Photocopy of damaged photograph of a large group of men and women posing for a photograph on the first Eltham tennis court. Group includes people identified with an 'X' as Maisie with Laura Williams and Pop. The photo is the same group of people taken at the same time as SEPP_0721 (Lady Premiers 1909-1910). This is not a typical formal sports group pose, with only two women identified as holding racquets. 33 individuals, including men and children and one dog pose for the camera, the majority of whom are not dressed to play tennis. The court shows clear markings for tennis and a flag is flying in the background. The photograph is taken from inside the wire enclosure. There are mature gum trees in the background. The tennis court was situated in Eltham South at Bremner’s Flats (near present day Wingrove Park). The information included with the photocopy suggested this was the opening of the first Eltham Tennis Court however this is inaccurate. The Eltham Lawn Tennis Club was formed on a Saturday evening, the 29th of October, 1898 at a meeting held at the Eltham State school. The meeting was large and representative. Twenty members were enrolled, and eight more have since been added. Officers and a committee were duly elected, and the Treasurer was instructed to purchase the necessary requisites without delay. By the end of the first week in November all the requisites were to hand, two courts were marked out, and practice begun. The formal opening of the Courts of this Club took place on Saturday, November 12, 1898, when 26 members and their friends assembled. After several sets had been contested an adjournment was made for tea provided by the members and nicely laid out under the shade of the trees. Afterwards, sets were again formed and the game was proceeded with in a lively spirit till nearly dark, when all dispersed having thoroughly enjoyed themselves during the afternoon. (Evelyn Observer, and South and East Bourke Record (Vic. : 1882 - 1902), Friday 18 November 1898, page 2)Photocopy of damaged photographwilliams, 1910, bremner's flat, eltham, eltham lawn tennis club, eltham tennis court, shire of eltham pioneers photograph collection, tennis court, wingrove park, laura williams

These Victorian Almanacs were published from 1859 to 1916. They contained information of interest to all Victorians, especially historians, businessmen, farmers and gardeners and must have sold many copies in Warrnambool, particularly before the local Warrnambool Standard Almanacs began publication in 1875. These booklets are of interest as examples of 19th century almanacs published in Victoria. They are also somewhat similar to the Almanacs published annually by the Warrnambool Standard newspaper from 1875 to 1930. The 1869 Almanac is of particular interest as it has on the front cover the printed name of James Hider, stationer and bookseller of Warrnambool. James Hider had been a carpenter, a land agent and a rate collector before opening a shop in Timor Street, selling books and stationery and operating a Circulating Library. In 1865 Hider set up as a photographer and was still operating this business in 1878. He was active in community organizations, including the Mechanics Institute, the Fire Brigade, the National School, the Musical Group and the Benevolent Society. He was also a Councillor and a Mayor in the 1860s. It is interesting to note that his name does not appear to have been been added to the 1869 Almanac cover but is part of the original printing. These are two soft cover booklets of 60 pages each. The back covers of both are missing and the 1868 booklet has some back pages missing. The 1868 Almanac has a black and white cover with ornamental scrolls and the 1869 booklet has a red, green black and cream cover with an ornamental border and images of flora and fauna. The 1869 Almanac cover has a Coat of Arms with Advance Australia printed at the bottom of it. The 1869 Almanac also has a map of Victoria as an insert. Both almanacs contain an historical calendar, Victorian Parliamentary information, data on Victorian cities, postal regulations, farmers’ and gardeners’ guides etc. Both contain advertisements relevant to Melbourne. Both have been bound with string. victorian almanacs, annual journals, james hider, bookseller and stationer,, warrnambool.

The object is historically and socially significant as it shows the opening of Heroes Avenue (Avenue of Honor) three years after the end of Word War I. The trees planted in the Avenue came from the Nobelius Nursery.Photograph mounted on card of the opening of Heroes Avenue, Emerald on ANZAC Day 1921. Showing opening of Heroes AvenueSchool Children, Diggers + Speakers ect. People of Emerald. Opening of Heroes Avenue, ANZAC Day 1921, School Masters' Residence in backgroundanzac, heroes avenue, avenue of honor, emerald

Looking south along Main Road from the south side of the intersection of Bridge Street with Main Road. Anne Hunniford's Post Office and Burgoyne's store on left. Miss Harriet (Minnie) Williams's Cash Drapery Mart (est. 1902 and enlarged in 1906), also known as Eltham House on the right. Harriet (Minnie) Williams was born London, 1857, the daughter of George John Williams (1812-1895) and Jane Mansfield (1812-1895). In September 1885 she was operating Williams’s Drapery Establishment in premises on Main Road owned by R. Wallis who advertised them to let in September 1885. In 1902 she opened Williams’s Cash Drapery Mart at the southwest corner of Bridge Street and Main Road (opposite the Post Office), owned by W.J. Taylor. In 1906 she bought the premises and one quarter acre of land and expanded the business with a re-opening in April 1906. Harriet was also well-known and esteemed as an active worker in Methodist circles and also Superintendent of the Sunday School. Harriet fell ill in August 1907 and died 15 August. She is buried in Eltham Cemetery with her good friend Ada Ford. Note also the gas street lamp on right. Watson's Hotel on corner of Pitt Street visible in distance. The CBA bank building is hidden behind trees, the chimney and part roof visible. The photo was possibly taken by John Henry Clark of Clark Bros Photographers who operated from 25 Thompson Street, Windsor near Prahan 1894-1914. Evelyn Observer and Bourke East Record (Vic. : 1902 - 1917), Friday 30 March 1906, page 5 ________________________________________ ELTHAM. (FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.) For over three years Miss Williams has carried on a drapery business in very small and inconvenient premises opposite the Eltham post-office. Recently she bought the building and a quarter-acre of land from Mr. W. J. Taylor. Thus having a free hand, she at once matured plans to enlarge and improve the premises to make them suitable for her growing business. The result being that she consulted Mr Roach, contractor, of Heidelberg, put the matter in his hands, and now he has completed in a very satisfactory manner and up-to-date style extensive improvements. A large addition, of very neat and attractive design, with three large windows, has been built right along the front of the old building, and the counters and inside fittings are very neat and convenient, harmonizing well with the attractive outside appearance. Miss Williams has now got in a large now stock of goods, and is making extensive arrangements for a “reopening week," commencing 2nd April, during which time she will make 10 per cent reduction on all cash purchases in the form of gifts of that value. Miss Williams has gone to considerable expense and liability both, in the enlargement and improvement of the premises and in purchasing additional stock. We therefore trust that the public will stand by her by heartily and en masse patronizing her re-opening effort to show their appreciation of pluck in this advance movement. Google Street View Feb 2017: https://www.google.com.au/maps/@-37.7191341,145.1462046,3a,50.5y,191.91h,88.27t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sARwwqEQfMSfH9oTWWapPgQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656 This photo forms part of a collection of photographs gathered by the Shire of Eltham for their centenary project book,"Pioneers and Painters: 100 years of the Shire of Eltham" by Alan Marshall (1971). The collection of over 500 images is held in partnership between Eltham District Historical Society and Yarra Plenty Regional Library (Eltham Library) and is now formally known as the 'The Shire of Eltham Pioneers Photograph Collection.' It is significant in being the first community sourced collection representing the places and people of the Shire's first one hundred years.Digital image (x2) 4 x 5 inch B&W Neg B&W Print 16 x 25 cmsepp, shire of eltham pioneers photograph collection, eltham, main road, anne jane hunniford, burgoyne store, christopher watson, commercial bank of australia, drapery store, eltham house, gas lamp, harriet (minnie) williams, post office, street lamp, watson's hotel, williams's cash drapery mart, clark bros. photo

A large group of men and women pose for a photograph on Eltham tennis court. Although the photo is marked ”Lady Premiers”, this is not a typical formal sports group pose, with only two women identified as holding racquets. 33 individuals, including men and children and one dog pose for the camera, the majority of whom are not dressed to play tennis. The court shows clear markings for tennis and a flag is flying in the background. The photograph is taken from inside the wire enclosure. There are mature gum trees in the background. The tennis court was situated in Eltham South at Bremner’s Flats (near present day Wingrove Park). Cross Ref SEPP_0720 which is at an earlier level of development. The Eltham Lawn Tennis Club was formed on a Saturday evening, the 29th of October, 1898 at a meeting held at the Eltham State school. The meeting was large and representative. Twenty members were enrolled, and eight more have since been added. Officers and a committee were duly elected, and the Treasurer was instructed to purchase the necessary requisites without delay. By the end of the first week in November all the requisites were to hand, two courts were marked out, and practice begun. The formal opening of the Courts of this Club took place on Saturday, November 12, 1898, when 26 members and their friends assembled. After several sets had been contested an adjournment was made for tea provided by the members and nicely laid out under the shade of the trees. Afterwards, sets were again formed and the game was proceeded with in a lively spirit till nearly dark, when all dispersed having thoroughly enjoyed themselves during the afternoon. (Evelyn Observer, and South and East Bourke Record (Vic. : 1882 - 1902), Friday 18 November 1898, page 2)This photo forms part of a collection of photographs gathered by the Shire of Eltham for their centenary project book,"Pioneers and Painters: 100 years of the Shire of Eltham" by Alan Marshall (1971). The collection of over 500 images is held in partnership between Eltham District Historical Society and Yarra Plenty Regional Library (Eltham Library) and is now formally known as 'The Shire of Eltham Pioneers Photograph Collection.' It is significant in being the first community sourced collection representing the places and people of the Shire's first one hundred years.Digital image 4 x 5 inch B&W Negshire of eltham pioneers photograph collection, 1910, bremner's flat, eltham, eltham lawn tennis club, eltham tennis court, tennis court, wingrove park, laura williams, williams

Reproduced ‘Pioneers & Painters’ pp 52-53. Picnickers enjoying a Sunday outing in the fields opposite Eltham Railway Station. Looking north towards Research along Main Road near the intersection with Dudley Street. Luther Hayley’s Bakery and General Store on left promoting refreshments and summer drinks. With the opening of the railway to Eltham in 1902, Melbourne residents would regularly enjoy a Sunday excursion journey on the train to Eltham for a day’s outing to the countryside. Possibly the annual State schools picnic held by the Board of Advice at Haley's Paddock near Eltham railway station on 11 March, 1904. Haley’s Paddock (now occupied by Eltham shopping centre) was capable of accommodating 10,000 people, with ample shade and hilly surroundings, an ideal place for any gathering. The main foreground is the site of the present day Eltham Village and Coles Shopping Centre. This photo forms part of a collection of photographs gathered by the Shire of Eltham for their centenary project book,"Pioneers and Painters: 100 years of the Shire of Eltham" by Alan Marshall (1971). The collection of over 500 images is held in partnership between Eltham District Historical Society and Yarra Plenty Regional Library (Eltham Library) and is now formally known as the 'The Shire of Eltham Pioneers Photograph Collection.' It is significant in being the first community sourced collection representing the places and people of the Shire's first one hundred years.Digital image 4 x 5 inch B&W Neg Print 20 x 25 cmshire of eltham pioneers photograph collection, eltham, main road, bakery, eltham village reserve, general store, haley's paddock, luther haley, luther haley general store, picnic, pioneers and painters, railway store, summer drinks

People pose for a photograph at the Eltham tennis court. Four men set to play a doubles match while a group of women look on. The sandy looking court (with weeds growing) is surrounded by wooden posts with wire mesh, in the middle of a park with mature gum trees in the background. The tennis court was situated in Eltham South at Bremner’s Flats (near present day Wingrove Park). The court is approximately the location of the present day small carpark. Main Road can be seen in the background from centre left and Mount Pleasant just above, the intersection just above the centre of court. The photo by J.H. Clark has been taken outside the court. Cross Ref SEPP_0721 of the Lady Premiers for 1909-1910 in which an umpires raised seating platform has been erected and the court surface is more refined with marked lines. The Eltham Lawn Tennis Club was formed on a Saturday evening, the 29th of October, 1898 at a meeting held at the Eltham State school. The meeting was large and representative. Twenty members were enrolled, and eight more have since been added. Officers and a committee were duly elected, and the Treasurer was instructed to purchase the necessary requisites without delay. By the end of the first week in November all the requisites were to hand, two courts were marked out, and practice begun. The formal opening of the Courts of this Club took place on Saturday, November 12, 1898, when 26 members and their friends assembled. After several sets had been contested an adjournment was made for tea provided by the members and nicely laid out under the shade of the trees. Afterwards, sets were again formed and the game was proceeded with in a lively spirit till nearly dark, when all dispersed having thoroughly enjoyed themselves during the afternoon. (Evelyn Observer, and South and East Bourke Record (Vic. : 1882 - 1902), Friday 18 November 1898, page 2) Reproduced on p89 of 'Pioneers & Painters' Photographer: J.H. Clark John Henry Clark was the youngest of three boys born to William Henry Clark (1823-1877) and Maria White (1843-1914). He and his brothers, William Charles Clark (1872-1945), Clement Kent Clark (1874-1912) operated a photography business (Clark Bros.) from 25 Thomas Street, Windsor near Prahran during the period c.1894 to 1914. Following death of Clement in September 1912 and their mother in 1914, the Clark Bros business appears to have dissolved, the premises demolished, and a new house was under construction in 1915. John set up business independently in 1914 operating out of 29 Moor Street, Fitzroy where he is registered in the 1914 and 1915 Electoral Rolls. By 1916 John had relocated to Eltham where he continued his practice as a photographer and took many of the early images around the district of Little Eltham. Around 1930 John changed professions and opened a small cobbler's shop in 1931 near the pond opposite Dalton Street adjacent to the Jarrold family cottage. He never married and continued his profession as a bootmaker from this little shop, maintaining a close relationship with Mrs Jarrold for the rest of their lives. His bootmaker shop remains today beside the Whitecloud cottage and is one of only three remaining shops in the area from the early 20th century. There are a couple of images of Eltham taken by Clark Bros. in the Eltham District Historical Society collection, one such example being Hunniford’s Post Office with Miss Anne Hunniford out front (EDHS_00140 - marked on the back of the print, Clark Bros., 25 Thomas St. Windsor), which would date this image between c.1894 and 1914. Other early images of Eltham taken by John Henry Clark are marked on the face “J. H. Clark Photo” and it is assumed these are dated between 1914 and 1930. It is noted that the Grant of Probate for John H Clark of Eltham South dated 5 April !957 (513/387) records his occupation as "X Photographer".This photo forms part of a collection of photographs gathered by the Shire of Eltham for their centenary project book,"Pioneers and Painters: 100 years of the Shire of Eltham" by Alan Marshall (1971). The collection of over 500 images is held in partnership between Eltham District Historical Society and Yarra Plenty Regional Library (Eltham Library) and is now formally known as the 'The Shire of Eltham Pioneers Photograph Collection.' It is significant in being the first community sourced collection representing the places and people of the Shire's first one hundred years.Digital image 4 x 5 inch B&W Negshire of eltham pioneers photograph collection, bremner's flat, eltham, eltham tennis court, j.h. clark photo, pioneers and painters, tennis court, wingrove park, 1905, eltham lawn tennis club, main road, mount pleasant road

[from EDHS Newsletter No. 75, November 1990:] WALTER WITHERS PLAQUE At long last we have unveiled our plaque in the Walter Withers Reserve. The function was attended by a number of members and friends of the Society and descendants of the Withers family. Following the unveiling, the group proceeded to the Eltham Shire Office for afternoon tea and a small exhibition of Withers' paintings arranged by Andrew Mackenzie. The unveiling was performed by Mary Owen, a grand-daughter of Walter Withers. Her speech provided an interesting personal perspective on Withers and is repeated in full here: I feel somewhat overwhelmed by the responsibility of paying tribute to the man you have all come to honour today. I have the feeling that most of you probably know more about him and his work than I do. Walter Withers died nearly seven years before I was born and so I never knew him. Sadly, although other members of his family inherited some of his talent, I was not among them and I know very little about art. This is doubly hard to bear because my husband had some ability to draw and my second daughter also has some talent in this direction. My children are all artistic - mostly in the field of music inherited partly from their father - a Welshman who sang like a Welshman - and partly from my grandmother, Fanny Withers who, I believe was no mean pianist. However all this talent gave me a miss and for many years I felt a complete ignoramus in the fields of the arts. It was not until I was nearly fifty years old that I walked into a gallery in Brisbane and, as I wandered around the room, suddenly one picture leapt at me and I knew instantly that it had been painted by my grandfather. I had never seen the picture before and it gave me quite a shock to find that I had recognized the style of painting. I realized then that I had absorbed more than I realized simply by living with pictures and with people who painted them and talked about their painting and the painting of others. When I was a child I sometimes spent school holidays with my Aunt Margery Withers and her husband, Richard McCann. Aunt Marge painted me several times but I'm afraid I was a restless subject and used to sit reading a book and look up grudgingly when she wanted to paint my eyes. During the September holidays my aunt and uncle were busy preparing paintings far the annual exhibition of the Melbourne Twenty Painters, to which they both belonged. I remember how important I used to feel when they took me along to the Athenaeum Gallery on the Friday night before the opening to help hang their pictures. There were many artists there but the two I remember are perhaps surprisingly both women: Miss Bale and Miss Tweddle. I remember how cold it used to be up in that gallery at night. They used to heat water on a gas ring to make tea and Aunt Marge used to bring sandwiches and fruit for our evening meal. Everyone seemed to be poor in those days and no-one dreamed of going out for a meal. It was a case of make-do - even to cutting down frames to fit pictures or cutting pictures to fit the frames. They had to use the same frames from year to year if the pictures didn't sell. The opening was an exciting event for me. I felt I was privileged to meet important people - people who knew a lot more than I - and Uncle Dick would get quite merry after a couple of the tiny sweet sherries which were always distributed. I realise now that quite a lot of "art talk" rubbed off on me during my visits to the Athenaeum and during my stays with my aunt and uncle. I suspect that much of our most useful learning comes this way and those of us who have had the privilege of associating with artists, writers, philosophers and other thinkers have a richness in our lives of which we may be unaware. Walter Withers was a prolific painter and, although he painted for love of it, I suspect that the need to provide for his family drove him, like Mozart, to greater efforts than he might otherwise have achieved. Reading old letters and articles about the Heidelberg artists, I have come to realize something of the constant strain placed on many of them - particularly Withers and McCubbin - by poverty and the need to make ends meet. Withers was ever conscious of the need to provide for his wife and his five children and there are touching letters to his wife, regretting that he was not able to earn more for them. In addition to his painting, he worked hard at teaching and illustrating and, as he grew older, the strain began to tell and his health deteriorated. He seems never to have had a very strong constitution and suffered from rheumatism, which must have made painting quite painful at times. His eldest daughter, Gladys, was eventually confined to a wheelchair with rheumatoid arthritis and I have a tendency to arthritis myself, so I am particularly aware of what this could have meant to him. Recently I found a short letter written by my mother to her mother, Fanny Withers on the anniversary of her father's birthday in 1919, in which she said: "Poor old Dad, I often think now what a lot he must have suffered. His life was too hard and too strenuous for him. He had too many chick-a-biddies, I think. He wasn't equal to so much town life and train journeys with so many delicacies as he had. Since I have been ill, I have realised what he must have felt like.” He certainly drove himself to produce. He travelled all over Victoria by train, buggy, bicycle and on foot and for a time he travelled from Eltham to Melbourne every day by train, although later he lived in Melbourne during the week and only returned to Eltham for the weekends. My mother died seven years after her father's death, when my twin sisters were 10 days old and I was 16 months. So I never knew my mother or my grandfather. But my two aunts, Gladys and Margery, sometimes took me to stay with Gan Withers at Southernwood in Bolton Street . No cars in those days and it seemed a very long hot and dusty walk from the Station. Three memories remain with me of Southernwood. One is the well at the back which I found quite terrifying; the second is Gan killing a snake - even more terrifying. She was a formidable woman, my grandmother and a great ally and support to her husband. I think she was the business end of the partnership. The third memory of Southernwood is my grandfather's studio – down what seemed like a toy staircase inside the room. This and the big walk-in fireplace stayed in my mind from the age of about six until I saw them again about forty years later when the house was being used as a Sunday School. I just wish that money could be found to purchase this old house for the City of Eltham so that a permanent museum could be established in memory of a man who did so much to put Eltham on the map of art history. Recently I have become interested in family history and spent some time in England, Ireland and Wales looking for traces of my ancestors. I realized then how important it is to have records of people who have contributed to our society. We forget so soon and it is amazing how often, within two generations, names, dates and many details are forgotten. We are fortunate that so many of Walter Withers' works have been bought by galleries and that people like Andrew Mackenzie have taken the trouble to search out people who knew him and to write about him and his work. And I am very grateful to the Historical Society of Eltham for recognizing the importance of having a permanent tribute in Eltham to the contribution made by Walter Withers, who loved Eltham so much and who has assured this lovely district a place in the annals of history. I am indebted to Kathleen Mangan; the daughter of another famous Australian painter , Fred McCubbin, - featured in The Age this morning (thanks again to Andrew Mackenzie) for the most apt tribute to Walter Withers. Kathleen is not well and she rang me a couple of days ago, regretting that she could not be present today “to pay tribute” as she said, “to Walter Withers for I always think Walter Withers is the spirit of Eltham.” Thank you, Kathleen. And now I have much pleasure in unveiling the plaque commissioned by the Eltham Historical Society from Bob McLellan of Charmac Industries to commemorate the life and work of Walter Withers, the spirit of Eltham. Mary Owen, 13 October 1990.Three colour photographswalter withers rock, walter withers reserve, mary owen

[from EDHS Newsletter No. 75, November 1990:] WALTER WITHERS PLAQUE At long last we have unveiled our plaque in the Walter Withers Reserve. The function was attended by a number of members and friends of the Society and descendants of the Withers family. Following the unveiling, the group proceeded to the Eltham Shire Office for afternoon tea and a small exhibition of Withers' paintings arranged by Andrew Mackenzie. The unveiling was performed by Mary Owen, a grand-daughter of Walter Withers. Her speech provided an interesting personal perspective on Withers and is repeated in full here: I feel somewhat overwhelmed by the responsibility of paying tribute to the man you have all come to honour today. I have the feeling that most of you probably know more about him and his work than I do. Walter Withers died nearly seven years before I was born and so I never knew him. Sadly, although other members of his family inherited some of his talent, I was not among them and I know very little about art. This is doubly hard to bear because my husband had some ability to draw and my second daughter also has some talent in this direction. My children are all artistic - mostly in the field of music inherited partly from their father - a Welshman who sang like a Welshman - and partly from my grandmother, Fanny Withers who, I believe was no mean pianist. However all this talent gave me a miss and for many years I felt a complete ignoramus in the fields of the arts. It was not until I was nearly fifty years old that I walked into a gallery in Brisbane and, as I wandered around the room, suddenly one picture leapt at me and I knew instantly that it had been painted by my grandfather. I had never seen the picture before and it gave me quite a shock to find that I had recognized the style of painting. I realized then that I had absorbed more than I realized simply by living with pictures and with people who painted them and talked about their painting and the painting of others. When I was a child I sometimes spent school holidays with my Aunt Margery Withers and her husband, Richard McCann. Aunt Marge painted me several times but I'm afraid I was a restless subject and used to sit reading a book and look up grudgingly when she wanted to paint my eyes. During the September holidays my aunt and uncle were busy preparing paintings far the annual exhibition of the Melbourne Twenty Painters, to which they both belonged. I remember how important I used to feel when they took me along to the Athenaeum Gallery on the Friday night before the opening to help hang their pictures. There were many artists there but the two I remember are perhaps surprisingly both women: Miss Bale and Miss Tweddle. I remember how cold it used to be up in that gallery at night. They used to heat water on a gas ring to make tea and Aunt Marge used to bring sandwiches and fruit for our evening meal. Everyone seemed to be poor in those days and no-one dreamed of going out for a meal. It was a case of make-do - even to cutting down frames to fit pictures or cutting pictures to fit the frames. They had to use the same frames from year to year if the pictures didn't sell. The opening was an exciting event for me. I felt I was privileged to meet important people - people who knew a lot more than I - and Uncle Dick would get quite merry after a couple of the tiny sweet sherries which were always distributed. I realise now that quite a lot of "art talk" rubbed off on me during my visits to the Athenaeum and during my stays with my aunt and uncle. I suspect that much of our most useful learning comes this way and those of us who have had the privilege of associating with artists, writers, philosophers and other thinkers have a richness in our lives of which we may be unaware. Walter Withers was a prolific painter and, although he painted for love of it, I suspect that the need to provide for his family drove him, like Mozart, to greater efforts than he might otherwise have achieved. Reading old letters and articles about the Heidelberg artists, I have come to realize something of the constant strain placed on many of them - particularly Withers and McCubbin - by poverty and the need to make ends meet. Withers was ever conscious of the need to provide for his wife and his five children and there are touching letters to his wife, regretting that he was not able to earn more for them. In addition to his painting, he worked hard at teaching and illustrating and, as he grew older, the strain began to tell and his health deteriorated. He seems never to have had a very strong constitution and suffered from rheumatism, which must have made painting quite painful at times. His eldest daughter, Gladys, was eventually confined to a wheelchair with rheumatoid arthritis and I have a tendency to arthritis myself, so I am particularly aware of what this could have meant to him. Recently I found a short letter written by my mother to her mother, Fanny Withers on the anniversary of her father's birthday in 1919, in which she said: "Poor old Dad, I often think now what a lot he must have suffered. His life was too hard and too strenuous for him. He had too many chick-a-biddies, I think. He wasn't equal to so much town life and train journeys with so many delicacies as he had. Since I have been ill, I have realised what he must have felt like.” He certainly drove himself to produce. He travelled all over Victoria by train, buggy, bicycle and on foot and for a time he travelled from Eltham to Melbourne every day by train, although later he lived in Melbourne during the week and only returned to Eltham for the weekends. My mother died seven years after her father's death, when my twin sisters were 10 days old and I was 16 months. So I never knew my mother or my grandfather. But my two aunts, Gladys and Margery, sometimes took me to stay with Gan Withers at Southernwood in Bolton Street . No cars in those days and it seemed a very long hot and dusty walk from the Station. Three memories remain with me of Southernwood. One is the well at the back which I found quite terrifying; the second is Gan killing a snake - even more terrifying. She was a formidable woman, my grandmother and a great ally and support to her husband. I think she was the business end of the partnership. The third memory of Southernwood is my grandfather's studio – down what seemed like a toy staircase inside the room. This and the big walk-in fireplace stayed in my mind from the age of about six until I saw them again about forty years later when the house was being used as a Sunday School. I just wish that money could be found to purchase this old house for the City of Eltham so that a permanent museum could be established in memory of a man who did so much to put Eltham on the map of art history. Recently I have become interested in family history and spent some time in England, Ireland and Wales looking for traces of my ancestors. I realized then how important it is to have records of people who have contributed to our society. We forget so soon and it is amazing how often, within two generations, names, dates and many details are forgotten. We are fortunate that so many of Walter Withers' works have been bought by galleries and that people like Andrew Mackenzie have taken the trouble to search out people who knew him and to write about him and his work. And I am very grateful to the Historical Society of Eltham for recognizing the importance of having a permanent tribute in Eltham to the contribution made by Walter Withers, who loved Eltham so much and who has assured this lovely district a place in the annals of history. I am indebted to Kathleen Mangan; the daughter of another famous Australian painter , Fred McCubbin, - featured in The Age this morning (thanks again to Andrew Mackenzie) for the most apt tribute to Walter Withers. Kathleen is not well and she rang me a couple of days ago, regretting that she could not be present today “to pay tribute” as she said, “to Walter Withers for I always think Walter Withers is the spirit of Eltham.” Thank you, Kathleen. And now I have much pleasure in unveiling the plaque commissioned by the Eltham Historical Society from Bob McLellan of Charmac Industries to commemorate the life and work of Walter Withers, the spirit of Eltham. Mary Owen, 13 October 1990.Two colour photographswalter withers rock, walter withers reserve, mary owen

Postcards scanned from the collection of Michael Aitken on loan to EDHS, 13 Feb 2018 Reproduced ‘Pioneers & Painters’ pp 52-53. Picnickers enjoying a Sunday outing in the fields opposite Eltham Railway Station. Looking north towards Research along Main Road near the intersection with Dudley Street. Luther Hayley’s Bakery and General Store on left promoting refreshments and summer drinks. With the opening of the railway to Eltham in 1902, Melbourne residents would regularly enjoy a Sunday excursion journey on the train to Eltham for a day’s outing to the countryside. Possibly the annual State schools picnic held by the Board of Advice at Haley's Paddock near Eltham railway station on 11 March, 1904. Haley’s Paddock (now occupied by Eltham shopping centre) was capable of accommodating 10,000 people, with ample shade and hilly surroundings, an ideal place for any gathering. The main foreground is the site of the present day Eltham Village and Coles Shopping Centre. 1904 'STATE SCHOOLS' PICNIC.', Record (Emerald Hill, Vic. : 1881 - 1954), 19 March, p. 3. http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article165173087Digital file only Postcards scanned from the collection of Michael Aitken on loan to EDHS, 13 Feb 2018michael aitken collection, postcards, eltham, main road, bakery, eltham village reserve, general store, haley's paddock, luther haley, luther haley general store, picnic, pioneers and painters, railway store, shire of eltham pioneers photograph collection, summer drinks

"The 19th of March 1886 proved an important day in the lives of many early settlers in the Orbost area, because on this day the Orbost State School opened. The fact that the school had first operated tem­porarily in a leased building, and on a half-time basis with SS2745 Jarrahmond, did not dampen the enthusiasm of the local inhabitants as they saw their offspring commence their education under the guidance of HT Campbell Mackay. However he remained in charge only until 12th of May 1886. The second HT, John Rowe, served until 1908. On 30th of June 1887, a portable room was provided; it being brought to the area by schooner. The school now had accommodation for 30 pupils; the teacher's welfare was considered because quarters of two rooms were attached. As the population increased so did the needs of the school. This was reflected in the provision of a larger classroom in 1898. During 1910-11 the first approaches were made to the Department for the establishment of a HES in Orbost and this became a reality in 1912. Orbost HES supplied post-primary education in the district until a high school was built in 1948. When fire destroyed the school in 1941 local halls were used as classrooms until a new school was built. Work was quite rapid and a new brick structure was opened by the Hon. A. E. Lind, MLA, on 13th of February 1942. This new building was a fine type of school of which both the pupils and the HT Leslie Collins were indeed proud. But Orbost continued to develop and the new school was soon over­taxed. This resulted in the erection of two Bristol classrooms in 1947. By 1950, when the school population had reached 500 pupils the opening of the new school at Orbost North was welcomed by all concerned. In 1963 the Department purchased land diagonally opposite the school and developed it as a playing area. In 1965 two LTCs were opened in November, and in October 1968 the Brodribb School building was moved to SS2744 Orbost for use as a general purpose room." This item is associated with the history of education in Orbost.A black / white photograph of a group of students, some kneeling, some sitting, in a school yard. It is framed in grey buff cardboard with a photographer's stamp at the bottom.H. A. Dart Melbourne in gold print at the bottom.photograph-orbost-state-school

This photograph shows students of Grades 5 and 6. The 19th of March 1886 proved an important day in the lives of many early settlers in the Orbost area, because on this day the Orbost State School opened. The fact that the school had first operated tem­porarily in a leased building, and on a half-time basis with SS2745 Jarrahmond, did not dampen the enthusiasm of the local inhabitants as they saw their offspring commence their education under the guidance of HT Campbell Mackay. However he remained in charge only until 12th of May 1886. The second HT, John Rowe, served until 1908. On 30th of June 1887, a portable room was provided; it being brought to the area by schooner. The school now had accommodation for 30 pupils; the teacher's welfare was considered because quarters of two rooms were attached. As the population increased so did the needs of the school. This was reflected in the provision of a larger classroom in 1898. During 1910-11 the first approaches were made to the Department for the establishment of a HES in Orbost and this became a reality in 1912. Orbost HES supplied post-primary education in the district until a high school was built in 1948. When fire destroyed the school in 1941 local halls were used as classrooms until a new school was built. Work was quite rapid and a new brick structure was opened by the Hon. A. E. Lind, MLA, on 13th of February 1942. This new building was a fine type of school of which both the pupils and the HT Leslie Collins were indeed proud. But Orbost continued to develop and the new school was soon over­taxed. This resulted in the erection of two Bristol classrooms in 1947. By 1950, when the school population had reached 500 pupils the opening of the new school at Orbost North was welcomed by all concerned. In 1963 the Department purchased land diagonally opposite the school and developed it as a playing area. In 1965 two LTCs were opened in November, and in October 1968 the Brodribb School building was moved to SS2744 Orbost for use as a general purpose room. (info. from Schools East Gippsland) This item is associated with the history of education in Orbost.A black / white photograph framed by a grey buff card with the photographer's label in the RH bottom corner. The photograph shows a group of students outside their school. building.education -orbost orbost-state-school

The 19th of March 1886 proved an important day in the lives of many early settlers in the Orbost area, because on this day the Orbost State School opened. The fact that the school had first operated tem­porarily in a leased building, and on a half-time basis with SS2745 Jarrahmond, did not dampen the enthusiasm of the local inhabitants as they saw their offspring commence their education under the guidance of HT Campbell Mackay. However he remained in charge only until 12th of May 1886. The second HT, John Rowe, served until 1908. On 30th of June 1887, a portable room was provided; it being brought to the area by schooner. The school now had accommodation for 30 pupils; the teacher's welfare was considered because quarters of two rooms were attached. As the population increased so did the needs of the school. This was reflected in the provision of a larger classroom in 1898. During 1910-11 the first approaches were made to the Department for the establishment of a HES in Orbost and this became a reality in 1912. Orbost HES supplied post-primary education in the district until a high school was built in 1948. When fire destroyed the school in 1941 local halls were used as classrooms until a new school was built. Work was quite rapid and a new brick structure was opened by the Hon. A. E. Lind, MLA, on 13th of February 1942. This new building was a fine type of school of which both the pupils and the HT Leslie Collins were indeed proud. But Orbost continued to develop and the new school was soon over­taxed. This resulted in the erection of two Bristol classrooms in 1947. By 1950, when the school population had reached 500 pupils the opening of the new school at Orbost North was welcomed by all concerned. In 1963 the Department purchased land diagonally opposite the school and developed it as a playing area. In 1965 two LTCs were opened in November, and in October 1968 the Brodribb School building was moved to SS2744 Orbost for use as a general purpose room. ( info. Schools East Gippsland) This item is associated with the history of education in Orbost.A black / white photograph framed by a grey buff card. It shows grade three students standing in front of a wooden school building.education-orbost orbost-state-school

This photograph shows Mr Alex McDonald, the head of the Education Department, opening the new extensions at the 1962 Golden Jubilee of the Orbost High School.Orbost High School / Orbost Secondary College has played a significant part in the education of senior students in the Orbost district . It is the sole senior educational institution. This item is representative of its historyA black / white photograph of a man standing behind a lectern on a stage delivering a speech. There are other seated behind him.on back - " Mr Alex McDonald, head of Education Depet. Orbost H.S. Jubilee, 1962"

The 19th of March 1886 proved an important day in the lives of many early settlers in the Orbost area, because on this day the Orbost State School opened. The fact that the school had first operated tem­porarily in a leased building, and on a half-time basis with SS2745 Jarrahmond, did not dampen the enthusiasm of the local inhabitants as they saw their offspring commence their education under the guidance of HT Campbell Mackay. However he remained in charge only until 12th of May 1886. The second HT, John Rowe, served until 1908. On 30th of June 1887, a portable room was provided; it being brought to the area by schooner. The school now had accommodation for 30 pupils; the teacher's welfare was considered because quarters of two rooms were attached. As the population increased so did the needs of the school. This was reflected in the provision of a larger classroom in 1898. During 1910-11 the first approaches were made to the Department for the establishment of a HES in Orbost and this became a reality in 1912. Orbost HES supplied post-primary education in the district until a high school was built in 1948. When fire destroyed the school in 1941 local halls were used as classrooms until a new school was built. Work was quite rapid and a new brick structure was opened by the Hon. A. E. Lind, MLA, on 13th of February 1942. This new building was a fine type of school of which both the pupils and the HT Leslie Collins were indeed proud. But Orbost continued to develop and the new school was soon over­taxed. This resulted in the erection of two Bristol classrooms in 1947. By 1950, when the school population had reached 500 pupils the opening of the new school at Orbost North was welcomed by all concerned. In 1963 the Department purchased land diagonally opposite the school and developed it as a playing area. In 1965 two LTCs were opened in November, and in October 1968 the Brodribb School building was moved to SS2744 Orbost for use as a general purpose room. ( Info. from Schools East Gippsland) This item is associated with the history of education in Orbost.A black / white photograph on a grey buff cardboard frame. It is of a group of students standing outside the Orbost State School building. One child holds a sign reading "Form F". There is a photographer's label at the bottom.on back - "Alen Roach" on front - "1919" education-orbost orbost-state-school

The 19th of March 1886 proved an important day in the lives of many early settlers in the Orbost area, because on this day the Orbost State School opened. The fact that the school had first operated tem­porarily in a leased building, and on a half-time basis with SS2745 Jarrahmond, did not dampen the enthusiasm of the local inhabitants as they saw their offspring commence their education under the guidance of HT Campbell Mackay. However he remained in charge only until 12th of May 1886. The second HT, John Rowe, served until 1908. On 30th of June 1887, a portable room was provided; it being brought to the area by schooner. The school now had accommodation for 30 pupils; the teacher's welfare was considered because quarters of two rooms were attached. As the population increased so did the needs of the school. This was reflected in the provision of a larger classroom in 1898. During 1910-11 the first approaches were made to the Department for the establishment of a HES in Orbost and this became a reality in 1912. Orbost HES supplied post-primary education in the district until a high school was built in 1948. When fire destroyed the school in 1941 local halls were used as classrooms until a new school was built. Work was quite rapid and a new brick structure was opened by the Hon. A. E. Lind, MLA, on 13th of February 1942. This new building was a fine type of school of which both the pupils and the HT Leslie Collins were indeed proud. But Orbost continued to develop and the new school was soon over­taxed. This resulted in the erection of two Bristol classrooms in 1947. By 1950, when the school population had reached 500 pupils the opening of the new school at Orbost North was welcomed by all concerned. In 1963 the Department purchased land diagonally opposite the school and developed it as a playing area. In 1965 two LTCs were opened in November, and in October 1968 the Brodribb School building was moved to SS2744 Orbost for use as a general purpose room. (info. Schools east Gippsland) This item is associated with the history of education in Orbost.A black / white photograph on a grey buff cardboard frame. It is of students outside the Orbost State School. A child in the centre bottom row is holding a sign reading " Grades 5 & 6".on back - "Mary Gilbert"education-orbost orbost-state-school

Installed 29-May-1956.Plaque, engraved, white infill, text: 'This tablet commemorates the official opening of the Norwood State School/ by/ The Honourable J.S.Bloomfield M.L.A.,/ Minister of Education/ on the 29th May, 1956.' +Additional Keywords: Bloomfield, J.S. MLAThis tablet commemorates the official opening of the Norwood State School/ by/ The Honourable J.S.Bloomfield M.L.A.,/ Minister of Education/ on the 29th May, 1956.'

Collection of Black and White photographs, and Negatives. No information on back of photos. Identification of School came from article in Ringwood-Croydon Mail, 20th July, 1983 p.11 (See C:\Master_Docs\SC0138 (Item 3161) Notes.pdf, copy attached)Plaque reads, "This music centre and 'Pioneer Place' were officially opened on 20th July, 1983 by Ellie V. Pullin, M.B.E. President Ringwood Historical Research Group".

Photograph of Foundation stone for Ringwood State School No. 2997 was laid by Mrs. J.K. Turnbull on 15th August, 1889, marking the opening of the school situated in Whitehorse Road at the corner of Ringwood Street (1889-1922). Mrs. Turnbull was the wife of the Ringwood Station Master. The stone was removed after the school closed in 1922 and re-laid in 1962 by the School Committee at this subsequent Greenwood Avenue school site and is pictured here being viewed near the entrance in 1973 by Mr. Ron Pullin, Archivist, Ringwood Historical Research Group".Sign below photograph reads, "Foundation stone of Ringwood State School (late Ringwood St.). Now in grounds of Greenwood Avenue Ringwood State School". Inscription on stone, "This foundation stone was laid by Mrs. J.K. Turnbull on 15th August 1889". Printed on plaque below stone, "No.2997 - Ringwood State School 1889-1922. Situated in Ringwood Street, East Side sixty yards north of Maroondah Highway. Foundation stone removed 19?? re-erected by the School Committee 1962".

Printed below photograph, "Opening St. Francis de Salle - 1958". Written on backing sheet, "Archbishop Simmonds opens East Ringwood School, St. Frances de Salle. See 'Mail' 27th Nov. 1958 for full report and 4th Dec. 'Mail' for names in photo."

Written on back of photograph, "Mail 24th April 1958. Official opening Ringwood High School".

This photograph is part of the Mary Gilbert Collection. This photo shows the first Orbost State School which is now known as Ruskin Street Primary School. "The 19th of March 1886 proved an important day in the lives of many early settlers in the Orbost area, because on this day the Orbost State School opened. The fact that the school had first operated tem­porarily in a leased building, and on a half-time basis with SS2745 Jarrahmond, did not dampen the enthusiasm of the local inhabitants as they saw their offspring commence their education under the guidance of HT Campbell Mackay. However he remained in charge only until 12th of May 1886. The second HT, John Rowe, served until 1908. On 30th of June 1887, a portable room was provided; it being brought to the area by schooner. The school now had accommodation for 30 pupils; the teacher's welfare was considered because quarters of two rooms were attached. As the population increased so did the needs of the school. This was reflected in the provision of a larger classroom in 1898. During 1910-11 the first approaches were made to the Department for the establishment of a HES in Orbost and this became a reality in 1912. Orbost HES supplied post-primary education in the district until a high school was built in 1948. When fire destroyed the school in 1941 local halls were used as classrooms until a new school was built. Work was quite rapid and a new brick structure was opened by the Hon. A. E. Lind, MLA, on 13th of February 1942. This new building was a fine type of school of which both the pupils and the HT Leslie Collins were indeed proud. But Orbost continued to develop and the new school was soon over­taxed. This resulted in the erection of two Bristol classrooms in 1947. By 1950, when the school population had reached 500 pupils the opening of the new school at Orbost North was welcomed by all concerned. In 1963 the Department purchased land diagonally opposite the school and developed it as a playing area. In 1965 two LTCs were opened in November, and in October 1968 the Brodribb School building was moved to SS2744 Orbost for use as a general purpose room." (re.f Schools East Gippsland")This item is associated with education in Orbost.A black / white photograph showing a group of children posed in front of a wooden school building. A sign on the building has "STATE SCHOOL No. 2744"3127.1 - "front row left is W.J. Cameron" 3127.2 - "Teachers, Mr Rowe, Miss Lucy Watt (sewing) back row Mrs Kerr (Hilda Temple) Miss Hofen back left W. Roadknight 4 from left back Annie Cameron 1 left centre row" 3127.3 - as per above education-orbost state-school-orbost

This item is part of the Mary Gilbert Collection. Top Row on Left - Ethel Scouller; Una Roadknight; Rene Rodwell; Nathan Spielvogel (Head Teacher) Bottom Left - Elsie Cook; Miss Olivier with hat (teacher); Erica Roadknight, Penuel Cameron Far Right - Dorrie Roadknight;with hat (teacher); 3rd from left Vera Nixon; Sally Draffin behind her; Linda Gluth in front of Dorrie Tthe Orbost State School opened on19th of March 1886. The school had first operated tem­porarily in a leased building, and on a half-time basis with SS2745 Jarrahmond, The head teacher was Campbell Mackay who remained in charge only until 12th of May 1886. The second head teacher, John Rowe, served until 1908. On 30th of June 1887, a portable room was provided; it being brought to the area by schooner. The school now had accommodation for 30 pupils; the teacher's welfare was considered because quarters of two rooms were attached. As the population increased so did the needs of the school. This was reflected in the provision of a larger classroom in 1898. During 1910-11 the first approaches were made to the Department for the establishment of a Higher Elementary School in Orbost and this became a reality in 1912. Orbost. The Higher Elementary School supplied post-primary education in the district until a high school was built in 1948. When fire destroyed the school in 1941 local halls were used as classrooms until a new school was built, opened by the Hon. A. E. Lind, MLA, on 13th of February 1942. But Orbost continued to develop and the new school was soon over­taxed. This resulted in the erection of two Bristol classrooms in 1947. By 1950, when the school population had reached 500 pupils the opening of the new school at Orbost North was welcomed by all concerned. In 1963 the Department purchased land diagonally opposite the school and developed it as a playing area. This item is associated with education in Orbost.A black / white photograph with a list of names attached to the bottom. It shows a group of students and teachers in front of a wooden school building.on label - Orbost S.S. 1909 with a list of identifying nameseducation-orbost orbost-state-school

DESCRIPTIONA black / white photograph on a grey buff cardboard frame. It is of a group of students standing outside the Orbost State School building. One child holds a sign reading "Form F". There is a photographer's label at the bottom.SIZEH-199mm W-028mmOBJECT REGISTRATION890KEYWORDSeducation-orbost orbost-state-schoolHISTORICAL INFORMATIONThe 19th of March 1886 proved an important day in the lives of many early settlers in the Orbost area, because on this day the Orbost State School opened. The fact that the school had first operated tem­porarily in a leased building, and on a half-time basis with SS2745 Jarrahmond, did not dampen the enthusiasm of the local inhabitants as they saw their offspring commence their education under the guidance of HT Campbell Mackay. However he remained in charge only until 12th of May 1886. The second HT, John Rowe, served until 1908. On 30th of June 1887, a portable room was provided; it being brought to the area by schooner. The school now had accommodation for 30 pupils; the teacher's welfare was considered because quarters of two rooms were attached. As the population increased so did the needs of the school. This was reflected in the provision of a larger classroom in 1898. During 1910-11 the first approaches were made to the Department for the establishment of a HES in Orbost and this became a reality in 1912. Orbost HES supplied post-primary education in the district until a high school was built in 1948. When fire destroyed the school in 1941 local halls were used as classrooms until a new school was built. Work was quite rapid and a new brick structure was opened by the Hon. A. E. Lind, MLA, on 13th of February 1942. This new building was a fine type of school of which both the pupils and the HT Leslie Collins were indeed proud. But Orbost continued to develop and the new school was soon over­taxed. This resulted in the erection of two Bristol classrooms in 1947. By 1950, when the school population had reached 500 pupils the opening of the new school at Orbost North was welcomed by all concerned. In 1963 the Department purchased land diagonally opposite the school and developed it as a playing area. In 1965 two LTCs were opened in November, and in October 1968 the Brodribb School building was moved to SS2744 Orbost for use as a general purpose room. ( Info. from Schools East Gippsland)This item is associated with the history of education in Orbost.A black / white photograph of a large group of children standing outside a school building - " Orbost State School No. 2744". The younger students are standing in the front. High School students are at the back.on back - "Mr C. Connor S.M. Mr Tipper H.M. State & H.E.s. about 1922"education-orbost orbost-state-school orbost-higher-elementary-school