Photograph of a bride and two bridesmaids. The bride is Laurie Dean who was married in Mildura in August 1934. The crushed velvet, wedding gown that she wears in the photo is also part of the collection.Crushed velvet wedding gown worn by Laurie Dean, nee Jenkins at her wedding in Mildura, August 1934. Donate day her daughter Mary Deane.laurie dean, wedding photographs

An item forming part of a collection of costumes, photographs and documents relating to the Weir family who owned and lived in the mansion originally named Illapa, 84 Princess Street, Kew, from 1918 to 1950. [The house is now incorporated by ‘Rylands’.] This historically significant collection includes items relating to both George Weir (1866-1937) and his wife Edith Mary Weir (1867-1948). George Weir, a person of national significance, was general manager of North Broken Hill Mine between 1903 and 1926. The collection includes a number of his patents. He married his wife, Edith Butteridge, in Broken Hill in 1891. The collection includes a number of costumes owned and worn by Edith, including her wedding dress. These costumes date from the 1880s to the 1940s and include items of outstanding aesthetic value.This parasol is significant as it is part of 26-piece collection of women’s clothing owned by Edith Mary Weir (nee Betteridge), who was born in Clare, South Australia in 1867 and who died in Kew at the age of 81 in 1948. The costumes in the donation date from the 1880s to the 1940s and constitute outstanding examples of dressmaker’s skills from each of these decades. The collection includes day dresses, evening dresses, evening coats, capes, a parasol, and undergarments. As the wife of a mining engineer, and later mine manager, Edith Weir’s clothing has historic significance as examples of clothing worn by upper middle class Australian women in domestic circumstances and at social and civic events. The costumes in the collection represent the periods when Edith Weir lived in Broken Hill, New South Wales, and in Kew, Melbourne. The garments in the Weir Collection were donated to the Kew Historical Society by the granddaughter of Edith Weir.Parasol - brown silk, pink lined with straight cane handle, owned by Edith Mary Weir (nee Betteridge) of Broken Hill, and later Princess Street, Kew. The style of the parasol, with overlapping outer 'scales' of heavy brown silk, would indicate that it was made in the late Victorian era.parasols, umbrellas, victorian fashion, weir collection

Joseph Butterworth COOMBS (1842-1901), was an accountant who founded a successful mercantile trading company. At the time of his marriage to Caroline Mary MICHEL in 1869, Coombs had already purchased ten acres of Studley Park. The acreage included land on the west of Fenwick Street that extended along lower Stawell Street to the corner of Yarra Street, all of it connected directly to the Yarra environs. A right of way to Studley Park Road was on the title, though Coombs went on to purchase more land, some of which faced Studley Park Road. In addition to owning the Studley Park acreage, Coombs later acquired 1,201 acres of land abutting the Acheron River. While retaining the Kew property he became a Taggerty Councillor and was Shire President for a time. J.B. Coombs died at Acheron Station in 1901 (aged 59 years). A few months after, tenders were called to repair the Kew dwelling, the Fenwick Street property now appearing in records with the name ‘Hope Mansell’. Caroline Coombs remained at Hope Mansell until she died in 1924, survived by three sons and five daughters. Not long after her death, advertisements appeared for the sale of the Studley Park land. The sale seems to have been a mechanism for distribution of the Estate, as the following year the original ten acre holding was transferred to members of the family. The eldest daughter Mabel married William Younger who, with his brother Alexander, developed Younger and Mackie Courts, both south of Studley Park Road. [Research: Kerry Fairbank]In 1961, the granddaughter of Joseph and Caroline Coombs, Mabel Isola (Younger) Grattan, donated ten 19th century dresses and parasols to the Kew Historical Society. The costumes, now known as the 'Coombs Collection', are the earliest recorded items of clothing to enter the Society's collection. Each of the items in the Coombs Collection, of which this item forms a part, is historically, aesthetically and socially significant. As a collection, the costumes includes outstanding examples of morning wear, day dresses, wedding dresses, and clothing accessories, providing evidence of outstanding dressmaker skills in Victoria during the mid to late Victorian period. One of a pair of cream silk parasols, each bordered by overlapping bands of beige lace. The underlying structure and mechanism includes a bent cane handle and black metal expanding spokes. The lace borders are layered to create an overlapping fringe. The high-domed umbrellas may have been created for a bridal party."Coombs Collection"coombs collection, clothing accessories, parasols

Joseph Butterworth COOMBS (1842-1901), was an accountant who founded a successful mercantile trading company. At the time of his marriage to Caroline Mary MICHEL in 1869, Coombs had already purchased ten acres of Studley Park. The acreage included land on the west of Fenwick Street that extended along lower Stawell Street to the corner of Yarra Street, all of it connected directly to the Yarra environs. A right of way to Studley Park Road was on the title, though Coombs went on to purchase more land, some of which faced Studley Park Road. In addition to owning the Studley Park acreage, Coombs later acquired 1,201 acres of land abutting the Acheron River. While retaining the Kew property he became a Taggerty Councillor and was Shire President for a time. J.B. Coombs died at Acheron Station in 1901 (aged 59 years). A few months after, tenders were called to repair the Kew dwelling, the Fenwick Street property now appearing in records with the name ‘Hope Mansell’. Caroline Coombs remained at Hope Mansell until she died in 1924, survived by three sons and five daughters. Not long after her death, advertisements appeared for the sale of the Studley Park land. The sale seems to have been a mechanism for distribution of the Estate, as the following year the original ten acre holding was transferred to members of the family. The eldest daughter Mabel married William Younger who, with his brother Alexander, developed Younger and Mackie Courts, both south of Studley Park Road. [Research: Kerry Fairbank]In 1961, the granddaughter of Joseph and Caroline Coombs, Mabel Isola (Younger) Grattan, donated ten 19th century dresses and parasols to the Kew Historical Society. The costumes, now known as the 'Coombs Collection', are the earliest recorded items of clothing to enter the Society's collection. Each of the items in the Coombs Collection, of which this item forms a part, is historically, aesthetically and socially significant. As a collection, the costumes includes outstanding examples of morning wear, day dresses, wedding dresses, and clothing accessories, providing evidence of outstanding dressmaker skills in Victoria during the mid to late Victorian period. One of a pair of cream silk parasols, each bordered by overlapping bands of beige lace. The underlying structure and mechanism includes a bent cane handle and black metal expanding spokes. The lace borders are layered to create an overlapping fringe. The high-domed umbrellas may have been created for a bridal party. This umbrella cannot be opened due to the silk being shattered."Coombs Collection"coombs collection, clothing accessories, parasols

Joseph Butterworth COOMBS (1842-1901), was an accountant who founded a successful mercantile trading company. At the time of his marriage to Caroline Mary MICHEL in 1969, Coombs had already purchased 10 acres of Studley Park. The acreage included land on the west of Fenwick Street that extended along lower Stawell Street to the corner of Yarra Street, all of it connected directly to the Yarra environs. A right of way to Studley Park Road was on the title, though Coombs went on to purchase more land, some of which faced Studley Park Road. In addition to owning the Studley Park acreage, Coombs later acquired 1,201 acres of land abutting the Acheron River. While retaining the Kew property he became a Taggerty Councillor and was Shire President for a time. J.B. Coombs died at Acheron Station in 1901 (aged 59 years). A few months after, tenders were called to repair the Kew dwelling, the Fenwick Street property now appearing in records with the name ‘Hope Mansell’. Caroline Coombs remained at Hope Mansell until she died in 1924, survived by three sons and five daughters. Not long after her death, advertisements appeared for the sale of the Studley Park land. The sale seems to have been a mechanism for distribution of the Estate, as the following year the original 10 acre holding was transferred to members of the family. The eldest daughter Mabel married William Younger who, with his brother Alexander, developed Younger and Mackie Courts, both south of Studley Park Road. [Research: Kerry Fairbank]In 1961, the granddaughter of Joseph and Caroline Coombs, Mabel Isola (Younger) Grattan, donated ten 19th century dresses and parasols to the Kew Historical Society. The costumes, now known as the 'Coombs Collection', are the earliest recorded items of clothing to enter the Society's collection. Each of the items in the Coombs Collection, of which this item forms a part, is historically, aesthetically and socially significant. As a collection, the costumes includes outstanding examples of morning wear, day dresses, wedding dresses, and clothing accessories, providing evidence of outstanding dressmaker skills in Victoria during the mid to late Victorian period. Periwinkle blue afternoon dress made of finely woven wool with silk quilting to the yoke and cuffs. The one-piece outfit is fastened at front with large mother of pearl buttons. The dress includes a very long train. At one stage, the buttoning at the waist has been modified, presumably due to changes in the owner's waistline. women's clothing, australian fashion, costumes, dresses

Joseph Butterworth COOMBS (1842-1901), was an accountant who founded a successful mercantile trading company. At the time of his marriage to Caroline Mary MICHEL in 1869, Coombs had already purchased ten acres of Studley Park. The acreage included land on the west of Fenwick Street that extended along lower Stawell Street to the corner of Yarra Street, all of it connected directly to the Yarra environs. A right of way to Studley Park Road was on the title, though Coombs went on to purchase more land, some of which faced Studley Park Road. In addition to owning the Studley Park acreage, Coombs later acquired 1,201 acres of land abutting the Acheron River. While retaining the Kew property he became a Taggerty Councillor and was Shire President for a time. J.B. Coombs died at Acheron Station in 1901 (aged 59 years). A few months after, tenders were called to repair the Kew dwelling, the Fenwick Street property now appearing in records with the name ‘Hope Mansell’. Caroline Coombs remained at Hope Mansell until she died in 1924, survived by three sons and five daughters. Not long after her death, advertisements appeared for the sale of the Studley Park land. The sale seems to have been a mechanism for distribution of the Estate, as the following year the original ten acre holding was transferred to members of the family. The eldest daughter Mabel married William Younger who, with his brother Alexander, developed Younger and Mackie Courts, both south of Studley Park Road. [Research: Kerry Fairbank]In 1961, the granddaughter of Joseph and Caroline Coombs, Mabel Isola (Younger) Grattan, donated ten 19th century dresses and parasols to the Kew Historical Society. The costumes, now known as the 'Coombs Collection', are the earliest recorded items of clothing to enter the Society's collection. Each of the items in the Coombs Collection, of which this item forms a part, is historically, aesthetically and socially significant. As a collection, the costumes includes outstanding examples of morning wear, day dresses, wedding dresses, and clothing accessories, providing evidence of outstanding dressmaker skills in Victoria during the mid to late Victorian period. Two-piece royal blue heavy silk dress comprised of a tightly waisted top that extends below the waist at the front and the back, and a floor-length skirt. The full skirt and the sculpted fabric that is part of the top are designed to cover a bustle. The elaborately styled bodice is joined with fabric-covered buttons at centre front. The bodice is distinctively styled with the use silk velvet banding and tassles that extend the woven silk webbing. The outfit is in excellent condition apart from some wear on the velvet and the buttons.women's clothing, australian fashion, dresses, costumes, fashion & design, outerware

Joseph Butterworth COOMBS (1842-1901), was an accountant who founded a successful mercantile trading company. At the time of his marriage to Caroline Mary MICHEL in 1869, Coombs had already purchased ten acres of Studley Park. The acreage included land on the west of Fenwick Street that extended along lower Stawell Street to the corner of Yarra Street, all of it connected directly to the Yarra environs. A right of way to Studley Park Road was on the title, though Coombs went on to purchase more land, some of which faced Studley Park Road. In addition to owning the Studley Park acreage, Coombs later acquired 1,201 acres of land abutting the Acheron River. While retaining the Kew property he became a Taggerty Councillor and was Shire President for a time. J.B. Coombs died at Acheron Station in 1901 (aged 59 years). A few months after, tenders were called to repair the Kew dwelling, the Fenwick Street property now appearing in records with the name ‘Hope Mansell’. Caroline Coombs remained at Hope Mansell until she died in 1924, survived by three sons and five daughters. Not long after her death, advertisements appeared for the sale of the Studley Park land. The sale seems to have been a mechanism for distribution of the Estate, as the following year the original ten acre holding was transferred to members of the family. The eldest daughter Mabel married William Younger who, with his brother Alexander, developed Younger and Mackie Courts, both south of Studley Park Road. [Research: Kerry Fairbank]In 1961, the granddaughter of Joseph and Caroline Coombs, Mabel Isola (Younger) Grattan, donated ten 19th century dresses and parasols to the Kew Historical Society. The costumes, now known as the 'Coombs Collection', are the earliest recorded items of clothing to enter the Society's collection. Each of the items in the Coombs Collection, of which this item forms a part, is historically, aesthetically and socially significant. As a collection, the costumes includes outstanding examples of morning wear, day dresses, wedding dresses, and clothing accessories, providing evidence of outstanding dressmaker skills in Victoria during the mid to late Victorian period. One-piece, floor length blue silk day dress with a bell skirt that is slightly longer at the back. The dress is joined, centre-front with hooks and eyes. It is probable that the 19th century cream-coloured lace on the bodice and cuffs is a later addition. The lace extends in a long loop at the font of the skirt. The bodice has a high round neck, later modified to a V-shape. The dress must at one stage have been reconfigured or strengthened at the join of the bodice and skirt, as there is evidence of the use of new machine stitching. The dress is fully lined with a stiffened cotton lining fabric. Apart from minor staining, the dress is in excellent condition. The dress is the earliest complete costume in the collection. Measurements - 145.0 cm (centre back) 25.0 cm (waist, flat)Nilcoombs collection, fashion - 1860s, women's clothing, costumes, daywear

Joseph Butterworth COOMBS (1842-1901), was an accountant who founded a successful mercantile trading company. At the time of his marriage to Caroline Mary MICHEL in 1869, Coombs had already purchased ten acres of Studley Park. The acreage included land on the west of Fenwick Street that extended along lower Stawell Street to the corner of Yarra Street, all of it connected directly to the Yarra environs. A right of way to Studley Park Road was on the title, though Coombs went on to purchase more land, some of which faced Studley Park Road. In addition to owning the Studley Park acreage, Coombs later acquired 1,201 acres of land abutting the Acheron River. While retaining the Kew property he became a Taggerty Councillor and was Shire President for a time. J.B. Coombs died at Acheron Station in 1901 (aged 59 years). A few months after, tenders were called to repair the Kew dwelling, the Fenwick Street property now appearing in records with the name ‘Hope Mansell’. Caroline Coombs remained at Hope Mansell until she died in 1924, survived by three sons and five daughters. Not long after her death, advertisements appeared for the sale of the Studley Park land. The sale seems to have been a mechanism for distribution of the Estate, as the following year the original ten acre holding was transferred to members of the family. The eldest daughter Mabel married William Younger who, with his brother Alexander, developed Younger and Mackie Courts, both south of Studley Park Road. [Research: Kerry Fairbank]In 1961, the granddaughter of Joseph and Caroline Coombs, Mabel Isola (Younger) Grattan, donated ten 19th century dresses and parasols to the Kew Historical Society. The costumes, now known as the 'Coombs Collection', are the earliest recorded items of clothing to enter the Society's collection. Each of the items in the Coombs Collection, of which this item forms a part, is historically, aesthetically and socially significant. As a collection, the costumes includes outstanding examples of morning wear, day dresses, wedding dresses, and clothing accessories, providing evidence of outstanding dressmaker skills in Victoria during the mid to late Victorian period. Blue silk, floor length day dress comprised of a tightly fitted, long, waisted jacket joined by hooks and eyes at centre front. The bodice features large ornamental buttons from neck to waist, covered in a figured silk fabric of the same colour as the dress. The gown has extensive pin tucking on the sleeves, on the flounce of the skirt, and on the long train. The line of the outfit is emphasised by the flattened front, which is typical of the period. Its cut and lack of adornment emphasises the tailored effect.australian fashion, fashion & design, costumes, dresses, women's clothing, fashion - 1860s, fashion - 1870s

Joseph Butterworth COOMBS (1842-1901), was an accountant who founded a successful mercantile trading company. At the time of his marriage to Caroline Mary MICHEL in 1869, Coombs had already purchased ten acres of Studley Park. The acreage included land on the west of Fenwick Street that extended along lower Stawell Street to the corner of Yarra Street, all of it connected directly to the Yarra environs. A right of way to Studley Park Road was on the title, though Coombs went on to purchase more land, some of which faced Studley Park Road. In addition to owning the Studley Park acreage, Coombs later acquired 1,201 acres of land abutting the Acheron River. While retaining the Kew property he became a Taggerty Councillor and was Shire President for a time. J.B. Coombs died at Acheron Station in 1901 (aged 59 years). A few months after, tenders were called to repair the Kew dwelling, the Fenwick Street property now appearing in records with the name ‘Hope Mansell’. Caroline Coombs remained at Hope Mansell until she died in 1924, survived by three sons and five daughters. Not long after her death, advertisements appeared for the sale of the Studley Park land. The sale seems to have been a mechanism for distribution of the Estate, as the following year the original ten acre holding was transferred to members of the family. The eldest daughter Mabel married William Younger who, with his brother Alexander, developed Younger and Mackie Courts, both south of Studley Park Road. [Research: Kerry Fairbank]In 1961, the granddaughter of Joseph and Caroline Coombs, Mabel Isola (Younger) Grattan, donated ten 19th century dresses and parasols to the Kew Historical Society. The costumes, now known as the 'Coombs Collection', are the earliest recorded items of clothing to enter the Society's collection. Each of the items in the Coombs Collection, of which this item forms a part, is historically, aesthetically and socially significant. As a collection, the costumes includes outstanding examples of morning wear, day dresses, wedding dresses, and clothing accessories, providing evidence of outstanding dressmaker skills in Victoria during the mid to late Victorian period. Single-piece, floor length, gold silk taffeta evening dress featuring the use of a very long fishtail train to which is attached a silk cord to allow the wearer to hold it above the floor. The dress includes a number of decorative features including the extensive use of box pleats on the sleeves and on the hem of the skirt; contrasting gold and cream braiding and tassles; and the extensive use of ruching on the bodice at the front. Due to the age and fine quality of the silk taffeta used, there is evidence of the degradation of the fabric on one shoulder and a tear in the rear of the skirt. Otherwise the dress is in excellent condition.fashion - 1870s, australian fashion, wedding dresses, costumes, women's clothing, coombs collection

From its beginnings in 1958, the Society has mounted exhibitions and/or displays, in early days in shop window and in community spaces located in the Kew City Hall (later Kew Library), and since 2010 at the Kew Court House. Exhibitions typically coincided with the annual Kew Community Festival in March, but after 2013 evolved into three new exhibitions yearly at the Kew Court House. Smaller displays continue to be mounted in the Kew Library.Very faded photographic colour positive of a christening gown and four Victorian-era dresses displayed at the 1976 Festival of Kew exhibition mounted by the Kew Historical Society. This picture is one of the earliest showing items from the Coombs Collection on display. The collection had been donated to the Society in 1961. Dresses displayed: L-R blue silk 2-piece fitted day day dress with long train; cream satin parasol; gold taffeta wedding dress with long train; blue silk 2-piece day dress with applied later lace at neck and waist; duck egg blue quilted afternoon dress with buttons at front. Inscribed verso: Kew Historical exhibition 1976festival of kew 1976, kew historical society -- exhibitions, coombs collection

Photograph was taken on the 23rd of August 1906, the day of Jessie May Lang and Charles Ernest Barrie's wedding. Held at the Methodist Church Melton. UMMARY – Charles Ernest Barrie d.1931 Born 1871 Ballarat d 1931 This document is has been compiled by Wendy Barrie daughter of Ernest (Bon) and Edna Barrie and granddaughter of Charles E and Jessie M Barrie. My grandfather was well known in the district and was mostly referred to as Ernie. He shared the same initials as his second son Edgar. His three eldest sons lived and farmed in Melton for their entire lives. His descendants are still associated with farming, engineering and earthmoving in Melton. Ernie Barrie operated a travelling Chaff Cutter in the St Arnaud area where his parents William and Mary Ann had taken up land at Coonooer West in 1873. Ernie commenced his working life with a team of bullocks and a chaff cutter. The earliest connection he had with Melton was in 1887. By the beginning of the 20th century Ernie and his father William and brothers, William, Samuel, James Edwin,[Ted] Robert, Arthur and Albert have been associated with farming and milling in the Melton district. In the early 1900’s Ernie and his brother Ted were in partnership in a Chaff cutting and Hay processing Mill on the corner of Station and Brooklyn road Melton South. The mill was managed by William for a time. By 1906 Charles Ernest and James Edwin were in partnership in the Station Road mill when a connecting rail line across Brooklyn Road for a siding was constructed to the Melton Railway Station. In 1911 the Mill’s letterhead shows C.E. BARRIE Hay Pressing and Chaff Cutting Mills. Melton Railway Station. Telephone No 1 Melton. This Mill as sold to H S K Ward in 1916 and stood until 1977 when it burnt down in a spectacular fire. Ernie built a house at Melton South beside the Chaff Mill at Station Road in 1906 and married Jessie May Lang in August at the Methodist Church. Jessie’s father was Thomas Lang. He came to Melton in 1896 and was the Head Teacher at Melton State School No 430 until he retired in 1917. They had 9 children with 8 surviving to adulthood. Jessie and Ernie had 6 sons and 3 daughters. All the children lived at Darlingsford. In April 1910 the family left Melton for a brief period and moved to a farm in Trundle in NSW. They returned to Melton and purchased Darlingsford in May 1911. For a time during WW1 they lived at Moonee Ponds near the Lang grandparents at Ascot Vale. Mary and Bon attended Bank St State School. The children developed diphtheria in 1916 and their youngest boy, Cecil died of complications. Mary and Bon were taken to Fairfield Hospital and both recovered. At the end of the war influenza broke out the family returned to Darlingsford and shared the home for a short while with the Pearcey family who had been working the farm. By 1922 the family had and grown and Edgar, Tom, Horace, Jessie, Joyce and Jim were living a Darlingsford. Ernie continued during the 1920’s working the farm and attend his many civic and community commitments. Two 8 clydesdale horse teams were used to work the land which meant early rising for the horses to be fed and harnessed to commence the days work. In 1916 Ernie also became involved in a Chaff Mill on the corner of Sunshine and Geelong Road West Footscray, which at the time was being run by John Ralph Schutt. It was known an Schutt Barrie. A flour mill was added at a later stage. Other Schutt and Barrie mills were situated at Parwan and Diggers Rest. Another mill was situated beside the railway line at Rockbank. The Footscray mill ceased operation in 1968. Ernie spent a lot of time and energy at the Parwan Mill and travelling around Parwan and Balliang farms, where he came to know many of the families in the district. Ernies commitment to the civic development to the Melton and district was extensive, he was involved with a number of large events during the 1920’s such as the Melton Exhibitions and the 1929 Back to Melton Celebrations. He was a member of the Australian Natives Association at the turn of the century. He was Chairman of the School Committee at Melton State School 430 and the Melton South State School in thw1920s. He donated the land for a Hall for Melton South in 1909, known as Exford Hall and later in 1919 renamed Victoria Hall. The Hall was demolished in 1992. He was a Councillor, JP, and Vice President and President of the Melton Mechanics Institute Hall Committee in 1915- 1916. He was a member of the Methodist Church and later the Scots Presbyterian Church. He was Superintendent of the Sunday School of the Methodist Church to 1910 and later Scots Presbyterian Church until 1931. This is reflected in the theme of children in the stained glass window which was dedicated in his memory by his wife Jessie as a gift to the Scots Church. Charles Ernest Barrie made many generous donations to many charities who supported young people and children. In 1918 Jessie and Ernie made the first donation to a very prominent Victorian charity whose work still continues. Yooralla. In July 1931 Ernie’s untimely death was a major blow to the family and the Melton community. To this day people still vividly recall the day they lined the streets for his funeral. The day of the funeral is recalled as the day Melton stood as two of their prominent citizens who tragically died on the same day. Charles Ernest Barrie with his parents and brothers at the front of the mill house in Melton Southlocal identities

This photograph depicts Thersea Dunn (nee Wallis) the maker of the sugar bag apron held by the Ballarat Apron Festival (0001) on the day of her wedding.Digital photograph of Theresa Wallis on the day of their wedding Allan Dunn.

The Hamilton-Smith collection was donated by the children of Grace Mary Hamilton-Smith nee Ellwood (1911-2004) and John Hamilton-Smith (1909-1984) who settled in Wodonga in the 1940s. The Ellwood family had lived in north-east Victoria since the late 1800s. Grace’s mother, Rosina Ellwood nee Smale, was the first teacher at Baranduda in 1888, and a foundation member of the C.W.A. Rosina and her husband Mark retired to Wodonga in 1934. Grace and John married at St. David’s Church, Albury in 1941. John was a grazier, and actively involved in Agricultural Societies. The collection contains significant items which reflect the local history of Wodonga, including handmade needlework, books, photographs, a wedding dress, maps, and material relating to the world wars. The celebration of Queen Victoria's birthday on May 24 was renamed Empire Day in 1903 after her death in 1901. It was celebrated throughout the British Empire, including in Australia, with fireworks and bonfires in the evening. The last celebration of Empire Day in Australia took place in 1958, when the name of the celebration was changed to Commonwealth Day.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 social and family life in early twentieth century Wodonga, as well as providing interpretative capacity for themes including local history and social history. An Empire Day cardboard bookmark featuring an illustrated crown, and Australian flag and Union Jack flag design. Gold trim lines the border of the bookmark. hamilton-smith, hamilton-smith collection, ellwood, wodonga, empire day, british empire, commonwealth

The Hamilton-Smith collection was donated by the children of Grace Mary Hamilton-Smith nee Ellwood (1911-2004) and John Hamilton-Smith (1909-1984) who settled in Wodonga in the 1940s. The Ellwood family had lived in north-east Victoria since the late 1800s. Grace’s mother, Rosina Ellwood nee Smale, was the first teacher at Baranduda in 1888, and a foundation member of the C.W.A. Rosina and her husband Mark retired to Wodonga in 1934. Grace and John married at St. David’s Church, Albury in 1941. John was a grazier, and actively involved in Agricultural Societies. The collection contains significant items which reflect the local history of Wodonga, including handmade needlework, books, photographs, a wedding dress, maps, and material relating to the world wars. 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 social and family life in early twentieth century Wodonga, as well as providing interpretative capacity for themes including local history and social history. A beige printed booklet featuring lists of prizes for Wodonga Agricultural Show.On face of booklet handwritten in pen: "Donated by: Merrilyn Hamilton-Smith"hamilton-smith collection, hamilton-smith, ellwood, show, show day, 1940s, agricultural show, wodonga, recreation

Charles Wallace Gordon Graydon the First came out to Victoria on the S.S. Almora, the same ship on which Eliza Richardson and her family arrived on New Years Day 1875. Evidently C.W.G.G.1st. must have retained fond memories of a young fourteen-year-old girl named Elizabeth Richardson who travelled from Scotland with her mother and family (her father had arrived earlier) because three years later at Kyneton they were married. It was December 26th 1860, and Elizabeth was just seventeen. As the bridegroom’s age is written as 24 years on the wedding certificate, he certainly must have been more than eighteen when he sailed on the "Almora" in 1856. The newly married couple went to live at Taradale, Victoria, and they made a good life for themselves in that town which had then a thriving gold mine. They lived in a large two-storied house in Survey Paddock, and it was there that four daughters - Susan Emily (1861-1906), Elizabeth Constance (1863-1945), Amelia Amy (1865 -1952, Ada Mary Maude (1867-1901), and one son Newenham Edward Eustace (1869-1945) named after his Irish Grandfather, were born. On his wedding certificate C.W.G. Graydon, is described as a foreman. His father-in-law, Robert Richardson was employed as a time-keeper on the Melbourne to Bendigo Railway works, and he and his family lived first in Prahran, then Kyneton, and then Taradale. Perhaps Charles Graydon worked on the railway with him. In Taradale however, he worked for a gold mining company in a surveying capacity. C.W.G.G.1st was to become Shire President of the Shire of Metcalfe. That particular year the Graydon Family entertained the visiting English cricket Eleven at their home in Taradale. He was certainly regarded as an important man in the district when he was requested by a great number of the residents to nominate for the Legislative Assembly election. About 1876 the Graydons left Taradale, and went to live at Sandhurst, now Bendigo, at Barkly Place East. The Richardsons had also left Taradale to go into the grocery business in the same town. Charles Wallace Gordon Graydon the First became a legal manager of mines, and a well-known and popular resident. Sad to say he became ill with a lung infection, and on June 4th. 1885 he died, and was buried at Sandhurst, now Bendigo Cemetery, Back Creek Rd. Eliza Richardson's brother was Mr. James Richardson, the well-known grocer, of Pall Mall and Golden-square, who died at his residence, "Balgownie," Short street, on Thursday 22 Jan 1914. James Richardson was a native of Scotland. He was born at Glasgow in1849 and was only eight years of age when his parents sailed for Australia in the ship Balmoral. The family arrived in Melbourne in 1857 and went to Taradale, where Mr. Richardson, senr., acted as inspector of works during the construction of the Taradale Viaduct. James Richardson, who had commenced his educationin Glasgow, attended school at Taradale until the family removed to Bendigo at the time the railway was being built from Bendigo to Echuca. The contractors for this work engaged Mr Richardson, senr., as their timekeeper. When he left school James Richardson applied himself to learn the grocery business, and he gained a thorough knowledge of it with different employers at Bendigo, Taradale, and Daylesford. In 1872 he opened a grocery store on his own account in High-Street, Bendigo, but within a few months he had the great misfortune to be burnt out. The fire originated in an adjoining building early one morning and both places were burnt to the ground. In spite of his loss, Mr. Richardson was not discouraged, for he soon made another start. His trade improved and he extended his business, opening the Eclipse Cash Store at Golden Square. A little later another branch was opened at the Oddfellows' Hall, and subsequently this business was transferred to the Eureka Cash Store, in Pall Mall, which was the head depot. In addition to the retail trade, Mr. Richardson had, for many years carried on an extensive wholesale business with the Northern District, and had made a specialty of fodder seeds. James was a man of probity and sincerity in business, and as a citizen he was highly esteemed and respected. He was a prominent member of the Bendigo Caledonian Society in the earlier days of his citizenship. He was a staunch member of St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, and was a member of the board of management. In the Easter Fair procession, Mr Richardson's display was always a prominent and attractive one. Mr. Richardson was a member of the Masonic Order, and was a life member of the Bendigo Art Gallery and the old Mechanics Institute. He was married at Daylesford in 1871. Mr James Richardson was interred in the Presbyterian section of the Bendigo Cemetery.Digital Image. Copy of photograph of three of the four Graydon girls. Ada, Lizzie and Amelia Graydon. B&W photo of three women - two seated and one standing - Studio portrait.Lizzie (Elizabeth Constance 1863-1945) standing. Amelia (Amelia Amy 1865 - 1952) Seated on right. Ada (Ada Mary Maude 1867-1901) seated left.graydon girls., graydon collection, graydon richardson, james richardson grocer, bendigo history

Charles Wallace Gordon Graydon the First came out to Victoria on the S.S. Almora, the same ship on which Eliza Richardson and her family arrived on New Years Day 1875. Evidently C.W.G.G.1st. must have retained fond memories of a young fourteen-year-old girl named Elizabeth Richardson who travelled from Scotland with her mother and family (her father had arrived earlier) because three years later at Kyneton they were married. It was December 26th 1860, and Elizabeth was just seventeen. As the bridegroom’s age is written as 24 years on the wedding certificate, he certainly must have been more than eighteen when he sailed on the "Almora" in 1856. The newly married couple went to live at Taradale, Victoria, and they made a good life for themselves in that town which had then a thriving gold mine. They lived in a large two-storied house in Survey Paddock, and it was there that four daughters - Susan Emily (1861-1906), Elizabeth Constance (1863-1945), Amelia Amy (1865 -1952, Ada Mary Maude (1867-1901), and one son Newenham Edward Eustace (1869-1945) named after his Irish Grandfather, were born. On his wedding certificate C.W.G. Graydon, is described as a foreman. His father-in-law, Robert Richardson was employed as a time-keeper on the Melbourne to Bendigo Railway works, and he and his family lived first in Prahran, then Kyneton, and then Taradale. Perhaps Charles Graydon worked on the railway with him. In Taradale however, he worked for a gold mining company in a surveying capacity. C.W.G.G.1st was to become Shire President of the Shire of Metcalfe. That particular year the Graydon Family entertained the visiting English cricket Eleven at their home in Taradale. He was certainly regarded as an important man in the district when he was requested by a great number of the residents to nominate for the Legislative Assembly election. About 1876 the Graydons left Taradale, and went to live at Sandhurst, now Bendigo, at Barkly Place East. The Richardsons had also left Taradale to go into the grocery business in the same town. Charles Wallace Gordon Graydon the First became a legal manager of mines, and a well-known and popular resident. Sad to say he became ill with a lung infection, and on June 4th. 1885 he died, and was buried at Sandhurst, now Bendigo Cemetery, Back Creek Rd. Eliza Richardson's brother was Mr. James Richardson, the well-known grocer, of Pall Mall and Golden-square, who died at his residence, "Balgownie," Short street, on Thursday 22 Jan 1914. James Richardson was a native of Scotland. He was born at Glasgow in1849 and was only eight years of age when his parents sailed for Australia in the ship Balmoral. The family arrived in Melbourne in 1857 and went to Taradale, where Mr. Richardson, senr., acted as inspector of works during the construction of the Taradale Viaduct. James Richardson, who had commenced his educationin Glasgow, attended school at Taradale until the family removed to Bendigo at the time the railway was being built from Bendigo to Echuca. The contractors for this work engaged Mr Richardson, senr., as their timekeeper. When he left school James Richardson applied himself to learn the grocery business, and he gained a thorough knowledge of it with different employers at Bendigo, Taradale, and Daylesford. In 1872 he opened a grocery store on his own account in High-Street, Bendigo, but within a few months he had the great misfortune to be burnt out. The fire originated in an adjoining building early one morning and both places were burnt to the ground. In spite of his loss, Mr. Richardson was not discouraged, for he soon made another start. His trade improved and he extended his business, opening the Eclipse Cash Store at Golden Square. A little later another branch was opened at the Oddfellows' Hall, and subsequently this business was transferred to the Eureka Cash Store, in Pall Mall, which was the head depot. In addition to the retail trade, Mr. Richardson had, for many years carried on an extensive wholesale business with the Northern District, and had made a specialty of fodder seeds. James was a man of probity and sincerity in business, and as a citizen he was highly esteemed and respected. He was a prominent member of the Bendigo Caledonian Society in the earlier days of his citizenship. He was a staunch member of St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, and was a member of the board of management. In the Easter Fair procession, Mr Richardson's display was always a prominent and attractive one. Mr. Richardson was a member of the Masonic Order, and was a life member of the Bendigo Art Gallery and the old Mechanics Institute. He was married at Daylesford in 1871. Mr James Richardson was interred in the Presbyterian section of the Bendigo Cemetery.A selection of black and white Graydon and Richardson family photographs taken by Bendigo photographers. All photos unnamed. Mounted as Cabinet cards. Photographers - D. Mendelfson, Bartlett Bros., The Studio - Chuck, Eden Society Studios, Alan Spicer, R. Bloomfield Rees,graydon, richardson, cabinet card

Charles Wallace Gordon Graydon the First came out to Victoria on the S.S. Almora, the same ship on which Eliza Richardson and her family arrived on New Years Day 1875. Evidently C.W.G.G.1st. must have retained fond memories of a young fourteen-year-old girl named Elizabeth Richardson who travelled from Scotland with her mother and family (her father had arrived earlier) because three years later at Kyneton they were married. It was December 26th 1860, and Elizabeth was just seventeen. As the bridegroom’s age is written as 24 years on the wedding certificate, he certainly must have been more than eighteen when he sailed on the "Almora" in 1856. The newly married couple went to live at Taradale, Victoria, and they made a good life for themselves in that town which had then a thriving gold mine. They lived in a large two-storied house in Survey Paddock, and it was there that four daughters - Susan Emily (1861-1906), Elizabeth Constance (1863-1945), Amelia Amy (1865 -1952, Ada Mary Maude (1867-1901), and one son Newenham Edward Eustace (1869-1945) named after his Irish Grandfather, were born. On his wedding certificate C.W.G. Graydon, is described as a foreman. His father-in-law, Robert Richardson was employed as a time-keeper on the Melbourne to Bendigo Railway works, and he and his family lived first in Prahran, then Kyneton, and then Taradale. Perhaps Charles Graydon worked on the railway with him. In Taradale however, he worked for a gold mining company in a surveying capacity. C.W.G.G.1st was to become Shire President of the Shire of Metcalfe. That particular year the Graydon Family entertained the visiting English cricket Eleven at their home in Taradale. He was certainly regarded as an important man in the district when he was requested by a great number of the residents to nominate for the Legislative Assembly election. About 1876 the Graydons left Taradale, and went to live at Sandhurst, now Bendigo, at Barkly Place East. The Richardsons had also left Taradale to go into the grocery business in the same town. Charles Wallace Gordon Graydon the First became a legal manager of mines, and a well-known and popular resident. Sad to say he became ill with a lung infection, and on June 4th. 1885 he died, and was buried at Sandhurst, now Bendigo Cemetery, Back Creek Rd. Eliza Richardson's brother was Mr. James Richardson, the well-known grocer, of Pall Mall and Golden-square, who died at his residence, "Balgownie," Short street, on Thursday 22 Jan 1914. James Richardson was a native of Scotland. He was born at Glasgow in1849 and was only eight years of age when his parents sailed for Australia in the ship Balmoral. The family arrived in Melbourne in 1857 and went to Taradale, where Mr. Richardson, senr., acted as inspector of works during the construction of the Taradale Viaduct. James Richardson, who had commenced his educationin Glasgow, attended school at Taradale until the family removed to Bendigo at the time the railway was being built from Bendigo to Echuca. The contractors for this work engaged Mr Richardson, senr., as their timekeeper. When he left school James Richardson applied himself to learn the grocery business, and he gained a thorough knowledge of it with different employers at Bendigo, Taradale, and Daylesford. In 1872 he opened a grocery store on his own account in High-Street, Bendigo, but within a few months he had the great misfortune to be burnt out. The fire originated in an adjoining building early one morning and both places were burnt to the ground. In spite of his loss, Mr. Richardson was not discouraged, for he soon made another start. His trade improved and he extended his business, opening the Eclipse Cash Store at Golden Square. A little later another branch was opened at the Oddfellows' Hall, and subsequently this business was transferred to the Eureka Cash Store, in Pall Mall, which was the head depot. In addition to the retail trade, Mr. Richardson had, for many years carried on an extensive wholesale business with the Northern District, and had made a specialty of fodder seeds. James was a man of probity and sincerity in business, and as a citizen he was highly esteemed and respected. He was a prominent member of the Bendigo Caledonian Society in the earlier days of his citizenship. He was a staunch member of St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, and was a member of the board of management. In the Easter Fair procession, Mr Richardson's display was always a prominent and attractive one. Mr. Richardson was a member of the Masonic Order, and was a life member of the Bendigo Art Gallery and the old Mechanics Institute. He was married at Daylesford in 1871. Mr James Richardson was interred in the Presbyterian section of the Bendigo Cemetery.Seventeen black and white Graydon and Richardson family photographs taken by Bendigo photographers. All photos unnamed. Mounted as Cartes de Visite. Photographers - The Studio - Chuck, , M. Bent, F. de Kock and Co., N. White, Bartlett Bros., Chevalier.graydon, richardson, carte de visite

Charles Wallace Gordon Graydon the First came out to Victoria on the S.S. Almora, the same ship on which Eliza Richardson and her family arrived on New Years Day 1875. Evidently C.W.G.G.1st. must have retained fond memories of a young fourteen-year-old girl named Elizabeth Richardson who travelled from Scotland with her mother and family (her father had arrived earlier) because three years later at Kyneton they were married. It was December 26th 1860, and Elizabeth was just seventeen. As the bridegroom’s age is written as 24 years on the wedding certificate, he certainly must have been more than eighteen when he sailed on the "Almora" in 1856. The newly married couple went to live at Taradale, Victoria, and they made a good life for themselves in that town which had then a thriving gold mine. They lived in a large two-storied house in Survey Paddock, and it was there that four daughters - Susan Emily (1861-1906), Elizabeth Constance (1863-1945), Amelia Amy (1865 -1952, Ada Mary Maude (1867-1901), and one son Newenham Edward Eustace (1869-1945) named after his Irish Grandfather, were born. On his wedding certificate C.W.G. Graydon, is described as a foreman. His father-in-law, Robert Richardson was employed as a time-keeper on the Melbourne to Bendigo Railway works, and he and his family lived first in Prahran, then Kyneton, and then Taradale. Perhaps Charles Graydon worked on the railway with him. In Taradale however, he worked for a gold mining company in a surveying capacity. C.W.G.G.1st was to become Shire President of the Shire of Metcalfe. That particular year the Graydon Family entertained the visiting English cricket Eleven at their home in Taradale. He was certainly regarded as an important man in the district when he was requested by a great number of the residents to nominate for the Legislative Assembly election. About 1876 the Graydons left Taradale, and went to live at Sandhurst, now Bendigo, at Barkly Place East. The Richardsons had also left Taradale to go into the grocery business in the same town. Charles Wallace Gordon Graydon the First became a legal manager of mines, and a well-known and popular resident. Sad to say he became ill with a lung infection, and on June 4th. 1885 he died, and was buried at Sandhurst, now Bendigo Cemetery, Back Creek Rd. Eliza Richardson's brother was Mr. James Richardson, the well-known grocer, of Pall Mall and Golden-square, who died at his residence, "Balgownie," Short street, on Thursday 22 Jan 1914. James Richardson was a native of Scotland. He was born at Glasgow in1849 and was only eight years of age when his parents sailed for Australia in the ship Balmoral. The family arrived in Melbourne in 1857 and went to Taradale, where Mr. Richardson, senr., acted as inspector of works during the construction of the Taradale Viaduct. James Richardson, who had commenced his educationin Glasgow, attended school at Taradale until the family removed to Bendigo at the time the railway was being built from Bendigo to Echuca. The contractors for this work engaged Mr Richardson, senr., as their timekeeper. When he left school James Richardson applied himself to learn the grocery business, and he gained a thorough knowledge of it with different employers at Bendigo, Taradale, and Daylesford. In 1872 he opened a grocery store on his own account in High-Street, Bendigo, but within a few months he had the great misfortune to be burnt out. The fire originated in an adjoining building early one morning and both places were burnt to the ground. In spite of his loss, Mr. Richardson was not discouraged, for he soon made another start. His trade improved and he extended his business, opening the Eclipse Cash Store at Golden Square. A little later another branch was opened at the Oddfellows' Hall, and subsequently this business was transferred to the Eureka Cash Store, in Pall Mall, which was the head depot. In addition to the retail trade, Mr. Richardson had, for many years carried on an extensive wholesale business with the Northern District, and had made a specialty of fodder seeds. James was a man of probity and sincerity in business, and as a citizen he was highly esteemed and respected. He was a prominent member of the Bendigo Caledonian Society in the earlier days of his citizenship. He was a staunch member of St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, and was a member of the board of management. In the Easter Fair procession, Mr Richardson's display was always a prominent and attractive one. Mr. Richardson was a member of the Masonic Order, and was a life member of the Bendigo Art Gallery and the old Mechanics Institute. He was married at Daylesford in 1871. Mr James Richardson was interred in the Presbyterian section of the Bendigo Cemetery.A selection of Graydon and Richardson family photographs taken by Bendigo photograpers. all photos unnamed.photograph, person, graydon and richardson families.

The oldest child of Susan and William Garnsworthy Bennett, Elizabeth Bennett was noted for her involvement in community and church activities. She was organist at St Paul's Church of England for many years. Elizabeth Bennett married William Todd (the younger, son of William Todd Snr and his wife Sarah, née Thompson) on New Year's Day in 1882, and they celebrated their Golden Wedding in 1932. Elizabeth and William Todd had at least nine children.Black and white copy of original photograph. Photograph is a head and shoulders portrait of a woman whose dark hair has a central parting and is drawn back from her face. She is not wearing a cap or hat. Her dress has a high collar, with lace and a brooch pinned at the throat. The bodice of the dress has pintucks, lace trimming and buttons. Elizabeth (Lizzie) Todd, née Elizabeth Bennett, 1858-1949.elizabeth todd née bennett

This dress was worn by Alice Bell on the day of her marriage to Henry Whisson in 1902 at Kaniva, Victoria.Wedding Dress of Alice May Bellweddings, wedding gowns, dresses, vintage - dresses, alice bell, henry whisson, kaniva - weddings

Early form of home heating and because of the copper dish was considered one of the better models|Manufacturing History Museum Victoria|Commentary: Australian manufacturing history Philip Wollen|Many years ago, when I was an ambition young man, I took over a company called Hecla.|This business was formed in 1872, long before Federation was even contemplated. The company established a rich tradition in the Australian manufacturing industry. The prodigious product range included kettles, mixers, toasters, hairdryers, urns, pie warmers, bain maries, and electric blankets for the domestic and commercial market. During the war it even manufactured parts for aircraft. It was one of Melbourne's largest employers.|Hecla was one of the pioneers in TV advertising, led by icons like Bert Newton, Bobby Limb, Evie Hayes and Graham Kennedy who ad Jibbed his way through irreverent and unscripted naughtiness about Hecla electric blankets and foot warmers. The slogan was 'By Hecla, its good.'. One can imagine the fun Bert and Graham had with their double entendres.|In the 60's Hecla entered into a partnership with General Electric and expanded rapidly. The massive factory, on the corner of Alexandra Parade and Chapel Street overlooking the Yarra River was a Melbourne landmark.|The business was formed by one of the scions of Melbourne industry. Mr Marriott was a metal worker of some repute, building the lights in front of Melbourne's Parliament House, the first steam car, the sideboard at the RACY Club, and the first factory to run on electricity.|By the time I acquired the company it was a shadow of its former self, incapable of competing with cheap Chinese imports. Wandering around the warehouse late one night I discovered a large, boarded up storeroom which appeared not to have been opened in decades.|Over several months I combed through the room, unearthing a treasure trove of products from a bygone era. Dusty files, engineering drawings, wooden prototypes, patent records, and correspondence from distributors on every continent.|I decided to track down an old man, Ray, long retired after 50 years with Hecla. He was not well off financially and welcomed the paid work. It turned out that he had done his apprenticeship with the company and there wasn't much he didn't know about it. He had been personally involved in the manufacture of almost every type of product on the Hecla smorgasbord's of products.|So for over 2 years he methodically assembled a mini museum of Hecla products, painstakingly polishing them and ensuring they were in working order. He attached the original brochure of each product and their respective warranty cards. For him it was ,a labour of love. For me it was a fascinating, if vicarious journey, into Australia's manufacturing past.|My colleagues complained that I was wasting money on his salary, our time and factory space on stuff that should have been dumped years ago. I tried to explain that I was merely a steward of the Hecla tradition, not merely an owner. Besides, the look on Ray's face convinced me that there was another dynamic at work. One I could see, but didn't really understand.|After he Passed away I faced a dilemma. What to do with this 'museum' of Hecla history. Nobody was interested.|So I kept the 'stuff' in private storage, hoping that same day someone would be interested in it. And the years passed.|Finally, I had a brainwave. Perhaps the Melbourne Museum would be interested. It was a long shot but I made the call. I had a nagging suspicion that they would think I was simply trying to get them to relieve me of paying for this huge collection to be taken to the tip.|To my surprise they said they would be willing to take a look, I secretly hoped that they would take the whole collection and not leave me with an incomplete jumble of appliances that I would indeed have to take to the tip.|On the appointed day, four serious looking young people showed up. Armed with digital cameras, note books and poker faces they spent four hours analysing the goods and the supporting materials. I asked them if they had any interest and their response was decidedly non-committal. It depends on the acquisitions committee, I was told. I was disheartened and packed up the exhibits to go back into storage.|Imagine my surprise when months later they telephoned to say that they had researched the history of the company, and yes, they would like to take the whole collection. And a truck with 'handlers' would arrive the following day to pick it up. Two years ago all Hecla's archives left me forever and went to the Museum's warehouse.|Well, to my delight I received a call yesterday inviting me to a private viewing of the exhibition at the Melbourne Museum. These young historians had meticulously assembled an impressive display of Melbourne's industry and technology going back to the 1800's. They thanked me like a significant benefactor when it is I who should have thanked them.|I saw the excitement in the eyes of these young people who had somehow managed to dig out and assemble memories from Australia's past. If this is the standard of care that the curators of the Melbourne Museum show all their exhibits, our history is in safe hands.|Their meticulous work took me back to those years long ago when I saw an old man lovingly assembling and cataloging a lifetime of his work.|It took me back to the day when Australians actually made things. Long before we became a nation of quarrymen. Before we became animal-factory 'farmers'. Of a time when products didn't break down, or dumped and replaced before the warranty expired. When men like Mr Marriott cared deeply about what their hands produced.|It reminded me of the call I received from an elderly lady in Tasmania asking for the electrical element for a Hecla K7 kettle. I searched the archives and called her back. The K7 was produced decades earlier and we no longer carried that spare part. She was quite disheartened and told me her kettle had finally 'given up the ghost' and she couldn't bear to part with it. It was a present from her husband on their wedding day 45 years ago. Her final words were 'they don't make them like that, do they? By Hecla they were good.'|I'm glad I followed my instinct and put Ray back on the payroll all those years ago..|I like to think Mr Marriott would have been pleased.Pedestal radiator. Base is cast iron with three feet with rose design on each. Pedestal supports a copper spherical reflector plate which has an electrical connection box at its base. The connection box is joined to the pedestal by a screw and nut to enable the reflector to be tilted. The element is cone shaped and is in the centre of the plate. The element is protected by a wire guard.Hecla Firedomestic items, heating

Charles Wallace Gordon Graydon the First came out to Victoria on the S.S. Almora, the same ship on which Eliza Richardson and her family arrived on New Years Day 1875. Evidently C.W.G.G.1st. must have retained fond memories of a young fourteen-year-old girl named Elizabeth Richardson who travelled from Scotland with her mother and family (her father had arrived earlier) because three years later at Kyneton they were married. It was December 26th, 1860, and Elizabeth was just seventeen. As the bridegroom’s age is written as 24 years on the wedding certificate, he certainly must have been more than eighteen when he sailed on the "Almora" in 1856. The newly married couple went to live at Taradale, Victoria, and they made a good life for themselves in that town which had then a thriving gold mine. They lived in a large two-storied house in Survey Paddock, and it was there that four daughters - Susan Emily (1861-1906), Elizabeth Constance (1863-1945), Amelia Amy (1865 -1952, Ada Mary Maude (1867-1901), and one son Newenham Edward Eustace (1869-1945) named after his Irish Grandfather, were born. On his wedding certificate C.W.G. Graydon, is described as a foreman. His father-in-law, Robert Richardson was employed as a timekeeper on the Melbourne to Bendigo Railway works, and he and his family lived first in Prahran, then Kyneton, and then Taradale. Perhaps Charles Graydon worked on the railway with him. In Taradale however, he worked for a gold mining company in a surveying capacity. C.W.G.G.1st was to become Shire President of the Shire of Metcalfe. That particular year the Graydon Family entertained the visiting English cricket Eleven at their home in Taradale. He was certainly regarded as an important man in the district when he was requested by a great number of the residents to nominate for the Legislative Assembly election. About 1876 the Graydons left Taradale, and went to live at Sandhurst, now Bendigo, at Barkly Place East. The Richardsons had also left Taradale to go into the grocery business in the same town. Charles Wallace Gordon Graydon the First became a legal manager of mines, and a well-known and popular resident. Sad to say he became ill with a lung infection, and on June 4th. 1885 he died, and was buried at Sandhurst, now Bendigo Cemetery, Back Creek Rd. Eliza Richardson's brother was Mr. James Richardson, the well-known grocer, of Pall Mall and Golden-square, who died at his residence, "Balgownie," Short Street, on Thursday 22 Jan 1914. James Richardson was a native of Scotland. He was born at Glasgow in1849 and was only eight years of age when his parents sailed for Australia in the ship Balmoral. The family arrived in Melbourne in 1857 and went to Taradale, where Mr. Richardson, senior., acted as inspector of works during the construction of the Taradale Viaduct. James Richardson, who had commenced his education in Glasgow, attended school at Taradale until the family removed to Bendigo at the time the railway was being built from Bendigo to Echuca. The contractors for this work engaged Mr. Richardson, as their timekeeper. When he left school James Richardson applied himself to learn the grocery business, and he gained a thorough knowledge of it with different employers at Bendigo, Taradale, and Daylesford. In 1872 he opened a grocery store on his own account in High-Street, Bendigo, but within a few months he had the great misfortune to be burnt out. The fire originated in an adjoining building early one morning and both places were burnt to the ground. In spite of his loss, Mr. Richardson was not discouraged, for he soon made another start. His trade improved and he extended his business, opening the Eclipse Cash Store at Golden Square. A little later another branch was opened at the Oddfellows' Hall, and subsequently this business was transferred to the Eureka Cash Store, in Pall Mall, which was the head depot. In addition to the retail trade, Mr. Richardson had, for many years carried on an extensive wholesale business with the Northern District and had made a specialty of fodder seeds. James was a man of probity and sincerity in business, and as a citizen he was highly esteemed and respected. He was a prominent member of the Bendigo Caledonian Society in the earlier days of his citizenship. He was a staunch member of St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, and was a member of the board of management. In the Easter Fair procession, Mr. Richardson's display was always a prominent and attractive one. Mr. Richardson was a member of the Masonic Order and was a life member of the Bendigo Art Gallery and the old Mechanics Institute. He was married at Daylesford in 1871. Mr James Richardson was interred in the Presbyterian section of the Bendigo Cemetery.DVD A selection of Graydon and Richardson family photographs taken by Bendigo photographers, and family history notesphotograph, person, graydon and richardson families.

Manufacturing History Museum Victoria|Commentary: Australian manufacturing history Philip Wollen|Many years ago, when I was an ambition young man, I took over a company called Hecla. This business was formed in 1872, long before Federation was even contemplated. The company established a rich tradition in the Australian manufacturing industry. The prodigious product range included kettles, mixers, toasters, hairdryers, urns, pie warmers, bain maries, and electric blankets for the domestic and commercial market. During the war it even manufactured parts for aircraft. It was one of Melbourne's largest employers.|Hecla was one of the pioneers in TV advertising, led by icons like Bert Newton, Bobby Limb, Evie Hayes and Graham Kennedy who ad Jibbed his way through irreverent and unscripted naughtiness about Hecla electric blankets and foot warmers. The slogan was 'By Hecla, its good.'. One can imagine the fun Bert and Graham had with their double entendres.|In the 60's Hecla entered into a partnership with General Electric and expanded rapidly. The massive factory, on the corner of Alexandra Parade and Chapel Street overlooking the Yarra River was a Melbourne landmark.|The business was formed by one of the scions of Melbourne industry. Mr Marriott was a metal worker of some repute, building the lights in front of Melbourne's Parliament House, the first steam car, the sideboard at the RACY Club, and the first factory to run on electricity.|By the time I acquired the company it was a shadow of its former self, incapable of competing with cheap Chinese imports. Wandering around the warehouse late one night I discovered a large, boarded up storeroom which appeared not to have been opened in decades.|Over several months I combed through the room, unearthing a treasure trove of products from a bygone era. Dusty files, engineering drawings, wooden prototypes, patent records, and correspondence from distributors on every continent.|I decided to track down an old man, Ray, long retired after 50 years with Hecla. He was not well off financially and welcomed the paid work. It turned out that he had done his apprenticeship with the company and there wasn't much he didn't know about it. He had been personally involved in the manufacture of almost every type of product on the Hecla smorgasbord's of products.|So for over 2 years he methodically assembled a mini museum of Hecla products, painstakingly polishing them and ensuring they were in working order. He attached the original brochure of each product and their respective warranty cards. For him it was ,a labour of love. For me it was a fascinating, if vicarious journey, into Australia's manufacturing past.|My colleagues complained that I was wasting money on his salary, our time and factory space on stuff that should have been dumped years ago. I tried to explain that I was merely a steward of the Hecla tradition, not merely an owner. Besides, the look on Ray's face convinced me that there was another dynamic at work. One I could see, but didn't really understand.|After he Passed away I faced a dilemma. What to do with this 'museum' of Hecla history. Nobody was interested.|So I kept the 'stuff' in private storage, hoping that same day someone would be interested in it. And the years passed.|Finally, I had a brainwave. Perhaps the Melbourne Museum would be interested. It was a long shot but I made the call. I had a nagging suspicion that they would think I was simply trying to get them to relieve me of paying for this huge collection to be taken to the tip.|To my surprise they said they would be willing to take a look, I secretly hoped that they would take the whole collection and not leave me with an incomplete jumble of appliances that I would indeed have to take to the tip.|On the appointed day, four serious looking young people showed up. Armed with digital cameras, note books and poker faces they spent four hours analysing the goods and the supporting materials. I asked them if they had any interest and their response was decidedly non-committal. It depends on the acquisitions committee, I was told. I was disheartened and packed up the exhibits to go back into storage.|Imagine my surprise when months later they telephoned to say that they had researched the history of the company, and yes, they would like to take the whole collection. And a truck with 'handlers' would arrive the following day to pick it up. Two years ago all Hecla's archives left me forever and went to the Museum's warehouse.|Well, to my delight I received a call yesterday inviting me to a private viewing of the exhibition at the Melbourne Museum. These young historians had meticulously assembled an impressive display of Melbourne's industry and technology going back to the 1800's. They thanked me like a significant benefactor when it is I who should have thanked them.|I saw the excitement in the eyes of these young people who had somehow managed to dig out and assemble memories from Australia's past. If this is the standard of care that the curators of the Melbourne Museum show all their exhibits, our history is in safe hands.|Their meticulous work took me back to those years long ago when I saw an old man lovingly assembling and cataloging a lifetime of his work.|It took me back to the day when Australians actually made things. Long before we became a nation of quarrymen. Before we became animal-factory 'farmers'. Of a time when products didn't break down, or dumped and replaced before the warranty expired. When men like Mr Marriott cared deeply about what their hands produced.|It reminded me of the call I received from an elderly lady in Tasmania asking for the electrical element for a Hecla K7 kettle. I searched the archives and called her back. The K7 was produced decades earlier and we no longer carried that spare part. She was quite disheartened and told me her kettle had finally 'given up the ghost' and she couldn't bear to part with it. It was a present from her husband on their wedding day 45 years ago. Her final words were 'they don't make them like that, do they? By Hecla they were good.'|I'm glad I followed my instinct and put Ray back on the payroll all those years ago..|I like to think Mr Marriott would have been pleased.Large electric heater with two radiator bars and a protective grille at the top and false coals at the bottom.Replacements for this fire - Elements No. F314 - Illuminators No. 3P. Berry's Electric Ltd - Volts 230 - 240 -Watts 2000 V/AD/Cat No. 454 . Made in Australia by Hecla Electrics Pty Ltd Melbournedomestic items, heating

Stanley Bruce was an Australian politician and diplomat, who served as Prime Minister between 1923 and 1929, when he became the first Prime Minister to lose his seat at an election. Lizzie Bennett married William Todd at Linton on New Year's Day 1882, and the Todds celebrated their Golden Wedding at Linton in 1932.Letter of thanks dated 19th February 1932, from S. M. Bruce, Commonwealth Treasury, Canberra, F.C.T. to Mrs L. Todd 10 Raglan Street, Ballarat.Text: COMMONWEALTH TREASURY / CANBERRA, F.C.T. " On back of letter: "My mother like myself used to write to congratulate any one for a good job done. australia gave this man a rough handling which didn't please my mother so she wrote to him this is the reply".stanley bruce, elizabeth (lizzie) todd

Used by Colin Sach during his employment as Manager of the Chemistry Dept. at the University of Melbourne over a period of forty years.Manufacturing History Museum Victoria Commentary: Australian manufacturing history Philip Wollen Many years ago, when I was an ambition young man, I took over a company called Hecla.|This business was formed in 1872, long before Federation was even contemplated. The company established a rich tradition in the Australian manufacturing industry. The prodigious product range included kettles, mixers, toasters, hairdryers, urns, pie warmers, bain maries, and electric blankets for the domestic and commercial market. During the war it even manufactured parts for aircraft. It was one of Melbourne's largest employers.|Hecla was one of the pioneers in TV advertising, led by icons like Bert Newton, Bobby Limb, Evie Hayes and Graham Kennedy who ad Jibbed his way through irreverent and unscripted naughtiness about Hecla electric blankets and foot warmers. The slogan was 'By Hecla, its good1'. One can imagine the fun Bert and Graham had with their double entendres.|In the 60's Hecla entered into a partnership with General Electric and expanded rapidly. The massive factory, on the corner of Alexandra Parade and Chapel Street overlooking the Yarra River was a Melbourne landmark.|The business was formed by one of the scions of Melbourne industry. Mr Marriott was a metal worker of some repute, building the lights in front of Melbourne's Parliament House, the first steam car, the sideboard at the RACY Club, and the first factory to run on electricity.|By the time I acquired the company it was a shadow of its former self, incapable of competing with cheap Chinese imports. Wandering around the warehouse late one night I discovered a large, boarded up storeroom which appeared not to have been opened in decades.|Over several months I combed through the room, unearthing a treasure trove of products from a bygone era. Dusty files, engineering drawings, wooden prototypes, patent records, and correspondence from distributors on every continent.|I decided to track down an old man, Ray, long retired after 50 years with Hecla. He was not well off financially and welcomed the paid work. It turned out that he had done his apprenticeship with the company and there wasn't much he didn't know about it. He had been personally involved in the manufacture of almost every type of product on the Hecla smorgasbord's of products.|So for over 2 years he methodically assembled a mini museum of Hecla products, painstakingly polishing them and ensuring they were in working order. He attached the original brochure of each product and their respective warranty cards. For him it was ,a labour of love. For me it was a fascinating, if vicarious journey, into Australia's manufacturing past.|My colleagues complained that I was wasting money on his salary, our time and factory space on stuff that should have been dumped years ago. I tried to explain that I was merely a steward of the Hecla tradition, not merely an owner. Besides, the look on Ray's face convinced me that there was another dynamic at work. One I could see, but didn't really understand.|After he Passed away I faced a dilemma. What to do with this 'museum' of Hecla history. Nobody was interested.|So I kept the 'stuff' in private storage, hoping that same day someone would be interested in it. And the years passed.|Finally, I had a brainwave. Perhaps the Melbourne Museum would be interested. It was a long shot but I made the call. I had a nagging suspicion that they would think I was simply trying to get them to relieve me of paying for this huge collection to be taken to the tip.|To my surprise they said they would be willing to take a look, I secretly hoped that they would take the whole collection and not leave me with an incomplete jumble of appliances that I would indeed have to take to the tip.|On the appointed day, four serious looking young people showed up. Armed with digital cameras, note books and poker faces they spent four hours analysing the goods and the supporting materials. I asked them if they had any interest and their response was decidedly non-committal. It depends on the acquisitions committee, I was told. I was disheartened and packed up the exhibits to go back into storage.|Imagine my surprise when months later they telephoned to say that they had researched the history of the company, and yes, they would like to take the whole collection. And a truck with 'handlers' would arrive the following day to pick it up. Two years ago all Hecla's archives left me forever and went to the Museum's warehouse.|Well, to my delight I received a call yesterday inviting me to a private viewing of the exhibition at the Melbourne Museum. These young historians had meticulously assembled an impressive display of Melbourne's industry and technology going back to the 1800's. They thanked me like a significant benefactor when it is I who should have thanked them.|I saw the excitement in the eyes of these young people who had somehow managed to dig out and assemble memories from Australia's past. If this is the standard of care that the curators of the Melbourne Museum show all their exhibits, our history is in safe hands.|Their meticulous work took me back to those years long ago when I saw an old man lovingly assembling and cataloging a lifetime of his work.|It took me back to the day when Australians actually made things. Long before we became a nation of quarrymen. Before we became animal-factory 'farmers'. Of a time when products didn't break down, or dumped and replaced before the warranty expired. When men like Mr Marriott cared deeply about what their hands produced.|It reminded me of the call I received from an elderly lady in Tasmania asking for the electrical element for a Hecla K7 kettle. I searched the archives and called her back. The K7 was produced decades earlier and we no longer carried that spare part. She was quite disheartened and told me her kettle had finally 'given up the ghost' and she couldn't bear to part with it. It was a present from her husband on their wedding day 45 years ago. Her final words were 'they don't make them like that, do they? By Hecla they were good1'|I'm glad I followed my instinct and put Ray back on the payroll all those years ago..|I like to think Mr Marriott would have been pleased.Square metal box with electrical elements inside. Used to stand on or to put feet on when sitting. Elaborate pattern in centre with inscription.Hecla Foot Warmerdomestic items, heating

The Bendigo Womens Auxiliary was actually formed in 1936 and went through until 2002. Due the Soldiers Memorial Institute becoming a Museum and the formation of the Bendigo District RSL Sub Branch Inc the Auxiliary decided to cease fund raising. Their last meeting was held on 26.8.2002. During their time at SMI the Ladies conducted weddings, functions and other fund raisers to support the Bendigo RSL. At the RSL Annual Dinner each year which the ladies catered for they would present the RSL with a cheque. The Auxiliary were awarded 6 Life Memberships and two Certificates of Merit with gold badge.Charter, small brown section timber frame with details on white background. Top has the RSL badge with flags either side followed by the wording establishing the Auxiliary. Main wording is in gold colour.Main wording, " Victorian Branch hereby establishes and constitutes the Bendigo Womens Auxiliary" "Dated at Melb the 25th Day of May 1994" "Bruce Ruxton State President" "......... State Secretary"brsl, smirsl, charter, auxiliary, wabrsl