When the SMI was opened in Nov 1921 the Bendigo RSL Sub - Branch had occupancy from that day on. The Building became a Museum opened to the public in 1998 by the RSL. The origins of this project goes back to 2011 with a letter to the City of Greater Bendigo of the possibility of an upgrade to the SMI from the Bendigo District RSL Sub - Branch Inc. Some renovations had already taken place and some structural work. After initial talks a sub - committee of 3 persons from the RSL was elected to work with the Council along with other bodies who would be involved. Plans eventuated by 2015 and were put to the RSL for approval. From there the fund raising began from the State/Federal Govt's, RSL, the Public and Council itself. This was achieved and finally in Sept 2016 the SMI/Museum was packed up completely and the Renovations began in 2017. Souvenir program, card yellow colour folding, front page is in gold and black writing with an image of the Dome on the SMI followed by in gold, "Bendigo Soldiers Memorial Institute Revitalisation Project" then in gold, "Souvenir Program", in the centre has details re time, date, place. At the bottom are the logo's of the Federal & State Governments, RSL and City of Greater Bendigo Page 2 is titled "About the Bendigo Soldiers Memorial Institute" with a photo showing the "Hustlers Royal Reserve Mine No 2" which was on the site where the SMI now stands. Page 3 has details of the program, music, Official welcome, speakers, ribbon cutting, the ODE, Last Post, National Anthem, close of formalities and light refreshments. Page 4 has a photo of the original souvenir pamphlet used at the original opening on November 15th 1921, 97 years to the day. at the bottom, "Thankyou section to all those involved in the project""Official opening of the Bendigo Soldiers Memorial Institute Revitalisation and Military Museum 10am Thursday November 15, 2018, Lansell gardens, Pall, Mall Bendigo"brsl, smirsl, program

The Old Bus Author: Charles Kingsford Smith Publisher: Herald Press Date: 1932 Label on spine cover with typed text RA 629.1 SMI warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, the old bus, charles kingsford smith, smithy

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1942 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Encyclopaedia of Gold and Silver Coins of The World Publisher: A M Smith Date: 1886Label on spine with typed text 730 SMI Front endpaper has a sticker from Corangamite Regional Library Service

This item was originally hanging over the double doors inside the Billiard Room of the Soldiers Memorial Institute pre being a Museum in 1998. After the renovations to the SMI 2016 - 18 it was placed on the other side of the double doors in the foyer. It is not clear when this item came to the SMI but it was many years prior to SMI becoming a museum.Very large framed black and white print of a painting of " The Landing of the Anzacs, 25th April, 1915" from original by Charles Dixon R.I 1915. Title - Presented to White Hills Reading Room by Vernon Rymer ESQ, November 14th, 1921. Frame - heavy timber, dark brown stain with gold painted inner edge, glass front. Mount - Off white cardboardBelow print/painting - Block printing - title of painting " THE LANDING OF THE ANZACs 25 April 1915 , Presented to White Hills Reading Room by Vernon Rymer ESQ" brsl, smirsl

WARRNAMBOOL MECHANICS’ INSTITUTE Warrnambool's Mechanics' Institute (or Institution as it was sometimes called) was one of the earliest in Victoria. On 17th October 1853, a meeting was held where it was resolved to request the Lieutenant Governor of the Colony to grant land for the erection of a Mechanics' Institutes building. A committee was formed at the meeting and Richard Osburne chaired the first meeting of this committee. The land on the North West corner of Banyan and Merri Streets was granted but there were no funds to erect the building. The Formal Rights of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute's encompassed its aims and these were officially adopted in1859; "This Institution has for its object the diffusion of literary, scientific, and other useful knowledge amongst its members, excluding all controversial subjects, religious or political. These objects are sought to be obtained by means of a circulating library, a reading room, the establishment of classes, debates, and the occasional delivery of lectures on natural and experimental philosophy, mechanics, astronomy, chemistry, natural history, literature, and the useful and ornamental arts, particularly those which have a more immediate reference to the colony." The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute opened its first reading room in November 1884 in the National School building at the corner of Banyan and Timor Streets. The Institute was funded by member subscription, payable on a quarterly, half-yearly or yearly basis. Samuel Hannaford, the Manager of the Warrnambool Bank of Australasia, was the first Honorary Secretary of the Mechanics' Institutes, and an early President and Vice-President. He also gave several of the early lectures in the Reading Room. Another early Secretary, Librarian and lecturer was Marmaduke Fisher, the teacher at the National School. Lecture topics included The Poets and Poetry of Ireland', 'The Birth and Development of the Earth', 'The Vertebrae - with Remarks on the pleasures resulting from the study of Natural History' and 'Architecture'. In 1856 the Reading Room was moved to James Hider's shop in Timor Street, and by 1864 it was located in the bookshop of Davies and Read. In the 1860's the Mechanics' Institute struggled as membership waned but in 1866, after a series of fundraising efforts, the committee was able to purchase land in Liebig Street, on a site then called Market Square, between the weighbridge and the fire station. A Mechanics' Institute building was opened at this site in August 1871. The following year four more rooms were added to the main Reading Room and in 1873 the Artisan School of Design was incorporated into the Institute. The same year Joseph Archibald established a Museum; however, it deteriorated when he was transferred to Bendigo in 1877. In 1880, with Archibald's return to Warrnambool, the Museum was re-established, and in 1885 a new building was built at the back of the Institute to accommodate the re-created School of Design, the Art Gallery and the Museum. In 1887 the Museum section was moved to the former courthouse in Timor Street (for some time the walls of the building formed part of the TAFE cafeteria but all is now demolished)). In 1911 the Museum was transferred back to the original building and the management of the Mechanics' Institute was handed over to the Warrnambool City Council. The Museum and Art Gallery became one and housed many fine works of art, and the Library continued to grow. The building was well patronised, with records showing that at the beginning of the 20th century there were between 500 and 800 visitors. During World War One the monthly figures were in the thousands, with 3,400 people visiting in January 1915. The Museum was a much-loved Institution in Warrnambool until the contents of the Museum and Art Gallery were removed to make room for the Warrnambool City Council Engineers' Department. The contents were stored but many of the items were scattered or lost. When the original building was demolished the site became occupied by the Civic Centre, which included the new City Library. (The library was temporarily located in the old Palais building in Koroit Street.) In the process of reorganisation the Collection was distributed amongst the community groups: -The new City Library took some of the historical books and some important documents, historic photographs and newspapers. -The Art Gallery kept the 19th Century art collection and some of the artefacts from the museum. -The Historical Society has some items -The State Museum has some items -Some items were destroyed -Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village has old newspapers, Government Gazettes, most of the Mechanics' Institute Library, ledgers and documents connected to the Mechanics' Institute Library, some framed and unframed artworks and some photographs. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Library book collection is deemed to be of great importance because it is one of the few collections in an almost intact state, and many of the books are now very rare and of great value Sky Pilot In Arnhem Land Author: K Langford Smith Publisher: Angus & Robertson Date: 1935 The label on spine cover has 919.4 SMI handwritten in white ink Inside Front, loose endpaper has a sticker from Warrnambool Mechanics Institute flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, book, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, warrnambool public library, sky pilot in arnhem land, k langford smith

Photo L to R/ John Howard Prime Minister of Australia shaking hands with John Henry Lockett, in the background is Mr Bruce Reid MHR and behind Jack is Kevin Lockett Jacks son. This photo was taken in the Billiard room of the Soldiers Memorial Institute Pall Mall Bendigo on 21 7.1998 when Jack was presented with the French Legion of Honour by the French Ambassador Dominique Giraud. Refer Cat No's 8143, 8144 & 8145.10PFramed photograph of Jack Lockett Aged 107 with the Australian Prime Minister Mr John Howard. Photograph: colour photograph of 2 persons shaking hands with 2 persons in background. Frame: timber with brushed gold coloured paint glass front. Mount: mid-grey colour cardboard. Label plate: gold colour metal bottom centre. Back of frame: Handwriting red ink.Label plate: engraved print. "PRESENTED BY THE / PMC AND MEMBERS/ VICTORIA BARRACKS SERGEANTS MESS" smi, smirsl, photograph, lockett

This print was originally hanging in the foyer at the entrance to the Billiard room pre the SMI becoming a Military Museum.A Sister of the Army Nursing Service Maple coloured timber glass front, cardboard back. Coloured print by Ivor Hele with white boarder. Female figure in sitting position in nurses uniform.with steel helmet in left hand. Under the print, “A sister of the Army Nursing service” On label under print. “In Memory of Able Seaman W Haas RAN This print along with the overhead flag display was presented to the Bendigo RSL Sub Branch by Cpl J ROWELL in memory of Able seaman W.HAAS. R.A.N”. brsl, smirsl, ivor hele, nurse

This sign was situated outside the Soldiers Memorial Institute building in Pall Mall Bendigo. It was in the centre space of the Portico. It was taken down approximately 1999 - 2000 due to damage. It was then put in storage and when the Renovations were completed to the SMI in 2018 it was then placed in what is now the Building/RSL/history room of the Bendigo Military Museum SMI.Sign, timber rectangular shape construction, illuminated face on both sides, faces are yellow background with red text "RSL BENDIGO", illumination is via one globe, at the top are two eyelets for holding in place.brsl, smirsl, sign, rsl bendigo

The photographs were taken at a Bendigo RSL Sub Branch Annual Dinner held in the Soldiers Memorial Institute Building Main Hall. The Bendigo Womens RSL Auxiliary catered for their Annual Dinners. .1) Photo left - right. Norm Smart thanking the Ladies for their efforts and Propose a Toast to the Ladies. Peter Dodd, Greta Balsillie, Jaqui Stevens, Christine Bates, Margaret Dodd, Margaret Andrea, Lyn Boulton, Dorothy Osgood. .2) Greta Balsillie, Lyn Boulton, Margaret Andrea. .3) Dorothy Osgood, Margaret Dodd. The date is possibly 1998. Norm Smart refer Cat No 8131.2P, Ladies Auxiliary Refer Cat No 8021, 8107.Three colour photographs relating to Bendigo RSL Sub Branch Annual Dinners. .1) Shows a man in shirt and tie with microphone with another man and 7 Ladies outside a doorway. .2) Shows 3 of the ladies in the kitchen at SMI. .3) Shows 2 of the Ladies in the same place. Text in red pen on rear of .1)On rear of .1) is a list of the people in the photo.brsl, smirsl, anuual, dinner, auxiliary, wabrsl

.1) Balance sheet, pages 1 & 2 report by the President cover Membership, ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day, Hospital & Benevolent Home, Govenor's visit, Unit Clubs, 27th District Board, Carnival, Finance, Relief Fund, Building Improvements Fund, Club Building fund, Donations, Appreciations, Obituary, Committee, Pilgrimage to Cross (Mt Macedon), Pages 3 & 4 are detailed Income Expenditure of the 5 Accounts of the Sub Branch. The report also mentions the first Life Membership of the sub Branch to Dr Harold Catford. .3) Letter addressed to B.J. Bubb. This is Bruce John Bubb VX108474 2nd AIF..1) Report and Balance sheet Bendigo Sub Branch for the year 1947, all type in black re the finance and activities of this Sub Branch of the "Returned Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen's Imperial League of Australia, 4 pages folding in total. .2) Letter re yearly membership subscription reminder of the Bendigo Branch that membership is due on the 1st January each year. .3) Envelope, light brown, has green stamp, Sub Branch details and addressed to underlined in red.Main Points, .1) "To be presented at the Annual Meeting of Members to be held at the Memorial Hall on Friday 13th February 1948 at 8pm" .3) "Mr B.J.Bubb White Hills"brsl, smi, rsl, report, balance

Book. ALEC H CHISHOLM COLLECTION. 128 page leather bound soft cover book of six poems by Alexander Smith. Published about 1915 by W. P. Nimmo, Hay and Mitchell, Edinburgh. Printed by Morrison & Gibb Ltd, Edinburgh. Catalogue sticker ''2074 SMI'' on spine. Handwritten in ink on flyleaf ''Pleasant memories from AHC Maryborough Oct 1915''Alexander Smithbooks, collections, poetry, alec h chisholm collection, alexander smith, poetry

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. An Inquiry Into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations Author: Adam Smith Publisher: George Routledge and Sons Ltd Date: 1895Label on spine cover with typed text R.H 330.9 SMI Pastedown front endpaper has sticker from Corangamite Regional Library Service Front loose endpaper has a stamp from Corangamite Regional Library Service warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, pattison collection, warrnambool library, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, an inquiry into the nature and causes of the wealth of nations, adam smith

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. WARRNAMBOOL'S MECHANICS' INSTITUTE Warrnambool's Mechanics' Institute (or Institution as it was sometimes called) was one of the earliest in Victoria. On 17th October 1853 a meeting was held where it was resolved to request the Lieutenant Governor of the Colony to grant land for the erection of a Mechanics' Institutes building. A committee was formed at the meeting and Richard Osburne chaired the first meeting of this committee. The land on the North West corner of Banyan and Merri Streets was granted but there were no funds to erect the building. The Formal Rights of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute's encompassed its aims and these were officially adopted in1859; "This Institution has for its object the diffusion of literary, scientific, and other useful knowledge amongst its members, excluding all controversial subjects, religious or political. These objects are sought to be obtained by means of a circulating library, a reading room, the establishment of classes, debates, and the occasional delivery of lectures on natural and experimental philosophy, mechanics, astronomy, chemistry, natural history, literature, and the useful and ornamental arts, particularly those which have a more immediate reference to the colony." The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute opened its first reading room in November1884 in the National School building at the corner of Banyan and Timor Streets. The Institute was funded by member subscription, payable on a quarterly, half yearly or yearly basis. Samuel Hannaford, the Manager of the Warrnambool Bank of Australasia, was the first Honorary Secretary of the Mechanics' Institutes, and an early President and Vice-President. He also gave several of the early lectures in the Reading Room. Another early Secretary, Librarian and lecturer was Marmaduke Fisher, the teacher at the National School. Lecture topics included The Poets and Poetry of Ireland', 'The Birth and Development of the Earth', 'The Vertebrae - with Remarks on the pleasures resulting from the study of Natural History' and 'Architecture'. In 1856 the Reading Room was moved to James Hider's shop in Timor Street, and by 1864 it was located in the bookshop of Davies and Read. In the 1860's the Mechanics' Institute struggled as membership waned but in 1866, after a series of fund raising efforts, the committee was able to purchase land in Liebig Street, on a site then called Market Square, between the weighbridge and the fire station. A Mechanics' Institute building was opened at this site in August 1871. The following year four more rooms were added to the main Reading Room and in 1873 the Artisan School of Design was incorporated into the Institute. The same year Joseph Archibald established a Museum; however it deteriorated when he was transferred to Bendigo in 1877. In 1880, with Archibald's return to Warrnambool, the Museum was re-established, and in 1885 a new building was built at the back of the Institute to accommodate the re-created School of Design, the Art Gallery and the Museum. In 1887 the Museum section was moved to the former court house in Timor Street (for some time the walls of the building formed part of the TAFE cafeteria but all is now demolished)). In 1911 the Museum was transferred back to the original building and the management of the Mechanics' Institute was handed over to the Warrnambool City Council. The Museum and Art Gallery became one and housed many fine works of art, and the Library continued to grow. The building was well patronised, with records showing that at the beginning of the 20th century there were between 500 and 800 visitors. During World War One the monthly figures were in the thousands, with 3,400 people visiting in January 1915. The Museum was a much loved Institution in Warrnambool until the contents of the Museum and Art Gallery were removed to make room for the Warrnambool City Council Engineers' Department. The contents were stored but many of the items were scattered or lost. When the original building was demolished the site became occupied by the Civic Centre, which included the new City Library. (The library was temporarily located in the old Palais building in Koroit Street.) In the process of reorganisation the Collection was distributed amongst the community groups: -The new City Library took some of the historic books and some important documents, historic photographs and newspapers. -The Art Gallery kept the 19th Century art collection and some of the artefacts from the museum. -The Historic Society has some items -The State Museum has some items -Some items were destroyed -Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village has old newspapers, Government Gazettes, most of the Mechanics' Institute Library, ledgers and documents connected to the Mechanics' Institute Library, some framed and unframed art works and some photographs. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Library book collection is deemed to be of great importance because it is one of the few collections in an almost intact state, and many of the books are now very rare and of great value. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Lives of The Engineers Early Engineering. Vermuyden - Myddelton - Perry - James Brindley Author: Samuel Smiles Publisher: John Murray Date: 1874Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 929 SMI Pastedown front endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Mechanics Institute and Free Library Front loose endpaper has a sticker from Corangamite Regional Library Service warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, lives of the engineers, vermuyden, myddelton, perry, james brindley, samuel smiles

This cabinet with the "Book of Remembrance" (refer Cat No 8010) was originally placed in the foyer (vestibule) of the Soldiers Memorial Institute Bendigo in 1926. After the renovations to the SMI 2016 - 18 it was then placed in what is now the "Building and RSL History Room"Cabinet heavy timber construction with four legs, has a glass top that opens at the front and lockable. Has a red felt inset for the "BOOK of REMEMBRANCE". At the back of the cabinet set at an angle is a brass plaque with an inscription in black and red with scrolls around. The plaque is on a timber backing attached to the cabinet."THIS CABINET and BOOK of REMEMBRANCE inscribed with the revered names of members of the AIF who enlisted from the Bendigo Military District and served in the GREAT WAR of 1914 - 1919 together with the names of those who subscribed to defray the cost of the Roll of HONOR on the FRONTAGE of this HALL were donated by MAJOR GEO.V.L. LANSELL, V.D. PRESIDENT of the BENDIGO R.S & S.I.L.A as a token of gratitude for the generous and spontaneous public response to the appeal launched and conducted by him for the completion of the BENDIGO SOLDIERS MEMORIAL"brsl, smirsl, remembrance

These envelopes were last used by Jack Barnes OAM who was Secretary of the Sub Branch for 43 years until 2005. The P.O box Number was Bendigo Central and last used by the SMI Museum (RSL) for a couple of years and then closed..1) .4) Envelopes white colours, all have been stamped in blue with a return address, under is the section for Post code."The Secretary Bendigo District RSL Sub Branch Inc - Box 449 Bendigo 3552"brsl, smirsl, accessory

This plaque was originally placed in the Foyer (or vestibule on the original plans) of the Soldiers Memorial Institute Bendigo in 1921. After the renovations to the SMI 2016 - 18 it was placed in what was originally called "The Writing Room" now named "The Building and RSL History Room"Plaque brass with engraved writing in black attached by 4 screws to a backing piece on a wall."This Lounge was furnished by the Municipal Branch of the Australian Comforts Fund"brsl, smirsl, comforts

This item was placed in what was originally the "Writing Room" of the Soldiers Memorial Institute Bendigo when it was opened in 1921. After the renovations to SMI 2016 - 18 it was placed back in the same position. This room is now called the "Building and RSL History Museum.Coat and hat rack timber construction rectangular shape, has six hangars at top and six at the bottom. Each hangar holds two items, top hangars are different style to the bottom. A small silver oval plaque is central at the bottom.On the plaque, "Presented by the Pioneer Comforts Fund"brsl, smirsl, comforts

This clock was placed in what was called the "Writing Room" of the Soldiers Memorial Institute when it was opened in 1921. After the renovations to the SMI in 2016 - 18 the clock was placed back in the same position in what is now called "The Building and RSL History Room".Pendulum Wall Clock, timber frame with glass front insets in door, clock face has Roman Numerals, chimes on the hour and half hour, wind up key inside. A small silver plaque is on the front bottom space.On clock face under hands, "J.T. Knowlton & Co watch makers Bendigo". Around edge of clock face, "W.M.L Gilbert Clock Co Winsted Conn U.S.A" On small Plaque, "Presented by Pioneer Comforts Fund 15.11.1921"brsl, smirsl, domestic

This map originally came via Mitiamo East Loddon RSL who when they closed their Sub branch the map and their records were handed to the Bendigo RSL for safe keeping. It was framed and was hanging in the Office of the SMI until the renovations to the building in 2016.Dark green mount with brown wooden frame. Brown printing on cream paper. Perspex covering map.Top centre of map: “Returned Sailors, Soldiers & Airmen's Imperial League of Australia Map of Victoria showing Sub Branches 1949” Stamped on rear: Bethany Gallery. Traditionally a touch of Excellence Terry ? Jarvis, 116 Bridge Street, Bendigo Vic 3550 Ph (03) 5442 4771brsl, smirsl, map rsl's

This plaque was originally placed in the Foyer of the Soldiers Memorial Institute Bendigo. After the restoration to the SMI in 2016 - 18 it was then placed in what is now called the Building and RSL History Room. Refer Cat No 8012P re George Lansell's service and RSL history.Plaque brass rectangular shape, has inscriptions in black, has six screws securing it to a timber backing board on a wall."This tablet placed here by the Members as a mark of esteem and respect. Col. Sir George V. Lansell President Bendigo Sub Branch R.S.S.A.I.L.A 1920 - 52. A Soldiers Friend"brsl, smirsl, plaque

Latin-English Dictionary Author: William Smith Publisher: John Murray Date: 1871 Further Information: Black front cover and brown Spine with gilt lettering and library reference label. non-fictionThis 1871 English-Latin dictionary by William Smith and Theophilus D. Hall is a reference work for translating English words and phrases into Latin, with definitions, usage notes and classical examples to guide correct classical Latin style. It is not a narrative book; it is a scholarly language tool designed for students, teachers and translators.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, latin-english dictionary, william smith

These Office chairs were originally placed in the front Office of the Soldiers Memorial Institute in 1921funded by the "Australian Mining Comforts Fund" and remained in use till approx 2012 when the Office was renovated. After the renovations to SMI in 2016 -18 they were then placed in what is now called the "Building and RSL History Room".1) & .2) Captain style chairs, solid timber construction, curved arm rests and heavy back rest. .3) .4) Padded cushions of white colour, one is very old the other purchased about 2007 to match.Under both seats just readable, "Melbourne ------ Co PTY --2 Down St Collingwood - European labour only"brsl, smirsl, comforts

This table was installed originally in the front office of the Soldiers Memorial Institute Bendigo 1921 funded by the "Australian Mining Comforts Fund". It was still in use up till approx 2012 when the office was renovated. After the renovations to SMI in 2016 - 18 it was installed in what is now called the "Building and RSL History Room"Office desk, heavy timber construction rectangular shape, has two pull out side drawer's that originally had a filing system in, one pullout drawer central in the sit position. Side drawers have steel handles, central one timber.brsl, smirsl, comforts

This plaque was originally placed in the Foyer (Vestibule on original plans) of the Soldiers Memorial Institute Bendigo in 1921. After closure in 2016-18 for the renovations to SMI the plaque was then placed in what was originally called the "Writing Room" now called "The Building and RSL History Room". The plaque had the gold paint renewed about 2012 - 15.Plaque marble, grey with streaks of white through, inscription is engraved with Gold paint. The plaque is attached via 2 screws to a backing board on a wall."38th BATTALION COMFORTS FUND supplied portion of the funds for this building. Rene Neill Hon Sec"brsl, smirsl, 38th

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. WARRNAMBOOL PUBLIC LIBRARY The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) was formed by a voluntary community group in 1863, within six years of Warrnambool’s beginnings, and its Reading Room opened in 1854. The WMI operated until 1963, at which time it was one of the oldest Mechanics’ Institutes in Victoria. Mechanics’ Institutes offered important services to the public including libraries, reading rooms and places to display and store collections of all sorts such as curiosities and local historical relics. In 1886 a Museum and Fine Arts Gallery were added to the WMI and by the beginning of the 20th century there was also a billiards room and a School of Art. By this time all Mechanics’ Institutes in country Victoria had museums attached. Over the years the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Library was also known as the Warrnambool Public Library the Warrnambool Library and the Free Library. Early funding from the government was for the “Free Library”. The inscription in a book “Science of Man” was for the “Warrnambool Public Library”, donated by Joseph Archibald in 1899. Another inscription in the book “Catalogue of Plants Under Cultivation in the Melbourne Botanic Gardens 1 & 2, 1883” was presented to the “Warrnambool Library” and signed by the author W.R. Guilfoyle. In 1903 the Warrnambool Public Library decided to add a Juvenile Department to library and stock it with hundreds of books suitable for youth. In 1905 the Public Library committee decided to update the collection of books and added 100 new novels plus arrangements for the latest novels to be included as soon as they were available in Victoria. In July 1911 the Warrnambool Council took over the management of the Public Library, Art Gallery, Museum and Mechanics’ Institute and planned to double the size of the then-current building. In 1953, when Mr. R. Pattison was Public Librarian, the Warrnambool Public Library’s senior section 10,000 of the 13,000 books were fiction. The children’s section offered an additional 3,400 books. The library had the equivalent of one book per head of population and served around 33 percent of the reading population. The collection of books was made up of around 60 percent reference and 40 percent fiction. The library was lending 400 books per day. In 1963 the Warrnambool City Council allocated the site of the Mechanics’ Institute building, which included the Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery, for the new Municipal Offices and the Collections were dispersed until 1971. The Warrnambool Library took over the Mechanics’ Institute Library’s holdings on behalf of the Warrnambool City Council. Since the closure of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute the exact location and composition of the original WMI books and items has become unclear. Other materials have been added to the collection, including items from Terang MI, Warrnambool Court House and Customs House. Many of the books have been identified as the Pattison Collection, named after the Librarian who catalogued and numbered the books during his time as Warrnambool Public Librarian in the time before the Mechanics’ Institute closed. It seems that when Warrnambool became part of the Corangamite Regional Library some of the books and materials went to its head office in Colac and then back to Warrnambool where they were stored at the Art Gallery for quite some time. Some then went to the Warrnambool Historical Society, some stayed at the Art Gallery and some were moved to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. The various stamps and labels on the books held at Flagstaff Hill show the variety of the collection’s distribution and origin. The books in the collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village date from the 1850’s to the late 1950’s and include rare and valuable volumes. Many of the books are part of the “Pattison Collection” after the Warrnambool’s Public Librarian, Mr. R. Pattison. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, and to reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. As with many Mechanics' Institutes in Australia, the one which operated in Warrnambool was established and overseen for many years by key individuals associated with the development of the city itself. The WMI publication collection is historically significant because of its association with local people, places and the key historical themes in the development of Warrnambool of rural development, industry, farming, education, and community. The collection documents and illustrates the changing interests, focus and tastes of Victorians, especially those in regional cities. Generally the individual items in the collection are not particularly rare, as examples of all probably exist in other public collections in Victoria. It is primarily because there are so very few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections in Victoria, which lends this overall collection its significance. Many items in the WMI Collection have the potential to support further research, both as individual objects and through the collection in its entirety. This material is significant for its ability to assist in the interpretation of the history of the area and adds to the general understanding of the development of the township. Many components of the WMI publication collection complement and reinforce the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum Collection, the Warrnambool Art Gallery Collection, and that in the Warrnambool Historical Society, and also contribute to a clearer understanding of the original Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute collections. This will greatly enhance the appreciation of the few surviving Mechanics' Institute collections across Victoria, and also in New South Wales. The similarities and differences between the small number of collections that have survived can provide further insights into how the people of Victoria in general, and Warrnambool in particular, constructed a civic culture of adult learning to foster an informed citizenry. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute publication collection is of both local and state significance. Men of Invention and Industry Author: Samuel Smiles Publisher: John Murray Date: 1884Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 920 SMI Pastedown front endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Public Library Front loose endpaper has a sticker from Corangamite Regional Library Service Front loose endpaper has a stamp from Corangamite Regional Library Service warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, men of invention and industry, samuel smiles

This plaque was originally in the Foyer (vestibule on the original plans) of the Soldiers Memorial Institute Bendigo to compliment framed photos of Soldiers who never came home from the Great War. This was unveiled on ANZAC Day 1927. After the closure of the SMI for renovations 2016 - 18 the plaque was placed in what was originally called "The Writing Room" now called "The Building and RSL history Room"Plaque brass with curved corners with inscribed text in black with several scrolls around. Plaque is attached via 4 screws to a backing board onto a wall.“THIS GALLERY of HONOR Instituted by the Bendigo Branch of the RS&SILA exclusively contains portraits of members of the AIF who in the service to King and Empire made the supreme sacrifice in the Great War 1914 - 1919 into the imperishable memory of the priceless heritage beqeathed by them to the nation. This Gallery is dedicated in reverent gratitude”brsl, smirsl, plaque

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Reminiscences Auhtor: Goldwin Smith, edited by Arnold Haultan Publisher: The MacMillan Company Date: 1910Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 920 SMI Pastedown front endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Mechanics Institute and Free Library Front loose endpaper has a stamp from Corangamite Regional Library Service Front loose endpaper has a sticker from Corangamite Regional Library Servicewarrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, reminiscences, goldwin smith, arnold haultan

GEORGE VICTOR LANSELL is the longest serving President of the Bendigo RSL 1925 - 1952 and then 1954 - 57. He was awarded Life Membership and Life Membership with Gold Badge in 1956. This photo was originally hanging in the Billiard Room SMI. It was moved to the Foyer post 2000 to be with a plaque Cat No 8013. After the renovations to SMI 2016 -18 it was then placed in what is now called the "Building and RSL History Room". This is not the original photo that was placed in 1926. George Victor Lansell had prior service in the 67th Militia BN before WW1. He enlisted in the AIF with A Coy 38th Bn on 1.5.1916 age 32 years 7 months. He was appointed Coy Commander of A Coy. Embark for England 20.6.1916, hospital 19.8.1916 with Influenza, rejoin unit 25.8.1916, embark for France 22.11.1916, WIA 1.12.1916 grazed by a bullet to right forehead, suffering from concussion and other complications he was returned to Australia on 12.5.1917 and discharged from the AIF on 11.8.1917. Timber frame painted gold, black & white portrait of Sir George Lansell wearing a suit and tie, RSL badge on coat. Below photo: "Sir George Lansell KB CMG VD MLC President Bendigo Sub Branch RSSAILA” 1926-1951"brsl, smirsl, 38th

This clock was originally in the front Office of the Soldiers Memorial Institute Bendigo on the mantlepiece of the fireplace. Original donor or date of being placed is unknown. It was last used in 2005 by Jack Barnes OAM who wound it every day he was in the Office, he was Secretary for 43 years of the BRSL. After the renovations to the SMI in 2016 - 18 it was placed on the mantlepiece of the fireplace in what is now called "The Building and RSL History Room"Mantle Piece Clock, timber frame, hinged glass cover over the face is missing, numbers are 1 - 12 on clock face, rear door to the mechanism, a pendulum weight is taped to the inside, no wind up key.On Clock face, "Gilbert". Around clock face, "Made in Winsted Conn United States of America"brsl, smirsl, mantle

The 3 membership cards belonged to Peter Ball. The Servicemen's Club was a Co Operative Society of the 3 Bendigo RSL Sub Branche's, Bendigo, Kangaroo Flat & Eaglehawk. In the year 2000 the Club became Bendigo District RSL Sub Branch Inc. Peter was a Bendigo RSL delegate on the Co Operative Society for the years 1998 - 2000. He was a Committee Member Bendigo RSL & Bendigo District RSL from 1996 - 2010, 2012 - 2015, Jnr Vice President 1998 - 2002, Snr Vice 2003 - 2008. From 1997 - current has been involved with the RSL Museum at SMI as a guide, Museum Curator 1998 to 2015, Chairman Museum Sub Committee 2003 to 2015, Sub Committee member 1997 to 2015, 2019 to current, other involvement since 1996 in Commemorative events, Appeals and Welfare to current, SMI Revitalization program Sub Committee 2011 to 2015, Memorial Walls Sub Committee 2010 to 2015. Refer also Cat No 4704.Three Membership cards all different to the Bendigo & District Servicemen's Club. .1) Orange card laminated one sided for the year 1994 No 421. .2) Blue card unlaminated one sided for the year 1995 No 0276. .3) Green card laminated double sided for the year 1996 No 421, has image of the club on the front, rear has details re Club address, some rules and place for Members signature."Bendigo & District Servicemen's Club 73 - 75 Havilah Rd Bendigo 3550".brsl, smirsl, bdsc, membership