Historical information

Coolgardie safes were invented in the 1890s by Patrick McCormick in the Western Australian town of Coolgardie.
Coolgardie safes were usually placed in a draughty areas, often under verandas. The hessian was placed in the water and draped around the sides and the draft cooled the contents of the safe. The legs could be stood in another tray of water to deter ants.
This safe was bought at an auction at Orford by Laurie Gunnulson.

Physical description

Coolgardie safe has a box-shaped frame with wire mesh on the sides for air circulation. A four-legged tray for water is at the bottom. A piece of hessian hangs on one side (for demonstration purposes). The safe opens by a hinged door with a wire handle and there is a maker's name on the front. Inside it has a shelf in the middle. The safe is painted with Silvafros.

Inscriptions & markings

Simpson