Showing 1180 items
matching australian - 19th century
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Orbost & District Historical Society
magazine, Australia Album -The Past In Pictures, circa 1974
The magazine was produced as a tribute to Lillian Roxan who was a great Australian and an international journalist. It is not dated but was published by Sungravure Pty Ltd circa 1974-75, The editor, Ailsa Craig wrote for the the magazine Woman's Day in the 1950s and 60s. she had an active career in journalism from 1960-1980. it contains b/w and sepia photographs. This magazine style paperback book contains photos of an earlier Australia.A paper magazine - AUSTRALIA ALBUM -THE PAST IN PICTURES. It contains prints of historic photos. On the front cover is a portrait of three young children dressed in early 19th century clothing. This is inside an oval frame with a gold border. There is a wreath of colourful flowers and butterflies surrounding this.The title is printed in red at the top. In the top right-hand corner is the price $1.50. It was edited by Ailsa Craig and contains photos and text from readers of Womans Day, The Sydney Morning Herald, the Sydney Mitchell Library and the Department of the Army. The magazine style book has 94 pp.magazine photos roxon-lillian craig-ailsa -
Orbost & District Historical Society
photograph, H.M.S. Rattlesnake, leaving Port Essington 1846-1849 BY STANLEY, OWEN
"The marine Hydrographers of the British Admiralty wanted desperately to chart a safe passage through the Great Barrier Reef and the gap between the northern tip of Australia and Papua New Guinea, which would open up the new colony to the East Indies trade. They commissioned the Rattlesnake, a 28 gun frigate of the Royal Navy, whose captain was a keen amateur artist and whose name, Owen Stanley, was given to the mountain ranges of PNG. After the passage out, Stanley brought aboard Oswald Brierly, later to be the marine painter to Queen Victoria, and together these men made two voyages through the Great Barrier Reef, painting and sketching all the while. They produced a visual record of 19th century contact between Europeans and the indigenous people of Northern Australia and New Guinea in an album which contains the original of this copy. It is held in the Mitchell Library in Sydney." (ref. State Library New South Wales) Sir Oswald Brierly, a young marine artist, arrived in Sydney in 1842 on the yacht Wanderer. Settling at the whaling station of Boyd Town in Twofold Bay, he painted extensively and left a vivid account of the whaling life during the five years he spent there. However it was the open sea and adventure that lead Brierly to accept a position on the HMS Rattlesnake as shipboard artist. This item is associated with the anchor of the The Rattlesnake. This anchor is in the main street of Orbost in front of what was once the museum.This is a copy of a picture of the H.M.S. Rattlesnake at sea with a canoe of Aborigines rowing towards it.h.m.s.-rattlesnake brierly-oswald stanley-owen -
Orbost & District Historical Society
black and white photograph, 1897
This is a surveyors' camp in the McCulloch Ranges April, 1897. Surveyors were among the first European settlers to arrive in Australia. A Surveyor-General was present on the First Fleet, as well as the first two ships which landed in South Australia. These men were issued with instructions to record observations in a journal that included the country’s general appearance, its soil, flora and fauna and the customs and language of local inhabitants. The conditions they worked in were harsh and they embarked on journeys with drays carrying cumbersome surveying and camping equipment, spending months camping out in the bush and mapping the land. It was not until well into the second half of the nineteenth century that the professional training of surveyors became mandatory in Australia. This is a pictorial record of a surveyors' camp in the late 19th century.A black / white photograph of a group of men standing at a campsite in the bush. Two tents are in the background.on the front - "Surveyors Camp, McCulloch Ranges" Some names have been added for identification - Bates, Thorn and others which cannot be read.surveyors-camp-mcculloch-ranges land-settlement -
Orbost & District Historical Society
book, Black Rainbow, A Century of Service, August 2011
Author, Robert Haldane, retired from the Victoria Police Force in August 2001, after almost thirty-four years service but has maintained his local links in East Gippsland, Victoria, Australia. He is an Associate of the Gippsland Heritage Journal and a contributing author to the Gippsland Heritage Journal and Gippsland Country Life magazine. This book is a significant reference tool for the history of nursing in East Gippsland.A soft covered 70 pp book titled A Century of Service the Story of The Buchan Bush Nursing Association. On the front cover is a sepia photograph of a group of people and a dog in 19th century dress.buchan bush-nursing haldane-robert -
Orbost & District Historical Society
ink bottle, early 20th century from mid 1930's
An ink bottle was made of glass or ceramic and typically sat on a desk. The writer would dip the pen (or quill) into the bottle to put more ink on the pen. Because they sat on a desk, ink bottles were often decorative. 'Stephens' Ink' was invented by the British physician, Dr Henry Stephens (1796-1864), who in 1832 first developed his indelible "blue-black writing fluid" that became the basis of a successful manufacturing enterprise lasting over 130 years. Stephens' ink revolutionised office life in the latter half of the 19th century saving clerical workers much time previously spent mixing powdered inks and cleaning nibs. It was indelible and non-fading. After changes to the Australian import duties on inks, a local manufacturing works was established in the early 1930s by Stephens Inks (Australia) Ltd.We have mostly dispensed with ink bottles and quills. This item is an example of early stationery equipment commonly used in schools, households and commercial enterprises. A cylindrical brown glazed ceramic bottle with a pourer lip. This would have contained ink and had a cork seal. It would have had a paper label.Near base - This bottle is the property of Stephens' Inks Aust. Ltdcontainer ceramic stephens'-inks writing-equipment communication bottle stationery -
Orbost & District Historical Society
food cover, approx. 1940's
This handmade item represents an important pastime of Australian women of the late 19th to mid 20th century. Women's focus was the home and its decoration was important. Embroidery and crochet work was an affordable way to personalise and add aesthetic value, and examples of embroidered and crocheted pieces could be found in most Australian homes, decorating or protecting furniture, floors and walls, and keeping off flies and insects from food.Small square cream coloured hand crocheted sugar bowl cover. Word "sugar" is patterned into it. The beaded fringing is blue and white.food-cover handcrafts crochet -
Orbost & District Historical Society
bottle, late 19th century - 1920's
At one time, almost all breweries in Australia had their own brand of returnable bottle or were members of bottle co-operatives that managed returnable bottles. Instead of being crushed to make new bottles, as happens in most cases today, these returnable bottles were returned to the brewery or bottle co-operative, washed, inspected for cracks and chips and returned to service.This item is an example of the type of beer bottle commonly used in the late 19th-early 20th century.MBCV brown glass beer bottle. Has the word COUNTRY embossed below shoulder. The letters MBCV in a spade below that.Front - MBCV in a spade. (Manufacturers Bottle Co. of Victoria) At bottom - Property of the Manufacturers Bottle Co-op of Victoria Pty Ltdbottle mbcv glass -
Orbost & District Historical Society
sampler, first half 20th century
Embroidery and crochet work was an important pastime of Australian women of the late 19th to mid 20th century. Needlework was commonly taught to girls at school and at home.A small white linen sampler with examples of different stitches, buttonholes, buttons, loops, tapes and hemming.sampler linen handcraft -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Quoll, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
... habits of the 19th century. taxidermy quoll animal australia ...Quolls are small carnivorous marsupials native to Australia and New Guinea. Tjilpa is the name given to the quoll amongst the Northern Arrernte language group of Australian Aboriginal people. Quolls are primarily nocturnal and spend most of the day in a den. Of the six species of quoll, four are found in Australia and two in New Guinea. The six species vary in weight and size, from 300g to 7kg. They live in coastal heathlands, sub-alpine woodlands, temperate woodlands and forests, riparian forests and wet sclerophyll forests. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from either the Trustees of the Australian Museum or from the amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880 and mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee around the same time. When all taxidermy mounts were completed, they were quickly put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.Small quoll with a small round head, long body, and long, thin tail perched on a branch attached to a wooden mount. The quoll has four skinny legs which have long, dark claws. The quoll's hair is a fawn colour with cream spots. There are two black eyes made of glass, two short pointed ears and black whiskers.On wooden mount: BMM5897 /taxidermy, quoll, animal, australia, burke museum, beechworth, reynell eveleigh johns, taxidermy mount, marsupial -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Bettong, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860–1880
A bettong is about the size of a rabbit, with body length ranging from 30cm to 38cm among species. All bettongs have long tails, roughly equal to body length. Body weight ranges from 1.2 kg in the smallest species (Northern Bettong) to 2.8kg in the Rufous Bettong, the largest of the group. Males tend to be slightly larger than females. Bettongs have furry coats, ranging in colour from grey to ginger and brown. The bettong is endemic to Australia, and is an important part of Australia's Indigenous biodiversity. There are five living species of bettong; Eastern Bettong, Burrowing Bettong, Brush-tailed Bettong, Northern Bettong, Rufous Bettong. The bettong is a member of the Potoroidae family along with the endangered Potoroos, and the extinct Desert Rat-Kangaroos. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from either the Trustees of the Australian Museum or from the amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880 and mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee around the same time. When all Taxidermy mounts were completed, they were quickly put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.Average sized bettong with large clawed hind legs, small clawed fore legs, and a long tail that is roughly the length of its body and covered lightly in fur. The pelage of the bettong is fine and soft with the body fur cream and pale ochre in colouring with specks of brown while the underbelly is a solid cream colour. The head is small with a short muzzle and two small rounded ears, and features two round dark brown eyes made from clay.On mounting board: BMM5893/burke museum, taxidermy, taxidermy mount, bettong, rat kangaroo, bettongia, fauna, animal, animalia, potoroidae, reynell eveleigh johns -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Goanna, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
Sand goannas are the second largest species of carnivorous lizards found across mainland Australia. They can grow up to 160cm in length and can weigh as much as 6kg. Their common name is derived from "iguana", since early European bush settlers in Australia likened goannas to the South American lizards. Goannas retain special cultural and historic significance within Australian folklore and Indigenous culture. They were an important traditional native food source and are commonly represented in Aboriginal Dreamtime stories. In some Aboriginal languages, the sand goanna is called "bungarra"; a term also commonly used by non-Aboriginal people in Western Australia. In Pitjantjatjara and other central Australian languages, goannas are called "tingka". This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.Small goanna with a streamlined body and textured scaly skin in different shades of olive and brown. It has a long neck and a long tail which narrows towards the tip. The goanna has four short, stocky legs which meet with large, curled claws. Its mouth is slightly slightly open, and it has two black glass eyes.On tag: BMM / 5892 /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, lizard, goanna, sand goanna, monitor lizard, various gouldii -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Turtle, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
The family Chelidae is endemic to Australia, New Guinea, and South America and consists of some 40 species of freshwater turtle. Twenty-four described species are found in Australia and three of these occur in the Murray Darling Basin. Turtles of the genus Chelodina are distinguished by their exceptionally long necks, giving them the names long-neck and snake-neck. These turles are also referred to as side-necked turtles, so named because the neck and head, when not extended, fold under the leading edge of the carapace. They are further characterised by their relatively flattened shells and their clawed webbed feet. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This Snake-Necked Turtle is stylized standing on a wooden platform. It has a long, narrow neck (the inspiration behind the name of this particular species of Turtle) and a large and relatively flat shell. The head, neck and limbs are all dark grey or brown in colour and the underside is a pale brown. The feet are webbed and have long claws. The eyes are made from pale glass and the specimen has a short tale.BMM5891taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, turtle, australian turtle, australian animal, snake-necked turtle, chelidae -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Snake Skin, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
There is no known information about the species of snake that this skin belongs to. However, generally speaking, Australia has over two hundred known species of snakes. They are elongated, legless and carnivorous reptiles with scaly, textured skin. Snakes are especially important in Aboriginal dreaming, representing one of the great and powerful forces of nature and spirit. In the Rainbow Serpent Dreamtime story, they are considered the great life giver and protector of water, which is their spiritual home. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.Caramel coloured long snake skin curled around in an oval shape.taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, snake skin, snake, reptile -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Freshwater Crocodile, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
The Freshwater Crocodile can measure up to 3 meters and is generally not considered to be a threat to humans. They reside in Northern Australia, Western Australia and the northern part of Cape York Peninsula in Queensland. They live in freshwater environments and make burrows among the roots of trees which fringe the waters they can be found in. This species of Crocodile mainly feed on invertebrate and vertebrate prey which includes insects, spiders, frogs, fish and small birds and mammals. They are also recognized as "cannibalistic" with the older Freshwater Crocodile occasionally preying on young hatchlings. These crocodiles are known for their "high walk" which they do to move on land. It is named "high walk" because the animal lifts their body off the ground using their long legs for height. They are able to walk considerable distances on land using this technique. In captivity, Freshwater Crocodiles are known to be hostile and aggressive to others of its species. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The Freshwater Crocodile has a slender snout which is much smaller and thinner than its Saltwater counterpart. This specimen has dark grey and brown colouring with the darker colours concentrated around the face and upper torso of the Crocodile. There are darker stripes along the tail which features triangular scales and is long in length. The teeth are visible and bright yellow glass has been used to replace the eyes of this particular specimen. The crocodile has long but thin limbs which protrude from the sides of the body.taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, crocodile, freshwater crocodile, johnstone's crocodile -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Thylacine, Reynell Eveleigh Johns, 1860-1880
The Thylacine or Tasmanian Tiger, was a large nocturnal carnivorous marsupial now believed to be extinct that was native to both Australia and New Guinea. The Thylacine is believed to have first appeared over two million years ago with documentation of the species appearing on rock-art that have been dated as far back as 1,000BC. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. The Burke Museum Thylacine is of great historic, scientific and cultural significance as Australia's most notable example of a species made extinct within living memory. Poignant images of the last known thylacine linger in national consciousness and remain an evocative symbol of the impact of humankind on the natural environment. The Burke Museum thylacine has immense social significance not only for its ability to tell a story to present and future generations, but also for embodying the mythic tiger that lives on elusively, we hope, in the Tasmanian wilderness. Attempts to clone the thylacine from material held in museums attest to the passion that this iconic animal evokes in the scientific as well as mainstream community. Medium sized lean female thylacine with four stocky legs and a stiff tail. The fur is short and coarse and in a light brown-yellow colour with 15 dark brown stripes across the width of the body. The head is long and narrow with two small pointy ears and a large jaw with up to 30 visible teeth.taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, thylacine, tasmanian tiger, rare -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Platypus, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
The platypus is a semi-aquatic, egg-laying mammal endemic to eastern Australia. It is the sole living representative of its family and genus. They can grow up to 63cm in length and weigh up to 3kg, and their life span is typically 6-15 years. The unique mix of physical features of the platypus make it an important subject in the study of evolutionary biology, and a recognisable and iconic symbol of Australia. Furthermore, the platypus is culturally significant to several Aboriginal peoples of Australia. The animal has also appeared as a mascot at national events and features on the reverse of the Australian twenty-cent coin, and is the animal emblem of the state of New South Wales. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.A long, stocky platypus with a streamlined body and a flat bill. The platypus has four short limbs with webbed feet, and the front-right foot is positioned upright. The hair is short and dense; the upperbody fur has an auburn tint, and the underbody fur is a silver/cream colour. The platypus has two beady black glass eyes.On tag: BMM / 5899 /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, platypus, monotreme, mammal, ornithorhynchus anatinus -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Quoll, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
Four species of quoll occur in Australia: the northern, spotted-tailed, eastern and western quolls. Once, most parts of Australia were inhabited by at least one of the species.Captain Cook collected quolls along the east coast in 1770, and recorded "quoll" as their local Aboriginal name. Quolls were often seen by early settlers, who called them "native cat", "native polecat" and "spotted marten", names based on familiar European animals. Since 1770, all four species have declined dramatically in numbers. This is mainly because of habitat loss or change across Australia, and introduced predators such as foxes and cats. Quolls are carnivorous marsupials with a pointed snout, a long tail and brown to black fur distinctively spotted with white. They are lively, attractive animals, with bright eyes, a moist pink nose and many sharp teeth. Like most Australian mammals, quolls are mainly active at night. Typically, they spend the day in one of their many dens, although spotted-tailed quolls and northern quolls sometimes forage and bask in the sunshine. Their large home ranges can extend for several kilometres in each direction from a smaller core range, and the range of a male quoll often overlaps those of several females. An interesting feature of their behaviour is the use of shared latrine (toilet) sites in open spaces such as rock ledges, for marking their territory and other social functions. Male quolls travel widely during the breeding season, with mating occurring during winter. All four species have a gestation period of 21 days. Because they are marsupial mammals, their young are born tiny and undeveloped and must work their way to the pouch, where they attach themselves to a teat to feed. Only the spotted-tailed quoll has a true pouch. In the other species, the young are protected by shallow folds of skin around the teats. As the pups grow, they dangle from the mother's belly; later, she carries them on her back. Quolls reach sexual maturity at one year. They have a naturally short life span, with smaller quolls living an average of only two years, and the larger spotted-tailed quoll about four to five years. The northern quoll is particularly short-lived. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.Average sized quoll with brown fur with white spots on body but absence on the long tail which is furry unlike the smooth body fur. The quoll has a small had with a pointed snout lined with sharp teeth, and thin membraned ears that are slightly covered in fur. The forelegs of the quoll are slightly smaller than the hindlegs, with all four legs featuring sharp clawed paws.On mounting board: BMM5984/ On Catalogue Tag (attached to left hindleg): Native Cat./ Catalogue. Page 50./ burke museum, taxidermy, taxidermy mount, fauna, animal, animalia, reynell eveleigh johns, quoll, native cat, dasyurus -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Flying Fox, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
There are 62 species of Flying Foxes or "Fruit Bats" globally, with 3 existing in Australia: the grey-headed, the little-red, and the black. Flying Foxes are nocturnal, social and herbivorous animals. They can weigh up to 1kg and live up to 30 years. In Australia, Flying Foxes occupy a range from Bundaberg in Queensland to Geelong in Victoria. Most species are listed as endangered or vulnerable. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. The specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia's fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental, climate and conservation research.Small sized flying fox with a pointed head, curved body, bushy tail, and curved claws perched on a wooden mount. The pelage is thick, long and silky in pale caramel and tan shades. The head is small with two pointed ears, two glass eyes, and about five teeth.On wooden mount: BMM5895 /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, flying fox, fruit bat, burke museum, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, natural history, animal -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Bandicoot, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
The name bandicoot is taken from the term ‘pandi-kokku’ which means ‘pig-rat’ in Teluga, an Indian language. The bandicoot is endemic to Australia, and is a nocturnal marsupial. When first discovered, the bandicoot was originally mistaken for a type of rodent. This confusion can still occur among people today who don’t know the difference. However, the bandicoot actually descends from the marsupial lineage. Its most distinguishing features are the pointed snout, big ears, long hairless tail, round black eyes, and plump body. The hair colour is brown or tan, sometimes mixed with black or white markings. The hind limbs tend to be longer than the front limbs, and two of the toes are fused together, similar to the kangaroo. They play an important ecological role – turning over soil, which increases the rate of leaf litter decomposition, soil production and nutrient cycling. They're also critical in dispersing fungi spores, so losing bandicoots (and bettongs) from ecosystems has cascading effects on plant diversity, species composition and structure of forests and woodlands. Due to its immense diversity, the bandicoot has a large range of different body sizes. It typically varies between 12 and 31 inches in length, while the tail adds another four to 12 inches. This makes it on average about the size of a house cat. Males may be up to twice as large as females, but otherwise the sexes are similar in appearance. The main difference exhibited by the female is the rear-facing pouch with six to 10 teats to protect and feed the young. The bandicoot is one of the few marsupials to have a developed placenta. However, this placenta is small and lacks certain features, thus separating it from most other placental mammals. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.Small sized bandicoot with a pointy snout, small rounded eyes made of glass, a thin tail, small rounded ears, and sharp clawed legs. The fur in colouring is golden brown with streaks of dark brown, and is of medium length and fine.On wooden mount: BMM5896/ On Catalogue Tag (attached to left foreleg): Bandicoot Mou(...)/ Catalogue, Page. 45/ burke museum, taxidermy, taxidermy mount, fauna, animal, animalia, reynell eveleigh johns, bandicoot, marsupial, peramelemorphia -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Wombat, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
Wombats are short-legged, muscular, nocturnal marsupials that live in a wide variety of habitats throughout Australia. A common wombat can grow up to 1.2 metres in length and weigh up to 35 kilograms. The name “wombat” comes from the Darug language spoken by the Aboriginal Darug people, who originally inhabited the Sydney area. The wombat was first recorded in 1798 by explorer John Price on a visit to Bargo in New South Wales, however, wombats are depicted on Aboriginal rock-art that date back as far as 4,000 years ago. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century. Medium sized stocky wombat with a broad head and two muscular forelegs and two weaker hind legs that are met with long sharp black claws. The hair is long, thick and coarse in brown/yellow shades. The head features two small black eyes that have been made from glass, two short pointed ears and a bare nose pad. On wooden mount: BMM 5901 /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, wombat, animalia, vombatidae, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Great Crested Grebe, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
The Great Crested Grebe is a medium to large sized bird located in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Asia and in parts of Africa. They reside in large bodies of fresh water and are renowned for their elaborate mating dances. When breeding, the Great Crested Grebe has tawny cheek "fans" and black crests; however, in the non-breading seasons the plumage of this bird turns white. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The Great Crested Grebe is a medium to large sized bird. It typically has cheek "fans" on the sides of the face and elaborate crest feathers which are shed after breeding, as is the case for this specimen. This bird is in a tall standing position with its neck stretched upwards and facing left. The small dark eyes have been made from glass and a large pointed bill. It has a metal tag tied to its left leg engraved with the numbers "4401". The skin surrounding the toes are flat which assists the bird when swimming.On tag 4401taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, great crested grebe, bird -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Red-Necked Grebe, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
The Red-Necked Grebe is a medium sized bird with a long neck and pointed bill. During the non-breeding months, this bird has grey, white and brown plumage. During the breeding seasons, the Red-necked Grebe has a rusty red coloured fore-neck and breast with a black bill and white cheeks. This species can be located in freshwater lakes of the northern hemisphere. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.A Red-Necked Grebe of medium size stylised in a standing position with the face positioned forward. The bird stands on a wooden pedestal with two tags around its legs. One tag is paper and documents cataloguing information and the second is metal and lists the number 4403. This Red-Necked Grebe has pale feathers of white, grey and browns typical of this species in the non-breeding months. The face is positioned towards the front and the small eyes are made from dark glass.On metal tag 4403. On paper tag "32. Red-Necked Grebe.Catalogue, page, 43"taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, red-necked grebe -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Great Crested Grebe, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
The Great Crested Grebe is the largest bird in the Grebe family. It has a long neck with a black crown and orange/black "fans" on the sides of the face. This bird can be found in all Australian states and territories and typically resides in open bodies of fresh water. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.A Great Crested Grebe in a tall position standing on a wooden pedestal. It has a long neck and bill with coloured plumage. The crest is black with orange and black cheek "fans" on the sides of the face. The eyes are made of glass and are a red/black colour. On paper tag: "[Austra]lian... [G]rebe... [pa]ge, 42" taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, great crested grebe -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Red-Necked Grebe, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
The Red-Necked Grebe is a medium sized bird with a long neck and pointed bill. During the non-breeding months, this bird has grey, white and brown plumage. During the breeding seasons, the Red-necked Grebe has a rusty red coloured fore-neck and breast with a black bill and white cheeks. This species can be located in freshwater lakes of the northern hemisphere. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.A Red-Necked Grebe of medium size stylised in a standing position with the face positioned forward. The bird stands on a wooden pedestal with two tags around its legs. One tag is paper and documents cataloguing information and the second is metal and lists the number 4492. This Red-Necked Grebe has pale feathers of white, grey and browns typical of this species in the non-breeding months. The face is positioned towards the front and the small eyes are made from dark glass.Paper tag: 32a Red-necked Grebe Catalogue, Page, 43. Metal tag: 4492taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, red-necked grebe -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Pelican, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
The Pelican is commonly found throughout Australia, Papua New Guinea and Western Indonesia. The large throat pouch plays an important part in the diet of this species. The bill enables the Pelican to locate fish in murky water because of its sensitivity and it also has a hook at the end of the upper mandible which is used for gripping slippery foods. Pelicans work together large flocks to catch food by driving fish into one location by using their large bills and by beating their wings. A wild Pelican may live between ten to 25 years or more. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The Pelican is a large specimen of white, black, orange and pink colouring. This specimen has the characteristic elongated bill with a large throat pouch. The bill and throat pouch are a combination of orange and light pink colouring. The neck is pale white which continue onto the specimen's back. The wings are tipped with black and the stomach has light brown colouring. The feet are large and webbed and are stood on a wooden platform. The eyes are made of glass and surrounded by pink coloured folds.taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, pelican -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Masked Lapwing, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
The Masked Lapwing is a grown-dwelling bird with distinctive large yellow wattles that hang from the sides of its face. The bird has white feathers with black and brown markings. This particular Masked Lapwing has black decorating its hind neck on the sides of the breast which reveal this specimen to be a southern subspecies. The Masked Lapwing appears throughout Australia and is also common in Indonesia, New Guinea, New Caledonia and New Zealand. The Masked Lapwing is known to be fearlessly defendant of its nest and will dive at people who intrude. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The Masked Lapwing is standing on a wooden platform. Its wings are slightly elevated and head is turned towards right wing in a slight decline. The stomach feathers are mostly white and the wings are brown. Black feathers decorate the top of the head, the hind neck and the sides of the breast. The bird has tall legs and long yellow wattles covering its face. The small eyes are made from glass.2... Plover See Catalogue, page, 32.taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, masked lapwing, plover -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Book - 1875 Catalogue, William Detmold, RULES / CATALOGUE OF BOOKS / INVENTORY OF PICTURES, DRAWINGS, / MAPS, CHARTS, FURNITURE, SPECIMENS / OF THE / PUBLIC LIBRARY AND BURKE MUSEUM / BEECHWORTH, 1875
This large, leather bound journal was made for the Public Library and Burke Museum in Beechworth by book manufacturer, William Detmold in 1875. It was commissioned by the President of the Library and Burke Museum committee, Dr Antoine Mousse, for the purpose of cataloguing all the items in the collection. The cataloguer was the curator at that time, William Morton, whose hand-writing appears in the journal today. When William Morton first started recording in this journal in 1875, there were already a number of existing items in the institution. The Public Library and Burke Museum in Beechworth had actually been operating since the 1850s; first as a Young Men’s Association in 1856, then as Beechworth Athenaeum in 1858, then as the Beechworth Public Library in 1860. Then in 1861 when news of the death of Beechworth’s former police superintended, Robert O’Hara Burke, reached the town, it was agreed that the Public Library would also become a museum to tribute his legacy, renaming it as the ‘Public Library and Robert O’Hara Burke Memorial Museum, Beechworth’. Many of the items from the early institutions would have been used to form the nucleus of this new organisation. Plus, the additional items that were either collected or donated to develop it into a museum. The catalogue is extensive. There are exactly 461 pages of recorded items, each page detailing the various collections the museum acquired in the late 19th century. Collections recorded in this catalogue include a large collection of geological specimens, that were given to the museum in 1868 by the Geological Survey Department of Victoria. A large collection of taxidermy mounts, that were given to the museum as skins by the Museum of Australia in 1865. An extensive collection of Aboriginal artefacts that were purchased from amateur anthropologist R. E . Johns in 1868. As well as artworks, charts, photographs, machinery, maps etc., all of which have been held in the museum since. This catalogue also details the governance and management of the organisation. There were originally 30 rules that governed the actions for the management committee and, while anyone could read in the free library, only subscribers could borrow two books and one periodical. At first, subscriptions rates were 7/6 a quarter. This was later changed to £1 per annum, paid quarterly in advance. This was a considerable amount; 7/6 per quarter meant that the annual fee was £1.10. This was equivalent to about £650.00 or about $1,182.00AUD today, while the reduced subscription fee of £1 a year was the equivalent to £450.00 or about $818.00AUD today. Membership of the athenaeum would have been the reserve of the town's notable citizens. The vale of the catalogue lies not only in its historical connect with the establishment of the Athenaeum and the current museum, but also in its record of the names and positions of all members of the institution's committees of management from 1875-1876. This is a unique object that contains important records for a notable country town. Large brown leather bound book made in 1875 for the Beechworth library and museum by William Detmond. Inside is a comprehensive and detailed itemised listing of the paintings, drawings, charts, photographs, specimens and books that entered the institution from 1850 -1882. non-fictionCover: RULES / CATALOGUE OF BOOKS / INVENTORY OF PICTURES, DRAWINGS, / MAPS, CHARTS, FURNITURE, SPECIMENS / OF THE / PUBLIC LIBRARY AND BURKE MUSEUM / BEECHWORTHburke museum, beechworth, catalogue, museum catalogue, 1875, william morton, william detmold, exposition universelle, ferdinand von mueller, public library, collection, book, leather bound, restored, digitised, robert o'hara burke, hand-written -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Australaisn Bittern, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
The Australaisn Bittern is a partly nocturnal bird who resides in costal and sub-coastal locations in south-west mainland Australia, south east Australia and Tasmania. They can be found in wetlands, swamps and among reeds. These birds are mostly brown and yellow in colour and with short legs and a stocky body. The "woomph" sound made by the Bittern late at night is thought to have been the origin of the traditional Aboriginal myth of the Bunyip. The Bunyip, like the Australasian Bittern, was believed to reside in reedy swamps. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The Australaisn Bittern is a stocky bird with mainly yellow and brown colouring. This colouring makes the bird difficult to see in the dense, reedy vegetation it resides amongst in shallow freshwater wetlands. When threatened, the Australaisn Bittern will raise its bill skyward in a pose which helps it camouflage. This specimen has streaked yellow-brown feathers, a yellow bill and legs which are a yellow-green colour. It stands on a wooden platform.taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, bunyip, myths, australaisn bittern, bittern -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Australasian Darter, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
An Australasian Darter is a waterbird with a distinctive long straight neck and a sharp bill. This feature has resulted in this bird sometimes being called the "snakebird" . This specimen is a slim bird with pale grey to white colouring. This colouring identifies this particular specimen as female. The Australasian Darter is commonly located around waterways in freshwater or brackish wetlands more than 0.5m deep. The Darter will perch on fallen trees and branches near the water and holds its wings out to the sides in an effort to dry them. The Noongar people of southwestern Australia called this bird "mimal". It has also been called the New Holland darter or the New Holland devil-bird. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.An Australasian Darter with a large, slim body and grey to white colouring. This specimen has a long snake-like neck and webbed feet. It has large powerful wings positioned flat against the rear of its body. The eyes are made of glass and are a pale yellow colour which is similar in colour to the long and sharp bill.Paper label: "154 New Holland Darter"taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, darter, bird, australasian darter -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Animal specimen - Musk Duck, Trustees of the Australian Museum, 1860-1880
This particular Musk Duck is a female specimen. This is ascertained through the lack of a large bulbous lobe of skin hanging under the bill. This particular duck has a much smaller lobe on the underside of its bill which is only visible when close. The name Musk Duck comes from the strong musk odour produced from a gland on the rump of the bird. These ducks are found only in Australia, in south-western and south-eastern mainland and in Tasmania. They prefer to reside in locations which have deep water and plenty of aquatic vegetation. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.A large duck with a sooty-brown plumage and paler brown colouring on the stomach and areas of the neck. This bird stands with its head turned to look over its right shoulder. The eyes are made of brown coloured glass. The legs on the Musk Duck are positioned towards the far back of the stocky body and the feet are webbed. This enables the duck to swim but provides a clumsy gait. The bill of this Musk Duck is dark grey and the tail feathers are positioned in a fan-shape.Paper tag reading "9a Musk Duck. See Catalogue, page, 39."taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, duck, musk duck, aquatic, biziura lobata