Historical information

Gordon Hall was the first public building in Buchan. European settlement first entered the area in October 1838 and Buchan station was established in January 1839. Free selection after 1868, and a township was proclaimed in 1873 taking its name from the station.
The Grand ball was held on race night, Monday 28th December 1896 in the Gordon Hall at Buchan.
From the estate of Elsie Cooke. Elsie Cooke was a librarian in Orbost for many years. She was the daughter of John Cooke early Brodribb settler. Elsie Cooke lived all her life in Gippsland,. She was born at Brodribb in 1895 and died in 1970, Elsie Cooke lived at Bruthen for a short time and, in 1937, moved to live with her aunt, Miss Jean Munro. Miss Cooke was Librarian at the Mechanics Institute for many years. Kindness and consideration for other were Miss Cooke’s attributes and she endeared herself to all who knew her. She was a loyal member of the Presbyterian Church and a stalwart of the Ladies’ Guild, an energetic worker for the Municipal Auxiliary and a member of the Red Cross. (ref. Mary Gilbert)

Significance

This item reflects the recreational / social activities of a remote rural community. A public event such as a grand ball would have been a significant event on the calendar.

Physical description

Small, cream-coloured rectangular card with rounded edges and blank ink. Evidence of pin holes in each four corners and folds/signs of wear. Card is foxing and has small vertical tear in lower left quadrant.

Inscriptions & markings

+ GORDON x HALL, x BUCHAN. + / Race Night! - Race Night! / A GRAND BALL / Will be held in the Gordon Hall, Buchan, on / Monday, : 28th : December, : 1896. / ADMISSION : / +- SINGLE, THREE SHILLINGS -+