In the words of the donor, Betty Stone, "This fitted writing slope box belonged to Ellis Dale of “Latrigg”, Wangoom, Warrnambool, and has an inscription “E. Dale”, hand written by Ellis on a small brass plaque featured on the lid. Ellis Dale, born 21 November 1860, was the second son of William and Elizabeth Dale, of Dale Bluestone Quarries Wangoom. He worked with his father at the quarries, and continued, after his father's death, to operate the family business with his son lvor until he died, aged 79 years, on 2 August 1940. Although the tradition was that the writing box was originally owned by Ellis's father, William Dale, there is some doubt that he brought it with him from England when he migrated in 1852 - however, we do know that it is at least one hundred years old. (Note: For additional information please refer to my book “Pioneers and Places - A History of three Warrnambool Pioneering Families” ie. Chamberlain, Dale and Lees Families)This item is associated with the Warrnambool pioneer families of Chamberlain, Dale and Lees. These families are listed in the Pioneers' Register for Warrnambool Township and Shire, 1835-1900, published by A.I.G.S. Warrnambool Branch. The item is significant for its association with a ‘glory box’ or hope chest’, a tradition of single ladies making and collecting a range of linen and other domestic items in preparation for their future marriage.Polished wooden Writing Slope or Travellers Desk. Owned by Ellis Dale. Box opens to be a sloped writing desk, with a leather writing surface decorated with a gold leaf border, and several compartments; one has a slightly concaved cover that pivots to open. Leather-covered boards hinge at the centre, and both sides lift, revealing further storage. Brass protectors on top corners, inlaid brass strengthening supports on two corners. Brass slide-releasing catches secure writing base as desk closes. The brass shield centre of the lid is engraved. Part of the 'Chamberlain Dale Lees Collection.Engraved shield on lid "E.Dale / Wangoom"flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, chamberlain, dale, lees, stone, betty stone, warrnambool pioneers, writing slope, writing box, traveller's desk, portable desk, lap desk, ellis dale