Historical information

This ruler was distributed and sold as an advertising tool for the Warrnambool business of Swintons’ Pty Ltd. William and Ann Swinton were pioneer settlers in Warrnambool and established a grocery and general store in 1865 in Timor Street. Today the Swinton family still has business interests in Timor Street. It appears that this ruler was used in the crockery department of the Swinton general store in the 1920s.

Significance

This ruler is of minor interest as a memento of the Swintons Timor Street store in the 1920s. Wooden rulers would have been used to a great degree in the 1920s, especially by school children.

Physical description

This is a wooden ruler with imperial measurements up to 12 inches. It is flat on one side and slightly curved on the other side. It has black printing on the top and handwritten black writing on the base. It has been well-used but is still relatively clean and legible.

Inscriptions & markings

‘A Safe Rule Always Purchase at Swintons’ Pty. Ltd. Warrnambool Buy the Best Pay the Least.’
‘Crockery Department 29/10/29’