Historical information

This dispenser was most likely used for holding and dispensing string. It was used in the Cramond and Dickson store, which operated in Warrnambool from 1855 + 1974.

John Glass Cramond and James Dickson migrated from Scotland to Melbourne where they opened a Cramond and Dickson store in St Kilda. They were inspired by the growth in Warrnambool after a visit and opened a second store there in 1855. The Cramond and Dickson store, grocers – drapery – ironmongery - chemist, was located on the corner of Liebig and Timor Streets, Warrnambool (now the site of a Mexican restaurant). Both Cramond and Dickson were involved in the business and social aspects of Warrnambool’s community. Cramond and Dickson closed in 1974.

An advertisement placed by Cramond and Dickson in The Camperdown Chronicle, Saturday 6th April 1895, states them “showing the latest novelties for the coming winter season” … “import directly from English and Continental manufacturers” … “representatives in London … always in touch with the Newest Continental Fashions” ... “having been established for so many years we know the requirements of the Western District”… “allow 5 percent discount on goods paid for at the time of purchase”.

[references: local historian John Lindsay, Warrnambool City Council’s CBD Heritage Trail leaflet, The Camperdown Chronicle, Facebook “Lost Warrnambool” site; WDHS Journal Volume 49 No2 2015]

Significance

The string dispenser is significant for being used at the local historical Cramond and Dickson department store in Warrnambool It is also of significance as it is an example of office equipment used in many stores for the wrapping and securing of parcels.

Physical description

Dispenser for string; spindle, reel or spool with cylindrical axle in centre, a wooden disc at each end. A length of wire is attached to each end and bend into a 'U' shape, with three loops formed across the base of the 'U'. Item came from Cramond and Dickson store in Warrnambool and was possibly used for dispensing string, with the wire being used as a handle or for mounting.