Showing 282 items matching kew town hall
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Kew Historical Society Inc
Photograph - Publicity Photograph, Herald Feature Service, Inspection of Architectural Models for a New Kew City Hall, circa 1959, 1959
... The original Kew Town Hall offices were located in Walpole... Kew City Hall. The original Kew Town Hall offices were located ...The original Kew Town Hall offices were located in Walpole Street, Kew. Before 1960, even though it had been much discussed over a number of decades, Kew did not have a 'civic hall'. When required, events such as balls, exhibitions or theatrical events were held in the Kew Recreation Hall in Walpole Street. A new City Hall was to be opened by Sir Robert Menzies in 1960. It was located beside the Alexandra Gardens in Cotham Road. It is now used as the Kew Library. Cr Hugh George Ferguson (at right) was born in June 1900 in Williamstown. After his family moved to Kew, they lived in Fernhurst Grove while his future wife’s family lived in Fellows Street. He married in 1940 and subsequently joined the Australian Imperial Forces. After the war he worked as a Billeting Affairs Organiser for the Dutch Government, resettling migrants in Australia. He also worked in advertising as an account manager, and was campaign director for Arthur Rylah is Victorian politics. He organised the first major trade fairs at the Royal Exhibition Buildings after the Second World War, including a World Trade Fair. He built a home in Brougham Street and represented North Ward on Kew Council from 1952 to 1968. He was elected Mayor for the 1959-60 term. He died in 1975, aged 75, and is buried in Boroondara Cemetery.An item of historical interest donated by members of the Dods family in 2006. The Dods-Ferguson Collection includes a number of items once in the possession of the families related to or descended from two mayors of Kew: Cr. Hugh Ferguson and Cr. Frederick Dods.Publicity photograph of two men and a woman inspecting architectural models for a new Kew City Hall. The man at the right of the photograph is Cr Hugh George Ferguson, Mayor of Kew 1959-60. The Hall, now occupied by the Kew Library, was opened by The Hon H.E. Bolte MLA, Premier of Victoria in 1960.Herald Sun Feature Service / Hugh G. Ferguson & Associates / New Kew City Hall. kew city hall, hugh g. ferguson & asociates, architectural models - kew, cr hugh george ferguson -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Plan, Melbourne & Metropolitan Board of Works : Borough of Kew : Detail Plan No.1581, 1904
... demolished including the original Kew Town Hall... Kew Town Hall, and the Congregational and Roman Catholic ...The Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works (MMBW) plans were produced from the 1890s to the 1950s. They were crucial to the design and development of Melbourne's sewerage and drainage system. The plans, at a scale of 40 feet to 1 inch (1:480), provide a detailed historical record of Melbourne streetscapes and environmental features. Each plan covers one or two street blocks (roughly six streets), showing details of buildings, including garden layouts and ownership boundaries, and features such as laneways, drains, bridges, parks, municipal boundaries and other prominent landmarks as they existed at the time each plan was produced. (Source: State Library of Victoria)This plan forms part of a large group of MMBW plans and maps that was donated to the Society by the Mr Poulter, City Engineer of the City of Kew in 1989. Within this collection, thirty-five hand-coloured plans, backed with linen, are of statewide significance as they include annotations that provide details of construction materials used in buildings in the first decade of the 20th century as well as additional information about land ownership and usage. The copies in the Public Record Office Victoria and the State Library of Victoria are monochrome versions which do not denote building materials so that the maps in this collection are invaluable and unique tools for researchers and heritage consultants. A number of the plans are not held in the collection of the State Library of Victoria so they have the additional attribute of rarity.Original survey plan, issued by the MMBW to a contractor with responsibility for constructing sewers in the area identified on the plan within the Borough of Kew. The plan was at some stage hand-coloured, possibly by the contractor, but more likely by officers working in the Engineering Department of the Borough and later Town, then City of Kew. The hand-coloured sections of buildings on the plan were used to denote masonry or brick constructions (pink), weatherboard constructions (yellow), and public buildings (grey). The streets and built structures in this plan were surveyed in 1903 and released to contractors in 1904. In addition to the designation of building types by colour, the plan includes detailed descriptions of land use and ownership. While many buildings remain from this period, a number of the buildings represented have been demolished including the original Kew Town Hall, and the Congregational and Roman Catholic churches in Walpole Street. While the mansion ‘Illapa’ in Princess Street is still extant – now part of ‘Rylands’ – the neighbouring mansion ‘Elsmere’ was demolished some decades ago. Rivalling Illapa and Elsmere in size were two mansions in Walpole Street, one named on the plan as ‘Gnarlbine’. Over time, Kew Junction and the south side of High Street have been reconfigured and widened, so that the commercial buildings on the corner of Princess and High Street no longer exist. A surprising feature of this part of central Kew to the northwest of Kew Junction is the amount of vacant land. In a number of cases, this land is noted by the contractor as used for vegetable gardens.melbourne and metropolitan board of works, detail plans, maps - borough of kew, mmbw 1581, cartography -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Document, Arnall & Jackson: Printers & Stationers, City of Kew: Air Raid Precautions Organisation, June 1940
... Warden's Office, Town Hall, Kew in June 1940 and issued..., Town Hall, Kew in June 1940 and issued by the authority ...Air Raid Precautions Organisations were formed in each State in Australia during the Second World War. In Victoria they were organised by the State Emergency Council (Victoria) for Civil Defence. In Melbourne, the organisations were locally based in municipalities. Within a municipality, areas were organised into sectors.Twelve point instructions distributed by the District Warden's Office, Town Hall, Kew in June 1940 and issued by the authority and with the approval of the Kew City Council, W. D. Birrell (Town Clerk), outlining advice for residents in the event of an air raid. City of Kew seal at top right. The document was issued to residents in Sector 9. It was printed by Arnall & Jackson, 115 Barkly Street, W. Brunswick.Signed [Sector Warden] F. J. [sic] Warry, 65 Molesworth Street; [Senior Warden] K. L. Robertssecond world war, city of kew, wwii, air raid precautions organisation -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Certificate, Tribute to Mr W. H. Richardson from Members of the Star of Kew Juvenile Tent, 1887
... the meeting place of the tent has been the Kew Town Hall. The funds... has been the Kew Town Hall. The funds of the tent have ...Historical information - RECHABITES - The Star of Kew Tent, No. 260. This branch of the Independent Order of Rechabites was founded in September, 1882, when the following members were installed as the first officers by the district officers, viz. Chief Ruler, Bro. W. H. Bardwell; Deputy Ruler, Bro. C. Viney; Past Chief Ruler, Bro. J. V. Morgan; Treasurer, Bro. R. Eyre; Money Steward, Bro. A. Brown; Levite, Bro. W. H. Richardson; Guardian, Bro. J. Wathen; Secretary, Bro. T. J. Eaton. Bros. W. H. Bardwell, T. J. Eaton, and F. J. Legge were appointed as trustees. It is interesting to note that three of the foundation members, Messrs. Bardwell, Eaton, and Richardson, and still members of the tent. The first meetings were held in the Mission Hall, but for many years the meeting place of the tent has been the Kew Town Hall. The funds of the tent have gradually accumulated until at the last audit they amounted to £2,097. For many years past the interest on the funds has been more than sufficient to meet all claims for sick pay. The total membership is now 140. The following past secretaries have been mainly instrumental in placing the tent in its present position:-Bros. T. J. Eaton, W. H. Bardwell, C. B. Gray, and C. L. Churcher. The present officers are :- C.R., Bro. R. M. Jones; D.R., Bro. T. H. B. Williams; P.C.R., Bro. C. H. Green; Treasurer, Bro. W. J. Thornton; Secretary, Bro. F. C. W. Hurrell. Junior Branch. A junior branch was founded in 1883, and while its membership has fluctuated considerably according to the enthusiasm of the management, it has been the means of introducing many members to the senior tent. Its membership is now 41. Female Branch. Lily of Kew Tent, No. 20. This branch was formed in October, 1904, and has accomplished good work. Its membership is 38. Much of its success is due to the untiring energy of its secretary, Mrs. J Jaycock. Source: Barnard, FGA, Jubilee History of Kew, Victoria, 1910This document forms part of a large collection of material assembled by the Rogers family of Kew and donated by the family to the Kew Historical Society by Dorothy Rogers or by her sons. The items in the collection have social and spiritual significance and are also historically significant. Items such as this coloured lithograph have a degree of artistic and aesthetic significance as representative examples of the certificate designers art in the 19th Century. A certificate awarded to W. H. Richardson (the father of the historian Dorothy Rogers) by the ‘Juvenile Tent No.157 in appreciation of his role as ‘Superintendent’. The certificate notes that 1887 was the fourth anniversary of the Juvenile Tent. The Star of Kew Tent No. 260 had been formed in 1882 as a branch of the Independent Order of Rechabites. W. H. Richardson was a founding member.star of kew tent no.260, independent order of rechabites, william h richardson, rogers collection, testimonials -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Certificate, Independent Order of Rechabites, Sister Richardson : Member of the Star of Kew Tent, 1915
... of the tent has been the Kew Town Hall. The funds of the tent have... the meeting place of the tent has been the Kew Town Hall. The funds ...RECHABITES. The Star of Kew Tent, No. 260. This branch of the Independent Order of Rechabites was founded in September, 1882, when the following members were installed as the first officers by the district officers, viz. Chief Ruler, Bro. W. H. Bardwell; Deputy Ruler, Bro. C. Viney; Past Chief Ruler, Bro. J. V. Morgan; Treasurer, Bro. R. Eyre; Money Steward, Bro. A. Brown; Levite, Bro. W. H. Richardson; Guardian, Bro. J. Wathen; Secretary, Bro. T. J. Eaton. Bros. W. H. Bardwell, T. J. Eaton, and F. J. Legge were appointed as trustees. It is interesting to note that three of the foundation members, Messrs. Bardwell, Eaton, and Richardson, and still members of the tent. The first meetings were held in the Mission Hall, but for many years the meeting place of the tent has been the Kew Town Hall. The funds of the tent have gradually accumulated until at the last audit they amounted to £2,097. For many years past the interest on the funds has been more than sufficient to meet all claims for sick pay. The total membership is now 140. The following past secretaries have been mainly instrumental in placing the tent in its present position:-Bros. T. J. Eaton, W. H. Bardwell, C. B. Gray, and C. L. Churcher. The present officers are :- C.R., Bro. R. M. Jones; D.R., Bro. T. H. B. Williams; P.C.R., Bro. C. H. Green; Treasurer, Bro. W. J. Thornton; Secretary, Bro. F. C. W. Hurrell. Junior Branch. A junior branch was founded in 1883, and while its membership has fluctuated considerably according to the enthusiasm of the management, it has been the means of introducing many members to the senior tent. Its membership is now 41. Female Branch. Lily of Kew Tent, No. 20. This branch was formed in October, 1904, and has accomplished good work. Its membership is 38. Much of its success is due to the untiring energy of its secretary, Mrs. J Jaycock. Source: FGA Barnard, Jubilee History of Kew, Victoria, 1910This document forms part of a large collection of material assembled by the Rogers family of Kew and donated by the family to the Kew Historical Society by Dorothy Rogers or by her sons. The items in the collection have social and spiritual significance and are also historically significant. Items such as this coloured lithograph have a degree of artistic and aesthetic significance as representative examples of the certificate designers art in the 19th Century.A colour lithograph, following a standard Rechabite design recording that Sister Richardson (later the historian Dorothy Rogers) joined the Junior Section of the Star of Kew Tent of the Independent Order of Rechabites on 17 February 1915. The certificate features biblical scenes and figures exhorting ‘Truth and Temperance’ and ‘Love and Purity’.independ, independent order of rechabites, dorothy (richardson) rogers, membership certificates, rogers collection, lily of kew tent, no. 20 -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Photograph, I.O.R Games Tournament: Kew Rifle Team - Winners, 1913
... of the tent has been the Kew Town Hall. The funds of the tent have... of the tent has been the Kew Town Hall. The funds of the tent have ...Extract fro FGA Barnard - Jubilee History of Kew 1910 RECHABITES.-The Star of Kew Tent, No. 260. This branch of the Independent Order of Rechabites was founded in September, 1882, when the following members were installed as the first officers by the district officers, viz. Chief Ruler, Bro. W. H. Bardwell; Deputy Ruler, Bro. C. Viney; Past Chief Ruler, Bro. J. V. Morgan; Treasurer, Bro. R. Eyre; Money Steward, Bro. A. Brown; Levite, Bro. W. H. Richardson; Guardian, Bro. J. Wathen; Secretary, Bro. T. J. Eaton. Bros. W. H. Bardwell, T. J. Eaton, and F. J. Legge were appointed as trustees. It is interesting to note that three of the foundation members, Messrs. Bardwell, Eaton, and Richardson, and still members of the tent. The first meetings were held in the Mission Hall, but for many years the meeting place of the tent has been the Kew Town Hall. The funds of the tent have gradually accumulated until at the last audit they amounted to £2,097. For many years past the interest on the funds has been more than sufficient to meet all claims for sick pay. The total membership is now 140. The following past secretaries have been mainly instrumental in placing the tent in its present position:-Bros. T. J. Eaton, W. H. Bardwell, C. B. Gray, and C. L. Churcher. The present officers are :- C.R., Bro. R. M. Jones; D.R., Bro. T. H. B. Williams; P.C.R., Bro. C. H. Green; Treasurer, Bro. W. J. Thornton; Secretary, Bro. F. C. W. Hurrell. Junior Branch. A junior branch was founded in 1883, and while its membership has fluctuated considerably according to the enthusiasm of the management, it has been the means of introducing many members to the senior tent. Its membership is now 41. Female Branch. Lily of Kew Tent, No. 20. This branch was formed in October, 1904, and has accomplished good work. Its membership is 38. Much of its success is due to the untiring energy of its secretary, Mrs. J Jaycock.Large framed photograph, of the Kew Rifle Club in 1913.I.O.R GAMES TOURNAMENT / KEW RIFLE TEAM WINNERS 1913. / C. Jenkins - A. Smith - L. Carter - J. Pinniger - A. Rowe - W.H. Richardson (Capt)"kew rechabites, w.h. richardson, kew rifle team -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Clothing - Black Lace Evening Dress, c.1907
... of the district to meet in the mayor's room, town-hall, Kew, at half past..., town-hall, Kew, at half past 3 o'clock tomorrow afternoon ...Lily and William Wishart lived during this period in 'Noranook', Fernhurst grove, Kew. There are numerous contemporary accounts of the social and civic activities of Lily Wishart as mayoress of Kew. In a description of a 'Mayoral At Home' in the Kew Recreation Hall, a report in The Australasian (10 Aug 1907, p.46) described the event thus: MAYORAL AT HOME In the Kew Recreation-hall on Thursday evening the Mayor and Mrs. W. Wishart gave an at home to between two and three hundred guests. ... Prior to the musical programme, the mayor and mayoress held a reception, standing on a dais at one side of the room. Mrs. Wishart was gowned in black glace silk, trimmed with handsome lace applique, and she wore a cream Maltese lace scarf over her shoulders, and held a bouquet of cardinal carnations.' This may be the dress in the collection. Another interesting and relevant report is an account in The Argus (19 March 1907, p.6): 'WOMEN'S WORK EXHIBITION The mayoress of Kew (Mrs. W. Wishart) invited the ladies of the district to meet in the mayor's room, town-hall, Kew, at half past 3 o'clock tomorrow afternoon, to consider steps to be taken locally in support of the proposed Exhibition of Women's Work.'The dress is locally significant as the work of a skilled home-dressmaker in Kew, who was also a leading civic figure in the municipality. One tends to think of amateur dressmakers as women who could not afford to purchase clothes from a retailer. Clearly, 'women's work' and the skills that educated and wealthy women acquired in the period allowed them to fashion their own garments.Full length evening dress in four parts. Undergarments include two items: a basic black silk petticoat and an upper black silk slip, the latter with two bands of ruffles. The lace dress is in two parts: a bodice and a skirt. The black, high-necked bodice is constructed of silk organza to which guipure lace has been extensively applied. The bodice has long puffed sleeves, gathered on the forearm to form a wide band of lace and ribbon at the wrist. The skirt is constructed of the same black fabric with descending bands of gathered black silk ribbon, used as ornamentation. The skirt also features a long train. Apart from the donor information about its provenance, the style of the dress can confidently be dated to the period 1900-1910. The dress was made and worn to civic functions by Mrs Lily Wishart, Mayoress of Kew in 1906-7. Earlier items belonging to William and Lily Wishart entered the collection as early as 2002. The dress was donated by a descendant of a friend of Lily Wishart in 2020. The photograph of the dress and its components attached to the record needed to be digitally enhanced so that details of the dress could be viewed online, as the fabric of the dress is an intense black. A physical assessment of the dress is included in the condition report.fashion & design collection - kew historical society, australian fashion - 1900s, evening dresses, lily clara wishart, fashion design, fashion -- 1900s -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Journal, Kew Historical Society, Newsletter No.118, March 2017
... for people of small means / David White p6. Remembering Kew [Kew Town ...Women's History / Robert Baker p1.Society news p2. Women working: a short history of the Kew Ladies' Benevolent Society / Suzanne McWha p4. Dwellings for people of small means / David White p6. Remembering Kew [Kew Town Hall 1865-1971; Ordsall 1858-1970] / Kerry Fairbank & Robert Baker p8. William James Runting / Desley Reid p.9. Mayoral mementoes in the collection / Robert Baker p10. Recent donations / Robert Baker p10.Published quarterly since 1977, the newsletters of the Kew Historical Society contain significant research by members exploring relevant aspects of the Victorian and Australian Framework of Historical Themes. Frequently, articles on people, places and artefacts are the only source of information about an aspect of Kew, and Melbourne’s history.non-fictionWomen's History / Robert Baker p1.Society news p2. Women working: a short history of the Kew Ladies' Benevolent Society / Suzanne McWha p4. Dwellings for people of small means / David White p6. Remembering Kew [Kew Town Hall 1865-1971; Ordsall 1858-1970] / Kerry Fairbank & Robert Baker p8. William James Runting / Desley Reid p.9. Mayoral mementoes in the collection / Robert Baker p10. Recent donations / Robert Baker p10.kew historical society (vic.) -- periodicals., kew historical society (vic.) -- newsletters, kew historical society (vic.) -- journals -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Journal, Kewriosity : May 1991
Flying doctors descend on Kew [Crawford Productions] / p1. Computerised court opens [Penalty Enforcement by Registration of an Infringement (PERIN)] / p1. Stop or give-way? [Council assessment of intersections] / p1. Council seeks kinder review / p1. Diary dates for May / p2. Your marching champions [Kew Band, Kew Youth Band] / p2. Word of mouth [Pre-school story time at Kew Library 1996- ] / p2. Something airey [exhibition at Kew Gallery] / p2. Something pre-loved [Glass Street Kindergarten trash 'n treasure sale] / p2. Commentary [Willsmere redevelopment] / Cr Daryl Oldaker p3. Traffic headaches for Barkers Road [drain upgrade] / p3. Trees versus powerlines / p4. Loyal service [Tom Gascoyne] / p4. Traffic Management update [Area 7, Area 10] / p4. Cleaner shopping centres / p4. Hard rubbish collection / p4. Willsmere Drain / p4. Survey of dual occupancy / p4. Health [Department] stall / p5. Women's health workshops / p5. Baby Change Room [Walpole Street] / p5. Nursing Mothers' meetings / p5. Status quo for family day care [industrial award ruling] / p5. Immunisation - Important / p5. Daytime garden / p6. Library Friends' [book] sale / p6. [East Kew Bowling Club] Indoor bowls / p6. Chrysanthemums, M'am [Kew Garden Club] / p6. Handy Veterans Service [Kew sub-branch of the RSL] / p6. Crime wave [Neighbourhood Watch Areas G64, G97] / p6. All this for sixpence [Balwyn Cinema history] / p6. Positive [survey] feedback [to Kewriosity] / p6. Arthritis meeting / p6. Something fishy [Ian Napier at Raya Gallery] / p7. [Kew] Community House courses / p7. Coming events at Trinity [Grammar] / p7. Carmelite Monastery restoration / p7. Council Chamber or Council void? [descriptive comparison of Walpole Street Town Hall with the Chamber at the Municipal [Civic] Offices] / p8. Evangelist meeting [St Hilary's] / p8. Youth empowerment [Youth Resource Centre] / Kate Lang p8. Missions meeting [Kew Baptist Church Hall] / p8.Kewriosity was a local newsletter combining Kew Council and community news. It was published between November 1983 and June 1994, replacing an earlier Kewriosity [broad] Sheet (1979-84). In producing Kewriosity, Council aimed to provide a range of interesting and informative articles covering its deliberations and decision making, together with items of general interest and importance to the Kew community and information not generally available through daily media outlets.non-fictionFlying doctors descend on Kew [Crawford Productions] / p1. Computerised court opens [Penalty Enforcement by Registration of an Infringement (PERIN)] / p1. Stop or give-way? [Council assessment of intersections] / p1. Council seeks kinder review / p1. Diary dates for May / p2. Your marching champions [Kew Band, Kew Youth Band] / p2. Word of mouth [Pre-school story time at Kew Library 1996- ] / p2. Something airey [exhibition at Kew Gallery] / p2. Something pre-loved [Glass Street Kindergarten trash 'n treasure sale] / p2. Commentary [Willsmere redevelopment] / Cr Daryl Oldaker p3. Traffic headaches for Barkers Road [drain upgrade] / p3. Trees versus powerlines / p4. Loyal service [Tom Gascoyne] / p4. Traffic Management update [Area 7, Area 10] / p4. Cleaner shopping centres / p4. Hard rubbish collection / p4. Willsmere Drain / p4. Survey of dual occupancy / p4. Health [Department] stall / p5. Women's health workshops / p5. Baby Change Room [Walpole Street] / p5. Nursing Mothers' meetings / p5. Status quo for family day care [industrial award ruling] / p5. Immunisation - Important / p5. Daytime garden / p6. Library Friends' [book] sale / p6. [East Kew Bowling Club] Indoor bowls / p6. Chrysanthemums, M'am [Kew Garden Club] / p6. Handy Veterans Service [Kew sub-branch of the RSL] / p6. Crime wave [Neighbourhood Watch Areas G64, G97] / p6. All this for sixpence [Balwyn Cinema history] / p6. Positive [survey] feedback [to Kewriosity] / p6. Arthritis meeting / p6. Something fishy [Ian Napier at Raya Gallery] / p7. [Kew] Community House courses / p7. Coming events at Trinity [Grammar] / p7. Carmelite Monastery restoration / p7. Council Chamber or Council void? [descriptive comparison of Walpole Street Town Hall with the Chamber at the Municipal [Civic] Offices] / p8. Evangelist meeting [St Hilary's] / p8. Youth empowerment [Youth Resource Centre] / Kate Lang p8. Missions meeting [Kew Baptist Church Hall] / p8. publications -- city of kew (vic.), kewriosity, council newsletters, community newsletters -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Sound Recording, Sing Australia Camberwell, Annual Concert 2013, 2013
Robin Kelly was born Robin Vandersluys in Mary Street, Kew. As a child, she sang in backyard concerts run with her brother, Leslie. The family moved to Deepdene in 1949 and Robin joined church and school choirs. Later she was to study classical singing with Stella Power, modern singing with Jack White, TV Presentation with Natalie Raine of Crawford Productions and acting/singing with Jessie Matthews. Following her victory in a talent quest at the Orama Ballroom, she was invited to join the Orama Big Band with singers Harry Cox and Arlene Forrest. She also sang with the Kerm Jones Jazz Band at Power House and with Frank Johnson's Jazz Band at Jazz Junction. Robin became resident band vocalist at the historic Federal Hotel in Collins Street with the Rudi Laquer Trio. She also sang at The Savoy Plaza with the George Cadman Trio. A year later she became resident vocalist at the Ress Oriental Hotel with the Lennie Holmes Trio. Later, Robin married pianist Peter Jones, singing under the name 'Robin Vanser' in clubs in Sydney and regional New South Wales. She was booked for a Vietnam War tour and also sang in Tahiti. Returning to Melbourne, her agent booked her to appear in shows in Tasmania including West Point Casino and Melbourne country venues. Another agent, John Bishop, booked her to do floor shows in Melbourne, including Xmas Seasons at the Hampton Hotel where she entertained audiences with her comedy and audience participation routines. In 1971, Robin Kelly retired to run her Robin Hood Antiques business in Canterbury, during which time she was married to tenor Glenn Kelly. Later she joined Sing Australia Camberwell Choir, performing as a soloist at their Melbourne Town Hall Concert.The Vandersluys-Kelly Collection of photographs, costumes and musical performance memorabilia was donated to the Kew Historical Society by Robin Denise Kelly in 2018. The collection is an important record of stage and recorded performances in Australia in the second half of the 20th century. This new nationally-focused and artistically significant collection augments and contextualises the local performing arts materials in our collection. DVD (Disk 1) of a performance by Sing Australia Camberwell including a track featuring Robin Kelly singing What a Wonderful World.robin kelly, performing arts - victoria - australia, sing australia camberwell -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Sound Recording, Egyptian Follies, Cairo Club Orchestra, Melbourne Jazz Club, 1999
Robin Kelly was born Robin Vandersluys in Mary Street, Kew. As a child, she sang in backyard concerts run with her brother, Leslie. The family moved to Deepdene in 1949 and Robin joined church and school choirs. Later she was to study classical singing with Stella Power, modern singing with Jack White, TV Presentation with Natalie Raine of Crawford Productions and acting/singing with Jessie Matthews. Following her victory in a talent quest at the Orama Ballroom, she was invited to join the Orama Big Band with singers Harry Cox and Arlene Forrest. She also sang with the Kerm Jones Jazz Band at Power House and with Frank Johnson's Jazz Band at Jazz Junction. Robin became resident band vocalist at the historic Federal Hotel in Collins Street with the Rudi Laquer Trio. She also sang at The Savoy Plaza with the George Cadman Trio. A year later she became resident vocalist at the Ress Oriental Hotel with the Lennie Holmes Trio. Later, Robin married pianist Peter Jones, singing under the name 'Robin Vanser' in clubs in Sydney and regional New South Wales. She was booked for a Vietnam War tour and also sang in Tahiti. Returning to Melbourne, her agent booked her to appear in shows in Tasmania including West Point Casino and Melbourne country venues. Another agent, John Bishop, booked her to do floor shows in Melbourne, including Xmas Seasons at the Hampton Hotel where she entertained audiences with her comedy and audience participation routines. In 1971, Robin Kelly retired to run her Robin Hood Antiques business in Canterbury, during which time she was married to tenor Glenn Kelly. Later she joined Sing Australia Camberwell Choir, performing as a soloist at their Melbourne Town Hall Concert.The Vandersluys-Kelly Collection of photographs, costumes and musical performance memorabilia was donated to the Kew Historical Society by Robin Denise Kelly in 2018. The collection is an important record of stage and recorded performances in Australia in the second half of the 20th century. This new nationally-focused and artistically significant collection augments and contextualises the local performing arts materials in our collection. Audio recording of performances Egyptian Follies at the Melbourne Jazz Club, including the singer Robin Kellyl.robin kelly, performing arts - victoria - australia, melbourne jazz club -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Archive (series) - Subject File, Artists I (Kew), 1958-present
Various PartiesReference, Research, InformationKHS OrderInformation file including a collection, largely compiled of newspaper articles/cuttings, relating to artists born or practising in Kew. In addition to the cuttings, there is a catalogue of an exhibition at the Town Hall Gallery - Louis Kahan: Art, theatre and fashion (curated by Laura Jokic, 2016), and biographical entries from various publications including the ADB. There is also an invitation (undated) from the Mayor of Kew, Cr. Kaye Cole, to an exhibition of paintings by Gwen Walker and Donald Cameron in the Mayor’s Room. Alice Marion Ellen Bale (1875-1955), Arthur Loureiro (1860-1932), Frances Derham, Eugenia Meldrum, Max Meldrum, Louis Buvelot, Kitchen Dimensions High Street Kew, Ron Walker, Melissa Peacock, Isobel Davies 6 A'Beckett Street, Hertha Kluge-Pott, Debra Luccio, Elise Martinson, Carole Milton, Louise Minahan, Miranda Millane, Sonja Kan, Holly Walton, Q Art Gallery, Archibald Colquhoun, Amalie Colquhoun, John Perry, Pamela Pretty, Christopher Shelton, Amanda Tuohy, Margot Westhorpe, Ian Wood, James O’Brien, Gaby Jung, Rupert Gray, Ray Gee - 3 Fernhurst Grove, Louis Foletta, Thomas King (Tim) Fitchett, Wendy Fantasia, Marion Cravino, Brett Coelho, Eileen Cambell, Helen Carnage, Erin Carnage, John Bates, Nina Bennett, Donald Cameron, Gwen Walker -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Leisure object, Child's Puzzle : Denmark Street Baby Health Centre, c.1950s
In August, 1920, The Kew Town Council decided to establish a Baby Health Centre in Kew. The first Centre was opened in a room in the Town Hall in Walpole Street on 5 November 1920. In May 1939, the Railway Commissioners agreed to lease a site at the Kew Railway Station for a Baby Health Centre for a term of 21 years at 3 pounds per annum. A building, designed by Roland Chipperfield, was erected, and the Centre previously conducted at the Town Hall transferred there. This became known as the Denmark Street Baby Health Centre. (Cr. W.D. Vaughan, Kew’s Civic Century, W.D. Vaughan Pty Ltd., Kew, 1960, pp.96 & 97.)One of a pair of wooden puzzles used in the Denmark Street Baby Health Centre in Kew.denmark street baby health centre - kew (vic), baby health centres - kew (vic), games and puzzles -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Leisure object, Child's Puzzle : Denmark Street Baby Health Centre, c.1950s
In August, 1920, The Kew Town Council decided to establish a Baby Health Centre in Kew. The first Centre was opened in a room in the Town Hall in Walpole Street on 5 November 1920. In May 1939, the Railway Commissioners agreed to lease a site at the Kew Railway Station for a Baby Health Centre for a term of 21 years at 3 pounds per annum. A building, designed by Roland Chipperfield, was erected, and the Centre previously conducted at the Town Hall transferred there. This became known as the Denmark Street Baby Health Centre. (Cr. W.D. Vaughan, Kew’s Civic Century, W.D. Vaughan Pty Ltd., Kew, 1960, pp.96 & 97.)One of a pair of wooden puzzles used in the Denmark Street Baby Health Centre in Kew.denmark street baby health centre - kew (vic), baby health centres - kew (vic), games and puzzles -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Photograph, Kew Congregational Church members at South Esk, circa 1900, c.1900
Ordsall, renamed Southesk in the 20th century was built for John Halfey in or before 1865. The house was rebuilt in the 1870s to designs by architect Michael Hennessy. In 1882 the house was redecorated by the firm of Culls Hill & Co., who hired the artists 'Mr Vandenbrandt' and 'Signor Rizzi" to paint the ceilings of the ballroom and the drawingroom. The artistic triumph was described in detail in The Argus, 30 October, 1882. In 1947, Southesk was purchased by the Kew City Council. For 23 years it was used as a meeting place for community groups. The house was then demolished in 1970 to make way for a new Town Hall.This is the earliest known photograph of Ordsall / South Esk, a significant mansion in Kew, built for John Halfey and now demolishedMembers of the Kew Congregational Church in front of one of the verandas of Southesk, circa 1900.congregational church - kew (vic), south esk - south esk - ordsall - kew (vic) -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Photograph, J F C Farquhar, Bird's Eye View Looking West, 1891
At the beginning of the 1890s, the Kew businessman and Town Councillor, Henry Kellett, commissioned J.F.C. Farquhar to photograph scenes of Kew. These scenes included panoramas as well as pastoral scenes. The resulting set of twelve photographs was assembled in an album, Kew Where We Live, from which customers could select images for purchase.The preamble to the album describes that the photographs used the ‘argentic bromide’ process, now more commonly known as the gelatine silver process. This form of dry plate photography allowed for the negatives to be kept for weeks before processing, hence its value in landscape photography. The resulting images were considered to be finely grained and everlasting. Evidence of the success of Henry Kellett’s venture can be seen today, in that some of the photographs are held in national collections.It is believed that the Kew Historical Society’s copy of the Kellett album is unique and that the photographs in the book were the first copies taken from the original plates. It is the first and most important series of images produced about Kew. The individual images have proved essential in identifying buildings and places of heritage value in the district.Before true aerial photography became possible, photographers such as J.F.C. Farquhar were compelled to shoot their images from the highest vantage point. Here, it is presumed to be the roof of Xavier College, from which the panoramic view extends west towards the rise of Studley Park. The houses in the foreground face the southern end of Gellibrand Street. Wellington Street is at an angle to the camera with the Queen Street intersection on the near right. The wooden building behind the large horse paddock on the other side of Gellibrand Street is the Kew Recreation Hall, built 1888, demolished 1960. It was reputed to have one of the finest dancing floors in or around Melbourne. The Bowling Green at the rear of the Hall belonged to the Kew Bowling Club. Further west is the Kew Railway Station on Denmark Street, opened to the public in 1887. At this period, much of Studley Park was locked up in large landholdings, dominated by large mansions such as ‘Byram’. Bird's Eye View Looking Westkew illustrated, kew where we live, photographic books, henry kellett, denmark street, kew recreation hall, kew bowling club, wellington street -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Photograph, J F C Farquhar, Wellington Street From High Street, 1891
At the beginning of the 1890s, the Kew businessman and Town Councillor, Henry Kellett, commissioned J.F.C. Farquhar to photograph scenes of Kew. These scenes included panoramas as well as pastoral scenes. The resulting set of twelve photographs was assembled in an album, Kew Where We Live, from which customers could select images for purchase.The preamble to the album describes that the photographs used the ‘argentic bromide’ process, now more commonly known as the gelatine silver process. This form of dry plate photography allowed for the negatives to be kept for weeks before processing, hence its value in landscape photography. The resulting images were considered to be finely grained and everlasting. Evidence of the success of Henry Kellett’s venture can be seen today, in that some of the photographs are held in national collections.It is believed that the Kew Historical Society’s copy of the Kellett album is unique and that the photographs in the book were the first copies taken from the original plates. It is the first and most important series of images produced about Kew. The individual images have proved essential in identifying buildings and places of heritage value in the district.Very few of the natural or built features in this panoramic photograph of Wellington Street remain. The open land between High Street South and Denmark Street, then known as O’Shannessy’s Paddock, was to become a residential subdivision at the beginning of the 20th Century. On the far side of Denmark Street, bordered by a picket fence, is the Kew Railway Station (demolished 1957). Further east, the large building with the flagpole is the Kew Recreation Hall (demolished 1960), which was the centre of civic life for almost a century. The building was used for dances, civic functions and exhibitions. A bowling green, tennis courts, and a cricket ground surrounded the Hall. The dominant building in the photograph is Xavier College, founded in 1872 by the Society of Jesus. The first classes for pupils were held in 1878. It is presumed that Farquhar used its roof for two of his bird’s eye views.Wellington Street from High Streetkew illustrated, kew where we live, photographic books, henry kellett -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Award - To James Robbie Mather J.P. Mayor 1930-1931, 1931
James Robbie Mathers was born in Pleasant Creek [Stawell] in 1867 to James Allen Mathers, a storekeeper and former councillor. He was later to become a storekeeper in Gippsland and then at Heywood, near Portland. Following a move to Melbourne, he established a real estate business. He initially lived in Hawthorn, before moving his business to Kew where he traded as Mathers & McMillan, 136 Cotham Road, and later at 283 Burke Road. For a short time, the family resided at Landene, in Cotham Road. They were to finally move to Rosalea, in Dale Street, Deepdene. Following the death of Cr Henry Kellett in 1924, Mathers was elected unopposed as representative of College Ward. Elected Mayor in September 1930, he convened a meeting of citizens in the Town Hall in Walpole Street to form a local unemployment relief committee. His social initiatives included handing over council-owned premises in Brougham Street, the building re-purposed as a workshop for the unemployed, who were also granted free use of the Kew Municipal Baths. The Mayoress, Jean Mathers, set to work raising funds through charity balls, and also raised funds for St Anthony’s Orphanage in Wellington Street. James Robbie Mathers died on 8 April 1945. He was buried at Box Hill Cemetery. This rare civic testimonial is historically significant, especially locally, as it contains the signatures of all present councillors and parliamentarians representing the City of Kew as well as the names and signatures of leaders of local churches, schools, public officials and leaders of community groups.Boxed presentation folder and correspondence presented to the retiring Mayor of Kew, James Robbie Mather, in 1931. The book is leather bound with gilt lettering on the front. The 4 page testimonial includes and hand written statements about his contribution to Kew and its civic life. Other pages are signed by councillors, parliamentarians and community leaders.james robbie mathers, mayors of kew, civic testimonials -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Leisure object, Teddy Bear, 1930-1955
In August, 1920, The Kew Town Council decided to establish a Baby Health Centre in Kew. The first Centre was opened in a room in the Town Hall in Walpole Street on 5 November 1920. In May 1939, the Railway Commissioners agreed to lease a site at the Kew Railway Station for a Baby Health Centre for a term of 21 years at 3 pounds per annum. A building, designed by Roland Chipperfield, was erected, and the Centre previously conducted at the Town Hall transferred there. This became known as the Denmark Street Baby Health Centre. (Cr. W.D. Vaughan, Kew’s Civic Century, W.D. Vaughan Pty Ltd., Kew, 1960, pp.96 & 97.)Small teddy bear with only one eye remaining and with a number of repairs. The bear was used by children at the Denmark Street Baby Health Centre in Kew.toys - teddy bears, denmark street baby health centre - kew (vic) -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Equipment, City of Kew Switchboard, 1960s
The local government area of Kew was established in 1860. Through successive incarnations as a municipality, borough, town and city, its headquarters, at least until 1972, were located in a town hall in Walpole Street. In 1994, the city was amalgamated into a new City of Boroondara. This items served as telephone equipment - a switchboard - in the City's civic offices.Switchboard used in the City of Kew's Civic Offices in Walpole Street. The redundant equipment was donated to the Society in 1988.office equipment, city of kew, switchboards -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Photograph - Print Copy, Public Library, Walpole Street, Kew
... was situated beside the Town Hall. municipal libraries - kew kew ...In a letter accompanying the donation, the donor writes "I am enclosing a photograph ... I have now established that Emma Murray has a daughter Alma who was also a librarian and probably took the photo."A rare image of the Kew Library in Walpole Street after it had been renovated. The Library was situated beside the Town Hall.Black and white print made from an original in the possession of the donorOn reverse of original: "5/4/49, MIRI DICKINSON, MARIE DICKENS, BERYL OAKES AT KEW LIBRARYmunicipal libraries - kew, kew municipal library - walpole street *(kew) -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Award, Kew Fire Brigade / Best Average Time, 16 points / U.F.B.D. Sandhurst, 1886
1879 - The Argus, Friday 11 July 1879, page 4. The Kew Borough Council having decided to initiate a fire brigade, invited volunteers to send in their names. About 40 complied with the invitation and met at the Town-hall to choose 12 of their number to form the brigade. The 12 elected then chose their officers as follows :— Councillor Gray, captain ; Mr. Thomas Greenhill, foreman ; and Mr. H. Loxton, secretary. The brigade decided to apply to the council for uniforms and a bell; and after adopting rules for their guidance the meeting separated. The brigade now possesses a reel and 500ft. of hose, and a shed is being erected in Little Walpole-street for a station. The council have applied for six additional fireplugs in the Main-road, so that the brigade may now be considered fairly established. 1886 - Globe (Sydney), Tuesday 16 March 1886, page 8 The Kew Fire Brigade, which obtained the pride of place at the recent fire brigades' demonstration, at Sandhurst, was met on their return at Spencer-street Railway Station by the Mayor and Councillors of that suburb, and were subsequently entertained at the Greyhound Hotel. 1886 - South Bourke and Mornington Journal, Wednesday 17 March 1886, page 2 It may be, deemed remarkable, but nevertheless a fact, 'that the Kew Fire Brigade, comparatively a new one, has gained premier place at the recent contest of brigades held at Ballarat, winning two first prizes and two second. On returning they were met at the station and escorted to Kew, preceded by the Borough banner. Certificate awarded to the Kew Volunteer Fire Brigade as an award for winning 'the best average time' in competition at Sandhurst. Surrounding the team's photo are a series of individual oval named portraits of the team. This framed version of the certificate, (there are two in the collection) is less faded than the framed version.The photograph without the mount (2016.0097a) has been digitally enhanced. Inscription: "Kew Fire Brigade U.F.B.D. Sandhurst. Kew 1886: Best Average Time, 16 points"kew volunteer fire brigade -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Photograph - 'Southesk' (formerly 'Ordsall'), Cotham Road, 1920s
Ordsall was originally built for John Halfey, second Chairman of Kew, and sold after his death to the Carnegie family who renamed it ‘South Esk'. The Carnegie family mounted a defence of their property when the City of Kew sought to compulsorily acquire the site for a new town hall in the 1930s. The house and land were later acquired by Council in 1947 and demolished in 1970. The present Kew Library and the former Council Offices (now owned by Trinity Grammar) are located on the site.One of the earliest photographs of 'Southesk' and its gardens. The house was of statewide significance because of its historical association with John Halfey. It was artistically significant due to its elaborate interiors, decorated by Cullis Hill & Co in the 1880s. Sepia photograph mounted on brown card of "Southesk' (formerly known as 'Ordsall'). The single-storey Italianate facade of the house can be seen surrounded by an extensive garden. The point-of-view of the camera is from Cotham Road.john halfey, david carnegie, southesk - south esk - ordsall -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Photograph - 'Southesk' (formerly 'Ordsall'), Cotham Road, 1920s
Ordsall was originally built for John Halfey, second Chairman of Kew, and sold after his death to the Carnegie family who renamed it ‘South Esk'. The Carnegie family mounted a defence of their property when the City of Kew sought to compulsorily acquire it as the site for a new town hall in the 1930s. The house and land were later acquired by Council in 1947 and demolished in 1970. The present Kew Library and the former Council Offices (now owned by Trinity Grammar) are located on the site.One of the earliest photographs of 'Southesk' and its gardens. The house was of statewide significance because of its historical association with John Halfey. It was artistically significant due to its elaborate interiors, decorated by Cullis Hill & Co in the 1880s. Sepia photograph mounted on brown card of "Southesk' (formerly known as 'Ordsall'). The single-storey Italianate facade of the house can be seen surrounded by an extensive garden. The point-of-view of the camera is from Cotham Road.john halfey, david carnegie, southesk - south esk - ordsall -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Photograph - 'Southesk' (formerly 'Ordsall'), Cotham Road, 1920s
Ordsall was originally built for John Halfey, second Chairman of Kew, and sold after his death to the Carnegie family who renamed it ‘South Esk'. The Carnegie family mounted a defence of their property when the City of Kew sought to compulsorily acquire it as the site for a new town hall in the 1930s. The house and land was later acquired by Council in 1947 and demolished in 1970. The present Kew Library and the former Council Offices (now owned by Trinity Grammar) are located on the site.One of the earliest photographs of 'Southesk' and its gardens. The house was of statewide significance because of its historical association with John Halfey. It was artistically significant due to its elaborate interiors, decorated by Cullis Hill & Co in the 1880s. Sepia photograph mounted on brown card of "Southesk' (formerly known as 'Ordsall'). The single-storey Italianate facade of the house can be seen surrounded by an extensive garden. The point-of-view of the camera is from Cotham Road.john halfey, david carnegie, southesk - south esk - ordsall -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Photograph - 'Southesk' (formerly 'Ordsall'), Cotham Road, 1920s
Ordsall was originally built for John Halfey, second Chairman of Kew, and sold after his death to the Carnegie family who renamed it ‘South Esk'. The Carnegie family mounted a defence of their property when the City of Kew sought to compulsorily acquire it as the site for a new town hall in the 1930s. The house and land were later acquired by Council in 1947 and demolished in 1970. The present Kew Library and the former Council Offices (now owned by Trinity Grammar) are located on the site.One of the earliest photographs of 'Southesk' and its gardens. The house was of statewide significance because of its historical association with John Halfey. It was artistically significant due to its elaborate interiors, decorated by Cullis Hill & Co in the 1880s. Sepia photograph mounted on brown card of "Southesk' (formerly known as 'Ordsall'). The single-storey Italianate facade of the house can be seen surrounded by an extensive garden. The point-of-view of the camera is from Cotham Road.david carnegie, john halfey, southesk - south esk - ordsall -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Document (item) - Programme for a Civic Dinner in the Kew Recreation Hall, City of Kew, 1948
The Municipality of Kew (1860-1863), the Borough of Kew (1863-1910), the Town of Kew (1910-1921) and the City of Kew (1921-1994) were local government instrumentalities in the State of Victoria. In 1994, the City of Kew was amalgamated, together with the former Cities of Camberwell and Hawthorn, into the new City of Boroondara (1994- ). Like other local government entities of the period, Kew was administered by town clerks. The two notable town clerks in Kew's history were H. H. (Henry Hirst) Harrison (1868-1955) and W. D. (William Dickie) Birrell (1899-1974). Harrison was appointed to the position in 1901 and retired in 1938 after 37 years. Birrell, appointed Acting Town Clerk in 1921, became Town Clerk in 1938, following Harrison's retirement. He continued in this role until his retirement in 1966. A large part of this collection of civic ephemera was assembled by W. D. Birrell. This is part of an historically significant civic collection, containing hundreds of separate invitations, documents, greeting cards, programmes and tickets issued and/or collected by successive town clerks. Items in the collection illuminate the political, social and cultural history of the district. As a continuous record, ranging across most decades of the Twentieth Century, they reveal changing tastes in design, values and relationships in the history of local government in Victoria.ephemera, civic ephemera, civic invitations, cr w j hambly, recreation hall -- kew (vic.) -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Document (item) - Invitation to a Ball at the Box Hill Town Hall, City of Nunawading, 1949
The Municipality of Kew (1860-1863), the Borough of Kew (1863-1910), the Town of Kew (1910-1921) and the City of Kew (1921-1994) were local government instrumentalities in the State of Victoria. In 1994, the City of Kew was amalgamated, together with the former Cities of Camberwell and Hawthorn, into the new City of Boroondara (1994- ). Like other local government entities of the period, Kew was administered by town clerks. The two notable town clerks in Kew's history were H. H. (Henry Hirst) Harrison (1868-1955) and W. D. (William Dickie) Birrell (1899-1974). Harrison was appointed to the position in 1901 and retired in 1938 after 37 years. Birrell, appointed Acting Town Clerk in 1921, became Town Clerk in 1938, following Harrison's retirement. He continued in this role until his retirement in 1966. A large part of this collection of civic ephemera was assembled by W. D. Birrell. This is part of an historically significant civic collection, containing hundreds of separate invitations, documents, greeting cards, programmes and tickets issued and/or collected by successive town clerks. Items in the collection illuminate the political, social and cultural history of the district. As a continuous record, ranging across most decades of the Twentieth Century, they reveal changing tastes in design, values and relationships in the history of local government in Victoria.ephemera, civic ephemera, civic invitations, w d birrell, city of nunawading, box hill town hall, cr & mrs l j sutherland -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Document (item) - Entrée Card to a Reception in the South Melbourne Town Hall, City of South Melbourne, 1949
The Municipality of Kew (1860-1863), the Borough of Kew (1863-1910), the Town of Kew (1910-1921) and the City of Kew (1921-1994) were local government instrumentalities in the State of Victoria. In 1994, the City of Kew was amalgamated, together with the former Cities of Camberwell and Hawthorn, into the new City of Boroondara (1994- ). Like other local government entities of the period, Kew was administered by town clerks. The two notable town clerks in Kew's history were H. H. (Henry Hirst) Harrison (1868-1955) and W. D. (William Dickie) Birrell (1899-1974). Harrison was appointed to the position in 1901 and retired in 1938 after 37 years. Birrell, appointed Acting Town Clerk in 1921, became Town Clerk in 1938, following Harrison's retirement. He continued in this role until his retirement in 1966. A large part of this collection of civic ephemera was assembled by W. D. Birrell. This is part of an historically significant civic collection, containing hundreds of separate invitations, documents, greeting cards, programmes and tickets issued and/or collected by successive town clerks. Items in the collection illuminate the political, social and cultural history of the district. As a continuous record, ranging across most decades of the Twentieth Century, they reveal changing tastes in design, values and relationships in the history of local government in Victoria.ephemera, civic ephemera, civic invitations, city of south melbourne, south melbourne town hall, mrs h a layfield, mayoress of south melbourne -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Document (item) - Entrée Card to a Reception in the Kew Recreation Hall, City of Kew, 1949
The Municipality of Kew (1860-1863), the Borough of Kew (1863-1910), the Town of Kew (1910-1921) and the City of Kew (1921-1994) were local government instrumentalities in the State of Victoria. In 1994, the City of Kew was amalgamated, together with the former Cities of Camberwell and Hawthorn, into the new City of Boroondara (1994- ). Like other local government entities of the period, Kew was administered by town clerks. The two notable town clerks in Kew's history were H. H. (Henry Hirst) Harrison (1868-1955) and W. D. (William Dickie) Birrell (1899-1974). Harrison was appointed to the position in 1901 and retired in 1938 after 37 years. Birrell, appointed Acting Town Clerk in 1921, became Town Clerk in 1938, following Harrison's retirement. He continued in this role until his retirement in 1966. A large part of this collection of civic ephemera was assembled by W. D. Birrell. This is part of an historically significant civic collection, containing hundreds of separate invitations, documents, greeting cards, programmes and tickets issued and/or collected by successive town clerks. Items in the collection illuminate the political, social and cultural history of the district. As a continuous record, ranging across most decades of the Twentieth Century, they reveal changing tastes in design, values and relationships in the history of local government in Victoria.ephemera, civic ephemera, civic invitations, city of kew, mrs f w dods, recreation hall -- kew (vic.), receptions