Showing 24 items matching "religious furnishings"
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Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Print - Religious Portrait, Herbert Beecroft, artist, The Lord turned and looked upon Peter … and Peter remembered, 1947
... religious furnishings... furnishings religious furnishings seating Williamstown Lightkeepers ...This print of Christ is slightly smaller than the original 1927 oil painting by Herbert Beecroft, which is titled “Christ” and measures, in centimetres, 60 high by 50 wide. The original is displayed at John Wesley’s House & The Museum of Methodism in Islington, England. This print was part of the original furnishings donated by the Williamstown Lightkeepers' Auxiliary to the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria, operated by the Missions to Seamen organisation. The title of the print is taken from the Holy Bible, from the New Testament book of Luke, chapter 22 verse 61, which is a famous Christian account of Jesus being betrayed by Peter, which leads to Jesus’ crucifixion; “And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.”. The print was published in 1942 by the National Sunday School Union in England, now known as the National Christian Education Council. The NSSU was established in Britain in 1803 to promote Sunday Schools in Britain and overseas. The organisation produced many publications, including training manuals and materials for Sunday School teachers. Herbert Beecroft 1864-1951, also known as Lawrence Herbert Beecroft, was an early 20th-century artist. He and his wife emigrated from England to Sydney, Australia, in 1905. He worked as a painter, illustrator, miniaturist, lightning cartoonist, and lecturer. From 1927, Beecroft painted a series of portraits of Jesus Christ, prints of which made many worldwide sales. He entered a miniature portrait in the 1921 inaugural Archibald Prize competition. It was one of forty-one entries but the title was unknown. It was probably JF Archibald, the person who endowed the prize, first awarded in 1921. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History): - The Missions to Seamen was an Anglican charity in Great Britain that has served the world's seafarers since 1856. Its symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today, there are centres in over 200 ports worldwide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria, the organisation began in Williamstown in 1857 as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’ in an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In 2000, the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres, such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943, a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seamen Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, and the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981, and resembles the Williamstown chapel. This print of Christ, originally painted by Herbert Beecroft, represents the social movement in the early 20th century to educate all children in good morals and Christianity. The book is historically significant for its connection to the Missions to Seamen and to the Williamstown Lightkeepers' Auxiliary, an organisation of women, formed to support seafarers. A religious portrait of the artist’s impression of Jesus. The print is in a gilt timber frame behind glass. The frame has eyelets and wire for hanging. The backing paper lifts to reveal a handwritten pencil inscription. The portrait shows a male figure from the waist up facing the viewer but turned slightly to his right. He has long wavy blond hair, a moustache and a beard. He wears a blue-grey robe over a collarless white shirt. The background is red-brown. It is the artist’s impression of Jesus. The whole frame-mat has script text above and below the print, giving its title, and details of the publisher and producer. This print was produced from an original 1927 oil painting by Herbert Beecroft. It was published in 1942 by The National Sunday School Union in London and produced by Frost & Reed Ltd., England. This print is part of the St. Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection. Handwritten script on the mat; “Published in 1942 by the National Sunday School Union, 4 Black Friars Lane, London, EC4. Produced by Frost & Reed Ltd., Bristol & London. Printed in England. Copyright.” and, “The Lord turned and looked upon Peter … and Peter remembered” Signature on bottom left “Herbert Beecroft” In pencil on backboard under back paper “H 89 / 12”. Pen on white tape “155”flagstaff hill, warrnambool, maritime village, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, great ocean road, print, religious, vintage, 1942, herbert beecroft, lawrence herbert beecroft, archibald prize winner, early 20th-century, artist, oil painting, luke 22:61, flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, religion, religious service, religious worship, worship service, st nicholas seamen’s church, williamstown, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, st nicholas missions to seamen’s church williamstown, missions to seamen, st nicholas missions to seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, anglican church, church furnishings, religious furnishings, seating, williamstown lightkeepers' auxiliary -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Chair, ca 1944
This chair, one of a set of three, was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. The Church was operated by the Mission to Seamen organisation. This chair, one of three, is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. Chair wooden dark brown with curved back rest, one of a set of three. The 2 front legs are decoratively shaped (turned) while the back legs are plain and flat-sided. Almost square flat seat. Part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church collection.flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, flagstaff hill, warrnambool, maritime museum, maritime village, shipwreck coast, great ocean road, religion, religious service, st nicholas seamen’s church, williamstown, missions to seamen victoria, religious furniture, chair, wooden chair -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book - Religious Book, The Book of Common Prayer, 20th century
This book was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This book is significant through its association with the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen Church in Williamstown, Melbourne, established in 1857. The items in our collection from the Missions to Seamen in Williamstown, Victoria, have historical and social significance. They show that people of the 1800s and 1900s cared about the seafarers’ religious, moral, and social welfare, no matter what the religion, social status or nationality. It had its origins in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The first Australian branch was started in 1856 by the Rev. Kerr Johnston, a Church of England clergyman, and operated from a hulk moored in Hobson’s Bay; later the Mission occupied buildings in Williamstown and Port Melbourne. The Book of Common Prayer. Small book, dark fabric hardcovers, both embossed design on cover incorporating a cross. Owner's name written in black ink inside the cover, also four brown stamps of a cross inside cover. Titled "The Book of Common Prayer and Administration of the Sacraments and other Rules and Ceremonies of the CHURCH according to the use of The Church of England". Printed in Great Britain. Book has 730 numbered pages. Inscribed with a signature inside the front cover as well as brown stamps of images of a cross.. This is one of the original items in our St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection.Written in black script inside the front cover "Anne Ambrose". Stamps of a cross symbol, brown ink, on the covers and some of the pages throughout the book. Inside front cover, in pencil, "602" "CH 34" Inside the back cover in blue pen are the numbers "271 / 291 / 24"flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, book, prayer book, the book of common prayer, church of england prayer book, anne ambrose, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, flying angel club -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book - Religious Book, Cambridge University Press, The Holy Bible containing the Old and New Testaments, circa 1942
This Bible was presented to the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's St Nicholas Church in Williamstown by Mrs R J Ewart in 1942 according to the inscription on the inside page. She also presented a table desktop, candlesticks and a religious cross. The Bible was part of the original furnishings of St Nicholas Seamen's Church, Williamstown, Victoria. The church was operated by the Missions to Seamen organisation. Within the Bible are three pages of inscriptions and signatures under the heading of NOTABLE EVENTS.. This Bible is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The Bible is historically significant for its connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, an organisation of women, formed to support seafarers. The connection of this Bible to the Mission to Seamen highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Book with black textured leather cover, ribbed spine, gold embossed letters, and logo on spine. Titled The Holy Bible containing the Old and New Testaments. The inside section has a list of signatures (after page 872). An inscription is written inside the front opening and three pages of inscriptions within the pages. The book was presented by R.J. Ewart in 1942.Inscribed on spine "HOLY BIBIE" and "CAMBRIDGE" Inscription inside "Presented by R J Ewart in memory of the fallen as sea, 1942" INSCRIPTIONS on the pages within include signatures, names, occupations and ship names: "(-) Service held in St Nicholas Seamen Church" "NOTABLE EVENTS" "MIV "Centaur" " MV Centaur" SS Fort "Pembena" " MV JOLTEN'" "SS Kooringa" "SS Nairana" "SS Hobart" "flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, the holy bible containing the old and new testaments, book, bible, the bible, r j ewart, cambridge bible, holy bible, st nicholas seamen’s church williamstown, centaur, pembena, jolten, kooringa, niriana, hobart -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Functional object - Vase, T. Gaunt & Co, circa 1944
This pair of brass altar vases is from the St. Nicholas Seamen’s Church, 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria, during religious services there. The Church was operated by the Mission to Seamen organisation. Each vase is inscribed with the donors' names and the year of presentation - Margaret R. Pearson 1944, Mrs B Raybould 1944, - and the maker's name T. Gaunt & Co. The two donors presented the vases to St Nicholas Seamen's Church in Williamstown as part of the furniture and furnishings for the new church that officially opened in 1944. T. Gaunt & Co. engraved on both vases. T. Gaunt & Co. of Melbourne, is a manufacturer, importer and retailer of a wide variety of goods including jewellery, clocks and watches, navigational and measuring instruments, dinnerware, glassware and ornaments. Thomas Gaunt's photograph was included in an album of security identity portraits of members of the Victorian Court, Centennial International Exhibition, Melbourne, 1888. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This par of vases is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The connection of pair of vases to the original donation to the Mission to Seamen highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Vase: pair of two polished brass altar vases, round, pear-shaped, bulbous body on a round pedestal, two neck rings and flared lips. Inscriptions on both vases in script around the base. Made by T. Gaunt & Co. One was presented to the church by Margaret R Pearson and the other presented by Mrs B. Raybould in 1944 The vases are part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church Engraved on the 625.1 "Presented By Margaret R. Pearson 1944." Engraved on 625.2 "Presented By Mrs B. Raybould. 1944." Both engraved "T GAUNT & Co"flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, flagstaff hill, warrnambool, maritime museum, maritime village, shipwreck coast, great ocean road, religion, religious service, st nicholas seamen’s church, williamstown, missions to seamen victoria, brass vases, metal craft, brassware, altar vase, church vase, mrs r raybould, margaret r pearson, t gaunt & co, church furnishing -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Ceremonial object - Plate, circa 1943
This plate, a polished brass altar salver, is part of the original furnishings of St Nicholas Church, Williamstown, Victoria. The church was operated by the Missions to Seamen organisation. The plate is sometimes called a salver, a paten or a communion plate. It is used for serving the communion bread. The plate was presented to the Mission to Seamen, in memory of Kenneth Wyatt McVilly, who passed away on December 4th 1943. The letters on the lip of the plate, A.D.G., stand for the Greek Alpha Delta Gamma, and are used to represent "For the Glory of God". THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This memorial plate is significant as it is associated with a member of the community, Kenneth McVilly, and was presented in his memory after he died in o1943. This plate is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. Plate, polished brass altar salver, or communion plate. It is round with decorative initials in the centre. Outer lip has an inscription of dedication to Kenneth Wyatt McVilly, December 4th 1943. This plate is in our St Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection. “A.D.G. / and in memory of / KENNETH WYATT MCVILLY / December 4th 1943” and initials "I H S"flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, religion, church furnishings, mission to seamen victoria, st nicholas church williamstown, brass plate, kenneth wyatt mcvilly, altar salvar, religious service, memorial plate, altar salver, communion plate, paten, communion service, a d g -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Hymn Board, 1944-1966
This hymn board is attached to the wall. Numbers referring to the hymn or hymns for the current religious service would have been placed onto the rails and would be visible to the congregation. It is used for showing the hymn number or numbers that will be sung during the service. This hymn board was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This hymn board is significant through its association with the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen Church in Williamstown, Melbourne, established in 1857. The items in our collection from the Missions to Seamen in Williamstown, Victoria, have historical and social significance. They show that people of the 1800s and 1900s cared about the seafarers’ religious, moral, and social welfare, no matter what the religion, social status or nationality. It had its origins in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The first Australian branch was started in 1856 by the Rev. Kerr Johnston, a Church of England clergyman, and operated from a hulk moored in Hobson’s Bay; later the Mission occupied buildings in Williamstown and Port Melbourne. Hymn board; arch-shaped wooden board with relief decorative wood and decorative cross on top of the peak. The word 'hymns' is raised in decorative wood on the top. The board has six rails. This is one of the original items in our ‘St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection’.Carved into the wood "hymns"flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, church furniture, religious furniture, anglican church, flying angel club, hymn board, song board, religious worship, worship service, worship music -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Functional object - Candlesticks, T. Gaunt & Co, circa 1944
This pair of altar lights is from the St. Nicholas Seamen’s Church, 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria, and was used during religious services there. The Church was operated by the Mission to Seamen organisation. The par of candlesticks was originally donated by Mrs. R.J. Ewart,as part of the furnishings for the new St Nicholas Seamen's Church in Williamstown, opened in 1944. The candlesticks were made by T. Gaunt & Co. of Melbourne, a manufacturer, importer and retailer of a wide variety of goods including jewellery, clocks and watches, navigational and measuring instruments, dinnerware, glassware and ornaments. Thomas Gaunt photograph was included in an album of security identity portraits of members of the Victorian Court, Centennial International Exhibition, Melbourne, 1888 THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. These candlestickrs are significant historically for their origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The connection of the candlesticks to the Mission to Seamen highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support.Candlesticks or altar lights; a pair of two polished brass candlesticks. The wax cup at the top has a scalloped lip, the centre of the stem has a bulbous section, and the base has a cast floral design depicting leaves and grapes. The candlesticks have inscriptions. They were made by T. Gaunt & Co. This pair of Altar Lights is part of the St. Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection. Stamped "T GAUNT & CO."flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, flagstaff hill, warrnambool, maritime museum, maritime village, shipwreck coast, great ocean road, religion, religious service, st nicholas seamen’s church, williamstown, missions to seamen victoria, religious worship, altar light, r j ewart, church furnishing, church lighting, t gaunt & co, candlesticks, altar lights -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Functional object - Candlesticks, T. Gaunt & Co, circa 1944
This pair of altar lights is from the St. Nicholas Seamen’s Church, 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria, and was used during religious services there. The Church was operated by the Mission to Seamen organisation. The par of candlesticks was originally donated by Mrs. M. Jackson, as part of the furnishings for the new St Nicholas Seamen's Church in Williamstown, which opened in 1944. The candlesticks were made by T. Gaunt & Co. of Melbourne, a manufacturer, importer and retailer of a wide variety of goods, including jewellery, clocks and watches, navigational and measuring instruments, dinnerware, glassware and ornaments. Thomas Gaunt's photograph was included in an album of security identity portraits of members of the Victorian Court, Centennial International Exhibition, Melbourne, 1888. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. These candlesticks are historically significant for their origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater to seafarers' physical, social, and spiritual needs. It originated in Bristol, England, when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The connection of the candlesticks to the Mission to Seamen highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Candlesticks, also known as altar lights; are a pair of two polished brass candlesticks. The wax cup has a scalloped lip, the centre of the stem has a bulbous section, and the base has a floral design depicting leaves and grapes. They are inscribed 'Made by T. Gaunt & Co.' This pair of Altar Lights is in our St Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection.Inscribed "T. GAUNT & CO.."flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, altar lights, mrs. m. jackson, t. gaunt & co., religious service, ladies lightkeepers' auxiliary, mission to seamen victoria, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, religious worship, m. jackson, candlesticks -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Missal Lectern
The Missal lectern was part of the original furnishings of St Nicholas Seamen's Church, Williamstown, Victoria, and was donated by Mrs R J Eward for use in the religious services there. The church was operated by the Williamstown Missions to Seamen organisation. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History): - The Missions to Seamen was an Anglican charity in Great Britain that has served the world's seafarers since 1856. Its symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today, there are centres in over 200 ports worldwide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria, the organisation began in Williamstown in 1857 as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’ in an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000, the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres, such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943, a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981, and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This Missal lectern is historically significant for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for seafarers' physical, social, and spiritual needs. It originated in Bristol, England, when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. It is also an example of a community-supported local charity organisation.Solid wooden Missal Lectern on two supporting legs. The top section has an angled back and a small shelf at the front, designed to support a bible. The two legs, with decorative feet, are supported by the decorative wooden bar. There appears to be a rectangular label in the centre front of the small shelf. This lectern is part of the St. Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection. flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, religion, religious service, church furniture, religious furniture, lectern, preaching equipment, missal lectern, bible support, music stand -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Ceremonial object - Cross, Circa 1942
This cross or crucifix is part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas Missions to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, Victoria. Mrs R J Ewart presented it to the church in 1942 to commemorate the lives of those lost at sea. On 29th May 1979, the cross was donated to Flagstaff Hill Maritime and Village by the Missions to Seamen Victoria, along with many other items from the St. Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History): - The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. Its symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today, there are centres in over 200 ports worldwide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria, the organisation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres, such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943, a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village. Hence, the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This brass cross is historically significant for its origin in the St. Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England, when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The cross is historically significant for its connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, an organisation of women formed to support seafarers. The connection highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Polished brass altar cross on a round base with top and side branch ends shaped like three-leafed clovers. The Centre of the cross is a circular shape. An inscription is engraved in script on the base. Mrs R.J. Ewart presented the cross to the church in 1942 to commemorate those lost at sea. This is now part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection. "Presented by / Mrs. R.J. Ewart, / M.N. / In Memory of those lost at sea. / 1942"flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, religion, church furnishings, mission to seamen victoria, cross, crucifix, r j ewart, st nicholas church williamstown, religious symbol, church furnishing, flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, maritime village, religious service, religious worship, worship service, st nicholas seamen’s church, williamstown, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, st nicholas missions to seamen’s church williamstown, missions to seamen, st nicholas missions to seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, anglican church, religious furnishing -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Chair, ca. 1944
This chair, one of a set of three, was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. The Church was operated by the Mission to Seamen organisation. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen was an Anglican charity that served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centres in over 200 ports worldwide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria, the organisation began in Williamstown in 1857 as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’ in an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981, and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This chair is historically significant for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. The organisation originated in Bristol, England, when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. Chair, dark brown wood, curved backrest. One of a set of three. The two front legs are decoratively shaped (turned), while the back legs are plain and flat-sided. It has an almost square flat seat. This chair is part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection. flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, flagstaff hill, warrnambool, maritime museum, maritime village, shipwreck coast, great ocean road, religion, religious service, st nicholas seamen’s church, williamstown, missions to seamen victoria, chair, religious furniture, dining chair, church furniture, religious worship, anglican church, worship service, mission to seafarers, st nicholas missions to seamen’s church williamstown, missions to seamen, st nicholas missions to seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Rail and Base, circa 1944
This pair of kneeling rails was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. A kneeling rail is part of the furniture of a church and is used during religious prayer, assisting the person to be in the position of kneeling. A padded kneeling mat or cushion would also be provided for comfort. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This pair of kneeling rails is significant through its association with the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen Church in Williamstown, Melbourne, established in 1857. The items in our collection from the Missions to Seamen in Williamstown, Victoria, have historical and social significance. They show that people of the 1800s and 1900s cared about the seafarers’ religious, moral, and social welfare, no matter what the religion, social status or nationality. It had its origins in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The first Australian branch was started in 1856 by the Rev. Kerr Johnston, a Church of England clergyman, and operated from a hulk moored in Hobson’s Bay; later the Mission occupied buildings in Williamstown and Port Melbourne. Rail and base; one of a pair of two kneeling rails. Three varnished wood pillars and cap rail, mounted on a rectangular box-shaped base: a kneeling rail used in religious worship. These are part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection.-flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, rail for kneeling, rail, kneeling rail, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, church furniture, religious furniture, religious worship, flying angel club, altar rail, kneeler, prayer, ceremonial furniture -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Rail and Base, circa 1944
This pair of kneeling rails was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. A kneeling rail is part of the furniture of a church and is used during religious prayer, assisting the person to be in the position of kneeling. A padded kneeling mat or cushion would also be provided for comfort. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This pair of kneeling rails is significant through its association with the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen Church in Williamstown, Melbourne, established in 1857. The items in our collection from the Missions to Seamen in Williamstown, Victoria, have historical and social significance. They show that people of the 1800s and 1900s cared about the seafarers’ religious, moral, and social welfare, no matter what the religion, social status or nationality. It had its origins in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The first Australian branch was started in 1856 by the Rev. Kerr Johnston, a Church of England clergyman, and operated from a hulk moored in Hobson’s Bay; later the Mission occupied buildings in Williamstown and Port Melbourne. Rail and base, one of a pair of two kneeling rails. Three varnished wood pillars and cap rail, mounted on a rectangular box-shaped base: a kneeling rail is used in religious worship. These kneeling rails are part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, rail for kneeling, rail, kneeling rail, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, church furniture, religious furniture, religious worship, flying angel club, altar rail, kneeler, prayer, ceremonial furniture -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Textile - Seat Squabs, mid-20th century
The term 'seat squabs' is no longer commonly used, but is sometimes referred to in the upholstery and motor vehicle industries. Squabs are padded cushions frequently added to wooden chairs or benches to add comfort to their hard forms. They have been made to an 18th-to-19th-century pattern using beautiful, richly coloured satin fabric and fancy cord tassels. The weighted flap at the rear of the squabs helps to keep them in place on the chair, and could be used on the top of the backrest instead of on the seat. These days, squabs are attached with fabric ties or hook-and-loop tabs. These seat squabs were once used in the St Nicholas Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria, which was purchased and furnished around 1943. The furniture and furnishings are now part of the St. Nicholas Seamen's Church collection. DETAILED HISTORY of the Missions to Seamen: - The Missions to Seamen is an Anglican (Church of England) charity that has served the world’s seafarers since 1856. It was inspired by the work of Rev. John Ashley, who, 20 years earlier, had pioneered a ministry to seafarers in the Bristol Channel in Great Britain. When Ashley retired, others continued the work, founding the Missions to Seamen. It adopted a Flying Angel as its symbol, inspired by a verse from the Bible in Revelation 14. Today, over 200 world ports have Missions to Seamen centres and chaplains. A Missions to Seamen’s club warmly welcomes sailors of all colours, creeds and races and provides a wide range of facilities. The Missions to Seamen organisation changed its name to the Mission to Seafarers in 2000, continuing to include Missions to Seamen clubs in Victoria’s cities of Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. Flagstaff Hill’s St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church is named after its namesake from Williamstown, Victoria, which began in 1857. Bishop Perry opened the first Sailors’ Church, which was known as ‘Bethel’, on an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. In 1860, a Sailors’ Rest started operating from rented premises in Williamstown. In 1878, the Sailors’ Church moved into an old Wesleyan chapel in Ann Street. By the end of that year, they managed to purchase the building, which they had already refurbished. In 1883, they affiliated with the Victorian Seamen’s Mission. A few years later, in 1906, the building had to be demolished because it was no longer safe. While they raised funds for a new building, the Sailors’ Rest temporarily moved to premises in front of Customs House in Nelson Place. Around this time, in 1906, the Ladies Harbour Lights Guild was formed in Australia to support and raise funds for the Mission to Seamen organisation in Melbourne. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founding members Ethel Godfrey and Alice Sibthorpe. During the Mission's time at Siddeley Street, Melbourne, the activities of the Guild raised funds for the Mission to Seamen's Chapel at their new, and still current, premises in Flinders Street, Melbourne, opened in 1917. The Guild continued its important work until the 1960s. In 1908, the Williamstown Mission had enough money to purchase the former Mascotte skating rink on Thompson Street, Williamstown. In August of that year, they were inaugurated into the Victorian Missions to Seamen. They continued at that venue for a few decades. In 1943, the former ES&A Bank building at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, was purchased for the new Mission to Seaman’s Club. The official opening was on May 6th, 1944. It was described as a ‘distinctive little building’. Funds had previously been raised for the building and furnishing of the chapel at the rear. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church, after St Nicholas, fourth-century bishop and patron saint of sailors. Services were held on Wednesdays and Sundays. The church was supported by the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, newly founded by Mrs Ethel Margaret Musther in 1943, as well as the Harbour Lights Guild and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. The Williamstown Mission to Seamen’s Church operated until 1966, when large international ships no longer used the Port of Williamstown. The Commonwealth Government then leased the premises. In the formative years of Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, the Advisory Board decided to include a Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room in its village. The Missions organisation was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and early 1900s, the period that the Village represents. They often erected Missions to house social and worshipful activities for seamen. Flagstaff Hill’s curator, Mr Ken Marshman, approached the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen regarding the Williamstown branch. Consequently, the Board permitted the furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. A provision of the transfer was that the Victoria Missions to Seamen be recognised, that the items would remain as a collection, and that the chapel would be called St Nicholas Seamen’s Church and conduct Divine services. The donation was approved on 21st May 1979. Flagstaff Hill's St. Nicholas Seamen's Church: - The idea behind Flagstaff Hill’s Missions to Seamen’s Church was partly driven by the offer of Stained Glass Memorial Windows that originated from the Warrnambool and District Base Hospital, which was undergoing multi-storey expansion in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The hospital’s Manager/Secretary was eager to see the historic window installed in a suitable place. The church, or chapel, was designed by a local architectural draftsman in collaboration with the Flagstaff Hill Planning Board and was constructed by Mr Leon Habel. The designers hoped the church would be used for formal worship, such as weddings, funerals, and multi-denominational special services like war commemorations. Its design was inspired by the ‘Missions to Seamen’ buildings in Portland and the Port of Melbourne. The furniture and furnishings were placed as accurately as possible according to photographs of the Williamstown St Nicholas Seamen’s Church and with assistance from local clergy. The Recreation Room was furnished and arranged on advice from experienced members of the Missions to Seamen organisation. A framed document in the building recognises the donor of the furnishings, Victoria Missions to Seamen, and includes the names of some original donors and their donated item/s. The building’s design incorporates local features such as Warrnambool sandstone, which was no longer commercially available but was procured from demolished buildings and uniformly cut to use as a veneer over the stronger Mt. Gambier stone. Also, traditional green American roofing slate was used, sourced from the 1908 local shipwreck “Falls of Halladale” by Flagstaff Hill volunteer divers. The bell tower includes a bell believed to be from a local shipwreck. Additional furnishings were acquired locally, and several items were donated by Warrnambool residents. Light fittings in both rooms were assembled to simulate 19th-century gas light fittings. The stained-glass window at the back of the church is a memorial to Dr Connell, a well-respected member of the Warrnambool community. It was originally installed in 1928 in the main building of Warrnambool Hospital. The St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church at Flagstaff Hill was officially opened by His Worship the Mayor, Cr. John Lindsay, on Sunday, 11th October 1981. The event included a service of thanksgiving conducted by the Warrnambool Ministers Fraternal. Since then, the Chapel has been the historic venue for many weddings. This pair of seat squabs is historically significant for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for seafarers’ physical, social, and spiritual needs. The organisation originated in Bristol, England, when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The squabs are also significant for their use in the St Nicholas Missions to Seamen's chapel, Williamstown, as the original building is now listed on the Victorian Heritage Register. Squabs or padded seat cushions, a pair of two. These 18th to 19th-century design squabs have crimson and cream satin fabric on top and underneath, and weighted tassels are attached to their rear corners. They can be used for comfort on hard seats and benches. The squabs were furnishings from the Missions to Seamen chapel in Williamstown, and they are now part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, st nicholas mission to seamen's church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, mission to seamen victoria, st nicholas mission to seamen, st nicholas seamen's church, religion, religious service, sailor's rest, ladies harbour light guild, squab, seat covers, cushions, squabs, religious furnishing, padded seats, seating, accessory -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Photograph - Historical, religious, mid-20th century
This photograph records the interior of St Nicholas Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria, which was purchased and furnished around 1943. The furniture and furnishings are now part of the St. Nicholas Seamen's Church collection. HISTORY of the Missions to Seamen: - DETAILED HISTORY of the Missions to Seamen: - The Missions to Seamen is an Anglican (Church of England) charity that has served the world’s seafarers since 1856. It was inspired by the work of Rev. John Ashley, who, 20 years earlier, had pioneered a ministry to seafarers in the Bristol Channel in Great Britain. When Ashley retired, others continued the work, founding the Missions to Seamen. It adopted a Flying Angel as its symbol, inspired by a verse from the Bible in Revelation 14. Today, over 200 world ports have Missions to Seamen centres and chaplains. A Missions to Seamen’s club warmly welcomes sailors of all colours, creeds and races and provides a wide range of facilities. The Missions to Seamen organisation changed its name to the Mission to Seafarers in 2000, continuing to include Missions to Seamen clubs in Victoria’s cities of Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. Flagstaff Hill’s St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church is named after its namesake from Williamstown, Victoria, which began in 1857. Bishop Perry opened the first Sailors’ Church there, known as ‘Bethel’, on an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. In 1860, a Sailors’ Rest started operating from rented premises in Williamstown. In 1878, the Sailors’ Church moved into an old Wesleyan chapel in Ann Street. By the end of that year, they managed to purchase the building, which they had already refurbished. In 1883, they affiliated with the Victorian Seamen’s Mission. A few years later, in 1906, the building had to be demolished because it was no longer safe. While they raised funds for a new building, the Sailors’ Rest temporarily moved to premises in front of Customs House in Nelson Place. Around this time, in 1906, the Ladies Harbour Lights Guild was formed in Australia to support and raise funds for the Mission to Seamen organisation in Melbourne. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founding members Ethel Godfrey and Alice Sibthorpe. During the Mission's time at Siddeley Street, Melbourne, the activities of the Guild raised funds for the Mission to Seamen's Chapel at their new, and still current, premises in Flinders Street, Melbourne, opened in 1917. The Guild continued its important work until the 1960s. In 1908, the Williamstown Mission had enough money to purchase the former Mascotte skating rink on Thompson Street, Williamstown. In August of that year, they were inaugurated into the Victorian Missions to Seamen. They continued at that venue for a few decades. In 1943, the former ES&A Bank building at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, was purchased to become the new Mission to Seaman’s Club. On May 6th, 1944, it was officially opened, described as a ‘distinctive little building’. Funds had previously been raised for the building and furnishing of the chapel at the rear. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church, after St Nicholas, fourth-century bishop and patron saint of sailors. Services were held on Wednesdays and Sundays. The church was supported by the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, newly founded by Mrs Ethel Margaret Musther in 1943, as well as the Harbour Lights Guild and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. The Williamstown Mission to Seamen’s Church operated until 1966, when large international ships no longer used the Port of Williamstown. The Commonwealth Government then leased the premises. In the formative years of Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, the Advisory Board decided to include a Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room in its village. The Missions organisation was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and early 1900s, the period that the Village represents. They often erected Missions to house social and worshipful activities for seamen. Flagstaff Hill’s curator, Mr Ken Marshman, approached the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen regarding the Williamstown branch. Consequently, the Board permitted the furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. A provision of the transfer was that the Victoria Missions to Seamen be recognised, that the items would remain as a collection, and that the chapel would be called St Nicholas Seamen’s Church and conduct Divine services. The donation was approved on 21st May 1979. Flagstaff Hill's St. Nicholas Seamen's Church: - The idea behind Flagstaff Hill’s Missions to Seamen’s Church was partly driven by the offer of Stained Glass Memorial Windows that originated from the Warrnambool and District Base Hospital, which was undergoing multi-storey expansion in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The hospital’s Manager/Secretary was eager to see the historic window installed in a suitable place. The church, or chapel, was designed by a local architectural draftsman in collaboration with the Flagstaff Hill Planning Board and was constructed by Mr Leon Habel. The designers hoped that the church would be used for formal worship such as weddings, funerals, and multi-denominational special services like war commemorations. The design is inspired by the ‘Missions to Seamen’ buildings in Portland and the Port of Melbourne. The furniture and furnishings were placed as accurately as possible according to photographs of the Williamstown St Nicholas Seamen’s Church and with assistance from local clergy. The Recreation Room was furnished and arranged on advice from experienced members of the Missions to Seamen organisation. A framed document in the building recognises the donor of the furnishings, Victoria Missions to Seamen, and includes the names of some original donors and their donated item/s. The building’s design incorporates local features such as Warrnambool sandstone, which was no longer commercially available but was procured from demolished buildings and uniformly cut to use as a veneer over the stronger Mt. Gambier stone. Also, traditional green American roofing slate was used, sourced from the 1908 local shipwreck “Falls of Halladale” by Flagstaff Hill volunteer divers. The bell tower includes a bell believed to be from a local shipwreck. Additional furnishings were acquired locally, along with several items donated by Warrnambool residents. Light fittings in both rooms were assembled to simulate 19th-century gas light fittings. The stained-glass window at the back of the church is a memorial to Dr Connell, a well-respected member of the Warrnambool community. It was originally installed in 1928 in the main building of Warrnambool Hospital. The St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church at Flagstaff Hill was officially opened by His Worship the Mayor, Cr. John Lindsay, on Sunday, 11th October 1981. The event included a service of thanksgiving conducted by the Warrnambool Ministers Fraternal. Since then, the Chapel has been the historic venue for many weddings. This photograph is significant through its association with the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen Church in Williamstown, Melbourne, established in 1857. The building in the photograph is the former English, Scottish and Australian Bank (ES&A bank), also known as the Mission to Seamen. It is listed on the Victorian Heritage Database for having local historic and aesthetic interest. Photograph of St Nicholas Seamen's Church, Williamstown. Sepia photograph. The photograph shows the inside of the Chapel of Mission to Seamen, including organ, pews and other furniture and furnishings. There is a circular stained glass window high on the back wall depicting a sailor at the helm of a ship and a man standing behind him and pointing the way - "Christ Showing The Helmsman The Way". A Sanctuary Light is suspended from the ceiling. The Sanctuary chars are visible. This shows the St Nicholas Seamen's Church in Williamstown, the furnishings and furniture of which is now part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection’.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, st nicholas mission to seamen's church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, mission to seamen victoria, st nicholas mission to seamen, chapel window, christ showing the helmsman the way, stained glass window, st nicholas seamen's church, religion, religious service, sailor's rest, ladies harbour light guild -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Ceremonial object - Font, 1940s
This font is a piece of church furniture used in a baptism or christening service. It was originally installed in the St Nicholas Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. The church was a branch of the Victoria Missions to Seamen. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History): - The Missions to Seamen was an Anglican charity that has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. Its symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today, there are centres in over 200 ports worldwide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria, the organisation began in Williamstown in 1857 as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’ in an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000, the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres, such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943, a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981, and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This font is significant through its association with the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen Church in Williamstown, Melbourne, established in 1857. The collection of items from the Missions to Seamen in Williamstown, Victoria, has historical and social significance. They show that people of the 1800s and 1900s cared about the seafarers’ religious, moral, and social welfare, no matter what their religion, social status or nationality. It had its origins in Bristol, England, when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The first Australian branch was started in 1856 by the Rev. Kerr Johnston, a Church of England clergyman, and operated from a hulk moored in Hobson’s Bay; later, the Mission occupied buildings in Williamstown and Port Melbourne. Baptismal font: four-legged, varnished oak wood pedestal supporting a wooden box with a hand-beaten, rolled edge, copper ewer, bowl or basin insert. The box has a removable cover that has a round wooden knob. The sides of the box section have a decorative, diamond-shaped motif. The box and lid are octagonal, with four short sides and four long sides. The tops of the legs have an ornamental design. This is one of the original items in our St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, font, baptisimal font, church furniture, religious ceremony, copper ewet, religious furniture, christening font, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, anglican church, flying angel club, copper ewer, copper bowl, flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, maritime museum, maritime village, shipwreck coast, great ocean road, religious worship, worship service, st nicholas seamen’s church, williamstown, st nicholas missions to seamen’s church williamstown, missions to seamen, st nicholas missions to seamen’s church flagstaff hill, baptism, christening, ceremony, tradition, hand-beaten copper ewer -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Ceremonial object - Kneeling Mat, ca. 1944
This pair of comfortable kneeling mats is from the original furnishings of St Nicholas Seamen's Church, Williamstown, operated by the Williamstown Missions to Seamen organisation. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History): - The Missions to Seamen was an Anglican charity that has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. Its symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today, there are centres in over 200 ports worldwide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria, the organisation began in Williamstown in 1857 as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’ in an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000, the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres, such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943, a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981, and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This pair of kneeling mats is historically significant for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for seafarers’ physical, social, and spiritual needs. The organisation originated in Bristol, England, when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. Mat, quantity of two. Kneeling mats used during prayer. Mats are rectangular and made of blue cloth with sewn edges and padding inside. The mats are part of the St. Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, lightkeepers’ auxiliary, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angel’s club, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, religious worship, anglican church, prayer accessory, kneeling mat, prayer mat, religious custom, religious tradition -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Textile - Floor Rug, 1940s
This patterned floor rug has the added feature of a fringe or tassel trim, and its size suits a dining table for four to six people. Originally, the rug was donated to the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church, Williamstown, by the Williamstown Lighthouse Keepers' Association, which had raised funds to furnish the church. Floor rugs were often part of Victorian furnishings. They were less expensive than wall-to-wall carpets, easier to clean and added colour and warmth. Rugs were a practical way for immigrants to bring memories from their homeland. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History): - The Missions to Seamen was an Anglican charity that had served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. Its symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today, there are centres in over 200 ports worldwide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria, the organisation began in Williamstown in 1857 as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’ in an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000, the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres, such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943, a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seamen Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981, and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel.The connection of this floor rug to the Mission to Seamen and to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. This floor rug is representative of rugs used for furnishing homes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries times.Rug: rectangular floor rug with white tassel trim on short sides, in reds and yellows. This rug is part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection. flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, floor rug, rectangular rug, domestic furnishings, floor cover, domestinc rug, floor covering, williamstown lighthouse keepers' auxiliary, flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, maritime village, religion, religious service, religious worship, worship service, st nicholas seamen’s church, williamstown, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, st nicholas missions to seamen’s church williamstown, missions to seamen, st nicholas missions to seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, anglican church, ladies harbour light guild, harbor lights guild, joy club for fighters, ladies lightkeepers’ auxiliary, flying angel’s club, carpet, furnishing -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book - Religious Book, The Book of Common Prayer, Circa 1944
The book was previously part of the service at St Nicholas Seamen's Church in Williamstown, Melbourne. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen was an Anglican charity that served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centres in over 200 ports worldwide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria, the organisation began in Williamstown in 1857 as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’ in an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981, and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel.This book is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The book is historically significant for its connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, an organisation of women, formed to support seafarers. The connection of this book to the Mission to Seamen and to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. This Book of Common Prayer was part of the original furnishings of St Nicholas Seamen's Church, Williamstown, Victoria. The church was operated by the Missions to Seamen organisation. It is one of a set of similar books. The hardcover is of red fabric over cardboard, with gold embossed letters on the spine. This book is part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection. On the front cover Symbol [CROSS]flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, flagstaff hill, warrnambool, maritime museum, maritime village, shipwreck coast, great ocean road, religion, religious service, st nicholas seamen’s church, williamstown, missions to seamen victoria, the book of common prayer, prayer book -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book - Religious Books set, early 20th century
This set of religious books was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This set of books is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of all seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England, when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The set of books is historically significant for its connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers Auxiliary, a women's organisation formed to support seafarers. The connection of this set of books to the Mission to Seamen and to the Ladies Lightkeepers Auxiliary highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support.Set of 51 religious books, including: - - The Book of Common Prayer with the Additions and Deviations proposed in 1928 (603.10) - The Book of Common Prayer, with black leather cover (604) - The Book of Common Prayer with the additions and deviations proposed in 1928 (627) - The Book of Common Prayer (639.36) - Hymns Ancient and Modern (604) - Hymns Ancient and Modern (619) - Hymns, Ancient and Modern Standard Edition (635) The books are stored in the same bookcase as part of the St Nicholas Missions to Seamen Church collection.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, preyer books, book of common prayer, anglican church prayer book, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angels club, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, anglican church, religious book, religious books collection, hymn books, prayer books -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Functional object - Vase, circa 1944
This vase, one of a part of a pair of organ vases, was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This vase, and its pair, is significant through its association with the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen Church in Williamstown, Melbourne, established in 1857. The items in our collection from the Missions to Seamen in Williamstown, Victoria, have historical and social significance. They show that people of the 1800s and 1900s cared about the seafarers’ religious, moral, and social welfare, no matter what the religion, social status or nationality. It had its origins in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The first Australian branch was started in 1856 by the Rev. Kerr Johnston, a Church of England clergyman, and operated from a hulk moored in Hobson’s Bay; later the Mission occupied buildings in Williamstown and Port Melbourne. Vase, one of a pair, of organ vases, polished brass church vases with truncated conical shapes. White sticker under vase with hand written number "136" This is one of the original items in our ‘St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection’.White sticker under vase with hand written number "136" flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, vase, church vase, brass vase, conical vase, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, flying angel club, organ vase -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Print - Religious Print, Reinthal & Newman, Jesus Chrisus, ca 1906 - 1960s
Print of an original oil painting created in 1874 (these numbers are in the top left corner) by artist Gabriel Max ("Gab Max" is in top right corner) and reproduced by Kodak. The reproduction was likely made for the Mission to Seamen from the early 1906 to the 1960s to hang in its chapel. The publisher Reinthal & Newman, New York, was in business between 1906 and 1928. The company originally published postcards, but from 1920 they published prints of art from original works of famous and not-so-well-known artists. The published items were distributed by the House of Art, NY, which continued on into the 1950s. The print was donated by the Williamstown Lightkeepers' Auxiliary to become part of the original furnishings of St Nicholas Seamen's Church, Williamstown, Victoria. The church was operated by the Mission to Seamen organisation. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History): - The Missions to Seamen was an Anglican charity in Great Britain that has served the world's seafarers since 1856. Its symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today, there are centres in over 200 ports worldwide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria, the organisation began in Williamstown in 1857 as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’ in an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In 2000, the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres, such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943, a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seamen Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, and the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981, and resembles the Williamstown chapel. The print is significant because of its association with the Mission to Seamen in Williamstown, Victoria, and the Williamstown Lightkeepers' Auxiliary. This organisation had strong connections to the colonisation of Victoria by people travelling and arriving by sea. The picture is also significant as a representation of 19th-century religious art by Gabriel Cornelius von Max.Print of an oil painting representing Jesus Christ, closed eyes, tear on cheek, with a crown of thorns, titled “Jesus Christus”, produced in 1874 by 19th-century artist Gabriel Cornelius von Max (GAB MAX). Print on paper; black and grey drawing on beige canvas-look background with image of fixing pins in each corner, edges look like torn fabric. Published by Reinthal & Newman, New York. Print is behind glass, mounted in a heavy wooden frame that is painted dark brown. The reverse has numbers on a small white label. The base of the reverse has two small holes, each with indentations from something round. The backing board has indentations from nails no longer there. There are remnants of the original hanging wire, but this has been replaced. Part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection.FRONT: Top left :1874” Top right “GAB MAX” [Gabriel Cornelius von Max] Handwritten script under the picture “Jesus Christus”. Printed bottom left on front “A33 © REINTHAL & NEWMAN PUBS. N.Y.” REVERSE: “162” written in black felt pen on white label. Pencilled on reverse "11 3/8 x 9 1/4" and "Kodak" and other indecipherable markings.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, christian art, picture of jesus christ, jesus christus, photographic print of jesus christ, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angel’s club, religious worship, reinthal & newman new york, jesus christ with crown of thorns, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, harbor lights guild, joy club for fighters, ladies lightkeepers’ auxiliary, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, print, religious print, jesus christ, 1874, 19th century artist, gabriel cornelius von max, gab max, gabriel max, reinthal & newman, oil painting, st nicholas seamen's church, a33 © reinthal & newman pubs. n.y., kodak, house of art, williamstown lighthouse keepers' auxiliary -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Tool - Candle Snuffer, Harris and Sheldon, circa 1840
This mechanical candle snuffer tool was made in Birmingham, England, by Harris and Sheldon Ltd. The candle snuffer was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Street, Williamstown, Victoria. It was donated to Flagstaff Hill and is part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection The enterprise of Harris and Sheldon was established in 1880 by Sydney Harris. They made shop fittings such as cabinets, shelving, cupboards, tables and stationery. During WWII, they made aircraft parts, ammunition boxes and pumps. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History): - The Missions to Seamen was an Anglican charity in Great Britain that has served the world's seafarers since 1856. Its symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today, there are centres in over 200 ports worldwide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria, the organisation began in Williamstown in 1857 as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’ in an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In 2000, the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres, such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943, a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seamen Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, and the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981, and resembles the Williamstown chapel. This candle snuffing tool is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. It is also significant as a rare Candle snuffer tool. A bamboo and brass pole with a spring-action handle that operates a brass pinching mechanism at the other end. The mechanism has been inserted into the hollow bamboo handle. Maker's inscription on the pinching mechanism. Made in Birmingham, England, by Harris & Sheldon Ltd. This is one of the original items in our st Nicholas Seamen's Church Collection."HARRIS & SHELDON LTD.", "BIRMINGHAM"religious service, harris and sheldon ltd, birmingham manufacturer, sydney harris, sailors rest, ladies harbour light guild, mission to seamen williamstown, library tool, flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, religion, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, joy club for fighters, ladies lightkeepers’ auxiliary, mission to seafarers, flying angel’s club, st nicholas seamen’s church williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, candle snuffer, candle extinguisher, flame snuffer, flame extinguisher, lighting, domestic lighting, extinguisher