument, school, child, childrens, haeusler collection, music lesson, woodwind instrument