In the early 1900s a new Coffee Palace was erected on the first railway land to be leased for private business in Wodonga. This Coffee Palace (later to become Glenburnie Guest House) was situated in High Street opposite the former Customs House which at the time was being used as the Wodonga Police Station. It was built by Mr Denny Donovan and operated by his wife. An article in the Wodonga and Towong Sentinel declared that “No expense has been spared in the erection and fitting up of the Palace, which is intended to supply a long felt want”. The building consists entirely of brick and the rooms are lofty, spacious and well-ventilated. The bedsteads are modern, and will satisfy the most fastidious. The motto of the proprietress is “Cleanliness, civility and attention”. Mr Donovan died in January 1908 and in 1909 the Wodonga Coffee Palace was sold by Mrs Donovan to Mrs P. Egan who advertised hot and cold shower baths with meals at all hours. In 1913 the Wodonga Coffee Palace was taken over by Mrs Cuthbertson and Miss Steele. In 1921 Wodonga Coffee Palace was taken over by Julia Ronan who had successfully conducted the dining rooms at the Wodonga Saleyards for 15 years until those premises burned down. The Wodonga and Towong Sentinel on 10 January 1936 reported that “the business premises formerly conducted by Mrs Ronan have been renovated and refurbished. The new proprietresses are Misses Breen, who have had extensive experience in managing such businesses. The new premises will be known as the Glenburnie Guest House.” Changes of ownership continued with Mrs M.E. Elliot taking over in December 1940, followed by Mrs Stella Victoria Wong in 1945. In 1953 it was again taken over by Mrs E.M. Moran. The date of the closure of Glenburnie Guest House is uncertain but the building was demolished in the early 1970s.This image is significant because it is one of the few remaining links to an important Wodonga business.A photo taken from a newspaper article about Glenburnie Guest Houseglenburnie guest house, early wodonga businesses, coffee palaces

From 1870 onwards discussions took place in Wodonga concerning the best location for a building to house and reorganise the holdings of the Wodonga Literary Institute and Free Library. The Literary Institute, originally the Belvoir Literary Group, had been formed prior to 1861 and changed its name with the renaming of the town in 1869. In 1873 a meeting was held to consider the re-organising of the Wodonga Literary Institute and Free Library as “there were a goodly number of valuable books and other property belonging to the Institution but they were not used, and it was a pity to see such valuable works and sketches shut up in a back store getting spoiled”. In October 1885 the Wodonga and Towong Sentinel reported that the Wodonga Athenaeum and Free Library committee were seeking a grant of £200 to add to the £200 already paid to purchase Hellerman’s buildings. In October 1886 the Wodonga Athenaeum in Hume Street was officially opened. It was designed by Gordon and Gordon, architects, and built by Stewart Bros. This building continued to house the Atheneum and its collection until 1915 when the new library in High Street was built. In 1916 the Athenaeum building was moved on drays drawn by Clydesdale horses, to 153 Lawrence Street and used as a private home since. The building is heritage listed. This image is one of a collection of glass negatives taken by Robert Prentice. The negatives are clearly identified as he inscribed in the glass a back-to-front capital R (Я) on to which was joined a capital P creating his mark ЯР. On the glass he would also scratch the name Prentice where he could, in this case along the bottom of the picket fence.This image is significant because it housed the Wodonga Literary Group and Free Library, the first library building in Wodonga.Black and white image of old wooden house with tin roof. Trees and a picket fence are at the front of the house.Written below picket fence: Atheneum Wodonga, Prenticewodonga literary institute and free library, atheneum wodonga, belvoir literary group, robert prentice

Henry Beardmore was a significant contributor to Wodonga and the state of Victoria. He was born in Melton on 7th February 1863 to Edwin James Beardmore and Flora McDonald. He grew up in Benalla and became a butcher at Glenrowan before taking up land at Leneva near Wodonga, Victoria. On 15 July 1885 Henry married his first wife, Agnes Annie Lee and they had two sons and two daughters. Agnes died in 1892. In 23 August 1893, Henry married Jessie Muirhead and they had six sons and four daughters. Henry represented the Green Hills riding on Wodonga Shire Council from 1898 to 1922, including terms as President from 1900-01, 1903-4, 1908-10, 1911-12, 1914-17. In 1922 Mr. Beardmore retired from the Wodonga Council due to his increased workload in State politics. Henry Beardmore was a Freemason including Master of the Wodonga Lodge from 1906 to 1907, and was an active member up until his death. From 1905-1915, Henry Beardmore leased “De Kerilleau” homestead with the exception of 1907, when Mr W. Huon was in residence, and after he died there in 1907, the Beardmore family returned. Henry Beardmore won the seat of Benambra in the Victorian Legislative Assembly at a by-election on 20th April 1917. He continuously represented the Benambra electorate as a Nationalist and United Australia Party member for more than 15 years. He was a strong advocate for country development and decentralisation, but he declined to join the Country Party. He held the seat of Benambra, up to the date of his death, and was returned unopposed on four occasions. He was an Honorary Minister in 1924 and for a short time in 1929, Minister of Railways, Minister in-charge of Electrical Undertakings and Minister of Labour. He was a leading supporter of Kiewa Hydro-Electric Project and opponent of Yallourn coalfield. Henry Beardmore died in Wodonga on 29 August 1932. His last residence was on the corner Elm Street and Beechworth Road.This photo is significant because it depicts an important local and State politician and member of the Wodonga Community.A black and white formal portrait of Henry Beardmore.henry beardmore, wodonga council, benambra - victorian politics

Ian Darnton Watson was a member of a prominent family of civic leaders in Wodonga. He was born on 6th July 1925 in Albury, the first son of Kenneth Darnton Watson and Phyllis Lenore Emily Austin. He completed his primary education at Albury Grammar School, and later became a boarder at Melbourne Church of England Grammar School. He enlisted for service at Albury on 25th January 1944 and commenced full time service on 8th February 1944 at Royal Park in Melbourne, Victoria and was allocated to the 2nd Medium Regiment. He embarked for overseas service in Borneo on 30th July 1945 and disembarked in Australia on 15 April 1947 after serving with the Australian occupation forces in Japan. Mr Watson was discharged on 22 April 1947 at which time he was a member of the Australian 2nd Medical Regiment. On discharge he returned home to help his father farm his property, De Kerilleau in Wodonga. De Kerilleau was classified by the National Trust in 1974. Ian described his father, Kenneth as a hardworking, practical man, who for two years from 1929 - 1931, had been the Wodonga Shire President. Cr K. D. Watson was again elected to the Council in 1943 and served until he died in October 1951. In March 1957, he married Miss Lesley Buttfield, of Sydney, NSW. They had three children, Fiona, John and Rowena. John was later to become a member of Wodonga Council and served as mayor. Ian was past President of the RSL branch at Wodonga, Captain of the Wodonga Rural Fire Brigade, and President of the West Wodonga Primary School Committee. He also served on Wodonga Council from 1974 until his death on 14 December 1981, aged 56.This certificate is significant because it acknowledges the War Service of a prominent member of the Wodonga communityA colour printed certificate presented to Ian Darnton Watson in appreciation for his service for "King and Empire" during World War II. The text is surrounded by columns and an arch. The Australian and British flags are at the top as well as representations of the Navy, Army and Air Force. It also features the logo of the Shire of Wodonga above the text. The badge of the Commonwealth Armed Forces is at the centre bottom of the certificate. This small collection also includes black and white photographs of Ian Watson from his Service Records and another photo in uniformOn Certificate: PRESENTED TO Ian Darnton Watson BY THE PRESIDENT, COUNCILLORS AND CITIZENS OF THE SHIRE OF WODONGA as a record and an appreciation of Your Services to King and Country during the Great War which commenced 3rd September, 1939. Given under the Common Seal of the Shire of Wodonga by the President, Citizens this Councillors and Citizens this 26th day of February 1947watson family wodonga, ian darnton watson, de kerilleau

Sikh hawkers were a regular sight throughout the Wodonga and Upper Murray district in the early 20th century. The regular visitors to the area included Pola Singh and Gambil (Gamble) Singh. Gamble Singh often camped on McKoy’s Moorefield property in West Wodonga and several other places around the district. Gamble was also a horse breeder and had several draught horses to pull his wagon. Like many of the hawkers he worked hard to send money back to support family in India. He apparently returned to India about 1950, but left some money in the Bank of NSW in Wodonga in case he returned. He allegedly died soon after and the money was eventually able to be claimed by his nephews in India. A small overlooked park in Wodonga is named the “Gamble Singh Park” in his memory. J. Flanagan who operated the Halfway Hotel commented on having as many as seven or eight bullock teams “yoked” overnight to the fence outside the hotel as well as 100 or more Indian hawkers – led by the fondly known Pola (Pollah) Singh. The hawkers returned to Wodonga annually to renew their hawkers’ license and camped on the flats, or also came to Wodonga to collect orders at the railway station to stock up their supplies. Pola Singh was often based at the Colac Colac reserve near Corryong and had on board his compatriot Isar Singh. He often acted as an intermediary between the individual hawkers and the authorities. Unfortunately, it was Pola’s habit to walk in front of his wagon at the start of each day. On the morning of 23 June 1923 his horses were restive and hard to control. They took flight and ran Pola down on the road near Cudgewa. He was rushed to the Corryong Hospital but died there a few days later, aged 65. Pola was cremated, with some of his ashes scattered in the Murray River and some returned to his homeland to be scattered in the Ganges River. His cremation was listed in the Obituary page of the Weekly Times, Melbourne on Saturday 14 July 1923. A small memorial to Pola Singh is located in the Corryong Cemetery.These images are significant because they help to document the history of the Sikh Hawkers who plied their services to Wodonga and throughout rural Australia in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.A collection of black and white images featuring Sikh Hawkers Gamble Singh and Pola Singh take in the Wodonga area.indian hawkers, sikh hawkers, gamble singh, pola singh

James Stewart Noel Harris was born in Rutherglen on 21 March 1905 to John Richards Harris and Jessie Lily nee Prentice. His father was a doctor in Rutherglen. John later entered politics and was knighted for his services in May 1937. After finishing his secondary schooling James (Stewart) Harris moved to Melbourne to study law, becoming a resident of Trinity College in 1925 and rising to become Senior Student in his final year, 1928-29. He enlisted in the Air Force Cadets at Point Cook in 1925 and transferred to the Air Force Reserve in 1930. On 7th October 1940 James transferred to active service as a Flight Officer. He worked his way up the ranks, being appointed Wing Commander in 1944. He also served as Chief Instructor of the RAAF School of Administration, receiving the RAAF Long Service Commendation. The RAAF School of Administration and Special Duties had moved from Ascot Vale to Trinity College in 1942 meaning that James Harris' service career had returned to the place it began in 1925. In 1945 he requested to be transferred back to the Reserve so that he could resume his civilian life. On discharge, James returned to Wodonga and resumed his legal career. In the early 1930s he had joined the legal practice of Mr. Edmondstone which had opened for business in High Street, Wodonga in 1886. The practice continued to develop and in 1966 was joined by Lou Lieberman, becoming known as “Harris Lieberman & Co”. Harris Lieberman still operates in Wodonga and Albury. James Stewart Noel Harris died in Wodonga on 30th November 1978.This item is significant because it recognises the War Service of a prominent citizen of Wodonga.A colour printed certificate presented to James S. N, Harris in appreciation for his service for "King and Empire" during World War II. The text is surrounded by columns and an arch. The Australian and British flags are at the top as well as representations of the Navy, Army and Air Force. It also features the logo of the Shire of Wodonga above the text. The badge of the Commonwealth Armed Forces is at the centre bottom of the certificate. This small collection also includes black and white photographs of James Samuel Noel Harris in uniform and also saluting on presentation of an award recognising his service in 1942.On Certificate: PRESENTED TO James S. N. Harris BY THE PRESIDENT, COUNCILLORS AND CITIZENS OF THE SHIRE OF WODONGA as a record and an appreciation of Your Services to King and Country during the Great War which commenced 3rd September, 1939. Given under the Common Seal of the Shire of Wodonga by the President, Citizens this Councillors and Citizens this 25th day of February 1946 C F Pollard, Presidentjames stewart noel harris, servicemen wodonga wwii, harris lieberman

Mrs Barbara Emery, born in Beechworth in 1914 was one of the original members of the Wodonga community who formed a Committee and lobbied for the building of a swimming pool in Wodonga. This was prompted after many near misses and a drowning at the popular swimming spot in Wodonga Creek. She and her husband Bob, along with other Committee members lobbied the Wodonga Council and were finally able to negotiate land which fronted onto Stanley Street, Wodonga. Members of the Committee worked tirelessly to fund raise and also to build the pool itself. Countless working bees were organised to complete the construction and surrounds. The pool opened on 12th December 1959. Mr Bob Emery became the manager and Grace ran the kiosk for many years. Later reflecting on her life in the Wodonga community Mrs Emery stated, “To get the pool was a highlight in my life, the satisfaction that we could save lives.” After years of heated discussion about the future of the Stanley Street pool and the construction of a new pool, it finally closed on 31 March 2012. Mrs Emery died in Wodonga.This membership badge is significant because it was awarded to a member of the Wodonga community to recognise her service.A gold plated and enamelled badge attached to a red enamelled bar. The badge is engraved on the front.On bar;- LIFE MEMBER On badge; 1991 GRACE EMERYgrace emery, wodonga swimming pool, life membership grace emery

A black covered booklet featuring part of the Albury-Wodonga Corporation emblem. It features information, coloured photos, graphs and text about key locations and development in the area.A publication of the Albury-Wodonga Development Corporation to promote its work and progress in the area. It outlines the background of the organisation, its developments and progress for the future.albury-wodonga corporation, wodonga district

This secretaire once stood proudly in the de Kerilleau homestead at Wodonga. The homestead had been built for William Huon, son of the early pastoralist Paul Huon, in 1870 and named after the family's ancestral estate in France. The original lease of the Wodonga Run was granted to Paul Huon as No. 202 on 7th February 1837, about a year after his cousin Charles Huon had squatted on the land. Kenneth Darnton Watson bought de Kerilleau homestead in 1922 where the Watson family lived for three generations, caring for the land and serving the Wodonga community. Kenneth, his son Ian Darnton Watson and his grandson John Kenneth Darnton Watson all served on the Wodonga Council. John Kenneth Darnton Watson was born on 28 August 1960 in Wodonga. After completing his primary schooling locally, he boarded at Geelong College from 1973. John joined the rowing crews, starting in the 8th VIII crew and reaching the 1st VIII crew in 1978. He received multiple House colours awards for cross country, athletics and rowing and received School colours for rowing. On completion of his schooling, John spent some time jackarooing before studying farm management at Marcus Oldham College. He then returned home to de Kerilleau, Wodonga to manage the family property. In 1984 John married Christine Honybun, daughter of David Lewis Honybun and Marian Josephine Edkins. John and Christine had three sons. John was community minded and involved in a number of local organisations such as Apex and agricultural societies. He was elected to Wodonga City Council in 1997, serving until 2004. Due to increased pressure on available land to cater for the growth of Wodonga, some of the property was sold and in 2003 John donated 200 ha of Huon Hill ‘s western slopes to the City of Wodonga. After this time, he moved away from farming to become a Hungry Jack's franchisee. In 2009, the hard decision was made to sell de Kerilleau and John and his family moved into Wodonga. After sadly losing Christine to cancer in 2017, John became a member and Deputy Chairperson of the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund Board and Ambassador for the Sunshine Walk. Tragically after his own cancer battle, John Kenneth Darnton Watson passed away on 24 August 2023, aged 62 years following a life of service to the Wodonga community.This item is significant because it was owned by a prominent Wodonga family and came from a Historic Homestead in WodongaA secretaire with bookcase made of cedar. The bottom section has two cupboards with shelves. These doors support the desk when it is fully opened. Above this section is one large drawer, the front of which opens by pressing a small internal button on each side. The open drawer reveals a desk with a leather writing mat and several compartments. The desk is topped by a book shelf with 3 adjustable shelves. It has lockable glass doors.watson family wodonga, de kerilleau homestead, john watson

Ian Darnton Watson was a member of a prominent family of civic leaders in Wodonga. He was born on 6th July 1925 in Albury, the first son of Kenneth Darnton Watson and Phyllis Lenore Emily Austin. He completed his primary education at Albury Grammar School, and later became a boarder at Melbourne Church of England Grammar School. He enlisted for military service at Albury on 25th January 1944 and commenced full time service on 8th February 1944 at Royal Park in Melbourne, Victoria and was allocated to the 2nd Medium Artillery Regiment. He embarked on overseas service in Borneo on 30th July 1945 and disembarked in Australia on 15th April 1947 after serving with the Australian occupation forces in Japan. Mr Watson was discharged on 22nd April 1947 at which time he was a member of the Australian 2nd Medical Regiment. On discharge he returned home to help his father farm his property, de Kerilleau in Wodonga which was classified by the National Trust in 1974. Ian described his father, Kenneth as a hardworking, practical man, who for two years from 1929 - 1931, had been the Wodonga Shire President. Cr K. D. Watson was again elected to the Council in 1943 and served until he died in October 1951. In March 1957, he married Miss Lesley Buttfield, of Sydney, NSW. They had three children, Fiona, John and Rowena. John was later to become a member of Wodonga Council and served as Mayor. Ian was President of the RSSAILA (Returned Sailor's, Soldier's and Airmen's Imperial League of Australia) branch at Wodonga from 1953 to 1955 and remained as a member after that time. The League was renamed to the Returned Services League in 1965. Mr Ian Watson died on 14 December 1981, aged 56.This certificate is significant because it recognises the service of Ian Darnton Watson in support of Returned Servicemen in Wodonga.A framed certificate mounted on card. The frame is plastic with a wood grain finish.On Certificate:- R.S.S.A.I.L.A. VICTORIAN BRANCH Presented to Ian D. Watson, As a token of esteem and in grateful recognition of valuable services rendered as President of the Wodonga Sub Branch Years 1953 to 1955.wodonga rssaila, ian darnton watson, watson family wodonga, rsl wodonga

Kenneth Darnton Watson was born at Bendigo on 24 May 1893 to George Darnton Watson and Adelaide Nora Holmes. He was educated at Melbourne Church of England Grammar School, being selected as School Captain in 1913 and a member of the Head of the River rowing team. After finishing school, he worked as a jackaroo on Wanganella Station and later at Mt. Widderin, Skipton, Victoria. When WW1 was declared, Kenneth enlisted and after initial training at Maribyrnong, Victoria he left Australia as 2nd Lieutenant with 7th Australian Field Artillery Brigade, to disembark at Plymouth on July 10, 1916. He took part in the Battles of Messines, Menin Road, Polygon Wood and Passchendaele Ridge in 1917. For his efforts in Passchendaele Ridge on 17th December he was awarded the Military Cross "for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty." In 1918 he took part in the Battles of Villers-Bretonneux, Hamel and Amiens. He returned to Australia in November 1919 and was discharged on 20th January 1920. In 1922, Kenneth Darnton Watson came to Wodonga where he purchased de Kerilleau, consisting of 2,500 acres, from Mr George Gordon. The two storey brick homestead had been built by William Huon in 1870. On 30th May 1924, he married Phyllis Emily Lenore Austin and they had four children, Ian Darnton 1925, Robert Darnton 1926 Rosemary McPherson 1929 and Faith Holmes 1931. On the land he worked hard, building fences, cattle, sheep and horse yards, and farmed Corriedale sheep, Shorthorn cattle and horses. Mr Watson was an innovative farmer, introducing modern methods of top dressing at de Kerilleau by means of an aircraft. He was also a dedicated community man. He was a member of both Albury and Wodonga Show Committees, Murray Valley Development League, No.1 Region, Graziers' Association of Southern Riverina, Albury Legacy Club, Wodonga RSL, and Wodonga Turf Club including terms as President on several of these organisations. Kenneth was also a Warden of St. Luke's Church of England, Wodonga. Kenneth served as Wodonga Shire President from 1929 to 1931, and was again elected to Council from 1943 to 1945. A most respected and valued member of the local community, Kenneth Darnton Watson died on the 4th of October 1951, aged 58. Lenore Watson lived at de Kerilleau until her death on 15th June 1984. Both are buried in Wodonga.These images are significant because they record the service of a prominent member of the Wodonga community.A collection of black of white images of Kenneth Darnton Watson of Wodonga.kenneth darnton watson, watson family wodonga, wodonga community members

de Kerilleau was built for William Huon, son of the early pastoralist Paul Huon, in 1870 and named after the family's ancestral estate in France. The original lease of the Wodonga Run was granted to Paul Huon as No. 202 on 7th February 1837, about a year after his cousin Charles Huon had squatted on the land. Kenneth Darnton Watson bought de Kerilleau homestead in 1922 where the Watson family lived for three generations, caring for the land and serving the Wodonga community. Kenneth, his son Ian Darnton Watson and his grandson John Kenneth Darnton Watson all served on the Wodonga Council. The magnificent two storey brick homestead is built on ground above Wodonga Creek. The home of Georgian style consists of eleven rooms and a spacious cellar. At the rear of the main house in a separate single storey building was a large kitchen, pantry and accommodation for a cook and a housemaid. A feature of the homestead is the cast iron lace on the veranda and upper balcony, both supported by caste - iron pillars. The granite foundations of the home were quarried from the hill above the homestead. The enormous Moreton Bay Fig tree which stands to the side of the home was planted when Sir Charles Bowen visited de Kerilleau to mark the opening of the rail line that connects Victoria with New South Wales. Planted in 1873, it is still standing today. This painting was donated to the Wodonga Historical Society by George, Digby & Dugald Watson on behalf of the late John & Chris Watson. John Kenneth Darnton Watson was born on 28 August 1960 in Wodonga. After completing his primary schooling locally, he boarded at Geelong College from 1973. John joined the rowing crews, starting in the 8th VIII crew and reaching the 1st VIII crew in 1978. He received multiple House colours awards for cross country, athletics and rowing and received School colours for rowing. On completion of his schooling, John spent some time jackarooing before studying farm management at Marcus Oldham College in Geelong, Victoria. He then returned home to de Kerilleau, Wodonga to manage the family property. In 1984 John married Christine Honybun, daughter of David Lewis Honybun and Marian Josephine Edkins. John and Christine had three sons. John was community minded and involved in a number of local organisations such as Apex and agricultural societies. He was elected to Wodonga City Council in 1997, serving until 2004. Due to increased pressure on available land to cater for the growth of Wodonga, some of the property was sold and in 2003 John donated 200 ha of Huon Hill ‘s western slopes to the City of Wodonga. After this time, he moved away from farming to become a Hungry Jack's franchisee. In 2009, the hard decision was made to sell de Kerilleau and John and his family moved into Wodonga. After sadly losing Christine to cancer in 2017, John became a member and Deputy Chairperson of the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund Board and Ambassador for the Sunshine Walk. Tragically after his own cancer battle, John Kenneth Darnton Watson passed away on 24 August 2023, aged 62 years following a life of service to the Wodonga community.This item is significant because it was owned by a prominent Wodonga family and came from a Historic Homestead in WodongaA coloured portrait of John Kenneth Darnton Watson and a painting of de Kerilleau Homestead, the Watson Family home for three generations. The portrait was taken by Peter Charlesworth. The painting is the work of D.K. Ross in 1991.watson family wodonga, de kerilleau homestead, john watson, peter charlesworth

Harry Stead, Snr., owned and operated Wodonga’s first taxi service. He had horse drawn cabs running between Wodonga, and Albury in 1868. He also ran a carrying business with wagons and drays. Workmen from Albury and Wodonga were carried to the construction site of the Hume Weir. Drays, although slow, were used with room for 10 or 12 paying passengers, at times. Stead’s paddocks ran back from Sydney Street (now High Street) with stable accommodation for his 70 and more horses. The Provincial Motel occupied part of the site in later years. Harry’s son, “young Harry” joined his Dad around 1892 as soon as his schooldays were over. After the horse drawn cabs, the Steads began a motorised taxi, hire car and bus services. Some of the taxis used were an A-Model Ford, 1934 Ford, Ford V8, Dodge Tourer, Hudson Six and, earlier, the 1923 Buick with dicky seat. Among the drivers were Stan Hogbin, Gerry Gerrard, Jack O’Neill, “Peggy” O’Neill, Ernie “Honey” Zeinert, Cliff Williams and Les Cole. Young Harry had four cars on the rank from 1930 to 1940 when competition for fares was fierce. He had his regulars who paid 4/- a week to go to and from Albury daily. In 1934, Harry was before the Albury Police Court, charged with having driven his taxi on a public road without a taxi licence. The Albury Municipal Council required all taxi drivers to have a NSW certificate of registration before collecting fares in NSW. The case was held as a test case and as a result the regulation was amended to enable the Council to issue public vehicle licenses to a Victorian registered vehicle as long it travelled no more than 10 miles over the border.These images are significant because they document an early transport service provided to the Wodonga community.Three black and white photos depicting Harry Stead and his Wodonga Taxi Service.harry stead wodonga, transport wodonga, wodonga services

This cigarette case was owned by Kenneth Darnton Watson and carried into battle during World War I. Kenneth Darnton Watson was born at Bendigo on 24 May 1893 to George Darnton Watson and Adelaide Nora Holmes. He was educated at Melbourne Church of England Grammar School, being selected as School Captain in 1913 and a member of the Head of the River rowing team. After finishing school, he worked as a jackaroo on Wanganella Station and later at Mt. Widderin, Skipton, Victoria. When WWI was declared, Kenneth enlisted and after initial training at Maribyrnong, Victoria he left Australia as 2nd Lieutenant with 7th Australian Field Artillery Brigade, to disembark at Plymouth on July 10, 1916. He took part in the Battles of Messines, Menin Road, Polygon Wood and Passchendaele Ridge in 1917. For his efforts in Passchendaele Ridge on 17th December he was awarded the Military Cross "for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty." In 1918 he took part in the Battles of Villers-Bretonneux, Hamel and Amiens. He returned to Australia in November 1919 and was discharged on 20th January 1920. In 1922, Kenneth Darnton Watson came to Wodonga where he purchased de Kerilleau, consisting of 2,500 acres, from Mr George Gordon. The two storey brick homestead had been built by William Huon in 1870. On 30th May 1924, he married Phyllis Emily Lenore Austin and they had four children, Ian Darnton 1925, Robert Darnton 1926 Rosemary McPherson 1929 and Faith Holmes 1931. On the land he worked hard, building fences, cattle, sheep and horse yards, and farmed Corriedale sheep, Shorthorn cattle and horses. Mr Watson was an innovative farmer, introducing modern methods of top dressing at de Kerilleau by means of an aircraft. He was also a dedicated community man. He was a member of both Albury and Wodonga Show Committees, Murray Valley Development League, No.1 Region, Graziers' Association of Southern Riverina, Albury Legacy Club, Wodonga RSL, and Wodonga Turf Club including terms as President on several of these organisations. Kenneth was also a Warden of St. Luke's Church of England, Wodonga. Kenneth served as Wodonga Shire President from 1929 to 1931, and was again elected to Council from 1943 to 1945. A most respected and valued member of the local community, Kenneth Darnton Watson died on the 4th of October 1951, aged 58. Lenore Watson lived at de Kerilleau until her death on 15th June 1984. Both are buried in Wodonga.This item is significant because it was owned by a decorated Australian serviceman and prominent member of the Wodonga community.A silver cigarette case owned by Kenneth Darnton Watson of Wodonga. The inside contains straps to hold the cigarettes in place. Both the front and back have been engraved.On front: KDW On back: 1919kenneth darnton watson, watson family wodonga, wodonga community members

This cup was awarded to Kenneth Darnton Watson when he was a boarder and competitive rower whilst completing his secondary education. Kenneth Darnton Watson was born at Bendigo on 24 May 1893 to George Darnton Watson and Adelaide Nora Holmes. He was educated at Melbourne Church of England Grammar School, being selected as School Captain in 1913 and a member of the Head of the River rowing team. After finishing school, he worked as a jackaroo on Wanganella Station and later at Mt. Widderin, Skipton, Victoria. When WW1 was declared, Kenneth enlisted and after initial training at Maribyrnong, Victoria he left Australia as 2nd Lieutenant with 7th Australian Field Artillery Brigade, to disembark at Plymouth on July 10, 1916. He took part in the Battles of Messines, Menin Road, Polygon Wood and Passchendaele Ridge in 1917. For his efforts in Passchendaele Ridge on 17th December he was awarded the Military Cross "for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty." In 1918 he took part in the Battles of Villers-Bretonneux, Hamel and Amiens. He returned to Australia in November 1919 and was discharged on 20th January 1920. In 1922, Kenneth Darnton Watson came to Wodonga where he purchased de Kerilleau Homestead, consisting of 2,500 acres, from Mr George Gordon. The two storey brick homestead had been built by William Huon in 1870. On 30th May 1924, he married Phyllis Emily Lenore Austin and they had four children, Ian Darnton 1925, Robert Darnton 1926 Rosemary McPherson 1929 and Faith Holmes 1931. On the land Kenneth worked hard, building fences, cattle, sheep and horse yards, and farmed Corriedale sheep, Shorthorn cattle and horses. he was an innovative farmer, introducing modern methods of top dressing at de Kerilleau by means of an aircraft. He was also a dedicated community man. He was a member of both Albury and Wodonga Show Committees, Murray Valley Development League, No.1 Region, Graziers' Association of Southern Riverina, Albury Legacy Club, Wodonga RSL, and Wodonga Turf Club including terms as President on several of these organisations. Kenneth was also a Warden of St. Luke's Church of England, Wodonga. Kenneth served as Wodonga Shire President from 1929 to 1931, and was again elected to Council from 1943 to 1945. A most respected and valued member of the local community, Kenneth Darnton Watson died on the 4th of October 1951, aged 58. Lenore Watson lived at de Kerilleau until her death on 15th June 1984. Both are buried in Wodonga.These images are significant because they record the service of a prominent member of the Wodonga community.A silver mug awarded to K D Watson as a rowing trophy in April 1909. It features the shield of Melbourne Church of England Grammar School (M.C.E.G.S.), as well as his name and the event for which it was awarded.View 1: M.C.E.G.S. April 1909 Regatta View 2: Crest of MECEGS featuring motto "Ora et Labora" View 3: BOARDERS FOUR K. D. WATSON 3kenneth darnton watson, watson family wodonga, wodonga community members

This silver tray was donated by the family of John Watson and was used when they lived in de Kerilleau Homestead for three generations. de Kerilleau Homestead was built for William Huon, son of the early pastoralist Paul Huon, in 1870 and named after the family's ancestral estate in France. The original lease of the Wodonga Run was granted to Paul Huon as No. 202 on 7th February 1837, about a year after his cousin Charles Huon had squatted on the land. Kenneth Darnton Watson bought de Kerilleau homestead in 1922 where the Watson family lived for three generations, caring for the land and serving the Wodonga community. Kenneth, his son Ian Darnton Watson and his grandson John Kenneth Darnton Watson all served on the Wodonga Council. John Kenneth Darnton Watson was born on 28 August 1960 in Wodonga. After completing his primary schooling locally, he boarded at Geelong College from 1973. John joined the rowing crews, starting in the 8th VIII crew and reaching the 1st VIII crew in 1978. He received multiple House colours awards for cross country, athletics and rowing and received School colours for rowing. On completion of his schooling, John spent some time jackarooing before studying farm management at Marcus Oldham College in Geelong, Victoria. He then returned home to de Kerilleau, Wodonga to manage the family property. In 1984 John married Christine Honybun, daughter of David Lewis Honybun and Marian Josephine Edkins. John and Christine had three sons. John was community minded and involved in a number of local organisations such as Apex and agricultural societies. He was elected to Wodonga City Council in 1997, serving until 2004. Due to increased pressure on available land to cater for the growth of Wodonga, some of the property was sold and in 2003 John donated 200 ha of Huon Hill‘s western slopes to the City of Wodonga. After this time, he moved away from farming to become a Hungry Jack's franchisee. In 2009, the hard decision was made to sell de Kerilleau and John and his family moved into Wodonga. After sadly losing Christine to cancer in 2017, John became a member and Deputy Chairperson of the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund Board and Ambassador for the Sunshine Walk. Tragically after his own cancer battle, John Kenneth Darnton Watson passed away on 24 August 2023, aged 62 years following a life of service to the Wodonga community.This item is significant because it was owned by a prominent Wodonga family and came from a Historic Homestead in WodongaA circular silver tray with an embossed design around the outer edge.watson family wodonga, de kerilleau homestead, john watson, peter charlesworth

This image of the Ralph Falkiner’s Mueller Petrol-Electric Road Train was taken in Wodonga in February 1914. Imported from Germany by Mr Ralph S Falkiner in late 1913, the train’s inventor, Major W A Mueller with two assistants, came to Melbourne to assemble then commission the train. The train cost Mr Falkiner about £13,000 plus £4,591 import duties. The Falkiner family were sheep breeders in the Western Riverina and he hoped to use the road train primarily to convey wool to the railways for despatch to Sydney. The train was 216 feet long, weighed 43.5 tons with a top speed loaded of 6-8m/h and petrol consumption up to two gallons per mile. Its first Australian journey was to haul 50 tons of cargo to Edmondson & Co at Wagga Wagga, 277 miles away. The journey from Melbourne was plagued with problems including broken cylinders and crank shaft and overheating as it was not designed for Australian climatic conditions. Three months after leaving Melbourne it arrived in Wodonga. A series of problems between Springhurst and Wodonga, including broken cylinders and valves caused an eight day delay. Some of the cargo was off-loaded in Albury, then after repairs the train continued on to Wagga where it arrived in May 1914. After unloading there, the road train was taken to Mr Falkiner's Groongal Station, near Hay and subsequently made several long trips into drought-stricken areas or the Western Riverina. Eventually the dream collapsed when the engines gave out after the train bogged in the sticky black soil of the Hay plain with 251 bales of wool on board. The train was finally railed back to Melbourne and stored but destroyed when the warehouse burnt down. In this photo, the road train is drawn up outside the Wodonga Stores and Bakery owned and operated by George Leighton. Mr Leighton began his business opposite the Terminus Hotel in Sydney Street, Wodonga in 1885. His business included a general store, stocking groceries, ironmongery, drapery, crockeryware, boots and shoes as well as a bakery. He was very actively involved in the community and served on the Wodonga Council for 18 years including three terms as Wodonga Shire President in 1901 – 02, 1910-11 and 1913-14. He was also Chairman of the Wodonga Waterworks Trust for several terms. Mr. Leighton also took a prominent part in the movement to establish a Public Library in Wodonga. His other involvements including being a Founder of the Wodonga Lodge of Freemasons, Honorary Treasurer of the Wodonga Bulldogs Football Club and Secretary of the Wodonga Racing Club. Mr Leighton passed away in Wodonga in 1916.This image is significant because it records a rare event in Wodonga and an experiment in Australian road transport.Black and white images of the Falkiner Road Train in Wodonga and on its first journey from Melbourne to Wagga, NSW It is taken in front of the Wodonga Stores and Bakery operated by George Leighton in Sydney Street, Wodonga.falkiner electric train, early road transport, high street wodonga, george leighton

The Greatorex company came to Wodonga in August 1945 under the Cain Government decentralisation policy. It initially had premises in Beechworth Road, around the corner from Tallangatta Road (now Thomas Mitchell Drive). Due to expansion they later relocated to the corner of Tallangatta Road and Anne Street Wodonga in 1952. Greatorex had its main manufacturing plant in Melbourne, Victoria. At their peak Greatorex Pty Ltd. which also operated as Supreme Surgical Hosiery Co., manufactured brassieres, swimsuits, elastic thread, surgical hosiery and employed 90 staff in Wodonga. The company which was operated by Thomas Greatorex with Mr M. P. Brain as Manager, also owned Fulflex Yarns Pty. Ltd. Fulflex produced elastic yarns to be used in the manufacture of garments at Supreme Surgical Hosiery. In 1960, due to the increasing cost of freight charges for moving raw materials and manufactured goods to and from Melbourne, the company was forced to close down. Plant and machinery valued at over £30,000 was moved to Melbourne. Some personnel were given the opportunity to also transfer to the parent company. In 2024, the company still operates as Greatorex Textile Industries P/L in Moorabbin, Victoria.These images are significant because they document an industry which operated in Wodonga in the 1940s and 1950s.A collection of black and white photos of workers at the Greatorex / Supreme Surgical Hosiery Co. in Wodonga.Names listed beneath one of the images.greatorex industries, wodonga industries

The dairy farm of Eric Lemke and family was located on the Wodonga flats on the Murray River flood plain, west of the Union Bridge. The property was named "Waterford". They ran a large dairy herd (250 cows) and ran five milk carts to Albury to service their customers. The family bought a second property at Wodonga West, on Felltimber Creek, where herds could be rested before calving, and also as an emergency location for milking during times of flood, which sometimes lasted for several weeks at a time. At other times when the cows finished their lactation period at "Waterford" they would be walked to the Lemke property at Wodonga West, for a rest before calving. When the calves were drafted it was a matter of gathering the cows and calves and walking them back home which was an all day job. During the Depression Mr. Lemke took milk to the out-of-work men who slept under the bridges on the causeway and Mrs Lemke would make bread for them. The men would often work on the farm without wages in return for the Lemke's kindness. The Lemke Family are ranked amongst the top early settlers of the district for their perseverance during the hardships of the early days and during the Great Depression. Lemke Road on Gateway Island, Wodonga is named in their honour.This item has local significance because it came from a prominent Wodonga family business.A small metal tag used to label dairy cans on the property of Eric Lemke.E. LEMKE WODONGAe. lemke wodonga, lemke family, wodonga dairy industry, ernie lemke

A small green covered booklet produced by the Albury and District Historical Society. Printed in black ink.This publication examines the story of the epic journey of exploration by Hume and Hovell, with their party, from October to December, 1824. hume and hovell, australian exploration, australia - exploration and settlement

Sister Hughes’ Private Hospital on the corner of High and Stanley Streets, Wodonga operated between 1922 and 1938. The building was constructed as a family home for Albert Schlink, a storekeeper in 1909. The building was first used as a private hospital in 1919 starting with Nurse Eliza Browne. It had six or seven rooms, one of which was an operating theatre. There was a walkway, then three bedrooms and a bathroom that belonged to the hospital all in the one area. A small building at the back served as a self-contained flat. Catherine Josephine Hughes' sister Mabel earlier married into the Schlink family and came from Bendigo to take over the Lease on the hospital in 1922. Apart from Sister Hughes, there were Nurses Poyntz and Costello. Three domestic staff were also employed – a cleaner Elsie Enever, the cook Mrs Baker and Mrs Kimball who did the laundry. Nurses Poyntz and Costello took charge of the hospital in 1938 and Catherine Hughes continued to be listed as a nurse on the electoral roll until 1954. In the early 1940s she conducted a business in the “lolly shop” in High Street, south of St Augustine’s Church. The Private Hospital in High Street possibly closed in 1954 with the opening of the Wodonga Hospital in Vermont Street. The images are significant because they represent a building and nurses who served an important role in the Wodonga community in the early 20th century.A set of black and white photos of Sister Hughes Hospital in Wodonga and some of the staff. The architect's plans of the original house, designed for Albert Schlink are included.sister hughes wodonga, hospitals wodonga

Image 1: "de KERILLEAU" - Alongside Wodonga, home of the Watson family, was built by Charles Huon de Kerilleau, founder of the Wodonga Run. Huon took up his country in 1836, living then about 13 miles from the present homestead, the front portion of which was built about 1870. The actual age of an earlier portion is not known. Excellent for "Barmagulla". Image 2: "THE HERMITAGE" - Home of the Taylor family, is 13 miles from Wodonga. It was begun in 1852 and finished in 1854, and is the oldest occupied home in the area. The original atmosphere of the interior is maintained. As "Gooloora" its little balcony would provide a splendid vantage point for MacLough's speech. Image 3: Murray River Country above Granya, Victoria Image 4: Looking over Murmungee from the Buckland Gap near Beechworth, VictoriaThe album and images are significant because they document literature written by a prominent member of the Wodonga community. The presentation of this precis was supported by several significant district families and individuals.Coloured photos of venues suggested as settings for filming of the series. des martin, many a mile, ringer's river, northeast victoria stories

Time heals all wounds. Federation is now a fact, and Sean O'Day, managing partner in Gooloora Station can look far across the rolling country in which his children will grow up as individual members of a single nation. There is still much to be done, and the miles, and the years, and the future are calling him to the task, while the Mona Lisa-like expression of his young bride seems to say, "Yes, you have your dreams of a world to run, but I can find all my happiness in running a home for you!" FINIS.The album and images are significant because they document literature written by a prominent member of the Wodonga community. The presentation of this precis was supported by several significant district families and individuals.Ringer's River Album Coloured photo - Final Scene.des martin, many a mile, ringer's river, northeast victoria stories

Convalescent but weak, Erin is asleep in the sapling and bag bed in the corner of Pulcherry's slab hut when O'Day finds her. Wakened by his voice she momentarily thinks he is a hallucination, but the touch of his hands sends her own arms reaching up to claim him as her own.The album and images are significant because they document literature written by a prominent member of the Wodonga community. The presentation of this precis was supported by several significant district families and individuals.Ringer's River Album Coloured photo Plate 37des martin, many a mile, ringer's river, northeast victoria stories

Changing at the hotel from his wet formal suit into his usual clothes, a sad and tired O'Day is riding out past Barmagulla when he is stopped by Tommy Yarramin with the news that Erin is alive and hidden in the Yarramin hut.The album and images are significant because they document literature written by a prominent member of the Wodonga community. The presentation of this precis was supported by several significant district families and individuals.Ringer's River Album Coloured photo Plate 36des martin, many a mile, ringer's river, northeast victoria stories

With Federation all but a fact Alfred Deakin is again in the Overton area but his meeting has been cancelled. While Montieth is getting some stores he and MacLough observe the drama on the bridge from the nearby Post Office verandah. Coming on top of the deaths of the O'Haras these scenes appal Deakin. In reply to MacLough he says that Federation will do away with the border, and bring free trade between the states of the new Australian Commonwealth. This will permit O'Day to come home as a free man. MacLough queries the fine and Deakin says that it must be paid, but he will have it reduced to £200. On hearing this MacLough declares he will pay the fine himself, and give O'Day a half share partnership in Gooloora as well.The album and images are significant because they document literature written by a prominent member of the Wodonga community. The presentation of this precis was supported by several significant district families and individuals.Ringer's River Album Coloured photo Plate 35des martin, many a mile, ringer's river, northeast victoria stories

Plunging into the deep water O'Day swims with his horse to the colony of New South Wales where he may live as a free man on his property Brightons. However he has already been convicted, in absentia, of evading customs duty. Since the cattle were not impounded this tax could not be calculated, but O'Day is now a wanted man in Victoria with a fine of £1000 on his head.The album and images are significant because they document literature written by a prominent member of the Wodonga community. The presentation of this precis was supported by several significant district families and individuals.Ringer's River Album Coloured photo Plate 34des martin, many a mile, ringer's river, northeast victoria stories

The bodies of mother and son are driven side by side to burial while the shops shut down and all Overton turns out for the funeral. Ellen's elder son Con O'Hara, and Sean O'Day ride as outriders to the hearses. Sgt. Baker and his men arrive at the church, the Sgt. approaches Con, declares that no police action will be taken before the town re-opens, and asks if he can provide an escort for the cortege. The funeral over O'Day tarries till after the shops have opened and Sgt. Baker sets a trap for him on the bridge over the Murray. Cornering him on the bridge he says it will give him great pleasure to personally escort him all the way to the police station. "All the way Sergeant?" asks O'Day. "Then come on!" With which he jumps his horse over the rail of the bridge. D.J. Martin on Pampas Air.The album and images are significant because they document literature written by a prominent member of the Wodonga community. The presentation of this precis was supported by several significant district families and individuals.Ringer's River Album Coloured photo Plate 33des martin, many a mile, ringer's river, northeast victoria stories

Advised of the tragedy by one of the stockmen Ellen O'Hara drives the gig towards Overton, but meets Klinberg who tells her the police have found a body near Nugent's place. Ellen gets there as Nugent is pulling Keiran's body from the river. Shock grief, and old bitternesses unhinge her mind. Seizing Trooper Ryan's pistol from on top of his clothes she shoots Nugent dead, and bolts up a rough back track towards her home with the police in pursuit. Her pony falls while belting along a narrow, dangerous piece of the track, and the gig goes over a cliff. Ellen is killed.The album and images are significant because they document literature written by a prominent member of the Wodonga community. The presentation of this precis was supported by several significant district families and individuals.Ringer's River Album Coloured photo Plate 32des martin, many a mile, ringer's river, northeast victoria stories

Tommy Yarramin and his sister Ruby see Erin's exhausted body in the head of a tree near Barmagulla in the morning. Tommy brings her to the bank and they take her to their hut where their mother, Pulcherry Cherry, cares for her. Wary of white men's ways the aboriginals keep her presence a secret. P. "Darby", Ketchup as Tommy Yarramin.The album and images are significant because they document literature written by a prominent member of the Wodonga community. The presentation of this precis was supported by several significant district families and individuals.Ringer's River Album Coloured photo Plate 31des martin, many a mile, ringer's river, northeast victoria stories