Early Tourist ReviewNewspapter cutting of Stawqell & Grampianstourism

Four copies of an article reprinted from Smith's Weekly, November 30, 1940 titled Magic Mercury Bulb Does Many Marvellous Things. It mentions the inventor, Hartley Abbott, the use of the scalebuoy by the Victorian Railways. There is a brief explanation of how the scalebuoy works. It was used to treat hard water and was claimed to have certain health benefits. The inventiveness of the Abbott family is also mentioned.sciences, instruments-general, scalebuoy, bill ashman collection, magic mercury bulb, hartley abbott, scalebuoy, victorian railways department, buckingham palace, auckland general hospital, melbourne university, mr n brearley, glamis castle, lancet, crown hotel, smith's weekly

A laminated paper on black paper about a commanding officer message on Smiths Weekly. On the top is an emblem with two pigs on both sides with texts "Circulation 1,000 copies" and "Headquaters Ap An Phu"Smiths Weekly. Porky's paper offical organ of 7RARsmiths weekly, 7 rar, commanding officer, headquaters ap an phu

This is a book of war cartoons. The cover has two cartoons in colour and black and white and red and black printing. The spine is slightly torn.The pages contain comic sketches in colour, black and white and brown and white and sepia tones. Some pages at the front are of a shorter width than the other pages. The pages are stapled.fictionWorld War 11 War Cartoons by Armstrongworld war two, world war two cartoonist armstrong

This is a book of 48 pages. The cover has a cream background with a red strip on the front side cover. The front cover has a sketch in grey, black, white and red and printing in red and black. The pages are stapled and have an adhesive tape binding added to the outside spine. The pages contain sketches in black, white and grey shading.fictionWorld War Two Armstrong Cartoonsworld war two cartoonist armstrong, world war two

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. WARRNAMBOOL PUBLIC LIBRARY The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) was formed by a voluntary community group in 1863, within six years of Warrnambool’s beginnings, and its Reading Room opened in 1854. The WMI operated until 1963, at which time it was one of the oldest Mechanics’ Institutes in Victoria. Mechanics’ Institutes offered important services to the public including libraries, reading rooms and places to display and store collections of all sorts such as curiosities and local historical relics. In 1886 a Museum and Fine Arts Gallery were added to the WMI and by the beginning of the 20th century there was also a billiards room and a School of Art. By this time all Mechanics’ Institutes in country Victoria had museums attached. Over the years the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Library was also known as the Warrnambool Public Library the Warrnambool Library and the Free Library. Early funding from the government was for the “Free Library”. The inscription in a book “Science of Man” was for the “Warrnambool Public Library”, donated by Joseph Archibald in 1899. Another inscription in the book “Catalogue of Plants Under Cultivation in the Melbourne Botanic Gardens 1 & 2, 1883” was presented to the “Warrnambool Library” and signed by the author W.R. Guilfoyle. In 1903 the Warrnambool Public Library decided to add a Juvenile Department to library and stock it with hundreds of books suitable for youth. In 1905 the Public Library committee decided to update the collection of books and added 100 new novels plus arrangements for the latest novels to be included as soon as they were available in Victoria. In July 1911 the Warrnambool Council took over the management of the Public Library, Art Gallery, Museum and Mechanics’ Institute and planned to double the size of the then-current building. In 1953, when Mr. R. Pattison was Public Librarian, the Warrnambool Public Library’s senior section 10,000 of the 13,000 books were fiction. The children’s section offered an additional 3,400 books. The library had the equivalent of one book per head of population and served around 33 percent of the reading population. The collection of books was made up of around 60 percent reference and 40 percent fiction. The library was lending 400 books per day. In 1963 the Warrnambool City Council allocated the site of the Mechanics’ Institute building, which included the Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery, for the new Municipal Offices and the Collections were dispersed until 1971. The Warrnambool Library took over the Mechanics’ Institute Library’s holdings on behalf of the Warrnambool City Council. Since the closure of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute the exact location and composition of the original WMI books and items has become unclear. Other materials have been added to the collection, including items from Terang MI, Warrnambool Court House and Customs House. Many of the books have been identified as the Pattison Collection, named after the Librarian who catalogued and numbered the books during his time as Warrnambool Public Librarian in the time before the Mechanics’ Institute closed. It seems that when Warrnambool became part of the Corangamite Regional Library some of the books and materials went to its head office in Colac and then back to Warrnambool where they were stored at the Art Gallery for quite some time. Some then went to the Warrnambool Historical Society, some stayed at the Art Gallery and some were moved to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. The various stamps and labels on the books held at Flagstaff Hill show the variety of the collection’s distribution and origin. The books in the collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village date from the 1850’s to the late 1950’s and include rare and valuable volumes. Many of the books are part of the “Pattison Collection” after the Warrnambool’s Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, and to reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. As with many Mechanics' Institutes in Australia, the one which operated in Warrnambool was established and overseen for many years by key individuals associated with the development of the city itself. The WMI publication collection is historically significant because of its association with local people, places and the key historical themes in the development of Warrnambool of rural development, industry, farming, education, and community. The collection documents and illustrates the changing interests, focus and tastes of Victorians, especially those in regional cities. Generally the individual items in the collection are not particularly rare, as examples of all probably exist in other public collections in Victoria. It is primarily because there are so very few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections in Victoria, which lends this overall collection its significance. Many items in the WMI Collection have the potential to support further research, both as individual objects and through the collection in its entirety. This material is significant for its ability to assist in the interpretation of the history of the area and adds to the general understanding of the development of the township. Many components of the WMI publication collection complement and reinforce the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum Collection, the Warrnambool Art Gallery Collection, and that in the Warrnambool Historical Society, and also contribute to a clearer understanding of the original Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute collections. This will greatly enhance the appreciation of the few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections across Victoria, and also in New South Wales. The similarities and differences between the small number of collections that have survived can provide further insights into how the people of Victoria in general, and Warrnambool in particular, constructed a civic culture of adult learning to foster an informed citizenry. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute publication collection is of both local and state significance. (This Statement of Significance is quoted from the Significance Assessment : Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Book Collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, February 2009, by Annette Welkamp, Cultural Connections, for Delise Oldfied, FHMV) References Juvenile Department in Warrnambool Public Library In August 1903 The Age newspaper reported in its Warrnambool news section that “With the object of discouraging boys from reading literature of the “penny dreadful” class, the committee of the local public library has decided to open a juvenile department and to stock it with hundreds of suitable books attractive to the youthful mind.” 100 new novels added to Warrnambool Public Library Shelves In November 1905 The Argue newspaper’s Warrnambool news section announced “The committee of the Public Library is bringing the collection of books more up to date. It has recently added 100 new novels to the shelves, and arrangements have been made for a supply of the latest novels immediately they arrive in the state.” Warrnambool Town Council takes over Mechanics’ Institute, Art Gallery, Public Library, Museum – and will double the building’s size In 1912 The Age reported in its Warrnambool news section “Considerable improvements are being effected by the town council in the most picturesque part of Liebig Street. Between the fire brigade station and the mechanics’ institute and art gallery a vacant block of land is being transformed a garden for carpet bedding and flowering plants. The council, which recently took over the control of the art gallery, public library, museum and mechanics’ institute, is doubling the size of the substantial stone building containing these institutions. The new building will contain a supper room for use in conjunction with functions in the town hall, adjoining, and a new reading room.” Mr Pattison, Public Librarian, says Library has a book per head of population In 1953 The Age reported an interview with the Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison, who said “Warrnambool has an insatiable thirst for reading. And its reading recipe contains a strong dash of fiction – 73 percent of it. Fiction makes up 10,000 of the 13,000 books in the senior section of the public library. That works out at a book per head of population. Warrnambool today is really book minded. This city has an almost insatiable thirst for knowledge as well as fiction. We’re lending 400 books a day. We supply 33 percent of the reading population of Warrnambool.” The reporter goes on to say “Warrnambool Public Library also has an ultra-modern children’s section of 3,400 books, open to every boy and girl attending school in Warrnambool. Mr Pattison hopes to show travel-talk films and install a radiogram in the children’s section “later on”. But it won’t disturb adult reading next door because the junior section is sound proof. “ Mechanics’ Institutes and Museums Mechanics’ Institutes were important sites for collecting in country Victoria … Warrnambool … all had museums attached to Mechanics’ Institutes before the end of the twentieth century” Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Ms Tierney said FHMV holds the collection of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute in three different locations on its site. “The Mechanics’ Institute opened in 1871, was demolished in the 1960s and was one of the oldest in Victoria. “FHMV intends to create a new storage area and bring the collection together in one place which will greatly facilitate access and research. “The collection consists of books and archives dating from the 1850s to 1959s. “Some of the books are rare and valuable but it is unclear as to their relevance to the history of Warrnambool or Victoria,” Ms Tierney said. Warrnambool TAFE History South West TAFE has a long and proud history of providing technical and specialist education, with links back to the formation of the Mechanic’s Institute in 1853. Warrnambool Art Gallery’s History The Warrnambool Art Gallery began in 1886 when retired police officer Joseph Archibald opened its doors in a building behind the mechanics institute in Liebig Street. The Gallery began with an eclectic mix of artworks and museum curios. Before long Archibald mobilised public support and paid for a new gallery annex. Loans and grants allowed the Gallery collection to grow with significant early acquisitions by French, German, and Belgian artists, which were less expensive than British works. Despite its enthusiastic start the economic downturn of the 1890s brought the Collection to a halt. In 1910 the Council took control of the Mechanics Institute and ran the Gallery there until 1963 when the building was allocated for municipal offices. The Collection was dispersed on loan to galleries in Shepparton and Hamilton and not reunited until 1971. In 1986 the Gallery’s Centenary year, a permanent home was built next to the ‘Civic Green’ and named in memory of one its champions Sir Fletcher Jones O.B.E. 2016 Warrnibald Entries Joseph Archibald established the Warrnambool Museum and Art Gallery in 1886 while his son Jules Francois Archibald founded the Archibald Prize through his bequest of 1919. His aim was to foster portraiture, as well as support artists, and perpetuate the memory of great Australians. J J Miller's Sporting Annual and Athletic Record 83rd year Author: Albert Smith Publisher: Herald and Weekly Times Date: 1958Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 796 MIL Front pastedown endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Public Librarywarrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record 83rd year, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record, albert smith, a.l. smith

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. J J Miller's Sporting Annual and Athletic Record 84th year Author: Albert Smith Publisher: Herald and Weekly Times Date: 1959Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 796 MIL Front loose endpaper has a sticker from Warrnambool Public Librarywarrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record 84th year, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record, albert smith, a.l. smith

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. J J Miller's Sporting Annual and Athletic Record 85th year Author: Albert Smith Publisher: Herald and Weekly Times Date; 1960 Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 796 MIL warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record 85th year, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record, albert smith, a.l. smith

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. WARRNAMBOOL PUBLIC LIBRARY The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) was formed by a voluntary community group in 1863, within six years of Warrnambool’s beginnings, and its Reading Room opened in 1854. The WMI operated until 1963, at which time it was one of the oldest Mechanics’ Institutes in Victoria. Mechanics’ Institutes offered important services to the public including libraries, reading rooms and places to display and store collections of all sorts such as curiosities and local historical relics. In 1886 a Museum and Fine Arts Gallery were added to the WMI and by the beginning of the 20th century there was also a billiards room and a School of Art. By this time all Mechanics’ Institutes in country Victoria had museums attached. Over the years the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Library was also known as the Warrnambool Public Library the Warrnambool Library and the Free Library. Early funding from the government was for the “Free Library”. The inscription in a book “Science of Man” was for the “Warrnambool Public Library”, donated by Joseph Archibald in 1899. Another inscription in the book “Catalogue of Plants Under Cultivation in the Melbourne Botanic Gardens 1 & 2, 1883” was presented to the “Warrnambool Library” and signed by the author W.R. Guilfoyle. In 1903 the Warrnambool Public Library decided to add a Juvenile Department to library and stock it with hundreds of books suitable for youth. In 1905 the Public Library committee decided to update the collection of books and added 100 new novels plus arrangements for the latest novels to be included as soon as they were available in Victoria. In July 1911 the Warrnambool Council took over the management of the Public Library, Art Gallery, Museum and Mechanics’ Institute and planned to double the size of the then-current building. In 1953, when Mr. R. Pattison was Public Librarian, the Warrnambool Public Library’s senior section 10,000 of the 13,000 books were fiction. The children’s section offered an additional 3,400 books. The library had the equivalent of one book per head of population and served around 33 percent of the reading population. The collection of books was made up of around 60 percent reference and 40 percent fiction. The library was lending 400 books per day. In 1963 the Warrnambool City Council allocated the site of the Mechanics’ Institute building, which included the Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery, for the new Municipal Offices and the Collections were dispersed until 1971. The Warrnambool Library took over the Mechanics’ Institute Library’s holdings on behalf of the Warrnambool City Council. Since the closure of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute the exact location and composition of the original WMI books and items has become unclear. Other materials have been added to the collection, including items from Terang MI, Warrnambool Court House and Customs House. Many of the books have been identified as the Pattison Collection, named after the Librarian who catalogued and numbered the books during his time as Warrnambool Public Librarian in the time before the Mechanics’ Institute closed. It seems that when Warrnambool became part of the Corangamite Regional Library some of the books and materials went to its head office in Colac and then back to Warrnambool where they were stored at the Art Gallery for quite some time. Some then went to the Warrnambool Historical Society, some stayed at the Art Gallery and some were moved to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. The various stamps and labels on the books held at Flagstaff Hill show the variety of the collection’s distribution and origin. The books in the collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village date from the 1850’s to the late 1950’s and include rare and valuable volumes. Many of the books are part of the “Pattison Collection” after the Warrnambool’s Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, and to reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. As with many Mechanics' Institutes in Australia, the one which operated in Warrnambool was established and overseen for many years by key individuals associated with the development of the city itself. The WMI publication collection is historically significant because of its association with local people, places and the key historical themes in the development of Warrnambool of rural development, industry, farming, education, and community. The collection documents and illustrates the changing interests, focus and tastes of Victorians, especially those in regional cities. Generally the individual items in the collection are not particularly rare, as examples of all probably exist in other public collections in Victoria. It is primarily because there are so very few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections in Victoria, which lends this overall collection its significance. Many items in the WMI Collection have the potential to support further research, both as individual objects and through the collection in its entirety. This material is significant for its ability to assist in the interpretation of the history of the area and adds to the general understanding of the development of the township. Many components of the WMI publication collection complement and reinforce the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum Collection, the Warrnambool Art Gallery Collection, and that in the Warrnambool Historical Society, and also contribute to a clearer understanding of the original Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute collections. This will greatly enhance the appreciation of the few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections across Victoria, and also in New South Wales. The similarities and differences between the small number of collections that have survived can provide further insights into how the people of Victoria in general, and Warrnambool in particular, constructed a civic culture of adult learning to foster an informed citizenry. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute publication collection is of both local and state significance. (This Statement of Significance is quoted from the Significance Assessment : Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Book Collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, February 2009, by Annette Welkamp, Cultural Connections, for Delise Oldfied, FHMV) References Juvenile Department in Warrnambool Public Library In August 1903 The Age newspaper reported in its Warrnambool news section that “With the object of discouraging boys from reading literature of the “penny dreadful” class, the committee of the local public library has decided to open a juvenile department and to stock it with hundreds of suitable books attractive to the youthful mind.” 100 new novels added to Warrnambool Public Library Shelves In November 1905 The Argue newspaper’s Warrnambool news section announced “The committee of the Public Library is bringing the collection of books more up to date. It has recently added 100 new novels to the shelves, and arrangements have been made for a supply of the latest novels immediately they arrive in the state.” Warrnambool Town Council takes over Mechanics’ Institute, Art Gallery, Public Library, Museum – and will double the building’s size In 1912 The Age reported in its Warrnambool news section “Considerable improvements are being effected by the town council in the most picturesque part of Liebig Street. Between the fire brigade station and the mechanics’ institute and art gallery a vacant block of land is being transformed a garden for carpet bedding and flowering plants. The council, which recently took over the control of the art gallery, public library, museum and mechanics’ institute, is doubling the size of the substantial stone building containing these institutions. The new building will contain a supper room for use in conjunction with functions in the town hall, adjoining, and a new reading room.” Mr Pattison, Public Librarian, says Library has a book per head of population In 1953 The Age reported an interview with the Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison, who said “Warrnambool has an insatiable thirst for reading. And its reading recipe contains a strong dash of fiction – 73 percent of it. Fiction makes up 10,000 of the 13,000 books in the senior section of the public library. That works out at a book per head of population. Warrnambool today is really book minded. This city has an almost insatiable thirst for knowledge as well as fiction. We’re lending 400 books a day. We supply 33 percent of the reading population of Warrnambool.” The reporter goes on to say “Warrnambool Public Library also has an ultra-modern children’s section of 3,400 books, open to every boy and girl attending school in Warrnambool. Mr Pattison hopes to show travel-talk films and install a radiogram in the children’s section “later on”. But it won’t disturb adult reading next door because the junior section is sound proof. “ Mechanics’ Institutes and Museums Mechanics’ Institutes were important sites for collecting in country Victoria … Warrnambool … all had museums attached to Mechanics’ Institutes before the end of the twentieth century” Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Ms Tierney said FHMV holds the collection of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute in three different locations on its site. “The Mechanics’ Institute opened in 1871, was demolished in the 1960s and was one of the oldest in Victoria. “FHMV intends to create a new storage area and bring the collection together in one place which will greatly facilitate access and research. “The collection consists of books and archives dating from the 1850s to 1959s. “Some of the books are rare and valuable but it is unclear as to their relevance to the history of Warrnambool or Victoria,” Ms Tierney said. Warrnambool TAFE History South West TAFE has a long and proud history of providing technical and specialist education, with links back to the formation of the Mechanic’s Institute in 1853. Warrnambool Art Gallery’s History The Warrnambool Art Gallery began in 1886 when retired police officer Joseph Archibald opened its doors in a building behind the mechanics institute in Liebig Street. The Gallery began with an eclectic mix of artworks and museum curios. Before long Archibald mobilised public support and paid for a new gallery annex. Loans and grants allowed the Gallery collection to grow with significant early acquisitions by French, German, and Belgian artists, which were less expensive than British works. Despite its enthusiastic start the economic downturn of the 1890s brought the Collection to a halt. In 1910 the Council took control of the Mechanics Institute and ran the Gallery there until 1963 when the building was allocated for municipal offices. The Collection was dispersed on loan to galleries in Shepparton and Hamilton and not reunited until 1971. In 1986 the Gallery’s Centenary year, a permanent home was built next to the ‘Civic Green’ and named in memory of one its champions Sir Fletcher Jones O.B.E. 2016 Warrnibald Entries Joseph Archibald established the Warrnambool Museum and Art Gallery in 1886 while his son Jules Francois Archibald founded the Archibald Prize through his bequest of 1919. His aim was to foster portraiture, as well as support artists, and perpetuate the memory of great Australians. J J Miller's Sporting Annual and Athletic Record 79th year Author: Albert Smith Publisher: Herald and Weekly Times Date: 1954Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 796 MIL Front pastedown endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Public Librarywarrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record 79th year, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record, albert smith, a.l. smith

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. WARRNAMBOOL PUBLIC LIBRARY The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) was formed by a voluntary community group in 1863, within six years of Warrnambool’s beginnings, and its Reading Room opened in 1854. The WMI operated until 1963, at which time it was one of the oldest Mechanics’ Institutes in Victoria. Mechanics’ Institutes offered important services to the public including libraries, reading rooms and places to display and store collections of all sorts such as curiosities and local historical relics. In 1886 a Museum and Fine Arts Gallery were added to the WMI and by the beginning of the 20th century there was also a billiards room and a School of Art. By this time all Mechanics’ Institutes in country Victoria had museums attached. Over the years the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Library was also known as the Warrnambool Public Library the Warrnambool Library and the Free Library. Early funding from the government was for the “Free Library”. The inscription in a book “Science of Man” was for the “Warrnambool Public Library”, donated by Joseph Archibald in 1899. Another inscription in the book “Catalogue of Plants Under Cultivation in the Melbourne Botanic Gardens 1 & 2, 1883” was presented to the “Warrnambool Library” and signed by the author W.R. Guilfoyle. In 1903 the Warrnambool Public Library decided to add a Juvenile Department to library and stock it with hundreds of books suitable for youth. In 1905 the Public Library committee decided to update the collection of books and added 100 new novels plus arrangements for the latest novels to be included as soon as they were available in Victoria. In July 1911 the Warrnambool Council took over the management of the Public Library, Art Gallery, Museum and Mechanics’ Institute and planned to double the size of the then-current building. In 1953, when Mr. R. Pattison was Public Librarian, the Warrnambool Public Library’s senior section 10,000 of the 13,000 books were fiction. The children’s section offered an additional 3,400 books. The library had the equivalent of one book per head of population and served around 33 percent of the reading population. The collection of books was made up of around 60 percent reference and 40 percent fiction. The library was lending 400 books per day. In 1963 the Warrnambool City Council allocated the site of the Mechanics’ Institute building, which included the Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery, for the new Municipal Offices and the Collections were dispersed until 1971. The Warrnambool Library took over the Mechanics’ Institute Library’s holdings on behalf of the Warrnambool City Council. Since the closure of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute the exact location and composition of the original WMI books and items has become unclear. Other materials have been added to the collection, including items from Terang MI, Warrnambool Court House and Customs House. Many of the books have been identified as the Pattison Collection, named after the Librarian who catalogued and numbered the books during his time as Warrnambool Public Librarian in the time before the Mechanics’ Institute closed. It seems that when Warrnambool became part of the Corangamite Regional Library some of the books and materials went to its head office in Colac and then back to Warrnambool where they were stored at the Art Gallery for quite some time. Some then went to the Warrnambool Historical Society, some stayed at the Art Gallery and some were moved to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. The various stamps and labels on the books held at Flagstaff Hill show the variety of the collection’s distribution and origin. The books in the collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village date from the 1850’s to the late 1950’s and include rare and valuable volumes. Many of the books are part of the “Pattison Collection” after the Warrnambool’s Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, and to reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. As with many Mechanics' Institutes in Australia, the one which operated in Warrnambool was established and overseen for many years by key individuals associated with the development of the city itself. The WMI publication collection is historically significant because of its association with local people, places and the key historical themes in the development of Warrnambool of rural development, industry, farming, education, and community. The collection documents and illustrates the changing interests, focus and tastes of Victorians, especially those in regional cities. Generally the individual items in the collection are not particularly rare, as examples of all probably exist in other public collections in Victoria. It is primarily because there are so very few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections in Victoria, which lends this overall collection its significance. Many items in the WMI Collection have the potential to support further research, both as individual objects and through the collection in its entirety. This material is significant for its ability to assist in the interpretation of the history of the area and adds to the general understanding of the development of the township. Many components of the WMI publication collection complement and reinforce the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum Collection, the Warrnambool Art Gallery Collection, and that in the Warrnambool Historical Society, and also contribute to a clearer understanding of the original Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute collections. This will greatly enhance the appreciation of the few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections across Victoria, and also in New South Wales. The similarities and differences between the small number of collections that have survived can provide further insights into how the people of Victoria in general, and Warrnambool in particular, constructed a civic culture of adult learning to foster an informed citizenry. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute publication collection is of both local and state significance. (This Statement of Significance is quoted from the Significance Assessment : Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Book Collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, February 2009, by Annette Welkamp, Cultural Connections, for Delise Oldfied, FHMV) References Juvenile Department in Warrnambool Public Library In August 1903 The Age newspaper reported in its Warrnambool news section that “With the object of discouraging boys from reading literature of the “penny dreadful” class, the committee of the local public library has decided to open a juvenile department and to stock it with hundreds of suitable books attractive to the youthful mind.” 100 new novels added to Warrnambool Public Library Shelves In November 1905 The Argue newspaper’s Warrnambool news section announced “The committee of the Public Library is bringing the collection of books more up to date. It has recently added 100 new novels to the shelves, and arrangements have been made for a supply of the latest novels immediately they arrive in the state.” Warrnambool Town Council takes over Mechanics’ Institute, Art Gallery, Public Library, Museum – and will double the building’s size In 1912 The Age reported in its Warrnambool news section “Considerable improvements are being effected by the town council in the most picturesque part of Liebig Street. Between the fire brigade station and the mechanics’ institute and art gallery a vacant block of land is being transformed a garden for carpet bedding and flowering plants. The council, which recently took over the control of the art gallery, public library, museum and mechanics’ institute, is doubling the size of the substantial stone building containing these institutions. The new building will contain a supper room for use in conjunction with functions in the town hall, adjoining, and a new reading room.” Mr Pattison, Public Librarian, says Library has a book per head of population In 1953 The Age reported an interview with the Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison, who said “Warrnambool has an insatiable thirst for reading. And its reading recipe contains a strong dash of fiction – 73 percent of it. Fiction makes up 10,000 of the 13,000 books in the senior section of the public library. That works out at a book per head of population. Warrnambool today is really book minded. This city has an almost insatiable thirst for knowledge as well as fiction. We’re lending 400 books a day. We supply 33 percent of the reading population of Warrnambool.” The reporter goes on to say “Warrnambool Public Library also has an ultra-modern children’s section of 3,400 books, open to every boy and girl attending school in Warrnambool. Mr Pattison hopes to show travel-talk films and install a radiogram in the children’s section “later on”. But it won’t disturb adult reading next door because the junior section is sound proof. “ Mechanics’ Institutes and Museums Mechanics’ Institutes were important sites for collecting in country Victoria … Warrnambool … all had museums attached to Mechanics’ Institutes before the end of the twentieth century” Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Ms Tierney said FHMV holds the collection of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute in three different locations on its site. “The Mechanics’ Institute opened in 1871, was demolished in the 1960s and was one of the oldest in Victoria. “FHMV intends to create a new storage area and bring the collection together in one place which will greatly facilitate access and research. “The collection consists of books and archives dating from the 1850s to 1959s. “Some of the books are rare and valuable but it is unclear as to their relevance to the history of Warrnambool or Victoria,” Ms Tierney said. Warrnambool TAFE History South West TAFE has a long and proud history of providing technical and specialist education, with links back to the formation of the Mechanic’s Institute in 1853. Warrnambool Art Gallery’s History The Warrnambool Art Gallery began in 1886 when retired police officer Joseph Archibald opened its doors in a building behind the mechanics institute in Liebig Street. The Gallery began with an eclectic mix of artworks and museum curios. Before long Archibald mobilised public support and paid for a new gallery annex. Loans and grants allowed the Gallery collection to grow with significant early acquisitions by French, German, and Belgian artists, which were less expensive than British works. Despite its enthusiastic start the economic downturn of the 1890s brought the Collection to a halt. In 1910 the Council took control of the Mechanics Institute and ran the Gallery there until 1963 when the building was allocated for municipal offices. The Collection was dispersed on loan to galleries in Shepparton and Hamilton and not reunited until 1971. In 1986 the Gallery’s Centenary year, a permanent home was built next to the ‘Civic Green’ and named in memory of one its champions Sir Fletcher Jones O.B.E. 2016 Warrnibald Entries Joseph Archibald established the Warrnambool Museum and Art Gallery in 1886 while his son Jules Francois Archibald founded the Archibald Prize through his bequest of 1919. His aim was to foster portraiture, as well as support artists, and perpetuate the memory of great Australians. J J Miller's Sporting Annual and Athletic Record 80th year Author: Albert Smith Publisher: Herald and Weekly Times Date: 1955Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 796 MIL Front pastedown endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Public Library warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record 80th year, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record, albert smith, a.l. smith

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. J J Miller's Sporting Annual and Athletic Record 82nd year Author: Albert Smith Publisher: Herald and Weekly Times Date: 1957Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 796 MIL warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record 82nd year, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record, albert smith, a.l. smith

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. WARRNAMBOOL PUBLIC LIBRARY The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) was formed by a voluntary community group in 1863, within six years of Warrnambool’s beginnings, and its Reading Room opened in 1854. The WMI operated until 1963, at which time it was one of the oldest Mechanics’ Institutes in Victoria. Mechanics’ Institutes offered important services to the public including libraries, reading rooms and places to display and store collections of all sorts such as curiosities and local historical relics. In 1886 a Museum and Fine Arts Gallery were added to the WMI and by the beginning of the 20th century there was also a billiards room and a School of Art. By this time all Mechanics’ Institutes in country Victoria had museums attached. Over the years the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Library was also known as the Warrnambool Public Library the Warrnambool Library and the Free Library. Early funding from the government was for the “Free Library”. The inscription in a book “Science of Man” was for the “Warrnambool Public Library”, donated by Joseph Archibald in 1899. Another inscription in the book “Catalogue of Plants Under Cultivation in the Melbourne Botanic Gardens 1 & 2, 1883” was presented to the “Warrnambool Library” and signed by the author W.R. Guilfoyle. In 1903 the Warrnambool Public Library decided to add a Juvenile Department to library and stock it with hundreds of books suitable for youth. In 1905 the Public Library committee decided to update the collection of books and added 100 new novels plus arrangements for the latest novels to be included as soon as they were available in Victoria. In July 1911 the Warrnambool Council took over the management of the Public Library, Art Gallery, Museum and Mechanics’ Institute and planned to double the size of the then-current building. In 1953, when Mr. R. Pattison was Public Librarian, the Warrnambool Public Library’s senior section 10,000 of the 13,000 books were fiction. The children’s section offered an additional 3,400 books. The library had the equivalent of one book per head of population and served around 33 percent of the reading population. The collection of books was made up of around 60 percent reference and 40 percent fiction. The library was lending 400 books per day. In 1963 the Warrnambool City Council allocated the site of the Mechanics’ Institute building, which included the Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery, for the new Municipal Offices and the Collections were dispersed until 1971. The Warrnambool Library took over the Mechanics’ Institute Library’s holdings on behalf of the Warrnambool City Council. Since the closure of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute the exact location and composition of the original WMI books and items has become unclear. Other materials have been added to the collection, including items from Terang MI, Warrnambool Court House and Customs House. Many of the books have been identified as the Pattison Collection, named after the Librarian who catalogued and numbered the books during his time as Warrnambool Public Librarian in the time before the Mechanics’ Institute closed. It seems that when Warrnambool became part of the Corangamite Regional Library some of the books and materials went to its head office in Colac and then back to Warrnambool where they were stored at the Art Gallery for quite some time. Some then went to the Warrnambool Historical Society, some stayed at the Art Gallery and some were moved to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. The various stamps and labels on the books held at Flagstaff Hill show the variety of the collection’s distribution and origin. The books in the collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village date from the 1850’s to the late 1950’s and include rare and valuable volumes. Many of the books are part of the “Pattison Collection” after the Warrnambool’s Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, and to reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. As with many Mechanics' Institutes in Australia, the one which operated in Warrnambool was established and overseen for many years by key individuals associated with the development of the city itself. The WMI publication collection is historically significant because of its association with local people, places and the key historical themes in the development of Warrnambool of rural development, industry, farming, education, and community. The collection documents and illustrates the changing interests, focus and tastes of Victorians, especially those in regional cities. Generally the individual items in the collection are not particularly rare, as examples of all probably exist in other public collections in Victoria. It is primarily because there are so very few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections in Victoria, which lends this overall collection its significance. Many items in the WMI Collection have the potential to support further research, both as individual objects and through the collection in its entirety. This material is significant for its ability to assist in the interpretation of the history of the area and adds to the general understanding of the development of the township. Many components of the WMI publication collection complement and reinforce the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum Collection, the Warrnambool Art Gallery Collection, and that in the Warrnambool Historical Society, and also contribute to a clearer understanding of the original Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute collections. This will greatly enhance the appreciation of the few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections across Victoria, and also in New South Wales. The similarities and differences between the small number of collections that have survived can provide further insights into how the people of Victoria in general, and Warrnambool in particular, constructed a civic culture of adult learning to foster an informed citizenry. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute publication collection is of both local and state significance. (This Statement of Significance is quoted from the Significance Assessment : Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Book Collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, February 2009, by Annette Welkamp, Cultural Connections, for Delise Oldfied, FHMV) References Juvenile Department in Warrnambool Public Library In August 1903 The Age newspaper reported in its Warrnambool news section that “With the object of discouraging boys from reading literature of the “penny dreadful” class, the committee of the local public library has decided to open a juvenile department and to stock it with hundreds of suitable books attractive to the youthful mind.” 100 new novels added to Warrnambool Public Library Shelves In November 1905 The Argue newspaper’s Warrnambool news section announced “The committee of the Public Library is bringing the collection of books more up to date. It has recently added 100 new novels to the shelves, and arrangements have been made for a supply of the latest novels immediately they arrive in the state.” Warrnambool Town Council takes over Mechanics’ Institute, Art Gallery, Public Library, Museum – and will double the building’s size In 1912 The Age reported in its Warrnambool news section “Considerable improvements are being effected by the town council in the most picturesque part of Liebig Street. Between the fire brigade station and the mechanics’ institute and art gallery a vacant block of land is being transformed a garden for carpet bedding and flowering plants. The council, which recently took over the control of the art gallery, public library, museum and mechanics’ institute, is doubling the size of the substantial stone building containing these institutions. The new building will contain a supper room for use in conjunction with functions in the town hall, adjoining, and a new reading room.” Mr Pattison, Public Librarian, says Library has a book per head of population In 1953 The Age reported an interview with the Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison, who said “Warrnambool has an insatiable thirst for reading. And its reading recipe contains a strong dash of fiction – 73 percent of it. Fiction makes up 10,000 of the 13,000 books in the senior section of the public library. That works out at a book per head of population. Warrnambool today is really book minded. This city has an almost insatiable thirst for knowledge as well as fiction. We’re lending 400 books a day. We supply 33 percent of the reading population of Warrnambool.” The reporter goes on to say “Warrnambool Public Library also has an ultra-modern children’s section of 3,400 books, open to every boy and girl attending school in Warrnambool. Mr Pattison hopes to show travel-talk films and install a radiogram in the children’s section “later on”. But it won’t disturb adult reading next door because the junior section is sound proof. “ Mechanics’ Institutes and Museums Mechanics’ Institutes were important sites for collecting in country Victoria … Warrnambool … all had museums attached to Mechanics’ Institutes before the end of the twentieth century” Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Ms Tierney said FHMV holds the collection of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute in three different locations on its site. “The Mechanics’ Institute opened in 1871, was demolished in the 1960s and was one of the oldest in Victoria. “FHMV intends to create a new storage area and bring the collection together in one place which will greatly facilitate access and research. “The collection consists of books and archives dating from the 1850s to 1959s. “Some of the books are rare and valuable but it is unclear as to their relevance to the history of Warrnambool or Victoria,” Ms Tierney said. Warrnambool TAFE History South West TAFE has a long and proud history of providing technical and specialist education, with links back to the formation of the Mechanic’s Institute in 1853. Warrnambool Art Gallery’s History The Warrnambool Art Gallery began in 1886 when retired police officer Joseph Archibald opened its doors in a building behind the mechanics institute in Liebig Street. The Gallery began with an eclectic mix of artworks and museum curios. Before long Archibald mobilised public support and paid for a new gallery annex. Loans and grants allowed the Gallery collection to grow with significant early acquisitions by French, German, and Belgian artists, which were less expensive than British works. Despite its enthusiastic start the economic downturn of the 1890s brought the Collection to a halt. In 1910 the Council took control of the Mechanics Institute and ran the Gallery there until 1963 when the building was allocated for municipal offices. The Collection was dispersed on loan to galleries in Shepparton and Hamilton and not reunited until 1971. In 1986 the Gallery’s Centenary year, a permanent home was built next to the ‘Civic Green’ and named in memory of one its champions Sir Fletcher Jones O.B.E. 2016 Warrnibald Entries Joseph Archibald established the Warrnambool Museum and Art Gallery in 1886 while his son Jules Francois Archibald founded the Archibald Prize through his bequest of 1919. His aim was to foster portraiture, as well as support artists, and perpetuate the memory of great Australians. J J Miller's Sporting Annual and Athletic Record 75th year Author: A. L. (Albert) Smith Publisher: Herald and Weekly Times Date: 1950Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 796 MIL Front pastedown endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Public Library warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record, a. l. (albert) smith

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. WARRNAMBOOL PUBLIC LIBRARY The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) was formed by a voluntary community group in 1863, within six years of Warrnambool’s beginnings, and its Reading Room opened in 1854. The WMI operated until 1963, at which time it was one of the oldest Mechanics’ Institutes in Victoria. Mechanics’ Institutes offered important services to the public including libraries, reading rooms and places to display and store collections of all sorts such as curiosities and local historical relics. In 1886 a Museum and Fine Arts Gallery were added to the WMI and by the beginning of the 20th century there was also a billiards room and a School of Art. By this time all Mechanics’ Institutes in country Victoria had museums attached. Over the years the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Library was also known as the Warrnambool Public Library the Warrnambool Library and the Free Library. Early funding from the government was for the “Free Library”. The inscription in a book “Science of Man” was for the “Warrnambool Public Library”, donated by Joseph Archibald in 1899. Another inscription in the book “Catalogue of Plants Under Cultivation in the Melbourne Botanic Gardens 1 & 2, 1883” was presented to the “Warrnambool Library” and signed by the author W.R. Guilfoyle. In 1903 the Warrnambool Public Library decided to add a Juvenile Department to library and stock it with hundreds of books suitable for youth. In 1905 the Public Library committee decided to update the collection of books and added 100 new novels plus arrangements for the latest novels to be included as soon as they were available in Victoria. In July 1911 the Warrnambool Council took over the management of the Public Library, Art Gallery, Museum and Mechanics’ Institute and planned to double the size of the then-current building. In 1953, when Mr. R. Pattison was Public Librarian, the Warrnambool Public Library’s senior section 10,000 of the 13,000 books were fiction. The children’s section offered an additional 3,400 books. The library had the equivalent of one book per head of population and served around 33 percent of the reading population. The collection of books was made up of around 60 percent reference and 40 percent fiction. The library was lending 400 books per day. In 1963 the Warrnambool City Council allocated the site of the Mechanics’ Institute building, which included the Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery, for the new Municipal Offices and the Collections were dispersed until 1971. The Warrnambool Library took over the Mechanics’ Institute Library’s holdings on behalf of the Warrnambool City Council. Since the closure of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute the exact location and composition of the original WMI books and items has become unclear. Other materials have been added to the collection, including items from Terang MI, Warrnambool Court House and Customs House. Many of the books have been identified as the Pattison Collection, named after the Librarian who catalogued and numbered the books during his time as Warrnambool Public Librarian in the time before the Mechanics’ Institute closed. It seems that when Warrnambool became part of the Corangamite Regional Library some of the books and materials went to its head office in Colac and then back to Warrnambool where they were stored at the Art Gallery for quite some time. Some then went to the Warrnambool Historical Society, some stayed at the Art Gallery and some were moved to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. The various stamps and labels on the books held at Flagstaff Hill show the variety of the collection’s distribution and origin. The books in the collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village date from the 1850’s to the late 1950’s and include rare and valuable volumes. Many of the books are part of the “Pattison Collection” after the Warrnambool’s Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, and to reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. As with many Mechanics' Institutes in Australia, the one which operated in Warrnambool was established and overseen for many years by key individuals associated with the development of the city itself. The WMI publication collection is historically significant because of its association with local people, places and the key historical themes in the development of Warrnambool of rural development, industry, farming, education, and community. The collection documents and illustrates the changing interests, focus and tastes of Victorians, especially those in regional cities. Generally the individual items in the collection are not particularly rare, as examples of all probably exist in other public collections in Victoria. It is primarily because there are so very few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections in Victoria, which lends this overall collection its significance. Many items in the WMI Collection have the potential to support further research, both as individual objects and through the collection in its entirety. This material is significant for its ability to assist in the interpretation of the history of the area and adds to the general understanding of the development of the township. Many components of the WMI publication collection complement and reinforce the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum Collection, the Warrnambool Art Gallery Collection, and that in the Warrnambool Historical Society, and also contribute to a clearer understanding of the original Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute collections. This will greatly enhance the appreciation of the few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections across Victoria, and also in New South Wales. The similarities and differences between the small number of collections that have survived can provide further insights into how the people of Victoria in general, and Warrnambool in particular, constructed a civic culture of adult learning to foster an informed citizenry. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute publication collection is of both local and state significance. (This Statement of Significance is quoted from the Significance Assessment : Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Book Collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, February 2009, by Annette Welkamp, Cultural Connections, for Delise Oldfied, FHMV) References Juvenile Department in Warrnambool Public Library In August 1903 The Age newspaper reported in its Warrnambool news section that “With the object of discouraging boys from reading literature of the “penny dreadful” class, the committee of the local public library has decided to open a juvenile department and to stock it with hundreds of suitable books attractive to the youthful mind.” 100 new novels added to Warrnambool Public Library Shelves In November 1905 The Argue newspaper’s Warrnambool news section announced “The committee of the Public Library is bringing the collection of books more up to date. It has recently added 100 new novels to the shelves, and arrangements have been made for a supply of the latest novels immediately they arrive in the state.” Warrnambool Town Council takes over Mechanics’ Institute, Art Gallery, Public Library, Museum – and will double the building’s size In 1912 The Age reported in its Warrnambool news section “Considerable improvements are being effected by the town council in the most picturesque part of Liebig Street. Between the fire brigade station and the mechanics’ institute and art gallery a vacant block of land is being transformed a garden for carpet bedding and flowering plants. The council, which recently took over the control of the art gallery, public library, museum and mechanics’ institute, is doubling the size of the substantial stone building containing these institutions. The new building will contain a supper room for use in conjunction with functions in the town hall, adjoining, and a new reading room.” Mr Pattison, Public Librarian, says Library has a book per head of population In 1953 The Age reported an interview with the Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison, who said “Warrnambool has an insatiable thirst for reading. And its reading recipe contains a strong dash of fiction – 73 percent of it. Fiction makes up 10,000 of the 13,000 books in the senior section of the public library. That works out at a book per head of population. Warrnambool today is really book minded. This city has an almost insatiable thirst for knowledge as well as fiction. We’re lending 400 books a day. We supply 33 percent of the reading population of Warrnambool.” The reporter goes on to say “Warrnambool Public Library also has an ultra-modern children’s section of 3,400 books, open to every boy and girl attending school in Warrnambool. Mr Pattison hopes to show travel-talk films and install a radiogram in the children’s section “later on”. But it won’t disturb adult reading next door because the junior section is sound proof. “ Mechanics’ Institutes and Museums Mechanics’ Institutes were important sites for collecting in country Victoria … Warrnambool … all had museums attached to Mechanics’ Institutes before the end of the twentieth century” Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Ms Tierney said FHMV holds the collection of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute in three different locations on its site. “The Mechanics’ Institute opened in 1871, was demolished in the 1960s and was one of the oldest in Victoria. “FHMV intends to create a new storage area and bring the collection together in one place which will greatly facilitate access and research. “The collection consists of books and archives dating from the 1850s to 1959s. “Some of the books are rare and valuable but it is unclear as to their relevance to the history of Warrnambool or Victoria,” Ms Tierney said. Warrnambool TAFE History South West TAFE has a long and proud history of providing technical and specialist education, with links back to the formation of the Mechanic’s Institute in 1853. Warrnambool Art Gallery’s History The Warrnambool Art Gallery began in 1886 when retired police officer Joseph Archibald opened its doors in a building behind the mechanics institute in Liebig Street. The Gallery began with an eclectic mix of artworks and museum curios. Before long Archibald mobilised public support and paid for a new gallery annex. Loans and grants allowed the Gallery collection to grow with significant early acquisitions by French, German, and Belgian artists, which were less expensive than British works. Despite its enthusiastic start the economic downturn of the 1890s brought the Collection to a halt. In 1910 the Council took control of the Mechanics Institute and ran the Gallery there until 1963 when the building was allocated for municipal offices. The Collection was dispersed on loan to galleries in Shepparton and Hamilton and not reunited until 1971. In 1986 the Gallery’s Centenary year, a permanent home was built next to the ‘Civic Green’ and named in memory of one its champions Sir Fletcher Jones O.B.E. 2016 Warrnibald Entries Joseph Archibald established the Warrnambool Museum and Art Gallery in 1886 while his son Jules Francois Archibald founded the Archibald Prize through his bequest of 1919. His aim was to foster portraiture, as well as support artists, and perpetuate the memory of great Australians. J J Miller's Sporting Annual and Athletic Record 76th year Author: A. L. (Albert) Smith Publisher: Herald and Weekly Times Date: 1951Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 796 MIL Front pastedown endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Public Librarywarrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record, a. l. ( albert) smith, a. l. smith

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. WARRNAMBOOL PUBLIC LIBRARY The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) was formed by a voluntary community group in 1863, within six years of Warrnambool’s beginnings, and its Reading Room opened in 1854. The WMI operated until 1963, at which time it was one of the oldest Mechanics’ Institutes in Victoria. Mechanics’ Institutes offered important services to the public including libraries, reading rooms and places to display and store collections of all sorts such as curiosities and local historical relics. In 1886 a Museum and Fine Arts Gallery were added to the WMI and by the beginning of the 20th century there was also a billiards room and a School of Art. By this time all Mechanics’ Institutes in country Victoria had museums attached. Over the years the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Library was also known as the Warrnambool Public Library the Warrnambool Library and the Free Library. Early funding from the government was for the “Free Library”. The inscription in a book “Science of Man” was for the “Warrnambool Public Library”, donated by Joseph Archibald in 1899. Another inscription in the book “Catalogue of Plants Under Cultivation in the Melbourne Botanic Gardens 1 & 2, 1883” was presented to the “Warrnambool Library” and signed by the author W.R. Guilfoyle. In 1903 the Warrnambool Public Library decided to add a Juvenile Department to library and stock it with hundreds of books suitable for youth. In 1905 the Public Library committee decided to update the collection of books and added 100 new novels plus arrangements for the latest novels to be included as soon as they were available in Victoria. In July 1911 the Warrnambool Council took over the management of the Public Library, Art Gallery, Museum and Mechanics’ Institute and planned to double the size of the then-current building. In 1953, when Mr. R. Pattison was Public Librarian, the Warrnambool Public Library’s senior section 10,000 of the 13,000 books were fiction. The children’s section offered an additional 3,400 books. The library had the equivalent of one book per head of population and served around 33 percent of the reading population. The collection of books was made up of around 60 percent reference and 40 percent fiction. The library was lending 400 books per day. In 1963 the Warrnambool City Council allocated the site of the Mechanics’ Institute building, which included the Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery, for the new Municipal Offices and the Collections were dispersed until 1971. The Warrnambool Library took over the Mechanics’ Institute Library’s holdings on behalf of the Warrnambool City Council. Since the closure of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute the exact location and composition of the original WMI books and items has become unclear. Other materials have been added to the collection, including items from Terang MI, Warrnambool Court House and Customs House. Many of the books have been identified as the Pattison Collection, named after the Librarian who catalogued and numbered the books during his time as Warrnambool Public Librarian in the time before the Mechanics’ Institute closed. It seems that when Warrnambool became part of the Corangamite Regional Library some of the books and materials went to its head office in Colac and then back to Warrnambool where they were stored at the Art Gallery for quite some time. Some then went to the Warrnambool Historical Society, some stayed at the Art Gallery and some were moved to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. The various stamps and labels on the books held at Flagstaff Hill show the variety of the collection’s distribution and origin. The books in the collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village date from the 1850’s to the late 1950’s and include rare and valuable volumes. Many of the books are part of the “Pattison Collection” after the Warrnambool’s Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, and to reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. As with many Mechanics' Institutes in Australia, the one which operated in Warrnambool was established and overseen for many years by key individuals associated with the development of the city itself. The WMI publication collection is historically significant because of its association with local people, places and the key historical themes in the development of Warrnambool of rural development, industry, farming, education, and community. The collection documents and illustrates the changing interests, focus and tastes of Victorians, especially those in regional cities. Generally the individual items in the collection are not particularly rare, as examples of all probably exist in other public collections in Victoria. It is primarily because there are so very few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections in Victoria, which lends this overall collection its significance. Many items in the WMI Collection have the potential to support further research, both as individual objects and through the collection in its entirety. This material is significant for its ability to assist in the interpretation of the history of the area and adds to the general understanding of the development of the township. Many components of the WMI publication collection complement and reinforce the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum Collection, the Warrnambool Art Gallery Collection, and that in the Warrnambool Historical Society, and also contribute to a clearer understanding of the original Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute collections. This will greatly enhance the appreciation of the few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections across Victoria, and also in New South Wales. The similarities and differences between the small number of collections that have survived can provide further insights into how the people of Victoria in general, and Warrnambool in particular, constructed a civic culture of adult learning to foster an informed citizenry. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute publication collection is of both local and state significance. (This Statement of Significance is quoted from the Significance Assessment : Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Book Collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, February 2009, by Annette Welkamp, Cultural Connections, for Delise Oldfied, FHMV) References Juvenile Department in Warrnambool Public Library In August 1903 The Age newspaper reported in its Warrnambool news section that “With the object of discouraging boys from reading literature of the “penny dreadful” class, the committee of the local public library has decided to open a juvenile department and to stock it with hundreds of suitable books attractive to the youthful mind.” 100 new novels added to Warrnambool Public Library Shelves In November 1905 The Argue newspaper’s Warrnambool news section announced “The committee of the Public Library is bringing the collection of books more up to date. It has recently added 100 new novels to the shelves, and arrangements have been made for a supply of the latest novels immediately they arrive in the state.” Warrnambool Town Council takes over Mechanics’ Institute, Art Gallery, Public Library, Museum – and will double the building’s size In 1912 The Age reported in its Warrnambool news section “Considerable improvements are being effected by the town council in the most picturesque part of Liebig Street. Between the fire brigade station and the mechanics’ institute and art gallery a vacant block of land is being transformed a garden for carpet bedding and flowering plants. The council, which recently took over the control of the art gallery, public library, museum and mechanics’ institute, is doubling the size of the substantial stone building containing these institutions. The new building will contain a supper room for use in conjunction with functions in the town hall, adjoining, and a new reading room.” Mr Pattison, Public Librarian, says Library has a book per head of population In 1953 The Age reported an interview with the Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison, who said “Warrnambool has an insatiable thirst for reading. And its reading recipe contains a strong dash of fiction – 73 percent of it. Fiction makes up 10,000 of the 13,000 books in the senior section of the public library. That works out at a book per head of population. Warrnambool today is really book minded. This city has an almost insatiable thirst for knowledge as well as fiction. We’re lending 400 books a day. We supply 33 percent of the reading population of Warrnambool.” The reporter goes on to say “Warrnambool Public Library also has an ultra-modern children’s section of 3,400 books, open to every boy and girl attending school in Warrnambool. Mr Pattison hopes to show travel-talk films and install a radiogram in the children’s section “later on”. But it won’t disturb adult reading next door because the junior section is sound proof. “ Mechanics’ Institutes and Museums Mechanics’ Institutes were important sites for collecting in country Victoria … Warrnambool … all had museums attached to Mechanics’ Institutes before the end of the twentieth century” Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Ms Tierney said FHMV holds the collection of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute in three different locations on its site. “The Mechanics’ Institute opened in 1871, was demolished in the 1960s and was one of the oldest in Victoria. “FHMV intends to create a new storage area and bring the collection together in one place which will greatly facilitate access and research. “The collection consists of books and archives dating from the 1850s to 1959s. “Some of the books are rare and valuable but it is unclear as to their relevance to the history of Warrnambool or Victoria,” Ms Tierney said. Warrnambool TAFE History South West TAFE has a long and proud history of providing technical and specialist education, with links back to the formation of the Mechanic’s Institute in 1853. Warrnambool Art Gallery’s History The Warrnambool Art Gallery began in 1886 when retired police officer Joseph Archibald opened its doors in a building behind the mechanics institute in Liebig Street. The Gallery began with an eclectic mix of artworks and museum curios. Before long Archibald mobilised public support and paid for a new gallery annex. Loans and grants allowed the Gallery collection to grow with significant early acquisitions by French, German, and Belgian artists, which were less expensive than British works. J J Miller's Sporting Annual and Athletic Record 77th year Author: A. L. ( Albert) Smith Publisher: Herald and Weekly Times Date: 1952Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 796 MIL Front pastedown endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Public Librarywarrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record 77th year, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record, a. l. ( albert) smith, a. l. smith

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. WARRNAMBOOL PUBLIC LIBRARY The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) was formed by a voluntary community group in 1863, within six years of Warrnambool’s beginnings, and its Reading Room opened in 1854. The WMI operated until 1963, at which time it was one of the oldest Mechanics’ Institutes in Victoria. Mechanics’ Institutes offered important services to the public including libraries, reading rooms and places to display and store collections of all sorts such as curiosities and local historical relics. In 1886 a Museum and Fine Arts Gallery were added to the WMI and by the beginning of the 20th century there was also a billiards room and a School of Art. By this time all Mechanics’ Institutes in country Victoria had museums attached. Over the years the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Library was also known as the Warrnambool Public Library the Warrnambool Library and the Free Library. Early funding from the government was for the “Free Library”. The inscription in a book “Science of Man” was for the “Warrnambool Public Library”, donated by Joseph Archibald in 1899. Another inscription in the book “Catalogue of Plants Under Cultivation in the Melbourne Botanic Gardens 1 & 2, 1883” was presented to the “Warrnambool Library” and signed by the author W.R. Guilfoyle. In 1903 the Warrnambool Public Library decided to add a Juvenile Department to library and stock it with hundreds of books suitable for youth. In 1905 the Public Library committee decided to update the collection of books and added 100 new novels plus arrangements for the latest novels to be included as soon as they were available in Victoria. In July 1911 the Warrnambool Council took over the management of the Public Library, Art Gallery, Museum and Mechanics’ Institute and planned to double the size of the then-current building. In 1953, when Mr. R. Pattison was Public Librarian, the Warrnambool Public Library’s senior section 10,000 of the 13,000 books were fiction. The children’s section offered an additional 3,400 books. The library had the equivalent of one book per head of population and served around 33 percent of the reading population. The collection of books was made up of around 60 percent reference and 40 percent fiction. The library was lending 400 books per day. In 1963 the Warrnambool City Council allocated the site of the Mechanics’ Institute building, which included the Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery, for the new Municipal Offices and the Collections were dispersed until 1971. The Warrnambool Library took over the Mechanics’ Institute Library’s holdings on behalf of the Warrnambool City Council. Since the closure of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute the exact location and composition of the original WMI books and items has become unclear. Other materials have been added to the collection, including items from Terang MI, Warrnambool Court House and Customs House. Many of the books have been identified as the Pattison Collection, named after the Librarian who catalogued and numbered the books during his time as Warrnambool Public Librarian in the time before the Mechanics’ Institute closed. It seems that when Warrnambool became part of the Corangamite Regional Library some of the books and materials went to its head office in Colac and then back to Warrnambool where they were stored at the Art Gallery for quite some time. Some then went to the Warrnambool Historical Society, some stayed at the Art Gallery and some were moved to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. The various stamps and labels on the books held at Flagstaff Hill show the variety of the collection’s distribution and origin. The books in the collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village date from the 1850’s to the late 1950’s and include rare and valuable volumes. Many of the books are part of the “Pattison Collection” after the Warrnambool’s Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, and to reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. As with many Mechanics' Institutes in Australia, the one which operated in Warrnambool was established and overseen for many years by key individuals associated with the development of the city itself. The WMI publication collection is historically significant because of its association with local people, places and the key historical themes in the development of Warrnambool of rural development, industry, farming, education, and community. The collection documents and illustrates the changing interests, focus and tastes of Victorians, especially those in regional cities. Generally the individual items in the collection are not particularly rare, as examples of all probably exist in other public collections in Victoria. It is primarily because there are so very few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections in Victoria, which lends this overall collection its significance. Many items in the WMI Collection have the potential to support further research, both as individual objects and through the collection in its entirety. This material is significant for its ability to assist in the interpretation of the history of the area and adds to the general understanding of the development of the township. Many components of the WMI publication collection complement and reinforce the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum Collection, the Warrnambool Art Gallery Collection, and that in the Warrnambool Historical Society, and also contribute to a clearer understanding of the original Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute collections. This will greatly enhance the appreciation of the few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections across Victoria, and also in New South Wales. The similarities and differences between the small number of collections that have survived can provide further insights into how the people of Victoria in general, and Warrnambool in particular, constructed a civic culture of adult learning to foster an informed citizenry. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute publication collection is of both local and state significance. (This Statement of Significance is quoted from the Significance Assessment : Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Book Collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, February 2009, by Annette Welkamp, Cultural Connections, for Delise Oldfied, FHMV) References Juvenile Department in Warrnambool Public Library In August 1903 The Age newspaper reported in its Warrnambool news section that “With the object of discouraging boys from reading literature of the “penny dreadful” class, the committee of the local public library has decided to open a juvenile department and to stock it with hundreds of suitable books attractive to the youthful mind.” 100 new novels added to Warrnambool Public Library Shelves In November 1905 The Argue newspaper’s Warrnambool news section announced “The committee of the Public Library is bringing the collection of books more up to date. It has recently added 100 new novels to the shelves, and arrangements have been made for a supply of the latest novels immediately they arrive in the state.” Warrnambool Town Council takes over Mechanics’ Institute, Art Gallery, Public Library, Museum – and will double the building’s size In 1912 The Age reported in its Warrnambool news section “Considerable improvements are being effected by the town council in the most picturesque part of Liebig Street. Between the fire brigade station and the mechanics’ institute and art gallery a vacant block of land is being transformed a garden for carpet bedding and flowering plants. The council, which recently took over the control of the art gallery, public library, museum and mechanics’ institute, is doubling the size of the substantial stone building containing these institutions. The new building will contain a supper room for use in conjunction with functions in the town hall, adjoining, and a new reading room.” Mr Pattison, Public Librarian, says Library has a book per head of population In 1953 The Age reported an interview with the Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison, who said “Warrnambool has an insatiable thirst for reading. And its reading recipe contains a strong dash of fiction – 73 percent of it. Fiction makes up 10,000 of the 13,000 books in the senior section of the public library. That works out at a book per head of population. Warrnambool today is really book minded. This city has an almost insatiable thirst for knowledge as well as fiction. We’re lending 400 books a day. We supply 33 percent of the reading population of Warrnambool.” The reporter goes on to say “Warrnambool Public Library also has an ultra-modern children’s section of 3,400 books, open to every boy and girl attending school in Warrnambool. Mr Pattison hopes to show travel-talk films and install a radiogram in the children’s section “later on”. But it won’t disturb adult reading next door because the junior section is sound proof. “ Mechanics’ Institutes and Museums Mechanics’ Institutes were important sites for collecting in country Victoria … Warrnambool … all had museums attached to Mechanics’ Institutes before the end of the twentieth century” Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Ms Tierney said FHMV holds the collection of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute in three different locations on its site. “The Mechanics’ Institute opened in 1871, was demolished in the 1960s and was one of the oldest in Victoria. “FHMV intends to create a new storage area and bring the collection together in one place which will greatly facilitate access and research. “The collection consists of books and archives dating from the 1850s to 1959s. “Some of the books are rare and valuable but it is unclear as to their relevance to the history of Warrnambool or Victoria,” Ms Tierney said. Warrnambool TAFE History South West TAFE has a long and proud history of providing technical and specialist education, with links back to the formation of the Mechanic’s Institute in 1853. Warrnambool Art Gallery’s History The Warrnambool Art Gallery began in 1886 when retired police officer Joseph Archibald opened its doors in a building behind the mechanics institute in Liebig Street. The Gallery began with an eclectic mix of artworks and museum curios. Before long Archibald mobilised public support and paid for a new gallery annex. Loans and grants allowed the Gallery collection to grow with significant early acquisitions by French, German, and Belgian artists, which were less expensive than British works. Despite its enthusiastic start the economic downturn of the 1890s brought the Collection to a halt. In 1910 the Council took control of the Mechanics Institute and ran the Gallery there until 1963 when the building was allocated for municipal offices. The Collection was dispersed on loan to galleries in Shepparton and Hamilton and not reunited until 1971. In 1986 the Gallery’s Centenary year, a permanent home was built next to the ‘Civic Green’ and named in memory of one its champions Sir Fletcher Jones O.B.E. 2016 Warrnibald Entries Joseph Archibald established the Warrnambool Museum and Art Gallery in 1886 while his son Jules Francois Archibald founded the Archibald Prize through his bequest of 1919. His aim was to foster portraiture, as well as support artists, and perpetuate the memory of great Australians. J J Miller's Sporting Annual and Athletic Record 78th year Author: A. L. ( Albert) Smith Publisher: Herald and Weekly Times Date: 1953Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 796 MIL Front pastedown endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Public Librarywarrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record 78th year, j j miller's sporting annual and athletic record, a. l. ( albert) smith, a. l. smith

Mrs T S McKay, née Odette Lefebvre “Killara Amazon who drives like a man, smiles like a school girl and dresses like a picture” – Smiths Weekly 22 July 1933 In 1934, the Ladies Golf Union of NSW introduced a rule forbidding women not wearing stockings from competing in games under their control. Rather than wear stockings, Odette Lefebvre (1910-1991) withdrew from her team causing a media stir. She subsequently agreed to wear stockings for any NSW game she wished to play in. She said that a player had every right to dress as she wished, providing it did not offend modesty. She found it more comfortable to play without stockings. Featured in "Newsworthy: Melbourne in photographs 1933-1936" exhibition at East Melbourne Library, October to December 2023. Exhibition caption by project volunteer, Fiona Collyer. Photographer notations on slide: "Golf Ch'ship Mrs McKay B98" Description: Female golfer teeing off with 3 wood, wearing beret, cardigan, straight skirt, ankle socks, sensible shoes. Blurred spectators are visible in the background. Research by project volunteer, Fiona Collyer: Mrs T S McKay, née Odette Lefebvre (1910-1991), was a NSW champion golfer. She won the NSW Women’s Championship 1931, 1933. Odette competed in the Australian Women’s Golf Championship at Royal Melbourne against the British Women’s Team in 1935. She was defeated by Mrs Sloan Morpeth nee Susie Tolhurst in the semifinals. A tall, willowy, beautiful brunette with a winning smile and sparkly blue eyes and exotically of French origin, the press reported the outdoor sports loving young woman’s social and golf activities closely. In 1933 (27/7/1933), the Smith’s Weekly headline ran “Drives like a man but is a real girl – always”. The article called her the “Killara Amazon who drives like a man, smiles like a school girl and dresses like a picture”. In 1934, the Ladies Golf Union of NSW introduced a rule forbidding women without stockings to compete in games within their control. Rather than wear stockings, Odette withdrew from her team, causing a media stir. She subsequently agreed to wear stockings for any game she was keen to play in. She said that a player had every right to dress as she wished, providing it did not offend modesty. She found it more comfortable to play without stockings. Fellow women golfers were sympathetic to the non-stocking brigade. Mrs J J Hollywood, president of the Maitland Golf Club Associates said, “What a storm in a teacup over nothing! As if a pair of stockings could possibly make all the difference to a person’s game. However, I think the mosquitoes settle that question for the L.G.V. in the North”, she added with a laugh. (Newcastle Sun 5/5/1934) Acting president of the Victorian Women’s Golf Union, Mrs J B Bellair, said, “It is much warmer in Sydney than here and must be more comfortable without stockings. Miss Lefebvre too, has such beautiful legs and they are so brown, that she can afford to dispense with stockings. Women in Victoria are not likely to play without stockings, however, it is much too cold here. I have never seen any of them on the links in bare legs.” (Newcastle Sun 5/5/1934) Mrs L Griffiths, president of the Steelworks Associate Club in Newcastle said, “It appears to be an unnecessary rule that the L.G.V. has enforced. Why, if they started laying down laws like that, where would we end? What about ties etc being compulsory for men?” (Newcastle Sun 5/5/1934) The L.G.V. insisted that the dignity of the game should not be impaired by players who dared to show any originality in clothes, even if they did add comfort. (The Sun, Sydney 5/5/1934) Even in 1941, despite wartime shortages, the L.G.V. NSW was insisting that – “no player may play in open L.G.V. competitions without stockings.” (Yass Tribune-Courier 6/11/1941) In 1934, Odette married champion golfer and barrister Thomas McKay who later became a NSW Liberal Party politician. They had two children before divorcing in 1946. Sources: Drives Like A Man, But Is A Real Girl--Always (1933, July 22). Smith's Weekly (Sydney, NSW : 1919 - 1950), p. 6. Retrieved September 18, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article235071983 Woman Golfer Will Not Play In Stockings (1934, May 5). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1931 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved September 18, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article246443596 GOLF WITHOUT STOCKINGS (1934, May 5). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 23. Retrieved September 18, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article243259621Photographer notations on slide: "G Ch'ship Mrs McKay B98".golf, women golfers, royal melbourne golf club

Photographer notations on slide: Seventh Day Adventists Camp. E Gane + family Published: 28 December 1933 Published title: SEVENTH DAY ADVENTISTS. Published caption: “I. — The Annual Camp of the Seventh Day Adventists in Highett-road, Hampton, comprising more than 250 tents and accommodating over a thousand persons. II. —W. J. Westerman (vice-president of Australasian) and Pastor G. G. Stewart (president of Victoria), conversing with Pastor C. H. Watson (world president of the Seventh Day Adventists).- III.— Evangelist E. R. Gane and family.” SEVENTH DAY ADVENTISTS. (1933, December 28). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved August 1, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article203356427 Research by project volunteer, Fiona Collyer: In December 1933, evangelist Mr E.R. Gane and his family gather outside their tent during the ten day Seventh Day Adventist Conference held in Highett Road, Hampton. Description: A woman, man and four small children sit and stand in front of a tent. One child plays with a toy train. In December 1933, delegates from all over Victoria and beyond travelled to Melbourne for the annual Seventh Day Adventists Conference of Victoria, held over ten days on a vacant allotment at Highett Road Hampton. A canvas town of 250 tents for over 1000 campers was created along with large marquees for lectures, devotional services and kitchens. Many daily visitors also attended the lectures and services. The principal speaker was Victorian born world president of the Seventh Day Adventists, Pastor Charles H. Watson (1877-1962), who travelled from Washington DC for the event. The Highett Street campers attended a busy schedule of bible readings, devotional services and health lectures during the ten days of the camp. Lecture subjects included- “Among the Head Hunters of the Solomon Islands”, “ Looking Through the Prophetic Telescope into 1934”, “Soul Surgery”, “Viewing the Celestial Land Through the Prophetic Telescope”and “The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse”. The Seventh Day Adventist religion was established in the USA in 1863. One of its co-founders was American Ellen G. White whose writings are regarded as divinely inspired and are still adhered to today. Ellen preached on the “Eight Laws of Health”- Nutrition, exercise, water, sunshine, temperance, air, rest and trust in God. Adventists regard their bodies as holy temples and avoid food deemed by the Bible as unclean. They eat a mainly plant based diet with no caffeinated beverages and abstain from alcohol and tobacco. They believe in the observance of Saturday, the seventh day of the week in the Christian (Gregorian) and Hebrew calendars as the sabbath and the literal and imminent second coming of Jesus Christ. New converts are baptised by immersion in water. The Adventists opened the Warburton Sanitarium in 1910 as a health retreat, integrating their holistic health philosophy of physical, mental and spiritual well being. It was a resort in the hills “among picturesque mountain scenery…surrounded by tall forests and deep fern gullies…” where highly strung Melburians could alleviate their digestive maladies, stress and jaded nerves as “…worn down nervous systems mend quickly in this peaceful environment…invigorating air and an abundance of home-grown fruit, vegetables, fresh eggs, milk, and cream help to build healthy bodies”. The resort also offered hydrotherapy, massage and electrical treatments. An advertisement in The Argus- 1 December 1947 assured readers- “EVERYTHING SUNNY AGAIN." “That's how you'll feel when you say farewell to Warburton Sanitarium and Hospital after spending a holiday here. Victoria's Hydro is famous far and wide for wonders worked with sufferers from nervous and digestive disorders. Wholesome food, perfectly cooked; splendid air, regulated exercise, sweet natural sleep; these quickly correct faulty digestion, restore vitality, bring back that sunny optimism natural to healthy people. Massage and curative baths under medical supervision…” Later, after further building work, it became the Warburton Hospital with medical, casualty and obstetrics wards as well as offering strategies to stop smoking, lose weight and for stress management. The hospital ceased operation in 2001. Ellen G. White wrote “God sent me to Australia” and in 1891, accompanied by her son William C. White she arrived in Australia to start a Bible school, spread her health philosophy and for missionary work. At first health food products were imported from America, but it soon became apparent that due to the expense and the food becoming stale over the long journey, that local manufacturing was necessary. In 1898 William secured the services of American Adventist baker Edward C. Halsey, who had worked at Dr Kellogg’s Battle Creek (“Cereal City”), Sanitarium, Michigan, USA. They rented the St George’s bakery in Northcote, Melbourne, producing the first ready to eat breakfast cereal Granola, Caramel Cereal, and peanut butter. The fledgling company relocated to larger premises in Cooranbong, NSW soon after. The Sanitarium Health Food Company opened a factory in Warburton in 1925, manufacturing Granose Biscuits, Cerix Puffed Wheat, San-Bran, Bixies malted wheat flakes, Betta peanut butter, Marmite, “Kwic-Bru - A delicious health “coffee” made from choicest cereals and free from drugs that affect the heart and nerves” In 1928, Sanitarium bought out Grain Products Limited who were manufacturing a sweet cereal biscuit called Weet-Bix which soon became Australia’s favourite breakfast cereal. The Warburton factory closed in 1997, with manufacturing shifting interstate. Sanitarium breakfast cereal boxes offered free collectable cards inside and children could buy albums from grocers for sixpence and mount the cards. Subjects of the albums included- “Aboriginal Tribes, Legends, Customs”, “Australia- Yesterday and Today”, “Marvels of the Great Barrier Reef”, “Advance Australia- a Pageant of the Years”. In 1902 the Adventist’s opened the “Pure Food Vegetarian Cafe” in Sydney (In 1907 the name was changed to “Sanitarium Health Food Cafe”), Eating vegetarian food was definitely a curiosity. “Cristina” reviewed the cafe for The Australasian-27 October 1906. Topics For The Block. “Feeling somewhat like a criminal, and hoping to escape detection, I stealthily made my way into a vegetarian restaurant the other day... If my friends happened to catch me walking in there, I should henceforth be considered a crank, a faddist, and little short of a lunatic! Whom did I find within, seated with the air of habitués at the small tables, but heaps of my friends. They had all this while been pursuing their vegetarian way, layin' low and sayin' nuffin'. Flesh-eaters, now that the Sydney summer has set in apparently in good earnest, are beginning to wonder if the vegetarians are not wiser in their day and generation. Roast beef, hot cornea beef, ragouts, and meat curries, the very thought of them makes one feel hot. Frosted lemon pudding, stewed fruits, wheatmeal rolls, and tomatoes sound nice when you look at their names on the vegetarian menu. Such weird messes are served, square, unintelligible blocks of some brown substance, a few bites of which form a full and satisfying meal. Cold nut foods, granose, nuttose, and jam protose, bromose, with jelly and various "ose" sandwiches, impossible for the unbeliever to diagnose, are put before you. You drink malted nut broth, you eat gluten sticks, stewed beans, lentil patties, with vegetable sauce, any or all of which are distinctly nourishing and filling at the price. A mock (decidedly mock) veal cutlet or a red lentil roast is sufficient lunch, it appears, for anyone. Thus, "you obtain the best working results from your machinery with the least possible expenditure..." In December 1906 the Adventists branched out to Melbourne, opening the Sanitarium Health Food Cafe at 289 Collins Street next to the Royal Bank building. (corner Collins and Elizabeth Streets, demolished in 1939). Their motto was “Quality and Purity”. “Cynthia” of The Leader “Social Circle” column reviewed the cafe in 9 March 1907- “Hundreds of people have a feeling of positive affection for a diet that will be satisfying, appetising and nourishing, without having meat for its backbone. It will come as news that we have in Melbourne a cafe where you can really enjoy yourself without eating anything in the way of meat. Cream, custard, cheese and the like are not cold shouldered out of the menu, and the housewife in search of new dishes will find here ever so much in the way of suggestions. Nuts figure conspicuously in the menu, and lentil and walnut cutlets may be instanced among the delicacies. Beans are cooked in quite alluring fashion, while creamed parsnips are excellent. For sandwiches you could hardly desire anything more appetising than granosi biscuits, and nut cheese. The combination is suggestive of school lunches, and nut meat might well be employed as a variant. A visit to the cafe itself — it is next the Royal Bank in Collins-street — will surprise anyone used to the average vegetarian restaurant. Every thing is fresh, fragrant, and thoroughly modern… It is run, in connection with that curious people the Seventh Day Adventists.” However, “Adele” writing for the Evelyn Observer and Bourke East Record -13 December 1907 had a different experience- CITY RESTAURANTS. “There is no glamour from the outside. We enter the dining room at six and secure a seat at a small table, for this night we are going to dine on vegetables. Some people pride themselves on being vegetarians, and devote a great deal of their spare cash and energy to disseminating vegetarian principles. I shall not in a hurry forget the dinner we tried to get through at this vegetarian restaurant. There was put before us plate after plate of vegetables not soaked, but sodden with water, not an atom of flavouring or dressing; no attempt was made to give the slightest piquancy to potato, cabbage, turnip or carrot. I beg pardon, I am unjust, there were two caterpillars in the cabbage. It is astonishing how persistently ordinary cooks spoil vegetables in the process of cooking and how little they understand the value of vegetables on a menu.” From the extensive menu of 1924, you could order cream of green pea soup, followed by nut meat with Yorkshire pudding, egg timbales, stewed brown lentils, savoury rissoles with piquant sauce. Among the dessert offerings were creamed sago, steamed figs and walnut drops. Washed down with fermented wine and to finish, “Frucerea”, a coffee substitute essence made from fruit and cereal. A four course meal of soup, entree, vegetables and sweets cost 1/6 in 1924. Proving that plant-based food was not just a novelty, 67,000 meals were served at the cafe in 1918, rising to 73,000 in 1921. Later the Sanitarium Cafe moved to 293 Little Collins Street, (opposite Royal Arcade) sharing the building with The Lilliput Golf Course, a miniature golf course of 18 holes. The course was a replica of the fashionable Lido Course in France and was open daily from 10am to midnight with a green fee of one shilling. It featured goldfish, waterfalls and dance music. Lilliput boasted that they were “Melbourne’s coolest indoor course” Miniature golf (mini, minnie, midget, miget, Tom Thumb, Wee golf, putt-putt, pigmy, peewee, crazy golf, obstacle golf) swept the globe in the 1930s, starting in the USA, then Europe. The courses provided affordable recreation during uncertainty at the start of the Great Depression. The craze arrived in Sydney September 1930 with the first mini golf course opening in the basement of the State Theatre. It featured a replica Sydney Harbour Bridge and attracted over 1000 players a day at one shilling per game. The miniature golf bug hit Melbourne hard in 1930-31 with nearly 200 courses springing up in the CBD and suburbs within a few months. The first miniature golf course to open in Melbourne was on 4 October 1930 in the basement of recently built art deco style Wentworth House at 203 Collins Street, designed by architect Cedric Heise Ballantyne, (also designed Regent Theatre, Plaza Ballroom, Athenaeum Club, National Theatre, St Kilda, built in 1930, demolished in 1974 for the City Square) It was managed by J. C. Williamson who advertised for a “Girl Spruiker” who “Must be Young, Attractive Personality, and Able to Talk to the Public” to work at the course. The Age 26 September 1930 reported - “The Wentworth House management have spared no expense in preparing the links. Water hazards, sand bunkers, running streams, ancestral castles, moats and a cunning drawbridge have each been devised to test the skill of players, while the walls and ceiling have been "atmospherically" treated to convey an exterior effect”. Even Melbourne City Council jumped on the bandwagon, leasing the lower hall of Melbourne Town Hall to colourful car dealer and racehorse owner Mr A. G. Barlow for £43 per week for the “Kit Kat Tiny Golf Course”, opening on 11 December 1930. (Turf identity, Mr Alexander George Barlow, (1880-1937) who raced under the nom de course “A. G. Vauxhall”, owned filly Frances Tressady, who in 1923 won the Victoria Derby and Oaks Stakes double and came fifth in the Melbourne Cup. The “Frances Tressady Stakes” is held each March at Flemington Racecourse in honour of the horse, the last filly to win the Derby. Barlow was the proprietor of Barlow Brothers Pty Ltd car dealership at 442 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne. He played 14 games for Carlton Football Club (VFL) on the half-forward line from 1901-1903). Patrons could vie for The Herald Miniature Golf Championship Cup, a gold cup worth £7/7, in an eight week long competition. Sports newspaper The Sporting Globe also offered a Cup and prize money. Many courses offered prizes of theatre tickets, cash and cigarettes. Myer’s department store, hoping to cash in on the fad, advertised in Melbourne’s newspapers that their Sports Department could design and equip complete miniature golf courses using “Fairway” imitation turf at 4/6 a yard. Newspaper cartoonists loved to lampoon the fad. Both Percy Leason, cartoonist for society magazine Table Talk and Syd Miller of Smith’s Weekly depicted “real” golfers causing havoc on a mini golf course, showing that being a “real” golf player was no advantage to playing miniature golf. But bust often follows boom. With such rapid market saturation, expensive novel hazards, waning interest, long opening hours, often to midnight, and price cutting of game fees from one shilling to sixpence and then to threepence amongst some courses, the bubble was bound to burst. The Sporting Globe columnist J.M.Dillon on 20 May 1931 lamented- £100,000 LOST Failure of ‘Minnie’ Golf. “Miniature golf might have provided fun and jokes for thousands of people in Australia, but there were many for whom it panned out a tragedy. It is likely that the dead losses of those who attempted to make money out of the game in Australia were in the vicinity of £100,000. …For a while there was hardly a spare block of land, or a possible “site” in the shape of a hall, or a showroom, in Sydney and Melbourne, that some one was not after to set upon it a “minnie links.” Big amusement firms and private individuals anxious to make money began to run courses. Practically every individual who touched the game had his finger’s financially burnt. …From the approximately £60,000 invested in Melbourne alone, there must have been £25,000 lost. …There are now dozens of courses going to ruin, and many more that the owners would be happy to give away if the takers would remove from them obligations of leases, &c…” The lease on the “Kit Kat Tiny Golf Club” at the Melbourne Town Hall expired on 30 April 1931, with Mr Barlow losing £798 on the venture. The hazards and fittings, which cost £400 and included a large replica of the Town Hall, now worthless. Due to declining patronage, the Little Collins Street cafe closed in 1938, although the adjacent shop continued to sell Sanitarium products. In New Zealand, the first Sanitarium factory opened in Christchurch in 1900, with the company later opening factories in Palmerston North and Auckland. The Adventists opened vegetarian cafes, firstly at 37 Taranaki Street Wellington in 1906, followed by cafes in Auckland, Christchurch and Dunedin. Weet-Bix is also New Zealand’s favourite cereal- there the jingle is “Kiwi kids are Weet-Bix kids.” In 1955, the Australian Women’s Weekly ran an illustrated, full colour advertisement featuring New Zealand born Edmund Hillary (later Sir) 1919-2008, who, along with Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, was the first climber to reach the summit of Mount Everest on 29 March 1953. The Australian Women’s Weekly, 30 March, 1955- “WEET-BIX carried by Hillary on Himalayan adventure! c/- N.Z. Alpine Club Inc., Dunedin, New Zealand. The Manager, Sanitarium Health Food Company, Christchurch, N.Z. Dear Sir. …Weet-Bix was chosen at my special request as I had always felt that some easily prepared form of breakfast was essential to the primitive conditions of high camps. Weet-Bix fulfilled its task very well indeed. We usually had them with hot milk (powdered) and sugar, and even when we were unable to eat anything else, we usually managed to have a little Weet-Bix . . . I regard them as a great success and expect they will be more widely used in the Himalayas in future. Yours faithfully, (Signed) E.P. Hillary. Sanitarium Marmite - motto- “Too much spoils the flavour”- is as beloved with Kiwis as Vegemite is with Australians. In 1966, a fire gutted the Christchurch Marmite factory causing a nation wide shortage. Once the factory was rebuilt, Sanitarium relaunched the yeasty extract in reusable glass tumblers with printed designs such as yachts, New Zealand birds and vintage cars. These popular collectibles can still be found in the kitchen cupboards of many New Zealand baches (holiday homes). After the devastating 2011 earthquake in Christchurch damaged the Marmite factory causing shortages and panic buying, a “Marmageddon” was declared with jars of the “black gold” advertised online for up to NZ$800. Consumers were advised to spread their Marmite sparingly until production resumed. (The Christchurch plant reportedly produces around 640,000kg of Marmite per year). Sanitarium Health and Wellbeing Company is exempt from paying company income tax on their profits due to their ownership by a religious organisation. Although not a compulsory rule for salvation, Adventists are encouraged to pay a tithe of 10% of their income to the church to support the ministry in God’s work. Nowadays, there are over 25 million members of the Seventh Day Adventists Church in 200 countries. ITEMS OF INTEREST (1933, December 22). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 8. Retrieved July 21, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article11723188 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTISTS. (1933, December 28). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved July 1, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article203356427 EVANGELISTS' CAMP (1933, December 20). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 30. Retrieved July 1, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article243213209 Master Butchers Have A Time Pilots FOR School Air Race Charity Golf At Riversdale (1931, May 1). The Sun News-Pictorial (Melbourne, Vic. : 1922 - 1954; 1956), p. 14-15. Retrieved September 4, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article276159136 2000 ADVENTISTS UNDER CANVAS (1933, December 27). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 17. Retrieved July 1, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article243223698 TOPICS FOR THE BLOCK. (1906, October 27). The Australasian (Melbourne, Vic. : 1864 - 1946), p. 45. Retrieved August 30, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article139178204 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seventh-day_Adventist_Church https://www.sanitarium.com/au/about/sanitarium-story/profits-for- ENTERTAINMENT AT MENZIES'. (1906, December 6). Punch (Melbourne, Vic. : 1900 - 1918; 1925), p. 26. Retrieved August 3, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article175380296 https://encyclopedia.adventist.org/article?id=9HN0&highlight=Conference SOCIAL CIRCLE (1907, March 9). Leader (Melbourne, Vic. : 1862 - 1918, 1935), p. 41. Retrieved August 3, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article196649677 CITY RESTAURANTS. (1907, December 13). Evelyn Observer and Bourke East Record (Vic. : 1902 - 1917), p. 1 (MORNING.). Retrieved August 3, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article61133109 Advertising (1924, May 6). The Sun News-Pictorial (Melbourne, Vic. : 1922 - 1954; 1956), p. 9. Retrieved August 3, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article274271406 1930, December 5). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved August 5, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page26374135 Thousands Are Still Playing Miniature Golf (1931, January 2). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 11. Retrieved August 8, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article242880087 MINIATURE GOLF. (1930, October 16). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 10. Retrieved August 8, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4209280 THE REAL GOLFER WHO FORGOT HIMSELF ON THE MINIATURE GOLF COURSE (1930, November 13). Table Talk (Melbourne, Vic. : 1885 - 1939), p. 13. Retrieved August 8, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article146706596 Advertising (1930, December 5). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved August 8, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article242761991 Advertising (1931, January 9). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved August 8, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article242887972 1955, March 30). The Australian Women's Weekly (1933 - 1982), p. 38. Retrieved August 9, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page4812489 £100,000 LOST (1931, May 20). Sporting Globe (Melbourne, Vic. : 1922 - 1954), p. 1 (Edition1). Retrieved August 14, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article183023946 1930, December 5). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved August 15, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page26374135 Advertising (1931, January 23). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved August 15, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article242887795 MINIATURE GOLF. (1931, February 5). The Dandenong Journal (Vic. : 1927 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved August 16, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article201082526 Still Time To Enter Midge (1931, January 16). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved August 16, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article242888830 WIT OF THE WEEK (1930, October 23). Table Talk (Melbourne, Vic. : 1885 - 1939), p. 23. Retrieved August 29, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article146455050 Advertising (1930, October 2). Table Talk (Melbourne, Vic. : 1885 - 1939), p. 16. Retrieved August 18, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article146454620 MIDGET GOLF LINKS. (1930, September 26). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved August 18, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article202235074 https://www.smh.com.au/national/fairfax-archive-mini-golf-20131125-2y608.html TURF NOTES (1923, November 6). The Ballarat Star (Vic. : 1865 - 1924), p. 6. Retrieved September 3, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article213855201 Advertising (1930, October 4). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved October 14, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article242937272 LAUGHTER AND TEARS. (1930, November 15). Smith's Weekly (Sydney, NSW : 1919 - 1950), p. 21. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article234426874 Advertising (1947, December 1). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 5. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article22523355Photographer notations on slide: "Seventh Day Adventists Camp. E Gane + family".religion, health food, mini golf, 1930-1939, tents, churches, camps

Photographer notations on slide: Seventh Day Adventists Camp at Hampton W.J. Westerman, G.G. Stewart & C.H. Watson Published: 28 December 1933 Published title: SEVENTH DAY ADVENTISTS. Published caption: “I. — The Annual Camp of the Seventh Day Adventists in Highett-road, Hampton, comprising more than 250 tents and accommodating over a thousand persons. II. —W. J. Westerman (vice-president of Australasian) and Pastor G. G. Stewart (president of Victoria), conversing with Pastor C. H. Watson (world president of the Seventh Day Adventists).- III.— Evangelist E. R. Gane and family.” SEVENTH DAY ADVENTISTS. (1933, December 28). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved August 1, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article203356427 Research by project volunteer, Fiona Collyer: In December 1933, the annual Seventh Day Adventists Conference of Victoria was held, with over a 1000 participants camping for ten days at Highett Road Hampton. Pastor Charles H. Watson, world president of the Seventh Day Adventists, Walter J. Westerman, vice-president of Australasian and Pastor George G. Stewart, president of Victoria attended. Interestingly, The Age newspaper modified the original photo in their publication, placing the three men close to each other. Description: Three middle aged men dressed in suits converse in front of tents. In December 1933, delegates from all over Victoria and beyond travelled to Melbourne for the annual Seventh Day Adventists Conference of Victoria, held over ten days on a vacant allotment at Highett Road Hampton. A canvas town of 250 tents for over 1000 campers was created along with large marquees for lectures, devotional services and kitchens. Many daily visitors also attended the lectures and services. The principal speaker was Victorian born world president of the Seventh Day Adventists, Pastor Charles H. Watson (1877-1962), who travelled from Washington DC for the event. The Highett Street campers attended a busy schedule of bible readings, devotional services and health lectures during the ten days of the camp. Lecture subjects included- “Among the Head Hunters of the Solomon Islands”, “ Looking Through the Prophetic Telescope into 1934”, “Soul Surgery”, “Viewing the Celestial Land Through the Prophetic Telescope”and “The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse”. The Seventh Day Adventist religion was established in the USA in 1863. One of its co-founders was American Ellen G. White whose writings are regarded as divinely inspired and are still adhered to today. Ellen preached on the “Eight Laws of Health”- Nutrition, exercise, water, sunshine, temperance, air, rest and trust in God. Adventists regard their bodies as holy temples and avoid food deemed by the Bible as unclean. They eat a mainly plant based diet with no caffeinated beverages and abstain from alcohol and tobacco. They believe in the observance of Saturday, the seventh day of the week in the Christian (Gregorian) and Hebrew calendars as the sabbath and the literal and imminent second coming of Jesus Christ. New converts are baptised by immersion in water. The Adventists opened the Warburton Sanitarium in 1910 as a health retreat, integrating their holistic health philosophy of physical, mental and spiritual well being. It was a resort in the hills “among picturesque mountain scenery…surrounded by tall forests and deep fern gullies…” where highly strung Melburians could alleviate their digestive maladies, stress and jaded nerves as “…worn down nervous systems mend quickly in this peaceful environment…invigorating air and an abundance of home-grown fruit, vegetables, fresh eggs, milk, and cream help to build healthy bodies”. The resort also offered hydrotherapy, massage and electrical treatments. An advertisement in The Argus- 1 December 1947 assured readers- “EVERYTHING SUNNY AGAIN." “That's how you'll feel when you say farewell to Warburton Sanitarium and Hospital after spending a holiday here. Victoria's Hydro is famous far and wide for wonders worked with sufferers from nervous and digestive disorders. Wholesome food, perfectly cooked; splendid air, regulated exercise, sweet natural sleep; these quickly correct faulty digestion, restore vitality, bring back that sunny optimism natural to healthy people. Massage and curative baths under medical supervision…” Later, after further building work, it became the Warburton Hospital with medical, casualty and obstetrics wards as well as offering strategies to stop smoking, lose weight and for stress management. The hospital ceased operation in 2001. Ellen G. White wrote “God sent me to Australia” and in 1891, accompanied by her son William C. White she arrived in Australia to start a Bible school, spread her health philosophy and for missionary work. At first health food products were imported from America, but it soon became apparent that due to the expense and the food becoming stale over the long journey, that local manufacturing was necessary. In 1898 William secured the services of American Adventist baker Edward C. Halsey, who had worked at Dr Kellogg’s Battle Creek (“Cereal City”), Sanitarium, Michigan, USA. They rented the St George’s bakery in Northcote, Melbourne, producing the first ready to eat breakfast cereal Granola, Caramel Cereal, and peanut butter. The fledgling company relocated to larger premises in Cooranbong, NSW soon after. The Sanitarium Health Food Company opened a factory in Warburton in 1925, manufacturing Granose Biscuits, Cerix Puffed Wheat, San-Bran, Bixies malted wheat flakes, Betta peanut butter, Marmite, “Kwic-Bru - A delicious health “coffee” made from choicest cereals and free from drugs that affect the heart and nerves” In 1928, Sanitarium bought out Grain Products Limited who were manufacturing a sweet cereal biscuit called Weet-Bix which soon became Australia’s favourite breakfast cereal. The Warburton factory closed in 1997, with manufacturing shifting interstate. Sanitarium breakfast cereal boxes offered free collectable cards inside and children could buy albums from grocers for sixpence and mount the cards. Subjects of the albums included- “Aboriginal Tribes, Legends, Customs”, “Australia- Yesterday and Today”, “Marvels of the Great Barrier Reef”, “Advance Australia- a Pageant of the Years”. In 1902 the Adventist’s opened the “Pure Food Vegetarian Cafe” in Sydney (In 1907 the name was changed to “Sanitarium Health Food Cafe”), Eating vegetarian food was definitely a curiosity. “Cristina” reviewed the cafe for The Australasian-27 October 1906. Topics For The Block. “Feeling somewhat like a criminal, and hoping to escape detection, I stealthily made my way into a vegetarian restaurant the other day... If my friends happened to catch me walking in there, I should henceforth be considered a crank, a faddist, and little short of a lunatic! Whom did I find within, seated with the air of habitués at the small tables, but heaps of my friends. They had all this while been pursuing their vegetarian way, layin' low and sayin' nuffin'. Flesh-eaters, now that the Sydney summer has set in apparently in good earnest, are beginning to wonder if the vegetarians are not wiser in their day and generation. Roast beef, hot cornea beef, ragouts, and meat curries, the very thought of them makes one feel hot. Frosted lemon pudding, stewed fruits, wheatmeal rolls, and tomatoes sound nice when you look at their names on the vegetarian menu. Such weird messes are served, square, unintelligible blocks of some brown substance, a few bites of which form a full and satisfying meal. Cold nut foods, granose, nuttose, and jam protose, bromose, with jelly and various "ose" sandwiches, impossible for the unbeliever to diagnose, are put before you. You drink malted nut broth, you eat gluten sticks, stewed beans, lentil patties, with vegetable sauce, any or all of which are distinctly nourishing and filling at the price. A mock (decidedly mock) veal cutlet or a red lentil roast is sufficient lunch, it appears, for anyone. Thus, "you obtain the best working results from your machinery with the least possible expenditure..." In December 1906 the Adventists branched out to Melbourne, opening the Sanitarium Health Food Cafe at 289 Collins Street next to the Royal Bank building. (corner Collins and Elizabeth Streets, demolished in 1939). Their motto was “Quality and Purity”. “Cynthia” of The Leader “Social Circle” column reviewed the cafe in 9 March 1907- “Hundreds of people have a feeling of positive affection for a diet that will be satisfying, appetising and nourishing, without having meat for its backbone. It will come as news that we have in Melbourne a cafe where you can really enjoy yourself without eating anything in the way of meat. Cream, custard, cheese and the like are not cold shouldered out of the menu, and the housewife in search of new dishes will find here ever so much in the way of suggestions. Nuts figure conspicuously in the menu, and lentil and walnut cutlets may be instanced among the delicacies. Beans are cooked in quite alluring fashion, while creamed parsnips are excellent. For sandwiches you could hardly desire anything more appetising than granosi biscuits, and nut cheese. The combination is suggestive of school lunches, and nut meat might well be employed as a variant. A visit to the cafe itself — it is next the Royal Bank in Collins-street — will surprise anyone used to the average vegetarian restaurant. Every thing is fresh, fragrant, and thoroughly modern… It is run, in connection with that curious people the Seventh Day Adventists.” However, “Adele” writing for the Evelyn Observer and Bourke East Record -13 December 1907 had a different experience- CITY RESTAURANTS. “There is no glamour from the outside. We enter the dining room at six and secure a seat at a small table, for this night we are going to dine on vegetables. Some people pride themselves on being vegetarians, and devote a great deal of their spare cash and energy to disseminating vegetarian principles. I shall not in a hurry forget the dinner we tried to get through at this vegetarian restaurant. There was put before us plate after plate of vegetables not soaked, but sodden with water, not an atom of flavouring or dressing; no attempt was made to give the slightest piquancy to potato, cabbage, turnip or carrot. I beg pardon, I am unjust, there were two caterpillars in the cabbage. It is astonishing how persistently ordinary cooks spoil vegetables in the process of cooking and how little they understand the value of vegetables on a menu.” From the extensive menu of 1924, you could order cream of green pea soup, followed by nut meat with Yorkshire pudding, egg timbales, stewed brown lentils, savoury rissoles with piquant sauce. Among the dessert offerings were creamed sago, steamed figs and walnut drops. Washed down with fermented wine and to finish, “Frucerea”, a coffee substitute essence made from fruit and cereal. A four course meal of soup, entree, vegetables and sweets cost 1/6 in 1924. Proving that plant-based food was not just a novelty, 67,000 meals were served at the cafe in 1918, rising to 73,000 in 1921. Later the Sanitarium Cafe moved to 293 Little Collins Street, (opposite Royal Arcade) sharing the building with The Lilliput Golf Course, a miniature golf course of 18 holes. The course was a replica of the fashionable Lido Course in France and was open daily from 10am to midnight with a green fee of one shilling. It featured goldfish, waterfalls and dance music. Lilliput boasted that they were “Melbourne’s coolest indoor course” Miniature golf (mini, minnie, midget, miget, Tom Thumb, Wee golf, putt-putt, pigmy, peewee, crazy golf, obstacle golf) swept the globe in the 1930s, starting in the USA, then Europe. The courses provided affordable recreation during uncertainty at the start of the Great Depression. The craze arrived in Sydney September 1930 with the first mini golf course opening in the basement of the State Theatre. It featured a replica Sydney Harbour Bridge and attracted over 1000 players a day at one shilling per game. The miniature golf bug hit Melbourne hard in 1930-31 with nearly 200 courses springing up in the CBD and suburbs within a few months. The first miniature golf course to open in Melbourne was on 4 October 1930 in the basement of recently built art deco style Wentworth House at 203 Collins Street, designed by architect Cedric Heise Ballantyne, (also designed Regent Theatre, Plaza Ballroom, Athenaeum Club, National Theatre, St Kilda, built in 1930, demolished in 1974 for the City Square) It was managed by J. C. Williamson who advertised for a “Girl Spruiker” who “Must be Young, Attractive Personality, and Able to Talk to the Public” to work at the course. The Age 26 September 1930 reported - “The Wentworth House management have spared no expense in preparing the links. Water hazards, sand bunkers, running streams, ancestral castles, moats and a cunning drawbridge have each been devised to test the skill of players, while the walls and ceiling have been "atmospherically" treated to convey an exterior effect”. Even Melbourne City Council jumped on the bandwagon, leasing the lower hall of Melbourne Town Hall to colourful car dealer and racehorse owner Mr A. G. Barlow for £43 per week for the “Kit Kat Tiny Golf Course”, opening on 11 December 1930. (Turf identity, Mr Alexander George Barlow, (1880-1937) who raced under the nom de course “A. G. Vauxhall”, owned filly Frances Tressady, who in 1923 won the Victoria Derby and Oaks Stakes double and came fifth in the Melbourne Cup. The “Frances Tressady Stakes” is held each March at Flemington Racecourse in honour of the horse, the last filly to win the Derby. Barlow was the proprietor of Barlow Brothers Pty Ltd car dealership at 442 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne. He played 14 games for Carlton Football Club (VFL) on the half-forward line from 1901-1903). Patrons could vie for The Herald Miniature Golf Championship Cup, a gold cup worth £7/7, in an eight week long competition. Sports newspaper The Sporting Globe also offered a Cup and prize money. Many courses offered prizes of theatre tickets, cash and cigarettes. Myer’s department store, hoping to cash in on the fad, advertised in Melbourne’s newspapers that their Sports Department could design and equip complete miniature golf courses using “Fairway” imitation turf at 4/6 a yard. Newspaper cartoonists loved to lampoon the fad. Both Percy Leason, cartoonist for society magazine Table Talk and Syd Miller of Smith’s Weekly depicted “real” golfers causing havoc on a mini golf course, showing that being a “real” golf player was no advantage to playing miniature golf. But bust often follows boom. With such rapid market saturation, expensive novel hazards, waning interest, long opening hours, often to midnight, and price cutting of game fees from one shilling to sixpence and then to threepence amongst some courses, the bubble was bound to burst. The Sporting Globe columnist J.M.Dillon on 20 May 1931 lamented- £100,000 LOST Failure of ‘Minnie’ Golf. “Miniature golf might have provided fun and jokes for thousands of people in Australia, but there were many for whom it panned out a tragedy. It is likely that the dead losses of those who attempted to make money out of the game in Australia were in the vicinity of £100,000. …For a while there was hardly a spare block of land, or a possible “site” in the shape of a hall, or a showroom, in Sydney and Melbourne, that some one was not after to set upon it a “minnie links.” Big amusement firms and private individuals anxious to make money began to run courses. Practically every individual who touched the game had his finger’s financially burnt. …From the approximately £60,000 invested in Melbourne alone, there must have been £25,000 lost. …There are now dozens of courses going to ruin, and many more that the owners would be happy to give away if the takers would remove from them obligations of leases, &c…” The lease on the “Kit Kat Tiny Golf Club” at the Melbourne Town Hall expired on 30 April 1931, with Mr Barlow losing £798 on the venture. The hazards and fittings, which cost £400 and included a large replica of the Town Hall, now worthless. Due to declining patronage, the Little Collins Street cafe closed in 1938, although the adjacent shop continued to sell Sanitarium products. In New Zealand, the first Sanitarium factory opened in Christchurch in 1900, with the company later opening factories in Palmerston North and Auckland. The Adventists opened vegetarian cafes, firstly at 37 Taranaki Street Wellington in 1906, followed by cafes in Auckland, Christchurch and Dunedin. Weet-Bix is also New Zealand’s favourite cereal- there the jingle is “Kiwi kids are Weet-Bix kids.” In 1955, the Australian Women’s Weekly ran an illustrated, full colour advertisement featuring New Zealand born Edmund Hillary (later Sir) 1919-2008, who, along with Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, was the first climber to reach the summit of Mount Everest on 29 March 1953. The Australian Women’s Weekly, 30 March, 1955- “WEET-BIX carried by Hillary on Himalayan adventure! c/- N.Z. Alpine Club Inc., Dunedin, New Zealand. The Manager, Sanitarium Health Food Company, Christchurch, N.Z. Dear Sir. …Weet-Bix was chosen at my special request as I had always felt that some easily prepared form of breakfast was essential to the primitive conditions of high camps. Weet-Bix fulfilled its task very well indeed. We usually had them with hot milk (powdered) and sugar, and even when we were unable to eat anything else, we usually managed to have a little Weet-Bix . . . I regard them as a great success and expect they will be more widely used in the Himalayas in future. Yours faithfully, (Signed) E.P. Hillary. Sanitarium Marmite - motto- “Too much spoils the flavour”- is as beloved with Kiwis as Vegemite is with Australians. In 1966, a fire gutted the Christchurch Marmite factory causing a nation wide shortage. Once the factory was rebuilt, Sanitarium relaunched the yeasty extract in reusable glass tumblers with printed designs such as yachts, New Zealand birds and vintage cars. These popular collectibles can still be found in the kitchen cupboards of many New Zealand baches (holiday homes). After the devastating 2011 earthquake in Christchurch damaged the Marmite factory causing shortages and panic buying, a “Marmageddon” was declared with jars of the “black gold” advertised online for up to NZ$800. Consumers were advised to spread their Marmite sparingly until production resumed. (The Christchurch plant reportedly produces around 640,000kg of Marmite per year). Sanitarium Health and Wellbeing Company is exempt from paying company income tax on their profits due to their ownership by a religious organisation. Although not a compulsory rule for salvation, Adventists are encouraged to pay a tithe of 10% of their income to the church to support the ministry in God’s work. Nowadays, there are over 25 million members of the Seventh Day Adventists Church in 200 countries. ITEMS OF INTEREST (1933, December 22). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 8. Retrieved July 21, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article11723188 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTISTS. (1933, December 28). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved July 1, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article203356427 EVANGELISTS' CAMP (1933, December 20). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 30. Retrieved July 1, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article243213209 Master Butchers Have A Time Pilots FOR School Air Race Charity Golf At Riversdale (1931, May 1). The Sun News-Pictorial (Melbourne, Vic. : 1922 - 1954; 1956), p. 14-15. Retrieved September 4, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article276159136 2000 ADVENTISTS UNDER CANVAS (1933, December 27). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 17. Retrieved July 1, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article243223698 TOPICS FOR THE BLOCK. (1906, October 27). The Australasian (Melbourne, Vic. : 1864 - 1946), p. 45. Retrieved August 30, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article139178204 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seventh-day_Adventist_Church https://www.sanitarium.com/au/about/sanitarium-story/profits-for- ENTERTAINMENT AT MENZIES'. (1906, December 6). Punch (Melbourne, Vic. : 1900 - 1918; 1925), p. 26. Retrieved August 3, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article175380296 https://encyclopedia.adventist.org/article?id=9HN0&highlight=Conference SOCIAL CIRCLE (1907, March 9). Leader (Melbourne, Vic. : 1862 - 1918, 1935), p. 41. Retrieved August 3, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article196649677 CITY RESTAURANTS. (1907, December 13). Evelyn Observer and Bourke East Record (Vic. : 1902 - 1917), p. 1 (MORNING.). Retrieved August 3, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article61133109 Advertising (1924, May 6). The Sun News-Pictorial (Melbourne, Vic. : 1922 - 1954; 1956), p. 9. Retrieved August 3, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article274271406 1930, December 5). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved August 5, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page26374135 Thousands Are Still Playing Miniature Golf (1931, January 2). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 11. Retrieved August 8, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article242880087 MINIATURE GOLF. (1930, October 16). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 10. Retrieved August 8, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4209280 THE REAL GOLFER WHO FORGOT HIMSELF ON THE MINIATURE GOLF COURSE (1930, November 13). Table Talk (Melbourne, Vic. : 1885 - 1939), p. 13. Retrieved August 8, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article146706596 Advertising (1930, December 5). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved August 8, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article242761991 Advertising (1931, January 9). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved August 8, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article242887972 1955, March 30). The Australian Women's Weekly (1933 - 1982), p. 38. Retrieved August 9, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page4812489 £100,000 LOST (1931, May 20). Sporting Globe (Melbourne, Vic. : 1922 - 1954), p. 1 (Edition1). Retrieved August 14, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article183023946 1930, December 5). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved August 15, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page26374135 Advertising (1931, January 23). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved August 15, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article242887795 MINIATURE GOLF. (1931, February 5). The Dandenong Journal (Vic. : 1927 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved August 16, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article201082526 Still Time To Enter Midge (1931, January 16). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved August 16, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article242888830 WIT OF THE WEEK (1930, October 23). Table Talk (Melbourne, Vic. : 1885 - 1939), p. 23. Retrieved August 29, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article146455050 Advertising (1930, October 2). Table Talk (Melbourne, Vic. : 1885 - 1939), p. 16. Retrieved August 18, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article146454620 MIDGET GOLF LINKS. (1930, September 26). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved August 18, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article202235074 https://www.smh.com.au/national/fairfax-archive-mini-golf-20131125-2y608.html TURF NOTES (1923, November 6). The Ballarat Star (Vic. : 1865 - 1924), p. 6. Retrieved September 3, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article213855201 Advertising (1930, October 4). The Herald (Melbourne, Vic. : 1861 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved October 14, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article242937272 LAUGHTER AND TEARS. (1930, November 15). Smith's Weekly (Sydney, NSW : 1919 - 1950), p. 21. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article234426874 Advertising (1947, December 1). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 5. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article22523355Photographer notations on slide: "Seventh Day Adventists Camp at Hampton W.J. Westerman, G.G. Stewart & C.H. Watson".religion, health food, mini golf, 1930-1939, tents, churches, camps

Copy of an article from the Bendigo Weekly titled Discover Bendigo The Mine Flooding Crisis - Finale of the Victoria Quartz by James Lerk. The lack of suitable machinery, insufficient knowledge of where the water was coming from, need for Government support, and the pegged price of gold, all contributed to the cessation of deep mining. The Victoria Quartz decided to allow tributers for work the upper levels. By 1913, the Company found it uneconomic to allow the tributers to continue working the upper levels and the poppet head and machinery were sold. During the Great Depression Ernest Smith, Davic Holden, Jack Harrison and David Patullo worked above the water line and did well enough to help their families from the worst effects of the Great Depression. Later Dave Patullo continued to work at the Victoria Quartz while the other three obtained employment in other mines. The article has a photo of David Patullo.bendigo, history, long gully history group, the long gully history group - the mine flooding crisis - finale of the victoria quartz, bendigo weekly, james lerk, victoria quartz mine, brough smyth, bendigo advertiser, victoria quartz company, great depression, ernest smith, david holden, jack harrison, david patullo, government battery eaglehawk

Article about three sisters each giving birth to twins. These women are the daughters of Owen Doyle and are Greensborough locals.Text and bright colour imagedoyle family, owen john doyle, mary smith, anne rayner, clare iob

Handwritten notes, undated, on A & G Bills horse trough Main Road Research. Handwritten notes, undated, "Annie and George Bills" listing locations of other Bills horse troughs. Typed notes by Dianna Basset-Smith, July 2003, her memories of the Bills trough at Research. Letter, RSPCE to Andrew Lemon, 17 December 1993, lists other horse troughs known to the RSPCA, use of money from Bills estate managed by John Crook. Newspaper article: Legacy is set in concrete, The Weekly Times, 25 June 2003, history of Bills horse troughs from 1930s, biography of George Bills and Annis Swarm [correctly Swann], quoting Barbie Roach, Gorge Bills' great-grandneice, notes locations of other Bills troughs. Newspaper article: No drought in water troughs, Weekly Times, 9 July 2003, Response to 25 June 2003 article, readers reporting Bills troughs in their area, photograph of trough at Korong Vale. Newspaper article: The horse lover, (photocopy, no publication details), Decaying Bills horse tough in Geelong council yard proposed to be moved to RSPCA, history of George Bills, Annis Bills (nee Swann), legacy, great-grandneice Judith Crook writing Bills history. Email exchange, Eltham District Historical Society and Geraldine Sanderson 2015: enquiry re Bills trough at Research for planned history of Bills trough, and provision of EDHS-held information.Annis Elizabeth Swannmain road, research (vic.), horse troughs, annis and george bills, bills trough, audrey bills, annis bills, george bills, barbie roach, royal society for the prevention of cruelty to animals, judith crook, audrey morton, kathleen wood, acclimatisation society, john lugg, ian stacey, harry bills, annis swann, james boreas crook, william buesst, myer emporium, richard bills, buesst and bills brothers, daisy bills

Bicentennial/Heritage Week Display, "The Eltham Tradition", Eltham Shire Office, 17-22 April 1988. In an interview in the Australian Women's Weekly, (29 April 1970), months before his death in October 1970, Ian Hassall discusses his life with author Maureen Bang. "Ian Hassall can look back on his life with few regrets. He believes like his friend author Alan Marshall, that when you're old you should be able to "look back on life as a book with lots of pictures". Artist Ian Hassall has a lifetime of pictures". Colour photographactivities, alan marshall, eltham shire office, heritage display, heritage week, ian hassall

Contents: • The Times They Are a Changin by Jim Connor • 11th October Meeting – A 50th Anniversary Panel of EDHS Members • Heritage Excursion – Saturday 4th November - Shillinglaw Farm Walk • The Easter Rooster Lunch by Ann Constable (Vaughan Johnson) • Vale – Don Kinsey AM by Jim Connor • Eltham District Historical Society by Jim Connor • Peter and Diana Bassett-Smith • Commemorative Service at St Margaret’s Church, Eltham by Kathleen Toal • Eltham in Victorian Railways Weekly Notices by Richard Pinn • Wellers Hotel of Kangaroo Ground – Part 2 by Jim Allen • Monash Bridge at Hurstbridge – 100 years old in 2017 by Pam Lawson • Our Eltham – Artistic Recollections by Jim Connor • Eltham and District Community Bank • Our Sponsors • Contacts for the Eltham District Historical Society The Shire of Eltham Historical Society was formed in October 1967. The first newsletter of the Society was issued May 1978 and has been published continuously ever since on a bi-monthly basis. With the cessation of the Shire of Eltham in late 1994, the Society's name was revised to Eltham District Historical Society and this name first appeared with issue No. 103, July 1995. The collection of the Society's newsletters provides a valuable resource on the history of the Society's activities, office bearers and committee members, guest speakers and subjects of historical interest pertinent to the former Shire of Eltham and the Eltham District.A4 newsletter distributed to membersnewsletter, eltham district historical society, shire of eltham historical society

Document. Ten letters printed in booklet form by L.F.Giblin (Prof. of Economics, Melbourne Uni.) to the fictional John Smith about the economic situation in Australia in 1930. Published in the Herald & Weekly Times Ltd. 24 page booklet.Herald & Weekly Timesdocument, newspaper, economics, l.f. giblin, herald & weekly times, economics, john smith

This baker’s wagon or cart transported and delivered bread and other baked goods in the Warrnambool area. It currently has advertising for H.H. Smith & Co. Henry Huntington Smith (1857-1941) owned and operated his Warrnambool bakery in the late 19th and early 20th century. However, the design of the wagon is similar to those used by local bakers in the 1930s and 1940s and probably originated from Stephenson’s Bakery in Warrnambool, which operated around that time. The wagon’s original internal shelves were removed in the early days of Flagstaff Hill so that children could have rides around the village in a horse-driven cart. BAKERS’ HISTORY There were many bakeries in Warrnambool in the 19th to mid-20th century. Each bread bakery made horse and cart deliveries in its allocated zone. SMITH’S BAKERY; – as shown on the wagon’s signage. Henry Huntington Smith (1857-1941) was born and educated in Warrnambool. He worked at Davis’ steam biscuit factory in Timor Street before he began his own bakery business in 1885 near the corner of Fairy and Koroit Streets. A few years later Smith built a new bakery on the corner of Fairy and Lava Street where it still stands today (2025) as Monaghan’s Pharmacy. The building was designed by James McLeod in 1892 as a bakehouse, shop and residence for Smith The address was known locally as Smith’s Corner. Next door to the bakery, at 136 Fairy Street, were stables built by Jobbins and McLeod in 1886 for William Cust. A photograph in the archives of the Warrnambool and District Historical Society shows the 1892 building with four fancy horse-drawn wagons on the street with white-clad drivers and a promotional stand erected with 5 bakers in uniform and the signage “H H Smith & Co, Pastry Cooks and Confectioners”. One of the wagons appears to have “H H Smith” painted on the side. H.H. Smith & Co. placed an Advertisement in the Weekly Times in December 1896 promoting its business as bakers, confectioners and pastry cooks, praising their shop as an ‘ornament to the town’ with ‘neat appointments’ and ‘dainty decorations’. It also boasted of supplying a large number of customers within a twelve-mile radius of Warrnambool. In November 1919 The Warrnambool Standard announced the marriage of Henry H Smith, Mayor of Warrnambool, to Jeannie Samson-Goodman in East Adelaide. In the same newspaper was a notice that Frank Crossley was to open as baker and pastry cook in H.H. Smith’s premises. As well as being the proprietor of the H.H. Smith Bakery, Henry Huntington Smith was a Councillor for the Warrnambool Municipality from 1913 to 1937 and Mayer for two terms. In December 1919 during his first term as Mayor, he was honoured for the work he had done with returning soldiers after World War I, receiving a document in recognition of this work, presented by the Mothers, Wives and Sisters of returned soldiers. Smith was very interested and involved in the community in many roles, including being the Vice President of the first Warrnambool and District Historical Society. STEPHENSON’S BAKERY: – believed to be the past owner of the wagon. The last owner of the bakery was Harold Stephenson. Stephenson was enlisted in the A.I.F. and was invalided home in 1943 before the end of the Second World War. He also served as a Councillor from 1958 to 1976, during which time he served six terms as Mayor for the City of Warrnambool (1966-1973) while he had the bakery. He was very involved in many local organisations including the Warrnambool Surf Life Saving Club and the Road Race Committee. He died in 1985, lauded as being one of Warrnambool’s “most distinguished civic leaders”. It has been said that the baker injured in World War II invented a special contraption to enable him to get up into the wagon and that he alerted his customers that he was in their vicinity by blowing a whistle. The customers would come out and choose their bread from the back of his wagon then pay him for it. However, another account is given by a man who once earned pocket money by helping the baker on his rounds. He says that it was Stephenson, the owner and manager of the bakery, and not the delivery baker who received a significant injury during the war, making him unable to climb the stairs of his upstairs accommodation at the bakery, therefore causing him to sleep downstairs. At this time in the early to late 1940 Stephenson’s bakery had three wagons, one for each of the delivery rounds. The wagons were painted black and yellow. Two of the drivers were Stan Lake and Ali (Alec) Dean who both had wagons with the covered cabin design. The third driver was Bill Lake who had a flat wagon. Stan Lake delivered in the area around Lava and Koroit Streets, Ali Dean had another round and Bill Lake had the Dennington area. Bread continued to be delivered into the 1960s but by this time the delivery vehicles were motorised. The goods produced at Stephenson’s bakery included bread baked in different shaped tins such as High Tin, Sandwich and Vienna. Some shapes were easily divided into half by breaking them apart, therefore the baker could make two-quarter loaves from a half loaf, satisfying different needs. There was the option of white or brown bread, sweet buns, fruit buns and Boston buns. The baker’s assistant was known to take great delight in ‘trimming’ the broken halves of excess bread and crust, enjoying his treat. THE BAKERY PREMISES: – Southeast corner of Fairy and Lava Streets, Warrnambool. The building retains the original cast iron veranda. Above the veranda, a motif of a wheat sheaf in ornamental plaster can be seen. Inside the building, there are still some of the original fittings. The building was classified by the National Trust in August 1979. After the Second World War, an official system of zoning was introduced as a fair way for the baking industry to operate. In 1949 different pricing was introduced by the Government for either delivered or retail purchased bread. Many of the small local bakeries went out of business after the Government banned zoning. The way was made open for the larger bread manufacturers to enter the local market with cheaper prices. Some of those companies were Mc Queens, Tip Top, Twisties, and Sunicrust, (Mc Queens ‘new’ bakery building was where the current Toyworld shop now stands, is, in the Ozone carpark.) O’Grady’s Bakery, later changing hands and known as Burkes Bakery, was on Fairy Street near the Timor Street intersection, on the North West side. There was also a bakery named Almay. The baker’s wagon is significant because of its association with H.H. Smith’s Bakery in Warrnambool.. The H.H. Smith’s Bakery building on the corner of Fairy and Lava Streets, built in 1892, is classified by the National Trust, August 1979. Smith Street Warrnambool was named after Henry Huntington Smith, who was a Warrnambool Councillor 1913 – 1937 and Mayor 1919 – 1921. Baker’s wagon, often referred to as a baker’s cart. Four wheeled horse-drawn delivery wagon, front wheels smaller than rear wheels. Wagon is clad with metal sheets and lined with varnished timber panels. Wheels have metal rims, wooden spokes and rear wheels have wooden brake pads. Horse shaft is timber with metal fittings. Front has a metal lamp holder, brake lever, metal hand grips and decorative metal foot plates. The wagon has suspension leaves on back and sides and double suspension leaves on the front. Driver’s area at front has a roof, glass side windows and wooden box seat with hinged compartment accessing wagon storage area. Door above back of seat has buckled leather handgrip strap attached, door slides open for access to wagon area. Back of wagon has a wooden step and a split door; top door has ventilation louvers, both doors have metal latches. Wagon is painted cream with brown trim and signage and green step. Remnants of red and green paint are visible; underside of seat panel is painted grey. Wagon advertises H.H. Smith & Co. Baker, a Warrnambool business established in 1885, but is of a more modern design seen around 1930’s and 1940’s and most likely belonging to Stephenson's bakery. Brown signwriting on sides of wagon “H.R. SMITH & CO. / BAKER” Brown signwriting across front of wagon “BAKER” warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, great ocean road, baker’s wagon, h.h. smith baker, warrnambool, henry h smith, jeannie samson-goodman, frank crossley, mayor of city of warrnambool, vice president of warrnambool and district historical society, stephenson’s bakery warrnambool, harold stephenson, warrnambool surf life saving club, road race committee, national trust building, stan lake, bill lake, ali dean, 19th and 20th century bakers, davies steam biscuit factory warrnambool, james mcleod building designer, jobbins and mcleod, william cust, h h smith & co, pastry cooks and confectioners, bakery trade, bread delivery wagon