Historical information

Was attached to a wall near reception but was removed to storage in approx.. 2000 - 2002.
The bell has strong associations with the Victorian Railways Era reflecting the service and ethos of Railways with its uniformed Porters welcoming and on duty as Night Porter and day for all guests needs. (Especially lost keys) assistance with luggage, room service and co-ordinating transit and transport with Railways buses and services.
A personal recollection is of Joseph the Night Porter welcoming and assisting when as a family with four sleeping children we would arrive after midnight to the Chalet where rooms would be ready, beds turned down and all unpacking of the car supervised by Joseph. (J. Skeggs)
"A number of specific items, which have been useful in the day to day operations of the Chalet, remain in the building with each complementing the other to provide context ,meaning and character to their setting. Items such as the hall porter bell, the many signs providing information to the guests, the wall clock, barometer and dinner bell point to the Chalet being a well-run social institution with a pleasant environment for rest, recreation and congenial company." (Pg 81 Historica, MBCC)

Significance

Listed in Draft Inventory of Significant Collection items A.3 Fixtures and Fitttings. (Pg 165. Historica MBCC)

Physical description

Circular brass disc with inner (separate ) maroon button mounted in raised circular disc. Hall Porter is embossed with black colouring around half of outer, larger disc.

Inscriptions & markings

"HALL PORTER"