This item was in use before electricity and was manufactured after the flat stove irons.The weight of the iron base, is heavy, helping in smoothing out crinkly material being ironed. This item permitted ironing of clothes to be separate and away from heating stoves. It permitted greater flexibility for ironing clothes and permitted more control (consistency) of the temperature of the iron.Historically and significantly this item enforces the relative isolation of the Kiewa Valley and period when and where this domestic item was in use(manufactured circa 1950). A rural setting with mining, beef , milk and tobacco production in the early 1900s. Even though the community was in a rural setting, the standards of dress was the same as in the bigger towns and cities. Social and religious mores and values demanded that the personal appearance be clean and crisp no matter where a person was living or working. Heavy laborious work was considered by some religions as virtuous, therefore the heavy and tiring work of ironing during this period had its rewards. Rural areas where the last to be connected to electricity and therefore this item was a domestic necessity far into the 1950's.This iron has a steel base and a metal body coated with green coloured enamel. The wooden hand grip is painted dark green. The kerosene (spirit) container is a chrome metal cylinder with a flat bottom and top. The top has a small filler/air plug is located on the top side. There are two control knobs located next to and under the metal cylinder. The close to the cylinder is a lock which locks the top lid of the iron and the other knob controls the airflow to the heater rodOn the base of the handle "PEERMAN" and below this P/46, C.I. Thomas & Son Pty Ltd household, ironing, domestic kerosene, dry cleaning

Historically this item was used before the spirit and the electrical iron took over Circa 1930s -1950s. The main body of the iron was placed on a flat heated surface of a stove (wood, coal or gas fired). It was mainly used by women in their domestic role, ironing the family clothes and linen. In the Kiewa Valley the supply of coal or gas was not available or too expensive than the locally cut hard wood trees. This particular iron was an improvement on the fixed handled iron because it allowed (by use of its easily detachable handle) to use multiple bases and thereby allowing a constant heat supply to be maintained and not having to waste time for a base to reheat to the required level of application.The significance of this item was that it allowed for a faster method of ironing clothes and linen. It's invention was a progress towards reducing the time it took to undertake a very labour and intensive domestic function. The reduction of time taken for this household duty provided women great flexibility to undertake other activities. These type of improvements to basic domestic tasks liberated housewives not only physically but also mentally from the isolation of the home environment.This flat iron has a removable, clip-on handle. The handle and its release knob are of wood. The base of the handle together with the heavy flat body are made of cast iron. The body of the iron is oval shaped tapered at each end and is 40mm thick.Underneath the handle frame and on the main body, on one side, in raised lettering is "Mrs Potts" and on the other side "Iron". Both are clearly visible when viewed from an aerial position. Under removable handle and on a plate (screwed onto the main body) is "No 2"iron, antique, household, pressing clothes, domestic, laundry

Historically this item would have been used by gold miners, rabbit shooters, mobile "Rag and Bone" traders and other mobile(in caravans and/or horse drawn cart) traders of various small goods and haberdashery. Although marked as not to be used as trade, the isolation and sometimes difficult terrain rules out using larger and more delicate scales. In the early 1900s rough roads and severe weather conditions forced traders to be more flexible in trading with weights and measures. The "close enough is good enough" doctrine was the Australian outback rule of thumb. The significance of this item in the Kiewa Valley during this period demonstrates the slower acceptance of accurate trading measure using the country side principle "my hand shake is my bond". In the Kiewa Valley small quantity commercial undertakings e.g. gold mining, fur pelts and rabbit meat trade did not require bulk weight type scales. Commerce in rural production e.g. fruit and vegetables involved more farmers and their staff in a barter and/or "in kind" payments. This was more so in the depression years 1929 to late 1930s. Self sufficiency was to a large extent more attainable in this region than in the city/ large country town environment. The Australian "fair go" ethical approach to life and commerce was very much ingrained in those living in country regions, like Kiewa Valley as is demonstrated by the not so accurate hand balance, spring loaded scales. Portable Pocket Balance with front plate made from brass. Spring mechanism enclosed by black painted medium gauge steel cover( three quarters cylindrical). Front scale face and rear spring casing fastened by three rivets. Spring loaded marker blade is located in the centre of the front plate. See item KVHS 0224 for a similar scales.Front plate marked: at top "Not legal for use in trade", below this in larger print "Pocket Balance", under and to the right in smaller print "lbs" under this graded marks, first marked with a Zero, then every second mark in ascending order up to 25. At the bottom of the front plate is marked "Made in Germany"antique pocket balance, scales, mobile weights, vintage appliances

This item (tobacco plug, as it was referred to) was used as a smokeless digestion of nicotine from the tobacco leaf. It was harvested by the tobacco growers before tailor made cigarettes became available. It was mainly regarded as more of a male item as it required to expectorate unwanted mouth juices. Ladies rarely used chewing tobacco. Most hotels and drinking rooms (men only in this era) had special spittoons to catch the waste.This item was used at a time when it was socially acceptable to chew tobacco (1800s to early 1900s). The associated health problems (lung and other related cancers including emphysema) eventually became the social and political incentive to curb the tobacco industry in the Kiewa Valley. Harvesting tobacco also had extreme risks such as "Green Tobacco " sickness. In Victoria the economical viability of the tobacco industry was extinguished in 2006. The tobacco drying sheds are still standing in the Kiewa Valley and in nearby regions. This item was also used by miners underground retrieving gold.This work environment was strictly a non smoke one.Square (small corner cut off) of compressed tobacco leaves, brown in colour and dried. Known at the time of use as a Plug.tobacco, chewing, plug, nicotine, smokeless, rural industry

J.E. Bleckmann were German Blade makers, registry shows Bleckmann (1899, No. 37190):J.E.Bleckmann, Solingen, registry class 9b). As well as blades for wood working tools they were also sword makers (used in American Civil War), Bayonet makers 1871-1918 and also pocket cutlery (pocket knives) as per advertisement 1907.This wood plane holds historical importance as carpentry tools such as this would have been used in the construction of local homes, outbuildings, furniture. It represents an era before power tools. Investigation is ongoing as to ownership and specific use in the area. Hand made wooden hand plane with metal blade. Carpentry tool from 19th century1/38 / 34 mm stamped into wood on front edge of plane. Metal Blade inscribed "J.E. BLECKMANN/ WARRANTED / CAST STEEL / SOLINGEN/GERMANY"tool, blade makers, hand plane, woodworking.

Historically this ledger not only details the legible hand writing of this era but also the day to day commercial activity in this region. The neatness and the diligence of those who were required to pen the information was a requirement by all who were in commercial trade. Emphasis on neatness was ingrained in students at a young age. This era was well before general typewriters and computers. Generally all students of commerce required an accuracy in writing and arithmetic. Neatness and order were a selection requirement This item clearly identifies the Kiewa Valley as having a substantial financial hub to accommodate the various commercial enterprises within a rural environment Circa 1880's. Although Kiewa Valley had mining, agriculture, cattle and sheep it was also composed of a mixed society, encompassing all levels of society at that period. It identifies some family farming history in the specific year of 1897Leather reinforced corner covers and spine. Remaining book front and back covers are protected by blue weaved cloth. The covers are very thick cardboard, in layers. Missing front index pages C,E - 0,Q,T,U,V,XSpine of book marked in faded golden print "Ledger". First page in hand writing "Ledger No. 5" and underneath handwritten "Commenced Jan 1st !897" After the index pages each page (double sided) has a page number stamped in black and is 6mm highledger, early bookkeeping, local history, commerce circa 1890

This item represents one of the most important spiritual references available to a settler in countryside Australia in the period 1800s to 1900s. This is the family bible and relates to the major religious beliefs of the early settlers who pioneered British/European colonial settlements. Although the first pages are missing the family name is written on the inside cover (J.A. Fleming). Most of these bibles (of this era) showed the family genealogical record of births, baptism and deaths, however this bible has the relevant pages missing. This bible would have provided the spiritual strength needed in bad times. Throughout this bible there are copies of specially commissioned lithographic engravings, each published between March 1812 to December 1813. These photographs were provided to visualise the theme of the each chapter.This item is significant because it shows that spiritualism of a small group (family in this case) is a vital part of the cohesive forces which holds a family(the basic subgroup of society) together, against all odds, and external pressures. It demonstrates that even in isolated or sparsely populated areas, the mores of a christian community is as strong as that of the cities. Mountains (Victorian Alps) have throughout the enlightened Ages been of extreme spiritual significance and this beholds those who live in this area.The families in the Kiewa Valley fall into the "isolated rural area" when this bible was first in use. This bible contains as its introduction,scripture history starting from 4004 BC "God created all things" to 2900 AD end of the World. There is a high degree of probability that this bible belonged to a member or members of the John Ambrose Flemming extended family who resided in the Kiewa Valley. J.A. Flemming (a famous English electrical engineer and physicist) invented the first diode in 1904). He and his family were devout Christians and he helped establish the Evolution Protest Movement.Leather bound bible. Leather in some areas is in tatters revealing the thick multi-layered cardboard backing. Front and back covers are held together by the thin leather binding. The lettering of the bible is large.Hand written inscriptions are in ink on the inside front cover, " J Tangam" at the top, "J A Fleming" underneath "Tangambalanga" and below that "1900". There are penciled dates "1937 1900" which have at one point in time been scribbled over in pencil. Although not marked on cover, the bible was known as "Brown's Bible" after the Author, the Rev. John Brown. Each of the major chapters is introduced by a copy of a lithographic print detailing the relevant religious picture and all are headed by "Brown's Superb Bible" and the date of the print. bible, rev. john brown, old and new testament, christianity

This church collection bag is quite unique in that it has three grip handles, not the usual two. Why three. It may represent the holy trinity of, the father,the son and the holy spirit. Historically this might be used to reinforce the holy trinity belief which at the time of this item's construction was under threat. The threat came from splinter Christian sects such as the Church Of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints which have a Godhead of a council of three deities and there are other christian religions of only one deity covering the father,the son and the holy spirit.This collection bag for offerings, was the main method available towards the upkeep of the church and its parish during this era. Broadcasting of religious services was not as prolific as in the late 1900s and into the 2000s. It was a time when visualisation of the support of religion(especially in rural ares) was an important social factor. The God "fearing" beliefs within society of this period, provided the strong moral fabric which permitted settlements that did not have a strong law enforcement section to prosper and develop without fear or "favour". The collection bag was, and is still, a physical endorsement of support towards the church and what it stands for. This was a time when it was a social requirement to be seen in the church building and supporting fellow parishioners. The ingrained Australian psyche of supporting anyone that needed help, was a result of this period.Church collection/donation bag. Simple construction of two round frames with three opposing handles nailed together to hold firm a small dark blue cloth pocket/bag. All fastened by nails to the handle/frame and the large pocket allows for a reasonable amount of coin or notes to be offered.religion, collection receptacles, christian offerings, church protocols

This item predates the change of Imperial measure (England -1824) to decimal measure (Europe) in Australia (1970 to 1988). This item was manufactured in England as, was the majority of measuring tool and equipment. It was not until the late 1950s that other countries e.g. United States and Europe provided the same type of manufactured tools for the Australian market. World War II, when Australia had to defend its own boarders that the political push for self sufficiency of manufactured goods started local production. Workers in the Kiewa Valley had always relied on the high quality of tools and manufactured goods coming from England. From the middle to late 1950s migration by skilled workers from a war torn Europe provided the source of manpower for the expansion of the manufacturing industries in Australia.The requirement of an accurate measuring tool has always been critical. This item was used at the time when Australia was using the British Imperial measurements. Accurate measurements by carpenters and other trades people for both town and rural needs was just as critical as for the larger cities. The transition period from Imperial to metric was a period of over four years but it still presented those who had used the Imperial measurements for a longer period in their trades with a dual system of measurement for a longer time(usually up to their retirement) Other nations still using Imperial measurements kept the transition from Imperial to metric alive (the UK and USA still uses Imperial measurements in 2012)Retractable metallic wired tape measure within a leather casing. Length of tape is 66 feet. Brass fittings on casing(winder and back plate)Tape on one side marked in inches and feet and on the other in links. Winder lever marked "66ft No 401" on front and arrow with"wind this way". Leather cover marked "John R A Bone & Sons Birmingham England" on reverse side "Metallic wired tape R A Bone & Sons"wired tape measure, tool, mobile tool, construction tool

The Bogong Village was originally constructed (1937-1940) by the State Electricity Commission to house, engineers and construction workers working on the Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme. These workers were initially settled in 26 houses and were mainly of European heritage. At the completion of the scheme, in the 1960's, the village was opened to public/tourism use. This photograph shows the village before beautification for tourism was introduced and "bare bones" homes and village usage existed.This photo clearly presents a period of restricted human occupation of a very fragile Alpine environment(up to 4000 workmen involved). This was the beginning of a planned and controlled form of sustainable tourist orientated development of the Victorian Alps and high plains region. The Bogong Township was the base camp for workers employed by the State Electricity Commission. After the construction phase was completed, the planning and controls originating from this period have been modified to allow a greater public access of this unique environment.Photograph of a framed glass enclosed black and white photograph of the Bogong settlement Paper details "KodakXtraLife paper" on back of photo. bogong village, bogong township, sec alpine constructions, hydro, kiewa scheme

This item relates to methods of reproducing photos on all forms of material in an era of physical offset printing.The offset method is being replaced by digital transfer direct to the final product,(paper or other porous and non porous surfaces). Newspapers and other "paper" information publications are still producing "hard copies" but these are slowly being phased out. This item was used Circa 1920s in the peek period of paper based media. From the 1940s radio and then television stepped into the mass media revolution.This book was produced when all printing, Government and private enterprise, was using the "off set" method. This method was used to a great degree in all schools within the Kiewa Valley. It was in an era before "photo-copying machines" were available. This was a period when printing inks for larger printing machines had to be purchased from specialised outlets and printing presses required to be washed after each "run" of printing before the next plate(aluminium) could be fastened onto the "off sett" machinery. Heat infusion now used in large machines and domestic printers has superseded this task. Faded green cloth covered book with green papered front and back sleeve pages.Photos and sketches are throughout the book. Gloss paper used from page 1 one to page 400. Pages 401 to page 432 are not gloss paper. The type of paper varies throughout the book until final advertisement and index pages, from page 833 to page 846, are on gloss paperThe spine cover is badly worn and wording is faded. Front cover has"Commercial Engraving And Printing" Author and publisher details written by Charles W. Hackleman. Published by Commercial Engraving Publishing Company, "A Manual of Practical Instruction and Reference Covering" Commercial Illustrating and Printing by all Processes.technical book, reference for engraving and printing

The machinery in this photo shows a Tournapull C earth moving machine, one of many during this period Circa 1950 - 1960s when hydro electricity powered turbines were being constructed in both the Victoria and New South Wales Alps. This was Australia's answer to a non polluting supply of electricity for a fast growing city population. It was at this time that air pollution from coal powered furnaces was becoming more and more under attack by health authorities.This item is part of a visual account of the construction of dams and hydro electricity facilities during the early 1950s. It was the beginning of the environmental push not to allow the degrading of Australian Alpine regions. Air pollution of the major cities and the increase in power demands of both industries and population within them required an alternative pollution free alternative electricity supply. These for runners of Hydro electricity generators required both large supplies of machinery and human resources. This construction phase within the region brought not only tradesmen but also unskilled workers to an area which had mainly had farming and mining activities. It was the catalyst for the creation of the smaller towns/villages e.g. Bogong Village, Mount Beauty and Bright.Black and white photograph on Kodak Xtralite II paper.(gloss)paper marking on back Kodak Xtralite II papermining, hydro electricity, victorian alps, construction camps, earth moving machines, secv

This item clearly shows the conditions covering both working conditions and housing in the construction of the Junction Dam in the 1940s. Working conditions were extreme and health and safety legislation was at its infancy. The residential buildings were intended to last only for the period of construction, however greater demand for longevity as a tourist haven prevailedThis photo of the construction of the Junction Dam, with The Bogong village as backdrop, details the harsh conditions faced by construction workers, building dams and villages to accommodate workers in the 1940s to the 1950s. Australia at this period in time, experienced a surge of population (influx of World War II refugees), which was the catalyst for developing and undergoing an enormous hydroelectricity program for the Alpine regions, both in Victoria and New South Wales. This program was initiated to supply electricity to the major southern Australian cities of Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney. It was thought that these developments would reduce, if not eliminate, the requirement for coal driven power stations. However time has demonstrated that these power stations have not matched the demand required by the industries and the populations of the major urban and cities.Black and white photo of original photo with a flashlight reflection in the bottom centre. The photo is on Kodak XtraLife II paper. The paper is semi gloss.This photo is of the construction of the Junction Dam Wall with the Bogong Townshiip in the background.Back of photo is printed " Kodak XtraLite II paperdam construction, bogong village, alpine development, junction dam

This item shows the excavation of the side of a railway track using a pneumatic shovel and a rail mounted truck by two workmen. The period covered was well before State Health and Safety requirements, such as helmets, became law. It also details that the workmen were from European heritage as their head coverings were a handkerchief knotted at each corner. This was typical for workmen of this heritage, others used caps or hats or no head covering at all (the macho male look)The photograph of this item was one of many depicting great achievements and opening up the region. A visual link or time capsule of the 1950s rural/mining sectors clashing with the established rural industriesThis photo depicts the time (1950's) and place (Bogong and Mount Beauty) where construction workers had an immense impact, not only on the physical environment but also on the social and economic development of the Victorian Alps region. The fast expansion of smaller settlements brought about increased pressures on the welfare viability of certain subgroups within the region e.g. farming, droving and commerce (caravan hawkers versus static shops). These changes brought about a heightened awareness by both local and State Governments to upgrade not only facilities within the region but also access to the region. Black and white photo of two workmen on a rail mounted shovel truck. The photo is of good definition allowing a clear view of the subject matter. The paper is semi gloss.On the back of the photo, paper suppliers etchings are "Kodak XtraLife II paper"mining, hydro electricity, victorian alps, construction camps, earth moving machines

This photograph shows the "lay back" atmosphere enjoyed in a small country town in the 1940s to the 1950s. Two women and a young boy basking in the warmth of the sun. The unsealed drive way and cars parked close to the entrance was typical of small towns during this period. Open doors and shady trees provided sufficient cooling for most sunny days. The wooden barrel next to the outside wall shows that storage space within the hotel was limited and that metal aluminium barrels had not been in existence. This photograph was taken at a time when children and women had limited access to the major drinking and entertainment facilities within a hotel(pub). Legal drinking age was for patrons 21 years and older and no strict dress codes where applied. The hotel bar was not open on Sundays (God fearing) and opening time restrictions were in place. "In transit" clients were given some leniency when staying in small country hotels as strict liquor laws This photograph presents a window to a life in the 1940s to 1950s, of a small town in the Kiewa Valley. It covers a period when the local hotel or "pub" was the meeting point for local men and women to talk about local events and life in general. It was also a point where "locals' had the first opportunity to meet new arrivals and converse with tourists and "through traffic". The importance of "face to face" verbal communication was a critical part of community life and interaction. The hotel(pub) was in this period the hub of small communities, and together with local churches provided the essential structure for a balanced existence in rural Australia.Black and white photo of Tawonga Hotel. This photo is in itself a photo of a photo and as such lacks fine detail. This reproduction is on "Kodak XtraLife II paper ""outback" hotels, pubs, rural short stay accommodation, tawonga hotel

As part of the push to cut electricity costs and diversify supply, the Victorian Government (circa 1930) implemented the conversion strategy from mainly brown coal supply to hydro - electricity. The Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme became the largest scheme of its kind in the State Of Victoria and the second largest scheme in Australia. This dam was constructed to supply water to feed four turbines (62 mega watts) at the West Kiewa Power Station. This was at the forefront of sustainable "Green" energy. Costs associated with power supplies is still a major incentive of governments, however environmentally friendly alternatives such as wind and nuclear have also made inroads. The Kiewa valley and its surrounding alpine catchment were looked at(Victorian State Government), from the beginning of the twentieth century as a source of alternate power for an every increasing demand for electricity by growing population and heavy industrial ares within Melbourne City and State regions. Construction of dams, such as Clover Dam provided the large quantity holding areas of water required to turn the turbines at the various power stations to provide the electricity needed. The impact of these controls by moderating water run off from the alpine regions is beneficial in reducing flooding from thawing of snow on the alps. This by-product allows agriculture and grazing to be less vulnerable to seasonal flooding thereby resulting in a more stable annual production level.Reproduction (scanned) of a black and white photo of Clover Dam circa 1940. The paper used is KodakXtraLife II paperThe reverse side of photo " KodakXtraLife II paperdams, pondage, hydro electricity, power stations, clover dam, secv

The Bogong Township (circa 1930s) was constructed by The State Electricity Commission of Victoria as a base camp for construction workers under the Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme starting in 1938. The Scheme employed 4000 men during its construction phase. A small number were first housed at Bogong Village and when required the Mount Beauty Township was established(1949). Construction at the dams and Power Stations was interrupted during World War II. June 1951 started construction at full pace. The Bogong Township was developed firstly as an accommodation centre (base camp) for construction workers employed under the Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme. Due to the influx of European workers into the Township the beautification of the immediate surrounds(gardens etc.) had a distinct European flavour. This environment has been very beneficial for tourism in later years. Strict environmental control has not allowed for any extensive redevelopment in tourist accommodation and basically restricted it to the accommodation initially built for the construction workers. Activities such a bike riding, snow skiing, restricted horse riding and bush walking on the Alpine plains and mountains are now a viable part of the Kiewa Valley Tourist Industry.Scanned copy of original black and white photo. Paper manufacturer is Kodak. Paper is Kodak XtraLife II.On reverse side "Kodak ExtaLife II paper"bogong village, bogong township, sec alpine constructions, victorian alpine tourism, winter sports.

This photograph shows part of the railway constructed and used for the removal of soil and rocks from the tunnels bored out of the mountains for the pipeline servicing the Hydro Electricity power stations in the Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme. This photo details an era when there were 4,000 construction workers located in two main accommodation camps, Mount Beauty (the larger one) and Bogong village. These accommodation sites were constructed and maintained as a secured or gated residential area with access only available by a special pass authorised by the Kiewa Hydroelectric Scheme. All the power used by the rail system was from electric motors connected to batteries. Overhead power poles seen on either side of the embankment details that electricity from the Scheme was in use. This use was cleaner and more environmentally friendly than the coal still used by large locomotives from city to country railways. The worker shown is not however wearing protective head and hand coverings. This is also an era where there was a lack of health and safety legislation covering workers in dangerous working conditions.Scanned photo of original black and white photo on Kodak XtraLife II paper. Picture is of a section of railway track servicing the tunnels of the Hydroelectric scheme during the 1940s - 1950sOn back of photo "Kodak XtraLife II paper"railway in kiewa electric scheme, tunneling

This item(razor) was used by men, only before fashion dictated that women should shave their legs and underarms. There is information that this razor was first used circa 1922 and it lasted up until circa 1958. It permitted the user to have a compact shaving apparatus at hand in any environment. It provided a safe and easy way of sharpening the more permanent blade. This type of razor replaced the straight, open, or cut-throat razors. The mobility of this item was further enhanced by Gillette with their double bladed disposable razor. Time taken(shaving) and costs involved where crucial factors in the ever growing pace of domestic lifestyle in the post 1920s.This historical item presents that, even though the Kiewa Region was an inland rural settlement which in the 1920's was not as close to "modern" fashions and "gadgets", the basic living conditions where still maintained at city levels. This particular razor was in its heyday a sophisticated safety razor and brought down the demand for the services of the "professional" barber(shaver). One of the problems of the superseded straight razor was the high levels of cuts and nicks to the face. As this particular razor was fairly expensive it would have been used by men who were in the middle to upper socio-economical position in Kiewa Valley before the late 1950'sThis item is a Sheffield steel(stamped inside) metal box(Viscount model) containing a red leather fine shaving strap and in its lid a grey honing stone. Both bottom and top lids are removable to allow for replacements of strap and stone. On the bottom lid appears "The Whetter" trade mark, registered in the U.S.A. in 1950.Three bands of a Greek key pattern has been pressed on the lid. A circled identification inscription. " ROLLS RAZOR Ltd, MADE IN ENGLAND" and patented information appears within this inscription. "Patented in England and Abroad. English patents numbers 467383. 284428. 242718. 242717" On the outside of the base lid within a circle are "ROLLS RAZOR" and the sketch of a long haired naked man (side view), crouched, with both hands stretched forward operating the razor. On a slab underneath are the words "The Whetter"safety razor, non disposable, men's shaving implement

This stone Grinder or pounder was used as part of an indigenous grinding food preparation method, by the original inhabitants of the Kiewa Valley and its region. In conjunction with its grinding stone was used not only to grind seeds and but also to dig up eatable roots and leaves and served with the regions Bogong moth. This method of food preparation has survived in its basic form for centuries and is still used by master chiefs in modern eateries. This item has been registered with Aboriginal Affairs in Wangaratta, Victoria. Dhudhuroa elder Alan Murray has examined this tool, in Feb 2015, and said it was also used for sharpening axe heads as well as pounding food items. This item has a very significant historical and social aspect to it. Firstly it demonstrates the division of labour within a indigenous tribe. It was an era when the female had a definitive role within the family and the broader social indigenous tribal group of, gathering and preparing non animal(hunted) food. Hunted food was the domain of the initiated males of the tribe.Secondly it demonstrates the ability to fashion implements from raw materials(rock) into effective tools for the purpose of preparing a meal for human consumption. This was in an era where inter family and intra family participation in an indigenous tribal social protective environment was at a very high level. The Kiewa Valley/Mount Bogong region was an area where annual "get together" indigenous tribes for feasting, bartering and settling of disputes highlighting the importance of a regional gathering. Grooved stone, carved to a cylindrical shape with a relative pointed end tip one side (grinding or pounding end) and a rough other end (holding end} Made from Rhyolite stoneThere is a worn grove in the top side due to this tool being used for axe sharpening. indigenous, aboriginal, stone grinding, meal preparation, natural environment, pounding stone

Originated in the United Kingdom in 1822 with a motto "No Man Is At All Times Wise" and a maxim of "Justice, Truth and Philanthropy". A branch of the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes was formed at Bogong by Grand Lodge Officers from Melbourne and other members. The ceremony was held at Lewis Camp Mess (Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme) with a world record of 78 new members initiated and a world record of over 100 pounds was raised. Another branch, No. 150, was opened in Mt Beauty. The Bogong and Mt Beauty lodges combined in 1948 and organised a Christmas treat for all children of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria working on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme.Historical: The Bogong R.A.O.B. was formed circa Sept. 1946 and the Mt Beauty R.A.O.B. in 1948. The Members Board, the 78 members initiated and the money raise indicate that it was a popular organisation in Bogong and then in Mt Beauty during the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. This club also shows how important social clubs were in making up part of the community thus making it socially historic as well. This board has good interpretive capacity as it tells the story of this club which was important to the community at the time. Large hollow wooden box with 2 wooden doors at the front that open out the from centre to a hollow box. Attached to the front of the box, at the top, is a wooden decoration with curved edges along the top. In the centre of this are the letters R.A.O.B.- the letters having been carved out of the wood and then filled with a different wood. Both doors have steel attachments and a locked padlock hangs on the door on the left. Inside the box is a white paper sign with black writing backed onto masonite. Inside the right hand side door a coloured paper sign is attached."R.A.O.B." top centre of box. "Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes" etc. on black and white sign inside box. "Mt Beauty Lodge No. 150. This is to certify that Brother (blank) initiated into ...on 19th March 1949 ....signed by Chas / Chris A. Angus, Secretary" on coloured paper inside right hand side door.royal antediluvian order of buffaloes. bogong. mt beauty. charitable organisation. kiewa hydro electric scheme. lewis camp mess, clubs, societies

This photo was taking during construction of the tailrace tunnel between West Kiewa Power Station and Mt. Beauty. Much of the area was unstable and timber supports were erected prior to concreting. The tunnel was commenced in 1941 and completed in 1952. It brings water from the power station into the open tailrace at Mt. Beauty and then into the regulating pondage before discharge into the Kiewa River.Shows method of construction for supporting walls and ceiling of tunnel with timber, size of tunnel (note worker on upper level), and conditions in the work place during construction in the 1940's/50's - note the timber ladder to gain access to the upper level.Black and white photographHand written on back of photograph "Tunnel face at Tailrace showing Arch Drive".tailrace, power station, water, construction

In 1940 Field Headquarters for the Kiewa Scheme were established at Bogong with office, workshop facilities and accommodation for workmen, staff and some families constructed. (There had been a 'tent camp' on this site in 1939 but was destroyed by bushfires) Construction of accommodation continued until 1947. A total of 40 houses plus a hostel for single staff, post office, police station, medical centre and primary school all with water and sewerage and electricity supply. The staff hostel was known as Kiewa House and is now occupied by the Education Department. Lake Guy was named after Mr. L.T. Guy who was the Resident Engineer in charge of construction work and associated activities on the Kiewa area. He held this position from 1939 to November 1946 when he was transferred to Head Office.This photograph is an excellent historical record of Bogong Village in about 1945. It shows the layout of the town in the fairly steep terrain, the workmen's camp between the houses and the lake foreshore, the Commissioner's Lodge on the hill behind the Village, the walkway through the dam wall can be seen to the left of the spillway, the dam is on spill and note damage to the large trees is still evident from the 1939 bush fires. The Commissioner's Lodge was lost in the 2003 fires and the camp buildings were in service until 1962, when they were removed and the site converted into a public picnic area with lawns and gardens.A Black and white photograph"Lake Guy and Bogong" hand written on back of photograph.kiewa, accommodation, lake, dam, bogong

This document (dated 1911), is a receipt covering the compensation for the three acres of land required to establish the Tawonga School from its original site (since 1880) to a more central site (since 1911), within the township. This receipt clearly shows the era in which the community involvement and social commitment of landholders was at a higher level, in the early 20th century, than at the latter part. Matters involving community welfare in relatively isolated rural regions was of high priority to every person whether town folk or grazier/farmer or miner. The letter of acceptance of the amount of twenty one pounds for three acres was signed by John Cooper on behalf of Ada Ryder (parent at the school), did not require State Government Compulsory Acquisition process (as it may have, had it been in the latter part of the century and if it were in a city or large town. This social benevolency was part of the period (up to the late 1900's) of the rural Australian environment. This was well before international land investments changed the picture of the socio-economics of country towns.A4 letter of confirmation of payment on pre-lined paper and with a margin. Both margin and lines are coloured in light grey. The page has been folded four times and shows faintly, horizontal lines, of manufacture. The letter is framed with a glass front.This receipt for the compensation of money is hand written in ink and reads: "Tawonga Dec 2 1911, I have this Day Received from the Residents and other People interested in the new State School the Sum of (Pounds sign) 21-0-0 twentyone Pounds being value of compensation for three Acres of land on which is erected the new State School No.2282 Paid by Cash & Cheques with thanks 2/12/11 (Signed) John Cooper" Below this is affixed a Victoria 1 pence stamp duty stamp, on which is written(freehand) Paid 2/12/11 Initialed J Cfinancial letters, receipts, school acquisitons, stamp duty

This phone was used at the Mt Beauty Primary School.Historical: The SEC used a switchboard to connect people in Mt Beauty and their workers stationed throughout the Kiewa Hydro Scheme. This phone enabled the Mt Beauty Primary School to ring parents etc. and for them to ring the school. Also refer to article in "This Week" Newsletter 30th June 2023 and attached to KVHS 0050Black bakelite telephone used to sit on a bench or table. Hand piece attached by a coiled wire coated with rubber. Front of telephone, in the centre, is a small handle that can be turned around in a clock wise direction - used to connect with the switchboard or, in some areas, used to connect with others by way of morse code eg. 1 big wind and 2 short winds.telephone. communications. mount beauty primary school.

Originally these mantles where produced to be used in gas street lights in Europe and North America cities.There use started in 1891. These mantles were used before electrical power street lighting was installed. They have been used ever since until safety concerns regarding radiation from their thorium infused particles made alternate mobile lamps more attractive. The age of open flame recreational lighting is fast coming to a close. The greater use of battery and generator powered lighting(ease of operation) has brought the costing of these alternative lighting to an acceptable level. The age of miniaturisation and volatility of the open flame has seen a greater swing to smaller and more stable lighting. These incandescent gas mantles were initially used in the Coleman White Gas LanternsThe Kiewa Valley, with its closeness to the Victorian Alps, allows greater opportunity for the "happy" campers to enjoy the outdoors. The lighting provided by the incandescent gas lamps allow the adventurer at heart to enjoy an alternative lifestyle and still having the comforts of "home" at their finger tips. The numerous camping facilities in the Kiewa Valley and the upper alpine region is testament that those living in the cities need a break from the day to day grind and go to a quieter and more spiritual environment. Artificial lighting, as provided by mobile apparatus, is highly valued by the urban gypsy. The outdoor recreational industry has significantly provided for, if only at holiday time, an industry that has a relatively high employment rate and beneficial to local communities.The gas mantle is in a fabric, pear shaped, of rayon fabric impregnated with cerium. It's appearance is similar to a very small fishing net. The fabric is very ply-able until it is heated by an open flame then it becomes more rigid and lets out an incandescent white light. Its colour is white to off white. It has a draw string fastened a t the bottom (to wrap around the flame source)lighting, gas, heating, camping, outdoor equipment lamp

This item represents a period in time when there was the start by manufacturing industry for targeting the medium to lower socio and economic strata of the purchasing public. It was the beginning of cheaper mass produced items for the non professional (photographer in this instance) recreational minded public. The availability of low cost items was required by an ever increasing population hungering for the "do it yourself" amateur.This camera was owned by Margaret (Peg) Shefford nee Turner, who retired to Mount Beauty in the mid 1980s. The camera was purchased in 1920 and used up to the 1940's when her her daughter, Midge Clooney used it. When the Shefford family emigrated from England to Australia (1953), it was used to take photos of the ship voyage.This item is a Campfire Box Brownie. Model "F". It is a black vinyl covered tin box shell. It has a short leather hand strap (110mm) (stamped "BROWNIE") on the top side of the box, fastened by a metal stud at each end. There are two clasps holding the front and rear sides. Viewer (photo frame number) and lens (apertures) are on opposite sides.Stamped within a circular section on the back section is "No 2 BROWNIE" underneath,"MODEL F" in smaller letters "MADE IN CANADA BY CANADIAN KODAK Co., Limited, TORONTO, ONT". a smaller circle within has "USE KODAK FILM No_ 120"portable camera, photography, hobby, low cost camera

The West Kiewa Tunnel (tailrace tunnel) was commenced from both ends in 1947. Very difficult conditions were encountered in the driving of this tunnel and this meant the immediate provision of support and later the lining of the tunnel with concrete. Work proceeded steadily and the breakthrough of the two headings occurred on 22nd July, 1950.This historical photograph shows in detail the amount of work necessary to stabilise and support the tunnel walls before lining with concrete. No solid rock was found and the tunneling proceeded through decomposed boulders, gravel and clay, hence the necessity for support and concreting. Black and white photograph showing the timber support, prior to lining with concrete, in the West Kiewa tunnel.Timbering in West Kiewa Tunnelwest kiewa, tailrace, tunnel

This item was manufactured in a period where the cheapest containers for portable equipment was canvas. The market place for cheap cameras was still restricted to European, England and its colonies. It was well before the post World War II explosion of the Asian manufacturing juggernaut.This item shows one of the most popular avenues of not only bringing new "modern" age equipment into the Kiewa Valley but also providing the local market with actual overseas inexpensive merchandise. It was a time when the new European fashion and "new age" equipment took years to permeate into regional Australia. The world, through Australia eyes, was still a very large planet and supply of "modern" lifestyle equipment emphasised the geographic isolation of Australia. Post World War II emigrants and an increasing flow of tourists to Australia provided the contact needed by rural settlements to open up not only their social contacts but lifestyle activities.Canvas, yellow, cream in color and with a weave pattern on the external side. It has stitched brown laminated fabric boarders containing all ends and corners. A flap opening top fastened on one side by a large press stud (15mm). A brown coloured leather carry strap (adjustable and 10mm wide) fasted at either of the longitudinal ends of the bag.camera, case photography, hobby, personal equipment

This machine was in use in the 1940's during the construction of the tunnels for the Hydro Electric scheme. This particular photograph was taken in the Tailrace Tunnel which brings water from West Kiewa Power Station to the open tailrace in Mt. Beauty and then into the regulating pondage before discharge into the Kiewa River. This machine (or one similar) is on display on the Northern side of the entrance to the Visitor's Centre. The tailrace tunnel (or West Kiewa tunnel) was commenced in 1947 from both ends and the breakthrough occurred on 22nd. July, 1950Shows the size of the tunnel and the machinery used for excavation in the 1940's/50's.Black and white photographHandwritten on back of photograph "Jumbo" in Tailrace Tunneltunnel, machinery, water, tail race