Historical information

This cape may have belonged to RAN Telegraphist Norma Ashton Kilfoyle, however the date of her service is not consistent with the style of the article (which has buttons which suggest this cape was issued post 1952 during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II). It is possible, though not confirmed, that this cape was worn by Norma Kilfoyle in a later role after the Second World War.

Physical description

Black thigh-length nurses cape with red satin lining. Fastened along centre with four gold buttons and one press stud at chin (second button from the top is missing). Two slits at waist height on both left and right allow arms through from the interior to the front. Embroidered manufacturer’s label on interior at base of neck, below which there is an ink inscription. Sewn in fabric swatch on interior right.

Inscriptions & markings

Handwritten inscription reads “KILFOYLE”. Manufacturer’s label reads “[Australian coat of arms]/A Quality Garment/BY/Australian Government Clothing Factory”. Interior sewn in label reads “33643/Kilfoyle/Cloak F Bara/[indiscernible characters]”. Buttons read “[Queen Elizabeth crown over the Navy anchor]/AUSTRALIA” and on interior “STOKES/MELB”