Historical information

Part of a suite of materials used by Air Raid Precautions (ARP) wardens in Kew in the Second World War. Air raid wardens managed groups of people in using air raid facilities that were constructed throughout the district. The ARP scheme was based on that developed in the United Kingdom. The collection of ARP items, originally belonging to Mr Samuel James Gare of Bowen Street, Kew, was donated five years after his death by his son.

Significance

Primary resources showing the materials and advice developed to protect civilians on the home front. Examples of such support in the Kew Historical Society's collection includes advice for authorised community representatives, insignia and equipment.

Physical description

White rubberised canvas armband with tape ties. Printed in black on the band is 'ARP/WARDEN'. A similar example in the Australian War Memorial's collection notes that this: "Example of the type of Air Raid Precaution (ARP) armband used by the State Emergency Service (SES) of Victoria during the Second World War; this style worn by ARP wardens. The Victorian style of armband differed from those of other states, and is indicative of the variety of ARP organisations found across the states."

Inscriptions & markings

Inscribed on reverse: "KH-2019"