Historical information

This book relates the story of one family in the early settlement of Victoria from the perspective of Sarah Midgley from 1851 to 1861 and in the case of Richard Skilbeck 1858 though to 1864. They lived and worked on their farm on the outskirts of Warrnambool at Yangery. The diaries relate the story of their work on the farm travels through the district and in their local Wesleyan church and social life.

Significance

This book provides a detailed and first- hand view of early pioneering life. The Skilbeck family was an important part of life in the Yangery- Koroit area where they farmed for close to 150 years.

Physical description

Tan hard covered book with tan and yellow dust jacket. Title and text is black. Front cover has framed drawing of cottage taken from photograph which is included in the book. Map of area is on inside front and back covers.208 pages. It has a number of black and white photographic plates included.

Inscriptions & markings

To Wyn Mum and Bonny? From the Crutchfields Christmas 1970 written in blue pen on title page of book. Forward (to clarify the story) written by Harry McCorkell.