Historical information

These ink wells have been used in the Warrnambool business of Swintons Pty Ltd in the mid 20th century. William and Ann Swinton migrated to Australia in 1854 and for a decade William Swinton worked as a builder and carpenter in the Warrnambool area, erecting many buildings, including the Wangoom Presbyterian Church. In 1865 he opened a store in Timor Street, Warrnambool, selling groceries, hardware, glassware and china. By 1888 the business was known as William Swinton and Sons. Branch stores were opened in Cudgee, Nullawarre, Wangoom, West Warrnambool and South Warrnambool. After William Swinton died his son became the first managing director of Swintons Pty Ltd. In 1934 the business split, with George Swinton and Sons selling clothing, furnishings and glassware and Swintons Pty Ltd selling produce, seeds and hardware. Today the Swinton family still operates a store in Timor Street, selling furniture and bedding.

Significance

These ink wells are of interest as examples of the office equipment used by the firm of Swintons Pty Ltd in the mid 20th century. The current Swinton store in Timor Street is the oldest family business in Warrnambool and, with the name Swinton associated with businesses in Timor Street, it is amongst the oldest family businesses in Australia.

Physical description

These are two black Bakelite ink wells. They have a rectangular-shaped base with a curved top with a rectangular-shaped container at the top for holding ink. The ink container has a sliding top which is worked by means of a small mechanism or button sliding up and down in a slot.