This framed collage commemorates the Back to Natimuk Celebrations held from 28 February to 4 March 1924. These events were popular throughout Victoria in the early 20th century, encouraging former residents to return to their hometowns to celebrate community heritage and reconnect. The photographs capture a wide range of civic and social activities including parades, school reunions, lakeside gatherings, and community services. The item is a valuable visual record of Natimuk’s early 20th-century community life, infrastructure, and rural traditions. It likely hung in a public space or was presented as a commemorative piece to a local resident or official.The photographs depict the "Back to Natimuk Celebrations" organised between 28 February and 4 March 1924 in Natimuk. From top to bottom, left to right: - Welcome sign in the main road. - Locals in the school titled "Back to school" - "Group of comebacks at lake" (Natimuk) - Band procession on main road - Start of motor ? - Swimming carnival at Natimuk lake - Evolution of farm implements - Group taken on the site of Mrs SCUDASORE's old home: Mr AW LOCKWOOD (secretary), Mrs SCUDASORE (first white woman resident in district), Mr G GRAHAM (president), Mrs J RUSSELL (first white child born in district-daughter of Mrs SCUDSORE), Mr John RUSSELL. - Group of cars at Mount Arapiles. Significant as it depicts first settlers.A large, rectangular framed photographic collage featuring nine sepia-toned photographs mounted on a backing board. The title at the top reads “Back to Natimuk Celebrations – Feb. 28th to March 4th, 1924” in decorative, hand-lettered script. Each photograph captures a different scene from the town-wide celebrations held in Natimuk, Victoria. The photos are arranged in a 3x3 grid and each one includes a small caption describing the event or scene depicted. The frame is made of dark-stained timber with a simple, flat profile. The scenes include: A "Welcome" archway over the street A school interior captioned Back to School A group seated at the lake for a Sing of Sundowners Marching bands or parades on the street A gathering outside the school A memorial service at Soldiers’ Lake A steam traction engine with individuals A picnic or group portrait in the countryside A long line of cars captioned Camp at Racecourse"Back to Natimuk Celebrations. Feb 28th to March 4th, 1924"natimuk, festivities, mt arapiles, natimuk lake, scudasore, lockwood, russell, graham, swimming carnival, back-to-natimuk, celebration

Postcard photograph of a train leaving Natimuk as part of the War effort. Train contains 'flour for the Allies'.An example of support for the War, World War I.Digital copy of black and white photograph.Caption on front of photograph: "Flour for the Allies. 450 tons leaving Natimuk 17.5.17"natimuk, world war i, trains

Advertising for 14 Natimuk Street Greensborough, 3 bedroom house, sold 10/10/2018 for $803,000. Previously the Barnes family home in the early 1950s, this is one of the original homes in Natimuk Street.Colour page from real estate magazine. Link 5863 : 5875natimuk street greensborough

Real estate advertisement for 14 Natimuk Street Greensborough, 3 bedroom house. Originally listed by Barry Plant, this property was sold By Buckingham and Co. on 10/11/2018 for $803,000. Real estate advertisement black text and colour photographnatimuk street greensborough

Advertising for 3 Karee Court Greensborough, 3 bedroom house, sold October 2018 for $759,000; previous sale: July 2018 $541,000; and, 14 Natimuk Street Greensborough 3 bedroom house, sold 10/11/2018 for $803,000. Colour page from real estate magazine, printed both sides.karee court greensborough, natimuk street greensborough

Glass ashtray with photographic representation of Rosalind Park Bendigo.ashtray, natimuk, swimming pool, swimming hole, pre-olympic swimming pool

This sign likely dates from the late 19th to early 20th century and would have been displayed at the premises of J. Crump, a general storekeeper with businesses in both Dandenong and Natimuk, Victoria. The artistic Alpine design may reflect European influence, common in imported signage and decorative goods of the period. General stores were essential rural businesses, supplying groceries, clothing, hardware, and farm supplies to regional communities. This sign is both a piece of retail advertising and a decorative item, representing the entrepreneurial spirit of local business in small-town Victoria. John Grump was an entrepreneur and had stores in Natimuk, Horsham in the late 19th century. He was mayor of Horsham in 1903-1904. That same year he left Horsham for Dandenong where he opened a general store on Lonsdale Street.A highly decorative metal store sign or plaque, on cardboard material, featuring a rustic Alpine-themed design deer. The upper section depicts a woodland scene with two mountain goats or ibex standing among rocks and trees. The border incorporates tree trunk and branch motifs, giving it a naturalistic, carved-wood appearance, though the item is made of metal. The central portion contains a plaque with engraved or painted text reading: J. CRUMP General Storekeeper DANDENONG & NATIMUK "Best Goods at Lowest Prices" The overall design has a Germanic or Tyrolean aesthetic, suggesting it may have been imported or inspired by European folk art styles.J. CRUMP General Storekeeper DANDENONG & NATIMUK “Best Goods at Lowest Prices”natimuk, horsham, dandenong, general store, crump, antlers, chamois, migration, deers, commercial item

This certificate commemorates the religious confirmation of Hermann Wilhelm KLOWSS in 1899 at St Paul’s Lutheran Church in Natimuk, a significant event in a young Lutheran’s spiritual life marking their full membership in the church. The German text reflects the strong influence of German-speaking immigrants in the Wimmera region, especially among Lutheran congregations. These framed certificates were often cherished family keepsakes and proudly displayed in the home, signifying both religious devotion and cultural heritage.A framed German-language Lutheran confirmation certificate, vertically oriented and enclosed in a gilded wooden frame with decorative moulding. The certificate features ornate printed script, and a colour-printed floral illustration of white daisies entwined around a cross, symbolising purity and faith. Below the floral motif is a religious verse or passage, followed by handwritten inscriptions in both German and English. The certificate appears to be partially handwritten in ink and commemorates the confirmation of H W KLOWSS at St Paul’s Lutheran Church, Natimuk.The printed certificate is written in German. In black cursive script Heindrich Wilhelm KLOWSS b 13 March1883 Confirmation 27 November in St Pauls Natimuk by Pastor L KAIBELreligious, st paul's lutheran church, natimuk, confirmation, german, certificate, klowss

Gift of the artist, 2005

This butcher’s knife was likely used for meat processing, cutting large joints, or skinning in a butcher’s shop, farm, or homestead kitchen. The straight edge and thick blade suggest it was meant for precise slicing rather than heavy chopping. The missing handle indicates either extensive use, breakage, or repurposing over time. The rust and aged patina suggest it could date back to the late 19th or early 20th century.This is a vintage butcher’s knife with a broad, blunt-tipped blade and a rounded handle end. The blade appears to be hand-forged, exhibiting signs of age, wear, and rust on its darkened metal surface. The handle is missing, leaving a hole at the base where a wooden or bone handle was likely once attached. The blade is straight edged, designed for cutting or slicing meat, though its current state suggests it may have been heavily used or repurposed over time. Butchers knife made from hoop iron in the early 1930's by CJ. LANGE, Natimukbutcher, meat, carcass, livestock, commercial item

These pieces were likely used for dining at Newton’s Hotel in Natimuk. Hotels in the late 1800s and early 1900s often commissioned custom-branded china for their dining rooms. The custom branding and robust ceramic build suggest they were used for both everyday patrons and guests staying at the hotel. The Newton’s Hotel was likely a well-known establishment in Natimuk, serving travellers, workers, and locals.This image features several broken ceramic fragments that were originally part of dining ware from Newton’s Hotel in Natimuk. The largest piece appears to be part of a large serving platter or dish, while the smaller pieces belong to a cup or small jug. The china is white with a glossy glaze. Printed green hotel insignia is still visible on the fragments. The breakage pattern suggests these were once part of robust, every day-use hotel ceramics.“NEWTON’S HOTEL NATIMUK” is printed in green lettering on multiple pieces. The branding appears within a decorative ribbon motif, typical of custom hotel crockery from the late 19th to early 20th century. The cup or small jug also features a circular stamp with a floral design around the hotel’s name.china, glass, crockery, hotel, commercial item

This German prayer book is representative of the devotional items used by German-speaking Lutheran or Catholic communities, especially those that settled in Victoria's Wimmera region. It would have been used for private prayer, reflection, and possibly church services. The elegant design and portability suggest it may have been given as a confirmation or communion gift, and such books were often treasured family possessions. These items played a significant role in maintaining religious and cultural identity among German-Australian settlers in communities like Natimuk during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Belonged to Heinrich Wilhelm KLOWSS's mother Augusta Louie GLADIGAU. Book of Common Prayer.A small, leather-bound German-language prayer book, rectangular in shape with a dark, possibly black or deep brown cover. The front is adorned with a gold-embossed Christian cross centred within a double-lined decorative border, also in gold. The book is compact and was likely intended for personal use, suitable for carrying to church or for daily devotional reading. The spine appears to be slightly worn, suggesting long-term use and handling. Leather bound prayer book, inscribed, in German. Gold cross on front. 1891Gerang-Buch, Mrs G KLOWSS, Natimuk Lake - written inside the front cover.natimuk, natimuk lake, german prayer book, gladigau, klowss, mt arapiles, lutheran, bible, germany, migration

These demijohns were commonly used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for bulk storage and transportation of alcoholic beverages, vinegar, and other liquids. The Natimuk Hotel and A.M. KIEFEL Wine Merchant markings indicate that these were used in local commerce, possibly for refilling or distribution. Stoneware jugs like these were reusable and refillable, making them an early example of sustainable packaging.A collection of three stoneware demijohns, used historically for storing and transporting liquids such as wine, spirits, or vinegar. Each jug features a cylindrical body, a narrow neck, and a small pouring spout. Two jugs have a distinctive two-tone glaze, with a glossy brown top and cream-colored lower section, while the third jug is fully beige with an unglazed lower portion. The two brown-topped jugs have embossed lettering: Left Jug: Marked "J.T. NEWTONS Natimuk Hotel, Natimuk", indicating it was commissioned for use by the Natimuk Hotel. Right Jug: Marked "A. M. KIEFLE Wine Merchant, Natimuk", suggesting it was used by a local wine merchant in Natimuk.bottle, wine, hotel, commercial item

Frederick Kroschel of Natimuk died of wounds in France 27 September 1917.Connection to the Fort family. Photograph and memorabilia with Faye Fort.Digital copy of black and white studio photograph.freserick kroschel, natimuk, world war i

Tourist information of the Wimmera This book was produced for Wimmera Tourism. Arthur Kuehne did the Stawell Preparations pages 44, 45 & 46Card Cover with colour photo of Natimuk Lake and Mt Arapiles in the background.The Wimmera Story. (in Black and red print.)stawell farming

This is a mid-20th century retail display board for Stratnoid brand cuff links, likely used in a menswear store or drapery shop. Stratnoid was a British manufacturer known for producing men's accessories such as cuff links, collar studs, and tie pins. The board served both a promotional and practical purpose—allowing customers to view and select products directly. Such displays were common in Australian rural stores, and this example may have been used in Natimuk or the Wimmera region in a general store, tailoring business, or outfitters.A rectangular display board featuring a collection of Stratnoid cuff links, mounted in neat rows against a black velvet-covered backing. Each pair is secured in place by metal clips. The cuff links are circular in shape, with a smooth, slightly domed surface, appearing to be made of mother-of-pearl or a pearlescent plastic material. A variety of sizes are present on the board, suggesting a sample or sales display set. At the centre is a small metallic label reading: “STRATNOID – MADE IN ENGLAND” The cuff links are evenly spaced, and many slots are unfilled, possibly indicating missing or removed items. 8 cufflinks in black velvet rackCentral label: “STRATNOID – MADE IN ENGLAND 383"natimuk, stratnoid, costume accessory, cufflink, suit, clothing, fashion

This type of camera was widely used from the 1880s to the early 20th century, particularly by portrait and landscape photographers. Bellows cameras were highly portable compared to earlier box cameras, making them ideal for field photography. They used glass plate negatives coated with light-sensitive emulsions, requiring long exposure times. Lancaster & Son of Birmingham was a well-known British manufacturer producing high-quality field and studio cameras. Most likely used by Horace WOOMLER of Natimuk to photograph life and events in the town between late 19th and early 20th centuries.This is a late 19th to early 20th-century large-format bellows camera, commonly used for plate photography. The camera consists of: A wooden box frame, likely made from mahogany or walnut, with brass fittings for stability and adjustment. A black accordion-style bellows, which extends and contracts to adjust the focal length. A brass lens with a focusing ring, housed in a wooden front panel, which moves forward and backward along a track system for focus control. A ground glass focusing screen at the back, where photographers would compose and focus the image before inserting a glass plate negative. Brass knobs, hinges, and fasteners, allowing for precise control of the camera’s focus, tilt, and positioning. A small nameplate on the top, identifying the manufacturer as Lancaster & Son, Birmingham, a well-known British camera maker. A lens cap is placed in front of the camera, indicating that this was a manual exposure camera, where the photographer would remove the cap to expose the plate.The nameplate at the top reads "LANDCASTER & Son, Birmingham", identifying the manufacturer.natimuk, arapiles, camera, film, photography, instagraph, horace woolmer, commercial item

The spoke shave is a traditional woodworking tool dating back centuries, commonly used by wheelwrights, carpenters, and furniture makers. It was designed to refine and shape rounded or curved surfaces, particularly in the crafting of wooden wagon wheels, tool handles, and furniture legs. The tool in the image has a well-worn appearance, suggesting significant use over time. The provenance note indicates that this specific tool was donated by Keith SUDHOLZ and was connected to Changi Camp, Toowoomba, possibly referencing an Australian military or post-war connection. This adds historical value to the artifact. Timber Wheel Spoke Shaver donated by Keith SUDHOLZ of Natimuk from 'Changbool' property owned by Errol OFFICER family of Toolondo (c 1950s)The tool is a vintage wooden spoke shave, a hand tool used for shaping and smoothing curved surfaces, especially wooden spokes, chair legs, and other rounded objects. The spoke shave consists of a curved wooden handle with an inset metal blade held in place by a clamp mechanism. The handles extend outward on either side, allowing the user to grip and pull the tool along the wood surface. A handwritten tag attached to the tool reads: "Spoke Shave, Donated by Keith SUDHOLZ of Natimuk from Changi Camp, Toowoomba."timber, wheel, spoke, horse, tool, farm equipment, commercial equipment, shaver

Cream coloured crocheted collar with scalloped edge. Open pattern.Full circle. Stored inside box 11400.650. Hand made in 1960's by Lillian may Ellison (Nee Rogers) Natimuk.Labelled; Grandma Ellison made these.costume accessories, female, ladies cream crocheted collar

This folding ruler is a promotional item produced by the H.V. McKay Sunshine Harvester Works, Australia’s leading agricultural machinery manufacturer in the early 20th century. The ruler advertises the company’s global success, particularly their major export of harvesters to large-scale farms in South America. Such rulers were distributed to farmers, machinery agents, and agricultural shows as a practical advertising tool and are now collectible items representing Australia’s industrial and rural heritage. The ruler was used in a farm in Natimuk. The decorated side served as advertising for the McKay harvesting machines used in large farms in La Pampa, a fertile agricultural land in Argentina. In Australian Dictionary of Biography: "'Sunshine' harvesters were dispatched to South Africa, and in 1901 Sam and three Ballarat experts went to the Argentine where they demonstrated 'La Australiana' on a variety of crops so effectively that they soon threatened the trade in North American reaper-binders and headers."A folding wooden ruler, measuring one foot (12 inches) in length when fully extended. The ruler is hinged at the centre and printed with both imperial measurements and advertising text and images on the reverse. One side is marked with inch measurements and the branding "H.V. McKay Sunshine Harvester Works". The reverse features printed promotional material: "H.V. McKay’s 'Sunshine' Harvesters harvest the grain on the largest wheat farm in the world." It refers to a wheat farm in Argentina, operated by the Compañía Bunge y Born, where fifty Sunshine harvesters were used to farm over 100,000 acres. A small photograph on the back shows the row of Sunshine harvesters at work. The object highlights both the scale of the farm and the international reach of Australian agricultural machinery.Front: Inch measurements, hinge join at centre Reverse: “H.V. McKay’s ‘Sunshine’ Harvesters harvest the grain on the largest wheat farm in the world.” “The Estancia of the Compañia Beni Bunge (Sociedad Argentina), Cuchara, Argentina, South America.” “Fifty 'Sunshine' Harvesters, 65 H.P. each, were purchased.” Printed photograph of machines at work.natimuk, australia, la pampa, agentina, farming, agriculture, sunshine, mckay, harvesters, measuring, farm equipment

John Ellison was a teacher at Wail primary school in the 50's before moving to Natimuk primary in 1956Five pages typewritten report of a teachers' conference held in Horsham (most likely in the 50's). Several corrections in red pen.primary teachers, horsham

Thick white cotton crocheted collar. Half circle scallop pattern and scallop edges. Open pattern. Two matching full circle cuffs of crocheted cotton. Hand made in 1960's by Lillian May Ellison (nee Rogers) Natimuk. Stored inside box 11400 650.Labelled ; Grandma Ellison made these.costume accessories, female, crocheted collar and cuffs.

This fan is likely Chinese or Japanese, from the early 20th century. The material and delicacy of the design suggest it was intended for display or formal wear rather than practical use. Pierced fans like this were sometimes gifted or collected as ornamental objects. AHS original, local collectionFan 2 – White Pierced Fan with Intricate Cutwork A white folding fan made entirely of intricately pierced sticks, each featuring delicate lattice-like patterns. The design is highly symmetrical, with some geometric and floral motifs repeated along the arc. There is a small ribbon hinge at the base, keeping the sticks aligned. A few small Chinese characters are visible on the lower right, likely the maker’s signature or a poem.natimuk, ladies fashion, costume accessory, handheld fan

Likely East Asian or inspired by Chinese or Japanese decorative fan styles, popular from the late 19th century into the mid-20th century. Fans like this were commonly brought back as souvenirs or used as decorative accessories. AHS original, local collectionFan 1 – Black Fan with Floral and Bird Motif A decorative black folding fan with painted or printed white floral and bird designs across the span of the fan. The imagery includes large hibiscus-like flowers and birds in flight, creating a dramatic contrast against the dark background. The ribs appear to be lacquered or painted black to match the fabric or paper surface. The fan is designed to fold inwards and has a small loop at the base for hanging or attachment.natimuk, ladies fashion, costume accessory, handheld fan

This portrait likely served as a tribute or memorial piece, possibly commissioned by Kroschel’s family or fellow servicemen to honor his military service. The formal attire and precision in detail indicate that it was created during or after his time in service, possibly as a wartime keepsake or remembrance for loved ones. Given the Australian Army uniform, Friedrich William Kroschel may have served during World War I or World War II, making this an important historical artifact. Friedrich William 'Fritz' KROSCHEL was born 3rd March 1896(?) in Natimuk, Victoria. His parents were Friedrich August and Dorothea Martha KROSCHEL. After passing the medical examinations and the loyalty test applied to all German descendants, he went to Melbourne as Private F.W. Kroschel, Regimental No 6351. 1 Company 18th Re-enforcements, 23rd Battalion. 6th Infantry Brigade. He left Australia in November 1916 on a ship and went through Durban, Sth Africa. He was wounded during the battle of Ypres, Belgium and succumbed to his wounds (fractured skull) on the 25th September 1917. He is buried in Mont Huon Cemetery, near Le Treport, Seine-Maritime, France. On his grave is inscribed: "BE THOU FAITHFUL UNTO DEATH AND I WILL GIVE THEE A CROWN OF LIFE". The portrait was presumably completed from a photo taken in Mendelssohn photographic studio in Melbourne before he left for the war. His fiancé was named Dora. AHS has a significant collection of items from this soldier. He was a local man who lost his life in WW1. He died of his wounds in 2nd Can: Cas: Hospital, Le Treport and is buried in Mont Huon Cemetery, near Le Treport, France. There are a number of items of correspondence to Fred/Fritz from residents in Natimuk, now in the collection of AHS. This is a hand-drawn portrait of Friedrich William 'Fritz' KROSCHEL, a serviceman depicted in a realistic, finely detailed charcoal or graphite drawing. He is shown wearing an Australian military uniform, which includes: A slouch hat with a chinstrap, a signature element of the Australian Army. A buttoned-up tunic with visible collar insignia, which may indicate his regiment or unit. Two breast pockets with button closures, part of the standard-issue Australian uniform. The portrait captures his calm and resolute expression, with careful attention to light and shadow, adding depth and realism to his features. The softly shaded background creates a dignified effect, focusing attention on his face and uniform.'Mendelssohn' on picture and on back 'Kroschel?' Mendelssohn Photographic Studio? It is a common Polish/German Jewish surname. The name means son of Mendel ("Mendel's son"),frederick william kroschel 1896, natimuk, 1st world war, no 6351, wwi, first world war, great war, friedrich august kroschel, dorothea martha kroschel, loyalty test, german, victoria, horsham, wimmera

This type of coal chisel was used in coal mining, blacksmithing, and heavy industrial work. It was designed to break apart coal or cut through other hard materials by striking the blunt end with a hammer. The BEARD & SISSON brand was known for manufacturing high-quality hand tools for industrial and mining applications. Such chisels were commonly used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when coal mining was a major industry.This is a heavy-duty coal chisel, a short, thick metal tool with a flat, bevelled cutting edge at one end and a striking surface at the other. The chisel shows signs of rust and wear, indicating extensive use over time. The tool appears to be solid and robust, designed for heavy-duty applications such as splitting or cutting coal. Made BEARD & SISSON of Natimukcoal, chisel, blacksmith, mining, commercial item

This early electric stove burner was likely produced in the early to mid-20th century. Used as a single-burner cooking appliance, common in homes before modern stovetops became standard. Functioned by passing an electric current through the coiled resistive wires, generating heat for cooking. The separate metal hot plate would distribute heat evenly, preventing direct contact with open elements.A round electric stove burner with an open metal framework revealing coiled heating elements. The burner consists of a metal base with radial supports, where spring-loaded resistive heating wires are arranged in a circular pattern. A flat metal hot plate is seen separately, which would be placed on top for even heat distribution when cooking. From the SCHURMANN's General Store Natimuk.stove, hotplate, electric, kitchen, cooking, household item

This sugar bowl was likely part of a formal tea service, commonly used in Victorian and Edwardian households. It would have been used to serve granulated or lump sugar alongside tea or coffee. The ornate design and silver plating suggest it was made for upper-class or middle-class homes, reflecting the era’s taste for elegant tableware. Over time, the silver plating has worn away, revealing the base metal beneath, which is a common occurrence in antique plated tableware.A round, two-handled sugar bowl, made of metal with an engraved decorative pattern along the upper rim and handles. The body has a slightly bulbous shape, tapering towards the base. The handles are ornate, with intricate scrollwork, suggesting a Victorian or Edwardian-era design. The metal surface is tarnished, with visible signs of wear, discoloration, and remnants of silver-plating peeling in some areas. Owned by V. EMMETT of Natimuk.sugar bowl, food, kitchen, tea, household item

In 1958 the Ballarat Teachers' College moved to a new site in Gillies Street. The 1958 Students' Representative Council were M. Hines, B. Rickard, D. Eldridge, N. Turnball, B. English, K. O'Neill, P. Burgess, M. Almeida, ed Doney, J. Rae, P. Wise, W. Crocker. The 1958 staff were J. Bourke, A. Linton, Ed Doney, S. McKaskill, Howard Pattenden, D. Chandler, A. Stafford, Bob Croft, Arch Cuthbertson, R. Reed, A. Sonsee, J. Lacy, F. Ryan, C. Rodger, Mary Egan, J. Hill, Tom Turner, Mavis Canty, J. Blair, E. Walpole, Monica MillerSoft covered booklet of 48 pages. Articles include: Teaching Rounds, Art and Craft, Victoria Street Hostel, Gillies Street Hostel, Grampians Trip, Camp St Hostel Beaufort House, Spring is Spring, A Windy Night, What are Sculptors? Photographs include: Aerial photograph of the new college in Gillies Street, Students' Representative Council, staff photo, class photosSigned on frank cover 'Margaret Brown'. Signed in back 'Verna Rogers Natimuk' "Lorna G. Anderson Gold House Riddells B.T.C. 1958" "E. Joan Bates Lakeside Murtoa Vic"ballarat teachers' college, kevin o'neill, barry withers, v. la franchi, john teschendorr, victoria street hostel, student residences, gillies street hostel, beaufort house, sturt street hostel, camp street hostel, lois hayne, verna rogers, joan bates, lorna anderson, margaret brown, gillies street campus, tom turner, p.r. burgess, bob croft, howard pattenden, alan sonsee, mavis canty, mary egan, jack roach, w.h. ellwood prize, michael long, kevin o'neil, grampians excursion