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matching record of great war
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Melbourne Legacy
Book, AUSTRALIA'S RECORD, c.1920
Pictorial and written record of Australian generals in World War 1. From Trove it is 'Record of the Australian Imperial Force in the Great War 4th August 1914 - 28th June 1919' by J.W. Sanders. Published in approximate 1920. More details to be added. TBA and check locationShows British and Foreign honours bestowed on generals, and commands held in the Australian Army during World War 1.A bound green ledger of Australia's generals in the first world war.Title printed in capital letters and underlined with an arc, gold lettering. Badge of the Rising Sun and inscription underneath badge (AUSTRALIAN COMMONWEALTH MILITARY FORCES) printed in gold lettering.world war one, australian imperial force, history -
Melbourne Legacy
Memorabilia, Legatee Grattan, c.1989
Framed commemoration piece about Legatee Oriel John Grattan, born 19 September 1894 in West Melbourne. Served in 103rd Battery AIS in the Great War. Served as a Legatee from 10 March 1939. Awarded fifty-year certificate as a Legatee on 10 March 1989. Possibly made to commemorate Legatee Grattan's 50 years of service to Melbourne Legacy. Legatee Grattan was usually referred to as Grat. He was instrumental in the acquisition of the first property owned by Legacy after the bequest of a sizeable donation, see item at 00964.Significant historical record of the life and service of a LegateeFramed collage of documents, photographs, medals, letters and medallions commemorating the life and service of Legatee Oriel John Grattan to Melbourne Legacy. Contains: Birth notice Birth certificate Certificate of marriage Discharge certificate from the Great War dated 12 October 1919 Letter from Buckingham Palace signed by King George V thanking troops for their service to the 'Mother Country' 4 military medals with ribbons 2 commemorative $5 coins in plastic cases Medallion commemoration the 75th anniversary of the Anzac landing at Gallipoli Ville D'Amiens medallion Various photographs Melbourne Legacy 50-year service certificatemedallion, grattan -
Melbourne Legacy
Postcard, City Hall, Belfast, c.1920
A postcard from Belfast. Part of the collection relating to John Basil McLean, who normally signs himself Basil. He returned to Australia in April 1920. The date on this card implies someone sent this a few months later from Belfast. One of the items relating to JB McLean was a vesta (match) case from Belfast (see item 01125). This postcard was with other World War 1 memorabilia that has come from Private John Basil McLean, 2nd Reinforcements, 37th Battalion, A.I.F. Possibly these were with him during his time in the First World War and kept them as a mementos. J.B. McLean (Service No. 13824) was from near Maffra, Victoria and enlisted on 22 January 1916. He embarked on 16 December 1916 for Europe. He spent time with the Australian Field Artillery (Pack Section). At the end of the war he worked for a year at the A.I.F. Headquarters in London before returning to Australia on the 'Ceramic', arriving in Portsea in 1920. His full war record is available from the National Archives of Australia (B2455, MCLEAN JBM).Postcards were a very common form of communication. They were also a common souvenir. This type of correspondence would have been familiar to the first Legatees as they had served in World War 1.Standard size postcard showing coloured image of City Hall, Belfast. Front - “City Hall, Belfast / 46398 JV” Back - “Belfast / 18.8.20 / Dear Jack, / I am just here for a / few days on holiday. It’s / charming on the outskirts, and / the scenery is great, though ‘spose / it does not come up to the Blue / Mtns. Many thanks for the book / of views. Am sure you must / have enjoyed your stay amongst / the mountains, and weren’t you / lucky in obtaining 2 months / leave. We’ve just been over this / town hall. The whole of / the interior is practically / built of white and green / marble, with some wonderful old wood carving dotted here / and there. Suppose you have / now settled down, and of course / its getting for summer with / you now. Hope you are / very well. Yours sincerely / Dorothy”souvenir, postcard -
Otway Districts Historical Society
Book, Government Printer, The Education Department's Record of War Service, Victoria, 1914-1919, c.1921
From the beginning of World War 1 in August, 1914, until it ended in November, 1918, teachers from across Victoria enlisted for the Australian Imperial Force and embarked for overseas. Anzac, the Sinai Desert, the vast fields of France, and in Palestine the Education Department soldier-teachers toiled manfully thoughout. Of the 752 enlistments 724 were teachers, two were School Medical Officers, one was a School Nurse, one an Inspector of Schools, while the remaining 24 belonged to the clerical division employed by the Education Department. 146 died. But it was not only teachers who contributed to the war effort. Children and parents gave 400,000 articles of comfort sent abroad, contributed as a rough estimate 460 tons of supplies to hospitals at home, made contributions of £50,000 to The Young Workers' Patriotic Guild, and £217,419 for the war savings effort in the schools, and £422, 470 in general school subscriptions.Hardcover book, bound with brown cloth cover and gold embossed title containing 306 pages, black and white photographs and illustrations and text. This book, published to keep before teachers and children expamples of service and sacrifice in a great cause, is presented to the Hordern Vale School. It should be kept in an honoured place as a souirce of guidance and inspiration for successive generations.great war, wwi, victoria, education department victoria, teachers, enlistments, honors, decorations, war service records, first world war, world war one -
Kyneton RSL Sub Branch
Framed certificate of service
Framed WW1 service certificate given to Pte Keith F Anderson from the residents and Councillors of Trentham & District."District of Trentham for Liberty Anzacs for Justice for King & Country. The Councillors & residents of Trentham & District hereby place on record their thanks and appreciation of the conduct of private Keith F Anderson who served his king & country in the Great War which commenced on 4th August 1914. Signed on behalf of the residents David ? Councillor G Daniel Chairman Oct 25, 1919 James Brown Secretary" -
Kyneton RSL Sub Branch
Victory medal
Dvr Young was born in Kyneton. He enlisted in 1917 in the Light Horse Regiment and served in France. He returned to Australia and was discharged in 1919.Local born service-man, joined the Light Horse regiment as many other local lads did.IMAGE 1 Medal with ribbon, mounted on card containing information about Dvr C T M Young 2639 IMAGE 2 Medal onlyThe rim of the medal has Dvr Young’s name and number engraved on it. On the back of the medal: The Great War for civilisation. 1914 - 1919 Card records information concerning Dvr Young's service records.ww1 -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Certificate, Town of Kew, Thomas Evan Rand : Roll of Honor of the Town of Kew, 1918
Thomas Evan Rand was born at Hawthorn. He enlisted for service during World War One as an almost 20 year old engineering student, serving with the Australian Flying Corps.A commemorative certificate documenting the war service of Thomas Evan Rand of ‘Urangeline’, Barkers Road, Kew. Thomas Rand was an engineering student when he enrolled as a private in the Australian Army. He embarked on HMAT Orsova A67 on 16 March 1916. He was enlisted in the No 1 Squadron, Flying Corps. The formal certificate records that ‘ Thomas Evan Rand served Australia and the Empire in the Great War and in grateful recognition of his voluntary response to his Country’s Call his name is inscribed on the Roll of Honor of the Town of Kew’. The then Mayor and Town Clerk signed the certificate. [Kew did not become a ‘City’ until 1921]. The certificate highlights emblems and symbols of Australia and Great Britain, and includes the coats of arms of the allies in the war. The certificate is customised with two black and white photographs of Kew: the rotunda in the Alexandra Gardens at left, and boating on the Yarra River at right.Thomas Evan Rand served Australia and the Empire in the Great War and in grateful recognition of his voluntary response to his Country's Call his name is recorded on the Roll of Honor Town of Kew on behalf of the Mayor, Councillors and Burgesses. 1.8.18. E.P. Wynne [Mayor] H. Harrison [Town Clerk]roll of honor (kew), thomas evan rand, world war one, thomas rand, urangeline, kew, australian flying corps, alexandra gardens, wwi, yarra river -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Certificate, Town of Kew, Roll of Honor of the Town of Kew : George Norman Pockett, 1918
George Norman Pockett, who was awarded the certificate was the son of George Pockett , who with his brother designed a number of public parks in Melbourne. George Pockett Snr. was the first curator of the Alexandra Gardens in Kew. (see Comment below)Rolls of Honor were awarded to returned soldiers at the end of the First World War by many towns and cities. This framed certificate awarded to George Norman Pockett by the Town of Kew is one of two held in the Collection. The item is well-provenanced, and through the formal use of emblems and images in the design allows us to make judgements about social and cultural values in the period.Framed Illuminated Certificate: A commemorative certificate documenting the war service of George Norman Pockett of 18 Cobden Street, Kew. George Pockett enrolled at the age of 23 on 5 October 1915, as an engineer in the Australian Army. He embarked on HMAT Wiltshire A18 on 18 November 1915. His rank was that of Warrant Officer Armament Artificer in the 4 FAB [Field Artillery Brigade]. The website of the Australian War Memorial records that he was mentioned in dispatches. The formal certificate records that ‘George Norman Pockett served Australia and the Empire in the Great War and in grateful recognition of his voluntary response to his Country’s Call his name is inscribed on the Roll of Honor of the Town of Kew’. The then Mayor and Town Clerk signed the certificate. [Kew did not become a ‘City’ until 1921]. The certificate highlights emblems and symbols of Australia and Great Britain, and includes the coats of arms of the allies in the war. The certificate is customised with two black and white photographs of Kew: the rotunda in the Alexandra Gardens at left, and boating on the Yarra River at right.George Norman Pockett served Australia and the Empire in the Great War and in grateful recognition of his voluntary response to his Country's Call his name is recorded on the Roll of Honor Town of Kew on behalf of the Mayor, Councillors and Burgesses. 1.8.18. E.P. Wynne [Mayor] H. Harrison [Town Clerk]george norman pockett, first world war - memorabilia - certificates, town of kew (vic), kew war memorial - roll of honor, wwi -
Lilydale RSL Sub Branch
Certificate - Framed Certificate of Thanks and Appreciation, 24/5/1918
Framed Certificate in carved wooden frame headed "In Freedom's Cause"Shire of Upper Yarra ---- The President and Councillors and Ratepayers of the Shire of Upper Yarra Hereby place on record their thanks and Appreciation for the Conduct of Leslie Raymond Jack who served his King and Country in the Great War. In Witness Whereof the Corporate Seal of the Municipality is hereto attached in the presence of. -
Lilydale RSL Sub Branch
Certificate, "In Freedoms Cause"
Framed Certificate for Leslie Raymond JackShire of Upper Yarra/ The President, Councilors and Ratepayers of the Shire of Upper Yarra hereby place on record their thanks and appreciation for the conduct of Leslie Raymond Jack who served his King and Country in The Great War/ In Witness whereof the Corporate Seal of the Municipality is hereto attached in the presence of / A J Speers President, Henry E Glynn, Councillor. H B Wornerslie, Secretary. Dated 24/5/1918. / All Honour to the Brave. -
Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, Cassell and Company, The grand fleet, 1914-16 : its creation, development and work, 1919
A record of the work of the Grand Fleet from the outbreak of war until the end of November 1916Index, ill, maps, p.517.non-fictionA record of the work of the Grand Fleet from the outbreak of war until the end of November 1916 world war 1914-1918 - naval operations, great britain - royal navy -
Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, F.M. Cutlack, War letters of General Monash, 1934
Monash in his own words . . .Long before this letter can possibly reach you, great events which will stir the whole world and go down in history will have happened, to the eternal glory of Australia and all who have participated. - John Monash, 24 April 1915These extraordinary, intimate letters from General Sir John Monash to his wife and daughter, record his experiences throughout World War I, from landing at Gallipoli to leading decisive battles on the Western Front. Monash describes with great candour the challenges of ordering the lives of tens of thousands of troops.Ill, maps, p.299.non-fictionMonash in his own words . . .Long before this letter can possibly reach you, great events which will stir the whole world and go down in history will have happened, to the eternal glory of Australia and all who have participated. - John Monash, 24 April 1915These extraordinary, intimate letters from General Sir John Monash to his wife and daughter, record his experiences throughout World War I, from landing at Gallipoli to leading decisive battles on the Western Front. Monash describes with great candour the challenges of ordering the lives of tens of thousands of troops.world war 1914-1918 - personal recollections, australian army - correspondence -
Mrs Aeneas Gunn Memorial Library
Book, 12th Battalion Association, The story of the twelfth : a record of the 12th Battalion, A.I.F. during the Great War of 1914-1918, 1925
The story of the 12th battalion in the Great WarIll, maps, p.508.non-fictionThe story of the 12th battalion in the Great Warworld war 1914-1918 - regimental histories - australia, australian imperial force - 12th battalion -
Beechworth RSL Sub-Branch
Silk Postcard Collection 1914-1919, Tom Eastwell collection - postcard No:1, Pre 1914
The popularity of woven sild postcards peaked during the First Workd War 1914-1918. A thriving cottage industry began around 1915 and the quaity and colours of the silks used is extremely high. This card is one of three cards presented by the Tom Eastwell family in 2018. Further infirmation on Australian War memorial website: www.awmgov/collection/accessing-records-at-the-memorial/findingaids/guide-silk-postcard-collection#S11Historic and social significance: the ability of the sender to reassure their family of their wellbeing through the sending of embroidered postcards was a common practice among deployed servicemen during the First World War.Small light embossed cardboard and woven silk with embroidery on the front. The rear for correspondance, name and postal detailsWoven silk cards were first made in 1900 for the Paris Exhibution and became popular during WWI 1914-1918 . Embroidery depicting flags of France, Great Britain, Germany, Belgium and Italy, laurel leaf wreath, a thistle, red rose and the Red Cross Insignia. A check on the colours and design of all flags should be conducted. Message on rear: “With Best Love To Little Maisie from Tom xxxxxxxxxxxx “. post card; carte postale; postkaart; embroidered postcard -
Beechworth RSL Sub-Branch
Print - Chronological Record Great War 1914 - 19
... Chronological Record Great War 1914 - 19...-country Print Chronological Record Great War 1914 - 19 ... -
Melbourne Legacy
Work on paper, Legacy Charter, 1930
An original 1930 Charter of Legacy which was drawn up by Legatee Cyril Smith, and adopted at the 1930 Canberra Conference. The Spirit of Legacy is Service. The care of dependents of comrades who served in the Great War and who gave their lives or health, affords a field for Service. Safeguarding the interests of children is a service worth rendering and their interests include their mental, moral, vocational and physical welfare. Personal effort is the main essential. In as much as these are the activities of Legacy, it is your privilege to accept the "Legacy of the Fallen comrades". Therefore you men who served overseas with honourable records form you a Club to be known as the "Melbourne Legacy Club" and keep fair the name of Legacy. Dated this 30th day of September in the year of our Lord 1930". Signed by FC Green, President, and James Stewart, Secretary, Central Liaison Committee 1930-1931.A record that the early legatees drew up a Charter for all clubs to follow outlining their main goals.A framed early copy of the Legacy Charter.Signed by two legatees, FC Green and James Stewart in black ink.charter, rules -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Certificate - Recognition of Service World War II - Ian Darnton Watson, 1946
Ian Darnton Watson was a member of a prominent family of civic leaders in Wodonga. He was born on 6th July 1925 in Albury, the first son of Kenneth Darnton Watson and Phyllis Lenore Emily Austin. He completed his primary education at Albury Grammar School, and later became a boarder at Melbourne Church of England Grammar School. He enlisted for service at Albury on 25th January 1944 and commenced full time service on 8th February 1944 at Royal Park in Melbourne, Victoria and was allocated to the 2nd Medium Regiment. He embarked for overseas service in Borneo on 30th July 1945 and disembarked in Australia on 15 April 1947 after serving with the Australian occupation forces in Japan. Mr Watson was discharged on 22 April 1947 at which time he was a member of the Australian 2nd Medical Regiment. On discharge he returned home to help his father farm his property, De Kerilleau in Wodonga. De Kerilleau was classified by the National Trust in 1974. Ian described his father, Kenneth as a hardworking, practical man, who for two years from 1929 - 1931, had been the Wodonga Shire President. Cr K. D. Watson was again elected to the Council in 1943 and served until he died in October 1951. In March 1957, he married Miss Lesley Buttfield, of Sydney, NSW. They had three children, Fiona, John and Rowena. John was later to become a member of Wodonga Council and served as mayor. Ian was past President of the RSL branch at Wodonga, Captain of the Wodonga Rural Fire Brigade, and President of the West Wodonga Primary School Committee. He also served on Wodonga Council from 1974 until his death on 14 December 1981, aged 56.This certificate is significant because it acknowledges the War Service of a prominent member of the Wodonga communityA colour printed certificate presented to Ian Darnton Watson in appreciation for his service for "King and Empire" during World War II. The text is surrounded by columns and an arch. The Australian and British flags are at the top as well as representations of the Navy, Army and Air Force. It also features the logo of the Shire of Wodonga above the text. The badge of the Commonwealth Armed Forces is at the centre bottom of the certificate. This small collection also includes black and white photographs of Ian Watson from his Service Records and another photo in uniformOn Certificate: PRESENTED TO Ian Darnton Watson BY THE PRESIDENT, COUNCILLORS AND CITIZENS OF THE SHIRE OF WODONGA as a record and an appreciation of Your Services to King and Country during the Great War which commenced 3rd September, 1939. Given under the Common Seal of the Shire of Wodonga by the President, Citizens this Councillors and Citizens this 26th day of February 1947watson family wodonga, ian darnton watson, de kerilleau -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Certificate - Recognition of Service World War II - James S. N. Harris
James Stewart Noel Harris was born in Rutherglen on 21 March 1905 to John Richards Harris and Jessie Lily nee Prentice. His father was a doctor in Rutherglen. John later entered politics and was knighted for his services in May 1937. After finishing his secondary schooling James (Stewart) Harris moved to Melbourne to study law, becoming a resident of Trinity College in 1925 and rising to become Senior Student in his final year, 1928-29. He enlisted in the Air Force Cadets at Point Cook in 1925 and transferred to the Air Force Reserve in 1930. On 7th October 1940 James transferred to active service as a Flight Officer. He worked his way up the ranks, being appointed Wing Commander in 1944. He also served as Chief Instructor of the RAAF School of Administration, receiving the RAAF Long Service Commendation. The RAAF School of Administration and Special Duties had moved from Ascot Vale to Trinity College in 1942 meaning that James Harris' service career had returned to the place it began in 1925. In 1945 he requested to be transferred back to the Reserve so that he could resume his civilian life. On discharge, James returned to Wodonga and resumed his legal career. In the early 1930s he had joined the legal practice of Mr. Edmondstone which had opened for business in High Street, Wodonga in 1886. The practice continued to develop and in 1966 was joined by Lou Lieberman, becoming known as “Harris Lieberman & Co”. Harris Lieberman still operates in Wodonga and Albury. James Stewart Noel Harris died in Wodonga on 30th November 1978.This item is significant because it recognises the War Service of a prominent citizen of Wodonga.A colour printed certificate presented to James S. N, Harris in appreciation for his service for "King and Empire" during World War II. The text is surrounded by columns and an arch. The Australian and British flags are at the top as well as representations of the Navy, Army and Air Force. It also features the logo of the Shire of Wodonga above the text. The badge of the Commonwealth Armed Forces is at the centre bottom of the certificate. This small collection also includes black and white photographs of James Samuel Noel Harris in uniform and also saluting on presentation of an award recognising his service in 1942.On Certificate: PRESENTED TO James S. N. Harris BY THE PRESIDENT, COUNCILLORS AND CITIZENS OF THE SHIRE OF WODONGA as a record and an appreciation of Your Services to King and Country during the Great War which commenced 3rd September, 1939. Given under the Common Seal of the Shire of Wodonga by the President, Citizens this Councillors and Citizens this 25th day of February 1946 C F Pollard, Presidentjames stewart noel harris, servicemen wodonga wwii, harris lieberman -
Melbourne Legacy
Photograph - Photo, Widows function, World War 1 Widows Lunch 1996, 1996
A special luncheon was held for World War I widows as a lead up to "Legacy Week". Legatees dressed up as moustached waiters to add a bit of humour to the day. Legatees include L/- Lucky Luscombe and L/- George Woodward as waiters and L/- Salty Saltmarsh making a speech. Due to its success it was held for a number of years. The note with these photos says it was 1996. And the widow featured in Answer article in October 1996 is in these photos wearing the knitted beret. The WWI group would meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 11 at Legacy House for many years until their numbers dwindled. The article in the Answer in October 1996 shows the event is a great photo of widow Beatrice Gay.A record of the type of activities Legacy provided as a social outlet for the widows.Colour photo x 5 of a World War I widows' luncheon in 1996 and an article from the Answer in October 1996.widows, function, answer -
Melbourne Legacy
Certificate - Document, certificate, 1941
A certificate that was given by Melbourne Legacy to Junior Legatees. This was presented to Ronald Edison Harding on the 1st August 1941 and signed by the President Stanley Parkes. A good representation of the process of membership and importance given to being part of Junior Legacy, Melbourne. Text on the certificate: 'During the Great War many men offered themselves for Service in the Forces of the Empire. To assist the children of those who fell, or who have died since, the Melbourne Legacy Club was formed. The Children of deceased sailors and soldiers constitute the Junior Legacy Club.' Also: that the recipient 'had been accepted into membership of the Junior Legacy Club, Melbourne and has undertaken to accept its obligations.'A record of the formalisation process of Junior Legacy membershipPrinted certificate for membership in Junior Legacy Melbourne, this one was presented to Ronald Eidson Harding in 1941.Typed is the recipients name Ronald Edison Harding and the date 1st August 1941. Ink signature of Stanley Parkes.junior legatee, membership -
Melbourne Legacy
Document - Speech, Commemorative Address - Sir Stanley Savige K.B.E. Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs, Canberra, 10/1954
After the death of Stan Savige this address was given at the Canberra Conference in October 1954. It is tribute to his life. Sir Stanley Savige KBE : Commemorative Address Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs, Canberra : October 1954. On the 15th of May this year Legacy learned to its enduring sorrow of the death of its Founder, Lieut. General Stanley George Savige KBE, CB, CBE, DSO, MC, ED, for more than 30 years affectionately known to us all as Legatee Stan Savige. He was the embodiment of all those things for which Legacy stands, and each one of us who knew him and worked with him feels a great and abiding sense of personal loss. It is proper, therefore, that those of us at this Conference, the first after his passing, representative of Legacy throughout the Commonwealth, and comprising so many who were his friends, so many who knew the depth of his love for Legacy, should acknowledge our debt to our Founder and ensure, so far as we may, that the inspiration of his life and work in this Cause shall not be lost to those who follow after. It was not ordained that Stanley George Savige - should enjoy a long life, but it was to prove a life of outstanding service. Born at Morwell in Victoria some 63 years ago, he received with his brothers and sisters such education as was then available to a lad in a mining district. He had no particular opportunities of advancement, but from his early days he cherished a strong ambition to make a success of his life, and with this in view he lost no opportunity of adding to his knowledge. Always a lover of the open country, a good bushman and a fine shot, he became as a young man, a Scoutmaster with a keen following of boys. Even in those early days he attracted youth and showed undoubted promise of the quality of leadership which later was to make him famous. Opportunity came with the first World War, and he took his place as a private soldier in the original 24th Battalion AIF. Followed Gallipoli and Anzac where his marksmanship and bush craft stood him in good stead. Conscious that his early training was not sufficient to secure the promotion he desired, he set himself to enlarge it. Only a man of fine fibre and rare determination could apply himself to study on that war torn Peninsula, where our men, hitherto untested, suffered every known hardship and no man knew, from hour to hour, whether he would survive. But Savige achieved it. Himself then a Corporal he found another Corporal who was a former Schoolmaster and learned from him all that he had to teach. Savige was on his way. He was commissioned on the Field and allotted the heroic task of leading the last party off that desperate coast during the famous evacuation. In France he became the Adjutant of his Battalion and one of the best known officers in the 6th Brigade. He won the Military Cross and was mentioned in despatches. Early in 1918 he received a signal distinction, He was included in a small but distinguished band of Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers from the British and Dominion Forces most carefully selected for individual courage and proved qualities of leadership, and was sent to Persia, under the command of Major-General Dunsterville, Kipling’s famous Stalky, to assist and mobilise the friendly tribes with a view to protecting the road to India, left wide open by the withdrawal of Russia. The story of the Dunsterforce, its suffering and achievements in the face of incredible hardships and difficulties, was later to be told by Savige in his book “Stalky’s Forlorn Hope”. He emerged, finally, unscathed, despite his active participation in several of the bloodiest battles of all time, with the rank of Captain and a DSO and MC to his credit, to say nothing of three mentions in despatches. In later years, further decorations were to be conferred upon him, but I believe he valued none of these so highly as his awards for outstanding personal bravery won in the Field when he was an Officer of comparatively junior rank. Such was the man who in August 1923, at the instance of his former Commander, Major-General Sir John Gellibrand, gathered around him a handful of men who had fought and laughed with him over four well remembered years. This small band adopted the name of “Legacy”, but its purpose then was, in the main, to assist in safeguarding the interests of ex-servicemen in this country. Worthy although the case undoubtedly was, the conception and ideal which was to distinguish Legacy from all kindred post-war movements did not emerge until two years later. The torch had not been lit. Legacy had not yet found its soul. What has been achieved since then is known to you all. The Legacy ideal, unique in its conception, with no known counterpart elsewhere, is now accepted, welcomed and honoured throughout the Commonwealth and abroad. But in those early days the achievements of our Founder in the face of all manner of difficulties and frustrations are worthy of our lasting memory and thankfulness. As the source of every river lies in the hills, so must the inspiration from which stems a great conceptions of service to one’s fellow men be lofty and above reproach. Savige was the embodiment of this new expression of comradeship, as he was the central figure and driving force of the little group that sponsored it. But for his zeal, his faith and determination, it is likely that the flame, newly kindled, might have flickered and died. The idea of men returned from active service pledging for the sake of their former comradeship, their personal assistance to the widows, and above all, to the children of those who had fought beside them and paid the full price of War, was so completely new and unexpected that it was by no means readily accepted. There were no funds, no precedents to guide the new adventurers, only the clear bright flame of an ideal just envisaged, and the conviction that the Cause was unassailable. Nor were there lacking many who said that the community held no place for Legacy, that it was born of sentiment only, and would quickly pass. The scoffers are gone and one since forgotten, but the torch remains and burns brighter than ever. Down the years of Legacy there are many names deserving of honour, men from all States and all stations of life, but no name stands out in such clear and bold relief as does the name of our Founder. By his works you shall know him. He was, in truth, the Soul of Legacy. He sought no office and preferred to work as one of the team. Six years went by before he accepted the Presidency of Melbourne Club, and then only because his fellows would book no further delay. “The Spirit of Legacy is Service” - so runs the Charter, and that was Savige’s Creed. By virtue of his attainments he was called upon to take a leading part in the administration of Legacy, first within his own club and later, as Chairman of the Co-ordinating Council of Legacy in Australia. But always it was the essentially human character of the work which enthralled and upheld him, and the tasks which gave him most joy were those which brought him into close personal contact with the youngsters and their home life. Like their elders they recognised his goodwill and his leadership and responded to it. It was Savige who made possible the first camps held for the boys and girls by Melbourne Club. These were erected on his own seaside property, and were originally conducted under his personal direction and largely with the aid of funds he had collected. There was hardly an important post in his own Club that Savige did not at some time occupy and adorn. He was happiest in the company of those men with whom he had served in the field, and cherished always the comradeship born of active service which is of the essence of Legacy. He was a man of strong convictions but attentive always to another’s point of view. As a Legatee he played a leading part in bringing hope and encouragement to many a mother on whom the whole responsibility of a young family had been suddenly and tragically laid; in the attainment of the ambitions of many an orphan child, which not so long since had seemed to him or her to be mere dreams, impossible of realisation. Comfort for the bereaved, new hope for the children’s physical and educational welfare, assistance with the home, aid for the sick, money for the needy and a new courage to face a future that hitherto had held no promise, all these facets of Legacy endeavour combine to present a living and enduring memorial to the man we honour as our Founder today. Between the two World Wars in addition to establishing himself successfully in civilian life and answering the constant calls of Legacy on his energy and time, Savige maintained an active association with the Army. He was convinced that a Second AIF would one day be urgently called upon, and as a Battalion Commander he spared no effort to train the Officers under his charge during the uneasy years of peace for the trial that he felt must come. These men have all subsequently had distinguished military careers, their names are well known and many of the serve in Legacy today. When the second crisis came, Savige himself was one of the first to offer, and although his youth was spent, he proudly carried the number VX13 throughout the terrible years that followed. This time he was to command, first the 17th Australian Infantry Brigade in the first action of the Second AIF against the enemy at Barida, and subsequently at Tobruk and Derna - all famous names now. It was his patrols which gave the warning - unheeded at the time - that Rommel’s reinforcements were reaching North Africa far earlier than was expected. Then followed the grim days of Greece and Crete when the fine qualities of his leadership were put to the utmost test. I have been told by those who were closest to him it was typical of Savige that when his convoys were on the move back and were being blasted from the air by the unopposed Luftwaffe, he should sit by the side of the open road, wearing his red banded cap, to steady the morale of men who had then no chance of hitting back at the enemy. Unorthodox no doubt, but here was a man indeed. Throughout the whole campaign and later when he commended the 3rd division in New Guinea and later still when with the rank of Lieutenant-General he became a Corps Commander in New Guinea and Bouganville, it was at all times characteristic of him that he should see for himself the situation in the forward areas. He dealt personally with his subordinate commanders whenever it was possible to do so. No one says his G.S.O. 1. understood better than he did the importance of front line troops seeing their G.O.C. frequently, and knowing that he was aware of and prepared to share their hardships and dangers. He took many risks that he should not have taken, exhausted himself physically and mentally times without number, and considered himself not at all in order to secure the success of his operations. Finally, in Bouganville, he brought his campaign to a victorious conclusion and accepted the personal surrender of the Japanese Commander. Savige is known as one of Australia’s most human military leaders, but let no one believe that he did not ask and receive the utmost of his men. He trained them in a hard school but he was ever conscious of their needs and observant and thoughtful of their welfare. Fearless and untiring under conditions which brought younger men down, he asked nothing that he was not himself prepared to give and do. The close of the Second World War left him with the same brave heart; but a vitality greatly impaired. He was called up again and again to perform important national tasks, notably that of Co-ordinator of Demobilisation and Dispersal. But his interest in Legacy never flagged it was in fact more personal than ever, for under his command many junior legatees, sons of former comrades had proved themselves worthy of their Fathers in war and in peace. In the bearing and achievements of the young men of the Second A.I.F. he took a particular and justifiable pride. He applied himself to the Extension of Legacy to areas where it had not previously been practicable to operate. His record of service and close personal contact with the men of both wars made him a most welcome pioneer and many new Clubs and Groups resulted from his efforts. He founded, and I doubt whether any one else could have done so, the Club in the great Capital of our Empire. His reputation and obvious sincerity surmounted obstacles that might well have daunted lesser man. Legacy’s debt to him visibly increased. But he was ever a simple man, with a great love and understanding of his fellow men and a true Legatee at heart. Much that he did will never be known or recognised, save by those who benefitted. His service in Legacy ranged from the humble kitchen of cottage and farm to our representation in Westminster Abbey itself. A knighthood set the seal upon an outstanding career. None the less when upon the death of Field Marshall Sir Thomas Blamey, Lieut. General Sir Stanley Savige became the Patron of the Melbourne Club, he retained at his own express desire, the title of Legatee Savige, and when on that final day we bade him farewell, when the Flags he had served so well were lowered and the guns which had formed a grim final salute, it was apparent to all who had eyes to see that this great and simple man had won such a place in the hearts and affection of his fellow country men as is given to few men indeed. From the packed Cathedral, escorted by his fellow Generals, followed by men of his own Units, by Legatees and a great company of others who had cause to honour and esteem him, he made his last journey. But that is not the end. His voice and presence are lost to us but his memory and inspiration must ever remain. As he has bequeathed to the National War Memorial yonder his diaries, records and battle plans, so he has bequeathed to us his fellow Legatees his greatest achievement and his trust, Legacy itself. Never was the Torch passed by worthier hands. Now it is ours to hold it high. Whatever material memorial the future many hold for him, Legacy owes its Founder a livelier recompense. It is within our power to implement what I believe to be his greatest wish, that Legacy and its ideal of comradeship and service shall flourish and endure. Let each one of us then resolve that we shall, within our Clubs, in all tasks to which we are assigned, both great and small, keep in our minds the life and spirit of Stanley George Savige, so that we may be proud at all times to say of Legacy to those who follow after - “If you would see his memorial - Look around you”.The tribute to Stanley Savige shows how greatly he was regarded by the Legatees.Off white quarto paper with black type, address given about Stan Savige to the Canberra Conference, x 12 pages.savige, speech, obituary -
Melbourne Legacy
Document, Early History of the Shrine of Remembrance, c1928
After the first world war there was a decision made to create a memorial. Legatees were involved in the process at various times and capacities. In particular Legatee Kemsley was vocal in idea of a structure over a utilitarian memorial (such as a hospital or a park) - see letter at 01182. These notes include the resolution that passed at the Melbourne Town Hall at a public meeting: "That this meeting of citizens confirm the launching of an appeal by the Lord Mayor to establish a National War Memorial by means of a monument and that an executive committee with the Lord Mayor as Chairman with power to add and point sub-committees be formed to carry out the project." Also that 20 sites were selected for consideration in 1921. Although the St Kilda Road site was favoured early on, by 1926 there was pressure to change to a "provision of square" and Cenotaph at the intersection of Spring and Bourke Streets. Legacy Clubs voiced their opposition to this proposal by passing a resolution "That the Melbourne Legacy Club, representative of the returned soldiers in business in this city, whilst welcoming the Anzac Square Scheme as a city improvement, cannot support it as a War Memorial scheme and affirms its support for the Shrine of Remembrance in the Domain as the only War Memorial worthy of Victoria's unparalleled efforts in the Great War." The document was in an envelope with a letter dated 30 April 1971 (01182) that also outlines the efforts Legacy (especially L/- Kemsley) went through to promote the construction of the Shrine of Remembrance over a proposed square. The envelope says 'The Origin of the Shinre of Remembrance p/p Legatees Kemsley and Joynt'. And the initial 'JMBA'?. It was in a file with other documents concerning the Shrine and it's history.A record of the events that led to the construction of the Shrine of Remembrance as noted by a Legatee at the time. There was an effort to record historical events for the "Archive Committee" which collected this an other documents relating to the Shrine together in a file (see items 01181 - 01190)Five white foolscap pages of black type recording major events in the history of building the Shrine (covering the years from 1926 - 1928).memorial, shrine of remembrance -
Melbourne Legacy
Letter - Document, letter, 1971
After the first world war there was a decision made to create a memorial. Legatees were involved in the process at various times and capacities. In particular Legatee Kemsley was vocal when the idea of the St Kilda Road site, which was favoured early on, was overturned and in 1926 there was pressure to change to a "provision of square" and Cenotaph at the intersection of Spring and Bourke Streets. Legacy Clubs voiced their opposition to this proposal by passing a resolution "That the Melbourne Legacy Club, representative of the returned soldiers in business in this city, whilst welcoming the Anzac Square Scheme as a city improvement, cannot support it as a War Memorial scheme and affirms its support for the Shrine of Remembrance in the Domain as the only War Memorial worthy of Victoria's unparalleled efforts in the Great War." The document was in an envelope with the History of the Shrine (01181). The envelope says 'The Origin of the Shrine of Remembrance p/p Legatees Kemsley and Joynt'. And the initial 'JMBA'?. It was in a file with other documents concerning the Shrine and it's history.A record of the events that led to the construction of the Shrine of Remembrance as noted by a Legatee at the time. There was an effort to record historical events for the "Archive Committee" which collected this an other documents relating to the Shrine together in a file with the items given numbest prefixed with an S (see items 01181 - 01190 and 01206 - 01211).A two page carbon copy of a letter typed on white quarto paper. Dated 30 April 1971, it is from Legatee Donovan Joynt to the President of Legacy outlining Legacy's impact in the building the Shrine.Handwritten in blue ink, 'Copy' on front page and signed 'Donovan'.memorial, shrine of remembrance -
Melbourne Legacy
Document, The Shrine of Remembrance - A Melbourne Legacy Club Memorial
After the first world war there was a decision made to create a memorial. Legatees were involved in the process at various times and capacities. In particular Legatee Kemsley was vocal when the idea of the St Kilda Road site, which was favoured early on, was overturned and in 1926 there was pressure to change to a "provision of square" and Cenotaph at the intersection of Spring and Bourke Streets. Legacy Clubs voiced their opposition to this proposal by passing a resolution "That the Melbourne Legacy Club, representative of the returned soldiers in business in this city, whilst welcoming the Anzac Square Scheme as a city improvement, cannot support it as a War Memorial scheme and affirms its support for the Shrine of Remembrance in the Domain as the only War Memorial worthy of Victoria's unparalleled efforts in the Great War." The document was in a file with other documents concerning the Shrine and it's history (01181 - 01190).A record of the events that led to the construction of the Shrine of Remembrance as noted by a Legatee. There was an effort to record historical events for the "Archive Committee" which collected this and other documents relating to the Shrine together in a file (see items 01181 - 01190)White A4 paper with black type written as a circular to Legacy members to outline Legacy's impact in the building the Shrine.memorial, shrine of remembrance -
Melbourne Legacy
Booklet, The National War Memorial of Victoria. The Shrine of Remembrance. Souvenir Booklet, 1947
The booklet shows important aspects of the Shrine, 'one of the greatest of the war memorials erected in various parts of the world'. 'The purpose of this imposing structure is set out in the simple words quoted on the eastern wall of the Shrine of Remembrance itself- "This memorial was erected by a grateful people to the honoured memory of the men and women of Victoria who served the Empire in the Great War of 1914-18." The booklet outlines parts of the Shrine including the Battle Honour Discs, the Porticos, the Stone of Remembrance, the Inner Shrine, the Crypt and the Ray of Light. The document was in a file with other documents concerning the Shrine and it's history (01181 - 01190).A record of the Shrine of Remembrance. There was an effort to record historical events for the "Archive Committee" which collected this and other documents relating to the Shrine together in a file (see items 01181 - 01190)A 16 page of booklet of buff paper in a dark grey brown cover describing the Shrine in photos and black print.memorial, shrine of remembrance -
Melbourne Legacy
Letter - Document, letter, 1946
The letter is Legatee Kemsley's response to an article published on 20 April 1946 discussing War Memorials. The article suggested that war memorials were better to be utilitarian, such as hospitals, parks and community centres. Legatee Kemsley's reply is that such necessary amenities should be provided but not as memorials of sacrifice. "The plain fact is that unless sacrifices and deeds of heroism and national patriotism are expressed in non-utilitarian memorials they lose then special significance they are designed to provide." "As a Trustee of the National War Memorial, I ask, what hospital or park could as fittingly provide a Mecca for for national solemnity, or rejoicing, or thanksgiving, as the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne?" After the first world war there was a decision made to create a memorial. Legatees were involved in the process at various times and capacities. In particular Legatee Kemsley was vocal when the idea of the St Kilda Road site, which was favoured early on, was overturned and in 1926 there was pressure to change to a "provision of square" and Cenotaph at the intersection of Spring and Bourke Streets. Legacy Clubs voiced their opposition to this proposal by passing a resolution "That the Melbourne Legacy Club, representative of the returned soldiers in business in this city, whilst welcoming the Anzac Square Scheme as a city improvement, cannot support it as a War Memorial scheme and affirms its support for the Shrine of Remembrance in the Domain as the only War Memorial worthy of Victoria's unparalleled efforts in the Great War." The document was in an envelope with the History of the Shrine (01181). The envelope says 'The Origin of the Shinre of Remembrance p/p Legatees Kemsley and Joynt'. And the initial 'JMBA'?. It was in a file with other documents concerning the Shrine and it's history.This is a record of the debate that was occurring in 1946 about the appropriate way to commemorate the war. There was an effort to record historical events for the "Archive Committee" which collected this an other documents relating to the Shrine together in a file (see items 01181 - 01190)File copy of a letter x 2 pages typed on white quarto paper. Dated 2 May 1946, it is from Legatee Kemsley to the Editor of the Australian Municipal Journal in response to an article they had printed. Plus a page from the journal.memorial, shrine of remembrance -
Melbourne Legacy
Booklet, The National War Memorial of Victoria. The Shrine of Remembrance. Souvenir Booklet, 1958
The booklet shows important aspects of the Shrine, 'one of the greatest of the war memorials erected in various parts of the world'. 'The purpose of this imposing structure is set out in the simple words quoted on the eastern wall of the Shrine of Remembrance itself- "This memorial was erected by a grateful people to the honoured memory of the men and women of Victoria who served the Empire in the Great War of 1914-18." The booklet outlines parts of the Shrine including the Battle Honour Discs, the Porticos, the Stone of Remembrance, the Inner Shrine, the Crypt and the Ray of Light. The document was in a file with other documents concerning the Shrine and it's history (01181 - 01191). Labelled with red pen S10 as part of an old archive numbering system.A record of the Shrine of Remembrance. There was an effort to record historical events for the "Archive Committee" which collected this and other documents relating to the Shrine together in a file (see items 01181 - 01191).A 16 page of booklet of buff paper in a cream cover describing the Shrine in photos and brown print.Stamped 'The Property of Legacy Melbourne' in purple ink. S10 in red penmemorial, shrine of remembrance -
Melbourne Legacy
Document - Speech, In Proud Remembrance - from a speech by Colonel A. N. Kemsley, E.D. at a weekly luncheon of Melbourne Legacy, pre 1953
A document containing a speech by Colonel A. N. Kemsley, E.D. at a weekly luncheon at Legacy sometime in the early 1950s. He presented details of the initial building of the Shrine and the changes being made to commemorate the second world war, such as the forecourt and new cenotaph and flagpoles. He mentions the upcoming Anzac Day in 1953. After the first world war there was a decision made to create a memorial. Legatees were involved in the process at various times and capacities. In particular Legatee Kemsley was vocal in idea of a structure over a utilitarian memorial (such as a hospital or a park) - see letter at 01182. These notes include the resolution that passed at the Melbourne Town Hall at a public meeting: "That this meeting of citizens confirm the launching of an appeal by the Lord Mayor to establish a National War Memorial by means of a monument and that an executive committee with the Lord Mayor as Chairman with power to add and point sub-committees be formed to carry out the project." Also that 20 sites were selected for consideration in 1921. Although the St Kilda Road site was favoured early on, by 1926 there was pressure to change to a "provision of square" and Cenotaph at the intersection of Spring and Bourke Streets. Legacy Clubs voiced their opposition to this proposal by passing a resolution "That the Melbourne Legacy Club, representative of the returned soldiers in business in this city, whilst welcoming the Anzac Square Scheme as a city improvement, cannot support it as a War Memorial scheme and affirms its support for the Shrine of Remembrance in the Domain as the only War Memorial worthy of Victoria's unparalleled efforts in the Great War." The document was in an envelope with a letter dated 30 April 1971 (01182) that also outlines the efforts Legacy (especially L/- Kemsley) went through to promote the construction of the Shrine of Remembrance over a proposed square. The envelope says 'The Origin of the Shrine of Remembrance p/p Legatees Kemsley and Joynt'. And the initial 'JMBA'?. It was in a file with other documents concerning the Shrine and it's history.A record of the events that led to the construction of the Shrine of Remembrance as noted by a Legatee at the time. There was an effort to record historical events for the "Archive Committee" which collected this an other documents relating to the Shrine together in a file (see items 01181 - 01190, 01206 - 01212)White quarto paper x 8 pages of black type of a speech given by Legatee Kemsley.S6 in red penmemorial, speech, shrine of remembrance, kemsley -
Melbourne Legacy
Newspaper - Article, The real story of the Great Escape, 1977
Three press clippings about guest speakers at Legacy luncheons in 1977. Bill Fordyce was the only Australian survivor of the Great Escape from Stalag Luft III, a POW camp in Poland in World War 2. Also Professor Lance Townsend speaking on the salaries of doctors, and Mr Johnson, secretary of the Melbourne Cricket Club speaking about cricket. The items were cut from the newspaper and pasted into a scrapbook. For many years Legacy kept scrapbooks of press clippings that related to their work and publicity. Not all pages have been scanned but some are listed from 02164 to 02176.A record of types of speakers that were invited to speak at Legacy luncheons, and that they spoke on a variety of topics.Newspaper articles x 3 of guest speakers at Legacy luncheons in 1977 pasted to brown page of a scrapbook.speakers, world war 2, bill fordyce -
Melbourne Legacy
Photograph, Remembrance Tour to Canberra, 1995
From an article in The Answer newsletter December 1995 edition there was a Remembrance tour to Canberra for widows in 1995. 1995 was the 50th Anniversary of the end of World War II and there were remembrance events all over Australia as part of 'Australia Remembers'. The ladies are standing at the Changi War Memorial, Duntroon. The article says: "On 5th August, 32 members of various Legacy Clubs journeyed to Canberra on a 4 day Remembrance Tour. A wonderful time was had by all. The whole tour was wonderfully organised. We got off to a very cold and wet start, even to snow on the way, but by the time we reached our Motel the sun was out and it remained out all the time were were there. The highlights of my trip personally were Duntroon, The War Museum and Parliament House. It was great to met all the other Club Members and to establish friendships. Muriel Love, Williamstown Legacy Widows' Club."A record of a special event for the Widows' Clubs.Colour photo of a Widows' trip to Duntroon.Handwritten 'The Changi War Memorial, Duntroon' in black pen Printed on back