Historical information

This printing plate was made for Dr Horace Holmes to be used by him as a calling card. Dr Horace Holmes, born in Tasmania in 1877, came to Warrnambool in 1905 taking over the practice of Dr Fleetwood at ‘Ierne’, at the corner of Spence and Kepler Streets. In 1906 he built a new home at the corner of Liebig Street and Raglan Parade and moved his practice there in 1912 (Currently occupied by Oz Child in 2024). Dr Holmes retired in 1939, briefly returned to medical practice as a locum during the war years, and died in 1959. He was a foundation member of the Warrnambool Rotary Club.

Significance

This printing plate is a significant item as it belonged to Dr Holmes, a prominent doctor and a leading community member in Warrnambool for 50 years. It also is a good example of a custom of the time – the use of a calling card when visiting homes or contacting clients and business people. (This practice continues today)

Physical description

This is a printing plate for Dr Horace Iles Holmes. It is made of brass and is quite worn, particularly on the reverse side where the name of the manufacturer is almost obliterated

Inscriptions & markings

Dr Horace Iles Holmes