Historical information

Named to honour the work of John and Elizabeth Gould, 'The Gould League of Bird Lovers' was formed in 1909. It was originally set up to prevent bird egg collecting and to educate for the protection of Australian birds. Gould League members were recruited via schools and received membership certificates and badges. Members were encouraged to enter competitions in bird mimicry, write stories and poems and attend 'bird-day concerts'.
This certificate was owned to Ruth Scott of Nicholson Street Orbost when she was 10 years old. She was a member of the Gould League for 61 years. Ruth Scott, daughter of Herbert Scott and Bertha (nee Coverdale), married David Legge. Patricia Dawn Legge and Kevin David Legge are Ruth and David's children. There are Gould League certificates for both children in the collection.

Significance

The Gould League has made a significant impact on generations of Australians and their environmental attitudes. Being a Gould league member as a child in primary school gave children the opportunity to belong to a group that was learning about and protecting native bushland and its wildlife. Although not operating some Australian states the Gould League still functions in Victoria.

Physical description

A Gould League of Bird Lovers of Victoria membership certificate for Ruth Scott. It has colourful illustrations of native Australian birds on a pale yellow background. The illustrations are by A.T. Mockridge, an early 20th century Melbourne commercial artist and portraitist. In a banner at the top is a photo of John Gould with GOULD LEAGUE of BIRD LOVERS around it. It has a list of patrons, presidents and the Central Council. In the middle there is also the Bird Lover's Pledge signed by Ruth Scott..

Inscriptions & markings

The pledge has been signed by Ruth Scott.