This certificate, drawn in a very elegant hand, contains the biographical information of Wilfred Busse. It is assumed to be a funeral or memorial card. Born in Chiltern in 1898, Wilfred Clarence Busse was educted at Wesley College and then the University of Melbourne. He became a barrister and through his time at the University of Melbourne studied with future Chief Justice and Governor of Victoria Sir Henry Arthur Winneke (1908–1985), as well as spending time in the chanbers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933), who was a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Busse also wrote two novels, 'The Blue Beyond' and 'The Golden Plague'. In 1931, 'The Golden Plague' was awarded the T. E. Rofe gold medal by the Henry Lawson Literary Society for its ''its vivid scenes of the Ovens River [gold] rushes, in the early [eighteen] fifties".Ivory rectangular certificate with rounded corners made of thick paper with inked writing and two small photographs mountedObverse: Wilfred Clarence Busse/ 1898 – 1960 / Barrister and Author / Born in Chiltern. Educated at Melbourne / University. Studied Law with former Governor / of Victoria Sir Henry Winneke. In 1928 / published his first novel, “The Blue Beyond”. / In 1930 published “The Golden Plague” for / Which he was awarded the Henry Lawson / Literary Society’s Gold Medal. / Wilfred Busse was a member of the Chiltern / Athenaeum. He valued the historical works / In the library. / wilfred busse, wilfred clarence busse, wilfred c. busse, busse, w.c. busse, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", "the blue beyond, henry lawson society, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, chiltern athenaeum museum, sir henry arthur winneke, sir leo finn bernard cussen, funeral card, memorial card

Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern, Victoria in 1898. His family moved to the region during the gold rush and continued to resided in the area, purchasing land adjacent the Murray River. Busse completed his secondary education at Wesley College in Melbourne then studied law at the University of Melbourne. Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Busse was also an avid fictional writer and in 1930 he published two novels "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia” and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties." "The Golden Plague” won the T. E. Role gold medal for the best historical novel which went on to become a best seller. Busse often drew inspiration for his novels from his younger years living Chiltern. His passion for the region lead him to write “The History of Chiltern” which was published in a serial form in the Chiltern Federal Standard from 1922-1923. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a member of Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960This photograph is of considerable importance to Chiltern Athenaeum as it was written by Wilfred Clarence Busse, a barrister and author born in Chiltern. Busse drew inspiration to write novels from his life growing up in Chiltern which is apparent in "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties."Sepia rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper mounted on board placed within a silver frame.photograph, indigo shire, chiltern athenaeum museum, framed photograph, wilfred clarence busse, busse, chiltern athenaeum, "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia”, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", “the history of chiltern”

Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern, Victoria in 1898. His family moved to the region during the gold rush and continued to resided in the area, purchasing land adjacent the Murray River. Busse completed his secondary education at Wesley College in Melbourne then studied law at the University of Melbourne. Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Busse was also an avid fictional writer and in 1930 he published two novels "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia” and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties." "The Golden Plague” won the T. E. Role gold medal for the best historical novel which went on to become a best seller. Busse often drew inspiration for his novels from his younger years living Chiltern. His passion for the region lead him to write “The History of Chiltern” which was published in a serial form in the Chiltern Federal Standard from 1922-1923. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a member of Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960. This book is of considerable importance to Chiltern Athenaeum as it was written by Wilfred Clarence Busse, a barrister and author born in Chiltern. Busse drew inspiration to write novels from his life growing up in Chiltern which is apparent in "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties." Small book in a solid orange hardback with text written in gold on top front and spine. There are 287 pagesFront cover: Wilfred C. Busse / The Golden Plague / Title page: The Golden Plague / A Romance of the roaring fifties / By Wilfred C. Busse / Hutchinson & Co (Publishers), LTD. / Paternoster Row, London, EC4 / wilfred clarence busse, busse, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, federal standard, t. e. role, "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia”, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", "the golden plague”, wesley college, university of melbourne, sir leo finn bernard cussen, supreme court of victoria, gold rush, murray river, “the history of chiltern”

Wilfred Clarence Busse 1898-1960, born in Chiltern, was a barrister and author. His family moved to the region during the gold rush and continued to reside in the area, purchasing land adjacent the Murray River. Busse attended school at Wesley College and studied law at the University of Melbourne. Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Time spent on a Victorian station in his early twenties, as well as careful documentary research, informed the writing of his historical novels of bush life. "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" was written in 1928 and published in 1930. "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties", written in 1930, won the T. E. Role gold medal for the best historical novel published that year and went on to become a best seller. His passion for the region led him to write “The History of Chiltern”, which was published in a serial form in the Chiltern Federal Standard from 1922-1923. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960.This book is of considerable importance to Chiltern Athenaeum as it was written by Wilfred Clarence Busse, a barrister and author born in Chiltern. Busse drew inspiration to write novels from his life growing up in Chiltern which is apparent in "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia".A small sized book in blue hardback binding, with the title and the author`s name in dark blue fonts at the top of the front cover. There are 288 pages. Front cover: The Blue Beyond/Wilfred C. Busse/ Title page: The Blue Beyond/A Romance of the Early Days in South-Eastern Australia/by Wilfred C. Busse/ Hutchinson & Co (Publishers), LTD. /34-36 Paternoster Row, EC4 / wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, barrister, author, wesley college, university of melbourne, supreme court of victoria, leo finn bernard cussen, historical novels, bush life, the golden plague, the blue beyond, the history of chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, gold rush, murray river, chambers, 1928, 1930, chiltern federal standard, t. e. role gold medal

Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern, Victoria in 1898. Busse attended secondary school at Wesley College before graduating and studying law at the University of Melbourne. After graduating from University, Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Busse was also a fictional writer seen by his novels "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" was written in 1928 and published in 1930 and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties" written in 1930. "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties" won the T.E.Role gold medal for the best historical novel published that year and went on to become a best seller. Busse wrote a series of articles for "The Federal Standard" newspaper in Chiltern, about the history of Chiltern. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960. Frederick Busse was born Henry Louis Friedrich in 1827, in Salzgitter Germany. He is the grandfather of Wilfred Busse. Upon his death, he was survived by his sons Reinhold and William and his wife Wilhelmina. This memorial card is important to Chiltern Athenaeum as it is of a resident who spent many years in the region before being buried in a cemetery in Indigo Shire. It is also important as it is a familial extension of Wilfred Clarence Busse who was born and raised in Chiltern and drew inspiration for his novels from his life in Chiltern. A brown rectangular card with golden boarders and writing memorialising Frederick Busse. There is an angel in the top left corner and bible verses in the top right corner and at the bottom. Obverse: The Lord/ Gave/ And the/ Lord hath/ Taken away/ Blessed be/ the name of/ the Lord In/ Loving Remembrance/ Of/ Our Dear Father/ Frederick Busse/ A colonist of 43 Years/ Died September 3 1897, Aged 70 Years/ Tis hard to break the tender cord;/ When love has bound the heart;/ Tis hard, so hard to speak the words:/ We for a time must part./ Dearest loved one, we have laid thee/ In the peaceful grave’s embrace,/ But thy memory will be cherished/ Till we see they heavenly face/ DEEPLY REGRETTED/ The Art Engraving Company (unknown) Street Melbourne wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, busse, law student, barrister, fictional writer, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia", t.e.role gold meda, the federal standard, indigo shire

Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern, Victoria in 1898. Busse attended secondary school at Wesley College before graduating and studying law at the University of Melbourne. After graduating from University, Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Busse was also a fictional writer seen by his novels "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" was written in 1928 and published in 1930 and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties" written in 1930. "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties" won the T.E.Role gold medal for the best historical novel published that year and went on to become a best seller. Busse wrote a series of articles for "The Federal Standard" newspaper in Chiltern, about the history of Chiltern. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960. Clara Jane Busse was born in 1870 and was married to William Friedrich Busse. She was the mother of Wilfred Clarence Busse. She survived her son Wilfred by 8 years and died on the 15th of September 1968This memorial card is important to Chiltern Athenaeum as it is of a resident who spent many years in the region before being buried in a cemetery in Indigo Shire. It is also important as it is a familial extension of Wilfred Clarence Busse who was born and raised in Chiltern and drew inspiration for his novels from his life in Chiltern.Off white rectangular card with black cursive writing printed Obverse: Clara Jane Busse/ Passed away at Chiltern/ September, 23rd 1968/ Aged 98 years/ At rest/ Miss Claire Busse and/ Mrs Doreen Martin/ Wish to thank you sincerely for/ Your kind expressions of sympathy/ In their recent sad bereavement/ Reverse: With sincere thanks/ “Roseville”/ Main Street/ Chiltern wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, busse, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties., "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia", clara jane busse, claire busse, doreen martin

This badge was given to William Clarence Busse when he became a lifetime member of the Chiltern Football Club. Football became popualr in Chiltern during the 1860s, with the local team becoming a key part of the creation of a formal competition for the Ovens and Murray region, which came about in 1893. The Chiltern team also participated in the founding of the Chiltern and District Football Association in 1912, where they won their first premiership in 1914. In 1954, the team played in a Grand Final against Greta that had a 43 minute long final quarter. Chiltern was ahead when the fourth quarter should have ended, but the timer did not go off and the game went into overtime, allowing Greta to snatch the win and set in place a decades-long rivalry. Today, the team continues to compete under the nickname the 'Swans' in the Tallangatta and District Football League. Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern in 1898. He completed his education at Wesley College in Melbourne then studied law at the University of Melbourne, before becoming a barrister. During his career, he often worked in the chambers of Judge Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) of the Supreme Court. Cussen was popular as a judge and lawyer, known for being just and precise and for completing through statutory consolidation in his spare time. Beyond his career as a lawyer, Busse wrote historical fiction inspired by his life in Chiltern, these included "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties," which won the T.E.Role gold medal for the best historical novel in 1930 and went on to become a best seller. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum until his death in 1960. This object is significant for its link to W.C. Busse, a barrister and author born in Chiltern, and as memorabilia of the Chiltern Football Club. A small gold metallic badge depicting two men playing Australian Rules Football, surrounded by a border of leaves. Obverse: "CHILTERN/ FOOTBALL CLUB/ LIFE MEMBER" Reverse: "W.C. Busse/ K. G. 9KT/ M ??" busse, w.c. busse, wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, chiltern football club, football, sport, t. e. role, "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia”, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", "the golden plague”, wesley college, university of melbourne, sir leo finn bernard cussen, supreme court of victoria, football league, lifetime member, chiltern football club lifetime member

This is a photograph from the W.C. Busse Collection and a woman is illustrated with a bun hair tie and a pearl necklace. Wilfred Clarence Busse 1898-1960, born in Chiltern, was a barrister and author. His family moved to the region during the gold rush and continued to reside in the area, purchasing land adjacent the Murray River. Busse attended school at Wesley College and studied law at the University of Melbourne. Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Time spent on a Victorian station in his early twenties, as well as careful documentary research, informed the writing of his historical novels of bush life. "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" was written in 1928 and published in 1930. "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties", written in 1930, won the T. E. Role gold medal for the best historical novel published that year and went on to become a best seller. His passion for the region led him to write “The History of Chiltern”, which was published in a serial form in the Chiltern Federal Standard from 1922-1923. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960. The photograph belongs to the W.C. Busse Collection, which is of great importance to Chiltern Athenaeum. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a barrister and author born in Chiltern and drew inspiration to write novels from his life growing up in Chiltern.Black and white framed photograph printed on paper and wooden frame.w.c. busse collection, wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, barrister, author, murray river, wesley college, university of melbourne, chambers, leo finn bernard cussen, judge, supreme court of victoria, historical novels, bush life, the blue beyond, the golden plague, t. e. role gold medal, the history of chiltern, chiltern federal standard, chiltern athenaeum

This is a photograph from the W.C. Busse Collection and an elderly woman is illustrated sitting on a couch. Wilfred Clarence Busse 1898-1960, born in Chiltern, was a barrister and author. His family moved to the region during the gold rush and continued to reside in the area, purchasing land adjacent the Murray River. Busse attended school at Wesley College and studied law at the University of Melbourne. Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Time spent on a Victorian station in his early twenties, as well as careful documentary research, informed the writing of his historical novels of bush life. "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" was written in 1928 and published in 1930. "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties", written in 1930, won the T. E. Role gold medal for the best historical novel published that year and went on to become a best seller. His passion for the region led him to write “The History of Chiltern”, which was published in a serial form in the Chiltern Federal Standard from 1922-1923. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960.The photograph belongs to the W.C. Busse Collection, which is of great importance to Chiltern Athenaeum. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a barrister and author born in Chiltern and drew inspiration to write novels from his life growing up in Chiltern.Black and white framed photograph printed on paper.Obverse: 1,018/w.c. busse collection, wesley college, leo finn bernard cussen, supreme court of victoria, wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, murray river, barrister, author, bush life, the blue beyond, the golden plague, t. e. role gold medal, the history of chiltern, chiltern federal standard, chiltern athenaeum, historical novels, university of melbourne, gold rush, best seller

This teaspoon is believed to belong to the household of Chiltern writer and historian, W.C. Busse. The teaspoon displays a level of tarnish indicating it may be comprised of silver or silver plate. It has no evident hallmark to determine its maker or date of manufacture, but may pre-date World War Two as mass production methods and the growing popularity of stainless steel in cutlery and other tablewares saw a reduced reliance on silver in such goods after this period. Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern in 1898. He went to school at Wesley College in Melbourne, studied law at the University of Melbourne and became a barrister. Additionally, after spending time on a Victorian station in his early twenties, he wrote two historical novels about bush life. His first novel was 'The Blue Beyond: a Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia', written in 1928 and published in 1930. Busse's second novel was titled 'The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties'. The judges of the Henry Lawson Society's T.E. Rofe competition to advance Australian literature unanimously awarded it the Gold Medal in 1931 for the best historical novel of 1930. Newspaper articles about the award mention the writer's meticulous documentary and oral history research regarding life on the Gold Fields in the 1850s. It became a best-seller. Busse also wrote a series of articles about local history for "The Federal Standard" newspaper in Chiltern. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum. He died in 1960. This spoon is significant for the detail it conveys of ordinary domestic life in the household of a significant Victorian writer with special reference to Chiltern and the surrounding region. Teaspoon with decorative pattern on handle and tarnished patina. w.c. busse, chiltern, wilfred clarence busse, chiltern athenaeum, gold fields, gold rush, gold mining, mining history, historical fiction, cutlery, tableware, silverware, spoons, henry lawson society, t.e. rofe, t.e. rofe gold medal, federal standard newspaper, 1930s, 1850s, barrister, north-east victoria, indigo shire

This medal/badge was given to Wilfred Clarence Busse, born in Chiltern in 1898, supposedly during his time at Wesley College. The lion on the badge is a perfect match for Wesley College's logo, and the words Sapere Aude are the school's motto. Busse completed his secondary education as Wesley College in the early twentieth century, and went on to study law at the University of Melbourne. As a lawyer, he spent time in the room of Supreme Court Judge Bernard Cussen (1859-1933). Judge Cussen was popular, known for being just and precise and for completing through statutory consolidation in his spare time. As well as working as a lawyer, Busse wrote historical fiction inspired by his life in Chiltern, these included The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties," which won the T.E.Role gold medal for the best historical novel in 1930 and went on to become a best seller. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum until his death in 1960. Wesley College was founded in 1866 in St. Kilda by Rev. James S. Waugh, Dr James Corrigan, Rev. Daniel Draper and businessman Walter Powell. Wesley College was a founding member of the Associated public School of Victoria in 1908. Originally a boys school, coeducation was introduced in the 1970s, and the school continues to function today and has a reputation as one of the best schools in Victoria witth regards to VCE and IB scores. This item is significant for its connect to W.C. Busse and his literary and non-fiction work inspired by Chiltern. The object is a metal-open work badge depicting a stylised lion surrounded by a oval, which appears to resemble a belt, and bears the words Sapere Aude (translation Dare to be Wise). Below the main body of the badge is a short chain attached to a safety pin at the other end. Obverse: Sapere Aude Reverse: REC 269busse, w.c. busse, wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia”, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", "the golden plague”, wesley college, university of melbourne, sir leo finn bernard cussen, supreme court of victoria, schooling, badge, medal

This fork is believed to belong to the household of Chiltern writer and historian, W.C. Busse. It displays a level of tarnish indicating it may be comprised of silver or silver plate. It has no evident hallmark to determine its maker or date of manufacture, but may pre-date World War Two as mass production methods and the growing popularity of stainless steel in cutlery and other tablewares saw a reduced reliance on silver in such goods after this period. The handle of the fork appears to display the initials 'WB', potentially indicating it was made to order. Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern in 1898. He went to school at Wesley College in Melbourne, studied law at the University of Melbourne and became a barrister. Additionally, after spending time on a Victorian station in his early twenties, he wrote two historical novels about bush life. His first novel was 'The Blue Beyond: a Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia', written in 1928 and published in 1930. Busse's second novel was titled 'The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties'. The judges of the Henry Lawson Society's T.E. Rofe competition to advance Australian literature unanimously awarded it the Gold Medal in 1931 for the best historical novel of 1930. Newspaper articles about the award mention the writer's meticulous documentary and oral history research regarding life on the Gold Fields in the 1850s. It became a best-seller. Busse also wrote a series of articles about local history for "The Federal Standard" newspaper in Chiltern. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum. He died in 1960.This fork is significant for the detail it conveys of ordinary domestic life in the household of a significant Victorian writer with special reference to Chiltern and the surrounding region.Fork with decorative pattern on handle and tarnished patina, design may include owner's or maker's initials. WB w.c. busse, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, gold fields, indigo shire, gold mining, gold rush, henry lawson society, fork, silverware, cutlery, tableware, 1930s, 1850s, wilfred clarence busse, historical fiction, t.e. rofe, t.e. rofe gold medal, north-east victoria, federal standard, golden plague, blue beyond

This locket is from the museum's collection of objects relating to Wilfred Clarence Busse. Busse was born in Chiltern in 1898, completed his secondary education as Wesley College in the early twentieth century, and went on to study law at the University of Melbourne. As a lawyer, he spent time in the room of Supreme Court Judge Bernard Cussen (1859-1933). Judge Cussen was popular, known for being just and precise and for completing through statutory consolidation in his spare time. As well as working as a lawyer, Busse wrote historical fiction inspired by his life in Chiltern, these included The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties," which won the T.E.Role gold medal for the best historical novel in 1930 and went on to become a best seller. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum until his death in 1960. The placing of hair in lockets was a common 19th and early 20th century, with Queen Victoria wearing a locket containing a piece of Albert’s hair after his death in 1861. Wearing a loved one’s hair or giving a lock of your hair to someone for wearing, could be a gesture of love and friendship, or of mourning. The tangibility and personal nature of hair made it a common keepsake, especially in cases of high mortality or where family members were separated by oceans without the possibility of air travel. The intention and origin of this locket is currently unknown, but it is likely it was a keepsake of love or mourning, either way, a emotional object. This object artistically significant as an example of late 19th/early 20th century jewellery, and social and spiritual sigifiicance as locket containing a piece of hair, which, regardless of exact intention, imbues it with a strong emotional aura. A small dark metal locket with a decorative leaf pattern on the exterior. The locket contains a small amount of reddish hair, supposedly from a loved one or family member of the original owner, and a degraded image that may have ocne represented a person. busse, w.c. busse, wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia”, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", "the golden plague”, wesley college, university of melbourne, sir leo finn bernard cussen, supreme court of victoria, locket, hair locket, hair jewellery, jewellery

These baby shoes show evidence of once having an additional embellishment on the toe, such as a bow, flower or pom pom. The label written into the bottom of the shoe indicates that it was made by Everbest. Everbest is a shoe company that was established in 1979 in Singapore and primarily sells in South East Asia. Their brand is centred around timeless elegance and quality, which this pair of baby shoes is in keeping with. The Mary Jane shoe was popularised in the early 20th century as a shoe for children regardless of gender. They began to be known as Mary Jane's because of the character of Mary Jane in the Mary Jane and Buster Brown comics, a series of advertisements by the Brown Shoe Company in the USA. They remain a classic style for women and children.These shoes are a record of a small part of the social history of Chiltern, as well as show the continuing popularity of this style of shoe through time. They are also a record that a product of a Singaporean company that primary sells in other countries in South East Asia was able to travel all the way to regional Victoria and be present in the collection of the Chiltern Athenaeum.Pair of pink leather mary jane style baby shoes with gold metallic label on inner soleInner Sole: Lesley Everbest / Baby Shoe / Size 0baby shoe, leather shoe, everbest, leather, shoe, baby clothes, leatherworking, singapore, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, chiltern athenaeum museum, chiltern athenaeum collection

Wilfred Clarence Busse, born in Chiltern in 1898, His family moved to the region during the gold rush and continued to reside in the area, purchasing land adjacent the Murray River. Busse completed his secondary education at Wesley College in Melbourne then studied law at the University of Melbourne. Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. He worked most of his life in Chiltern as a Barrister and Solicitor and gained the unofficial title of historian of Chiltern, leaving behind several manuscript histories and a scrap book. Busse was an avid fictional writer and in 1930 he published two novels. Time spent on a Victorian station in his early twenties, as well as careful documentary research, informed the writing of his historical novels of bush life. "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia” and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties." "The Golden Plague” won the T. E. Role gold medal for the best historical novel which went on to become a best seller. Busse often drew inspiration for his novels from his younger years living Chiltern. His passion for the region lead him to write “The History of Chiltern” which was published in a serial form in the Chiltern Federal Standard from 1922-1923. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a member of Chiltern Athenaeum (where this object is now held) up until his death in 1960, he is buried in the Barnawartha Cemetery. Likely Silverplate due to the intensity of the tarnishing of the metal, with indecipherable hallmarks on the handle, the method of production and the maker mark are unclear. The delicate swirling fernlike motif on this particular butter knife appears to be stylised in either Art deco the decorative arts and craft style favoured in Europe between 1880-1930's and less representational than examples of Australiana flora captured in silversmithing from the 1850's onwards produced in Australia. It is likely that those producing silverware at the time would be drawing on the decorative arts movement while incorporating elements of the natural beauty in the flora of their newfound environment into the silverware they produced.Wilfred Clarence Busse was of social significance to Chiltern, he helped to document the cultural story of the area in his published works "The Golden Plague" and "The Beyond Blue" by recounting his own upbringing in a bush lifestyle. He was a respected Barrister and was the unofficial historian of the Chiltern Athenaeum for many years. This butter knife represents a window into the domestic life of this person who was well loved in the area, and it continues its relationship to Busse as well as Chiltern by being held within the very collection he helped to maintain in his life. Domestic objects tell us the story about how people lived, objects of daily use hold particular meaning in that they can tell us the story of an individual, we feel closer to their life and habits, it humanises and connects us across time. Wilfred Busse ate food, he buttered his bread and he did it with a wonderfully decorated silver butter knife.A tarnished metal butter knife with engraved and embossed spiral fern details on the knife and handlesilverware, wilfred clarence busse, busse, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, federal standard, t. e. role, "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia”, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", "the golden plague”, wesley college, university of melbourne, sir leo finn bernard cussen, supreme court of victoria, gold rush, murray river, “the history of chiltern”, silversmithing, decorative arts, floral, flora, australiana, australian flora, arts and craft movement, australian silver, cussen, cutlery, butter knife, knife, silverplate

Wilfred Clarence Busse, born in Chiltern in 1898, His family moved to the region during the gold rush and continued to reside in the area, purchasing land adjacent the Murray River. Busse completed his secondary education at Wesley College in Melbourne then studied law at the University of Melbourne. Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. He worked most of his life in Chiltern as a Barrister and Solicitor and gained the unofficial title of historian of Chiltern, leaving behind several manuscript histories and a scrap book. Busse was an avid fictional writer and in 1930 he published two novels. Time spent on a Victorian station in his early twenties, as well as careful documentary research, informed the writing of his historical novels of bush life. "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia” and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties." "The Golden Plague” won the T. E. Role gold medal for the best historical novel which went on to become a best seller. Busse often drew inspiration for his novels from his younger years living Chiltern. His passion for the region lead him to write “The History of Chiltern” which was published in a serial form in the Chiltern Federal Standard from 1922-1923. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a member of Chiltern Athenaeum (where this object is now held) up until his death in 1960, he is buried in the Barnawartha Cemetery. The floral motif on this particular spoon appears to be stylised in the decorative arts and craft style favoured in Europe between 1880-1920 and less representational than examples of Australiana flora captured in silversmithing from the 1850's onwards produced in Australia. It is likely that those producing silverware at the time would be drawing on the decorative arts movement while incorporating elements of the natural beauty in the flora of their newfound environment into the silverware they produced. This spoon seems more likely to have been produced in Europe and imported to the colony. The hallmarks on the handle DON and BP indicate it may have been produced from English electroplating silver which is a more cost effective product than solid silver, most likely produced by Cooper Brothers, Don Plate Works, established in Sheffield in 1866 who distributed silverware in Europe, America and the colonies well into the 1950's.Wilfred Clarence Busse was of social significance to Chiltern, he helped to document the cultural story of the area in his published works "The Golden Plague" and "The Beyond Blue" by recounting his own upbringing in a bush lifestyle. He was a respected Barrister and was the unofficial historian of the Chiltern Athenaeum for many years. This spoon represents a window into the domestic life of this person who was well loved in the area, and it continues its relationship to Busse as well as Chiltern by being held within the very collection he helped to maintain in his life. Domestic objects tell us the story about how people lived, objects of daily use hold particular meaning in that they can tell us the story of an individual, we feel closer to their life and habits, it humanises and connects us across time. Wilfred Busse ate food and he did it from a beautiful silver floral detailed spoon.A silver tablespoon with floral embossed head and hallmarks embossed on reverse handleDON/ BP/silverware, wilfred clarence busse, busse, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, federal standard, t. e. role, "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia”, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", "the golden plague”, wesley college, university of melbourne, sir leo finn bernard cussen, supreme court of victoria, gold rush, murray river, “the history of chiltern”, silversmithing, spoon, decorative arts, floral, flora, australiana, australian flora, arts and craft movement, australian silver, cussen

Wilfred Clarence Busse, born in Chiltern in 1898, His family moved to the region during the gold rush and continued to reside in the area, purchasing land adjacent the Murray River. Busse completed his secondary education at Wesley College in Melbourne then studied law at the University of Melbourne. Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. He worked most of his life in Chiltern as a Barrister and Solicitor and gained the unofficial title of historian of Chiltern, leaving behind several manuscript histories and a scrap book. Busse was an avid fictional writer and in 1930 he published two novels. Time spent on a Victorian station in his early twenties, as well as careful documentary research, informed the writing of his historical novels of bush life. "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia” and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties." "The Golden Plague” won the T. E. Role gold medal for the best historical novel which went on to become a best seller. Busse often drew inspiration for his novels from his younger years living Chiltern. His passion for the region lead him to write “The History of Chiltern” which was published in a serial form in the Chiltern Federal Standard from 1922-1923. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a member of Chiltern Athenaeum (where this object is now held) up until his death in 1960, he is buried in the Barnawartha Cemetery. The leaf shaped motif of this particular spoon appears to be stylised in a simple form of decorative arts and craft or even Art Nouveau style favoured in Europe between 1880-1920 and less representational than examples of Australiana flora captured in silversmithing from the 1850's onwards. According to Christine Erratt, due to the goldrush in the 1850's, there was increased wealth in the colony and an influx of immigrants from Europe to Australia who brought with them silversmithing skills which began ‘the golden age’ of Australian silver', Erratt says that 'Australia's unique flora has been portrayed in the decorative arts since the early colonial times of the last decade of the 18th century. The use of Australian flora to decorate silverware is of particular interest and diversity'. It is likely that those producing silverware at the time would be drawing on the decorative arts movement while incorporating elements of the natural beauty in the flora of their newfound environment into the silverware they produced. There are no discerning maker hallmarks to place where it was produced or ascertain the material accurately.Wilfred Clarence Busse was of social significance to Chiltern, he helped to document the cultural story of the area in his published works "The Golden Plague" and "The Beyond Blue" by recounting his own upbringing in a bush lifestyle. He was a respected Barrister and was the unofficial historian of the Chiltern Athenaeum for many years. This spoon represents a window into the domestic life of this person who was well loved in the area, and it continues its relationship to Busse as well as Chiltern by being held within the very collection he helped to maintain in his life. Domestic objects tell us the story about how people lived, objects of daily use hold particular meaning in that they can tell us the story of an individual, we feel closer to their life and habits, it humanises and connects us across time. A tarnished small silver teaspoon with leaf-shaped head and slim handlesilverware, wilfred clarence busse, busse, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, federal standard, t. e. role, "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia”, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", "the golden plague”, wesley college, university of melbourne, sir leo finn bernard cussen, supreme court of victoria, gold rush, murray river, “the history of chiltern”, silversmithing, spoon, decorative arts, floral, flora, australiana, australian flora, arts and craft movement, australian silver, cussen

This photograph shows a young Wilfred Busse wearing work clothes in the Australian bush. These clothes were all chosen for their practicality in the Australian bush, and create together a distinctive style that is easily recognisable. While it initially appears that he wears long boots, he actually wears shorter shoes with an additional leg protection called gaiters. These protected the legs and were particularly useful to Australian settlers to protect from snake bites. His trousers, or breeches, are of a similar style to the ones issued as Australian Army regulation during the First World War, which were baggy around the thighs and became tighter below the knee. His long shirt protects him from the harsh Australian sun, and he wears an iconic Akubra hat for sun protection on his face. It is assumed that this photograph shows Busse when he was working on a Station in Victoria in his twenties, which is supported by the style of his clothing and his age.This photograph is significant as it shows Wilfred Busse as he appeared in his younger years, presumably on a Station in Victoria. It also provides a primary resource of working clothes for white settlers in the early 20th centuryBlack and white rectangualr photograph on matte photographic paper in wooden frameaustralian settlement, settlement, workmen, work, clothing, workwear, bush, wilfred busse, busse, busse author, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, chiltern athenaeum museum, 1920s

Shoe-making began in Australia among the penal colonies in 1790 who crafted shoes from imported leather. The first Australian-made shoes were expensive and many people were sent back to England for their shoes until the 1830s. However, in the years after Australian shoe-making became more accessible and affordable. Toward the end of the 19th Century, many wealthy women became obsessed with the latest fashions for both themselves and their children. Shoe-making became a profitable business for several leading companies during the 20th Century, as the industry was seen as a successful and practical item that most Australians required.The baby shoe holds significance as it represents the craftsmanship of Australian leather shoe-making from the 20th Century. As the style of shoe is more modest and stylish, it can be assumed that it was the type of footwear used for the Church Sunday Service or for special occasions, with further gives insight into the social constructs of Chiltern, a rural town in Victoria, at that time.Black leather with wool pom pom attached with a metal stud. Leather sole is black and the inner of the shoe is cream. Discolouration on the bottom of the shoe due to dirt.chiltern, shoe, footwear, leather shoe, baby shoe, chiltern athenaeum

Shoe-making began in Australia among the penal colonies in 1790 who crafted shoes from imported leather. The first Australian-made shoes were expensive and many people were sent back to England for their shoes until the 1830s. However, in the years after Australian shoe-making became more accessible and affordable. Toward the end of the 19th Century, many wealthy women became obsessed with the latest fashions for both themselves and their children. Shoe-making became a profitable business for several leading companies during the 20th Century, as the industry was seen as a successful and practical item that most Australians required.The baby shoe holds significance as it represents the craftsmanship of Australian leather shoe-making from the 20th Century. As the style of shoe is more modest and stylish, it can be assumed that it was the type of footwear used for the Church Sunday Service or for special occasions, with further gives insight into the social constructs of Chiltern, a rural town in Victoria, at that time.Black leather shoe. Leather sole is black and the inner of the shoe is tan. Discolouration on the shoe due to dirt.chiltern, shoe, footwear, leather shoe, baby shoe, chiltern athenaeum

Ladies’ gloves were an essential part of life in the 1840s to 1900 Victorian era, regardless of class most ladies wore gloves. The glove design, material, and fit would hint at a lady's status, despite their hands being covered. A shorter style of glove would have been used for daytime wear, along with the matching parasol cover and would be matched to the owner's outfit. Leather was a material often used since the 1900s, however when WWI hit the price of leather gloves increased and many resorted to cheaper materials for their accessories. Although particular styles for evening-wear gloves altered throughout the 20th Century, the classic neutral leather glove was a staple throughout Australian ladies' fashion during this time. The need for gloves and parasol cover however disappeared in the 1960s when gloves were only used in the winter months as a practicality rather than a fashion accessory.The leather gloves and parasol cover indicate the owner was wealthy and was able to spend money on good quality accessories. This may have been due to the fact that Chiltern was a gold-rush town and would have had some wealthy families living there from the late 19th Century. The leather items are a symbol of such wealth and social signifiance in the rural town of Chiltern.Gloves: Beige colour with brown hand stitched detail on the upper hand - 3 lengths. Brown stitched all around with finger gussets. Three brown leather button detail to the upper cuff (actual leather circular pieces meant to resemble buttons, hand stitched in beige). Umbrella/parasol cover: Same soft leather as gloves and detail, metal zip along the length and tapered to one end. Two leather circular pieces meant to resemble buttons, one missing at the top). chiltern, leather, leather gloves, leather parasol cover, parasol, parasol cover, gloves, wealth, gold rush, chiltern athenaeum museum, chiltern gold rush

No specific information is available for this item. However, ivory was common in early 20th century household items, which were often purchased overseas as souvenirs. Many ivory items originated from Asia. Letter openers are still used today; however, they are now made out of steel as ivory is illegal.This item is an example of the use of ivory in domestic households early in the 20th century. A long, cream-white letter opener made out of ivory with a plain blade and rounded handle.There is decorative patterning on the handle consisting of holes and circles.ivory, letter opener, letters, chiltern athenaeum museum, mail

No specific information is available for this object. However, fountain pens originated in France in 1827, with the first patent attributed to a Parisian student named Romanian Petrache Poenaru. The fountain pen typically has a fine stainless-steel tip that is filled with ink via an ink well. Widespread production of fountain pens occurred from 1857, with new designs having improved filling techniques. Fountain pens became popular with professionals, such as barristers, professors, doctors, and accountants for over 100 years. The only downside to using fountain pens was their tendency to sometimes leak onto documents, so in the 1950s, they were made with disposable cartridges. The cartridges made the pens more popular, especially with university students. For this reason, in the early 1960s, fountain pens were renamed cartridge pens and were deemed the best writing instrument in most schools.This object is an example of the use of fountain pens in domestic households and professional workplaces since 1827.A solid and complete green and gold patterned fountain pen.There is green shimmer-like decorative patterning on the body with gold-coloured veining.pen, fountain pen, ink, france, chiltern athenaeum museum, victoria

No specific information is available for this object. However, fountain pens originated in France in 1827, with the first patent attributed to a Parisian student named Romanian Petrache Poenaru. The fountain pen typically has a fine stainless-steel tip that is filled with ink via an ink well. Widespread production of fountain pens occurred from 1857, with new designs having improved filling techniques. Fountain pens became popular with professionals, such as barristers, professors, doctors, and accountants for over 100 years. The only downside to using fountain pens was their tendency to sometimes leak onto documents, so in the 1950s, they were made with disposable cartridges. The cartridges made the pens more popular, especially with university students. For this reason, in the early 1960s, fountain pens were renamed cartridge pens and were deemed the best writing instrument in most schools.This object is an example of the use of fountain pens in domestic households and professional workplaces since 1827.A solid and complete black patterned fountain pen.There is black decorative patterning on the body.pen, fountain pen, ink, france, chiltern athenaeum museum, victoria

Annie Jessup, an artist, was the youngest daughter of the well-known Australian self-taught artist, Alfred William Eustace. Like her father, Annie created some of her oil landscape paintings on gum leaves. Her older brother Sidney presented one of her paintings to the Chiltern Athenaeum together with his own timber collection.Annie Jessup, and artist, was the daughter of the well-known Australian self-taught artist Alfred William Eustace.Photograph of an oil painting on gum leaf by Annie Jessup, under glass on blue paper in a reddish plastic timber-look frame.Artist's signature on bottom right hand corner of photograph: Annie Jessup/ Myrniong Sticker on back: MADE IN/ CHINA/ FABRIQUE'AU/ CHINEannie jessup, gum leaf painting, landscape

Alfred William Eustace was a well-known self-taught Australian artist who spent his spare time painting the local landscapes in the Chiltern area. When not doing his work or painting, Eustace regularly contributed letters and verse to the Chiltern newspaper "The Federal Standard". A collection of A. W Eustace's verse and other writings, written between 1845 and 1899, was presented to The Chiltern Athenaeum Trust by Cam Boadle, a grandson of A.W. Eustace, and his wife Connie. The Chiltern Athenaeum Trust created a booklet of some of his poetry which was published in 1992. Copyright for the booklet is held by Chiltern Athenaeum Museum 1992. In the 1870’s he became interested in spiritualism often being involved in lively debate at lectures and séances. A.W.Eustace was born in Berkshire, England, where he was an assistant gamekeeper to the Earl of Craven at Ashdown Park. He migrated to Australia with his wife and children in 1851 and worked on the Ullina and Eldorado Runs on the Black Dog Creek at Chiltern, which was in excess of 50,000 acres of grazing land. A.W. Eustace was employed as a shepherd by Jason Withers and while tending his flocks in the solitude of the bush, Eustace turned his attention to painting and music to while away the long and weary hours. He endeavoured to capture the spirit of the bush painting on board, canvas or tin plate, but as these materials were not always readily available he then started painting on large round eucalyptus leaves from the White and Red Box trees that grew around about him. About 1856 he painted a small picture of the famous Woolshed goldrush and during the next few years became well known in North-East Victoria. John Sadlier, a police officer stationed at Beechworth said that Eustace painted "some really exquisite scenes. He was of an easy-going dreamy temperament, a student of nature only, despising the works of men. Unfortunately his drawings were on eucalyptus leaves, the largest and roundest he could find and not on canvas, and no doubt have all perished long ago." How wrong he was. In 1876 the Melbourne Age newspaper reported, 'Eustace’s celebrated paintings on gum leaves are again attracting attention,…Mr Eustace is an elegant artist…he seems without effort to catch the colour and spirit of Australian scenery…' In 1864 A.W. Eustace held an Art Union in Albury, and again in 1884 in Ballarat. He exhibited at the Victorian Academy of Arts in 1877 and also held an exhibition of gum leaf paintings at Stevens Gallery, Melbourne in 1893. By 1896 he was receiving orders from heads of states in Europe, with his works acknowledged by Queen Victoria, Emperor Frederich of Germany and the Czar of Russia, as well as the Governors of New South Wales and Victoria. His paintings reflected his ability to paint the sky in his realistic style which is still noted by art critics of the day. A.W. Eustace was also a skilful taxidermist. The collection of birds and animals that can be seen at the Beechworth Museum are examples of his taxidermy skill. Alfred William Eustace died in 1907 and is buried in the Chiltern New Cemetery with his wife Sarah and one of his daughters, Elizabeth. Alfred William Eustace made a valuable contribution to the culture of 19th century Chiltern and his booklet of Selected Verse gives us an insight into life during that time.22 page booklet of Selected Verse/ A.W. Eustace of Chiltern/ 1820-1907. Printed on thick cream paper with a copy of an oval photograph of the author.a. w. eustace, selected verse, chiltern

Clara Jane Matthews was born in 1870 as the eldest daughter of Robert Matthews. She married William Frederick Busse on the 5th of December, 1894 at St Columb’s church, Hawthorn. Clara and her husband lived on Main Street in Chiltern, and her husband was a Clerk of Courts in Chiltern and Wodonga throughout his life. Clara and William also owned a 640 acre farm called Clairedale Park, four miles (6.5km) outside of Barnawartha. They had both crops and sheep on the property, and adopted innovative farming practices. It appears that Clara was heavily involved in the farm business, as she is listed as a purchaser of sheep in multiple stock reports between 1914 and 1918. This is very unusual for the era, as women were not generally involved in stock markets, especially if her husband was still alive. Clara’s husband’s work at the court likely meant that he wasn’t able to travel to the markets in order to purchase stock. Clara’s taking the reigns in this manner was highly unusual, and signals just how strong of a woman she must have been. Clara Busse died in Chiltern in 1968, when she was 98 years old. She is also the mother of Wilfred C Busse, who was an author and a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum. This photograph is of a woman who lived most of her life in Chiltern, and undoubtedly contributed to the community of the town within her 98 years. She will most likely be remembered as the wife of William Frederic Busse, Clerk of Petty Sessions, or as the mother or Wilfred Clarence Busse, author and barrister. Although the records of her time almost entirely connect her with the men of her life, her father, husband and then her son, some digging can reveal that she was an entire person of her own, who broke norms of her time and is worthy of being remembered for her own sake.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper mounted on board in a textured metallic frameObverse: Clara Jane Busse / (nee Mathews) / Mother of W. C. Busse / clara jane busse, clara busse, c j busse, busse, women in agriculture, remarkable women, 20th century women, women's history, working women, wilfred busse, wilfred clarence busse

This knife is believed to belong to the household of Chiltern writer and historian, W.C. Busse. It displays a level of tarnish indicating it may be comprised of silver or silver plate. The blade contains the mark 'EP' which may indicate silverplate over steel. The blade also contains the maker's mark 'Wingfield', which was the trademark of T. Turner & Co but could also refer to the company Wingfield Rowbotham. Both factories are located in Sheffield, United Kingdom. The trademark is ascribed to goods produced in approximately 1907. The handle of the knife displays the initials 'WB', potentially indicating it was made to order. Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern in 1898. He went to school at Wesley College in Melbourne, studied law at the University of Melbourne and became a barrister. Additionally, after spending time on a Victorian station in his early twenties, he wrote two historical novels about bush life. His first novel was 'The Blue Beyond: a Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia', written in 1928 and published in 1930. Busse's second novel was titled 'The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties'. The judges of the Henry Lawson Society's T.E. Rofe competition to advance Australian literature unanimously awarded it the Gold Medal in 1931 for the best historical novel of 1930. Newspaper articles about the award mention the writer's meticulous documentary and oral history research regarding life on the Gold Fields in the 1850s. It became a best-seller. Busse also wrote a series of articles about local history for "The Federal Standard" newspaper in Chiltern. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum. He died in 1960.This knife is significant for the detail it conveys of ordinary domestic life in the household of a significant Victorian writer with special reference to Chiltern and the surrounding region. Knife with tarnished patina and cream-coloured handle with owner's initials engraved or stamped.WBw.c. busse, chiltern, gold fields, gold mining, gold rush, north-east victoria, indigo shire, wingfield, t.turner & co, wingfield rowbotham, silver, silverplate, knife, cutlery, silverware, tableware, barrister, wesley college, melbourne, historical fiction, golden plague, blue beyond, henry lawson society, t.e. rofe, 1930s, 1850s

This children's eating utensil is believed to belong to the household of Chiltern writer and historian, W.C. Busse. The level of tarnish and the mark 'EPNS' may indicate it is electroplated. The blade also contains the maker's mark 'APEX', which was used by John Biggin & Co, Sheffield, United Kingdom. Pushers such as these were a common utensil in Victorian and early twentieth-century households. They were used to help children too young to use knives learn to eat politely at the table - the blunt blade was used to push food onto the fork. Pushers could also be used to pull food from a serving platter onto an individual plate. Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern in 1898. He went to school at Wesley College in Melbourne, studied law at the University of Melbourne and became a barrister. Additionally, after spending time on a Victorian station in his early twenties, he wrote two historical novels about bush life. His first novel was 'The Blue Beyond: a Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia', written in 1928 and published in 1930. Busse's second novel was titled 'The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties'. The judges of the Henry Lawson Society's T.E. Rofe competition to advance Australian literature unanimously awarded it the Gold Medal in 1931 for the best historical novel of 1930. Newspaper articles about the award mention the writer's meticulous documentary and oral history research regarding life on the Gold Fields in the 1850s. It became a best-seller. Busse also wrote a series of articles about local history for "The Federal Standard" newspaper in Chiltern. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum. He died in 1960.This child's eating utensil is significant for the detail it conveys of ordinary domestic life in the household of a significant Victorian writer with special reference to Chiltern and the surrounding region. It may also be significant in understanding the customs and practices of English-speaking nations in the early Twentieth Century. The object is a metal food pusher, a child's eating utensil with a blunt lozenge at right angles to the handle. The metal is tarnished, indicating that it may be silver or silverplated. APEX EPNS AI w.c. busse, wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, indigo shire, north-east victoria, gold fields, gold mining, gold rush, table manners, etiquette, children, childhood, john biggin & co, sheffield, golden plague, blue beyond, historical fiction, 1930s, 1850s, t.e. rofe, henry lawson society, electroplate, tableware, cutlery

This medal from the estate of W.C. Busse is believed to have been awarded to a recipient at the Rutherglen Agricultural Show in 1885. Due to degradation of the embossed markings, it is uncertain what the medal was awarded for or whom it was awarded to. It may have been awarded to a member of the Busse family prior to W.C. Busse's birth. Rutherglen is located approximately 18 kilometres from Chiltern. European agriculture and horticulture in the area was well established prior to the discovery of gold in the region in the 1860s. It held its first yearly Agricultural Show in 1880; in the present day it has a sister event focusing on showcasing the region's wines. Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern in 1898. He went to school at Wesley College in Melbourne, studied law at the University of Melbourne and became a barrister. Additionally, after spending time on a Victorian station in his early twenties, he wrote two historical novels about bush life. His first novel was 'The Blue Beyond: a Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia', written in 1928 and published in 1930. Busse's second novel was titled 'The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties'. The judges of the Henry Lawson Society's T.E. Rofe competition to advance Australian literature unanimously awarded it the Gold Medal in 1931 for the best historical novel of 1930. Newspaper articles about the award mention the writer's meticulous documentary and oral history research regarding life on the Gold Fields in the 1850s. It became a best-seller. Busse also wrote a series of articles about local history for "The Federal Standard" newspaper in Chiltern. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum. He died in 1960. This item is significant for the information it provides about the development of industry and local culture in Victoria in the 1880s. Bronze coloured medal attached to single large-format chain link; embossed medal markings are indistinct but appear to show Coat of Arms on reverse side. Inscription on obverse: Illegible Indistinct inscription on reverse may read: Rutherglen Agricultural Society medal, rutherglen agricultural show, chiltern, north-east victoria, gold fields, gold mining, gold rush, 1885, heirloom, farming, horticulture, rutherglen historical society, indigo shire, wilfred clarence busse, golden plague, authors, writers, victorian writers, victorian literature, historical fiction, blue beyond, wesley college, federal standard