Historical information
Many farming families in the district kept bees as a source of honey for home consumption. This item was made for use on the family farm. Most of the equipment used in the local industry was homemade.
Significance
During the early to mid 20th century bee keeping was a significant rural industry in Dunkeld and surrounding districts. It is believed that there were nearly twenty apiarists operating in the area. Honey in large quantities was railed to Melbourne for sale.
Physical description
Homemade bee smoker consisting of a copper cylindrical firebox and rectangular bellows constructed of wood and leather. Components are assembled with rivets, scrap wire, sheet metal, nuts and bolts and nails.
