Historical information

This meat safe has no known local provenance but it would be typical of the safes used in a domestic situation to house fresh meat. Usually the safe was hung in a house corridor or verandah or outside in a cool place where there was a breeze that passed through the mesh and kept the contents cool. The mesh also prevented flies and other insects from getting into the safe. Meat safes were widely used in Australian homes in the 19th century and early to mid 20th century, sometimes in conjunction with ice chests, until they were replaced by refrigerators.

Significance

This item is retained for display purposes as an example of domestic food preservation in Australia 80 to 100 years ago.

Physical description

This is a metal box with a rectangular-shape base and a semi-circular top. All sides except the top and the bottom are made of fine metal mesh. The front is reinforced with metal strips and has a metal clip. The curved top is ridged and has a metal clip.The safe is somewhat rusted and damaged.

Inscriptions & markings

Registered under Commonwealth Act Nos. 101-102-103 G.W.Rowley