Historical information

The Water supply in Moorabbin Shire was from streams - Elster Creek - and wells so that all people , -settlers, market gardeners, and travellers - needed to take a container with them when they were away from the household.. The Canvas water bag was convenient, easy to make and could be hung on a tree branch or carried on the horse, wagon, plough or later on the bumper bar of a car or truck. The canvas water bag allowed any wind or airflow to cool down the water, even on very hot days,

21G could be 21Gills = 5pints= 2Quarts = 1/2 Gallon approx. and suitable for a day working in the field = 4 Litres similar to a mineral water bottle today.

Significance

The water bag like this was the source of drinking water for market gardeners in Moorabbin Shire either when working in the fields or .travelling to the markets with their wagons loaded with produce.

Physical description

A canvas water bag, with an iron handle and plastic or bakelite drinking spout.

Inscriptions & markings

H.L. HARDWARE / ...KFITH 21G