Historical information

Officer's dress boot worn by Brigadier Geoffrey Austin Street MC who served in WWI at Gallipoli and on the Western Front. Following the war he was placed on the Reserve of Officers. He returned to military service in 1931 as Squadron Commander in the 4th Light Horse. He was promoted to the command of the regiment after l8 months' service, and finally to the command of the Third Cavalry Brigade which included the 8th Light Horse Regiment. Brigadier Street had entered Federal Parliament in 1934 and in November 1938 was seconded from military duties to serve as Minister for Defence in the Lyons Government . He was serving in this capacity in the Menzies government when he was killed in an air crash near Canberra on 13 August 1940.

Significance

Representarive example of officer's dress boots from the 'between the wars' period. Well preserved example of the boot makers art, complete and in good condition. Owned by well known Australian soldier and politician tragically killed at commencement of Second World War.

Physical description

Brown leather officer's dress boots with strap-on spurs and leather instep patch and under sole chain. Matching left and right wooden stretchers with metal handle on spreader wedge.

Subjects