Book: "Where The Twain Meet" by Mary Gaunt, 1922, publisher John Murray Albermarle Street, W.1, London

The book "Where the Twain Meet" is written by Mary Gaunt, a member of the prominent Gaunt Family who were active in the Indigo Shire during the nineteenth century. Her writing depicts in great detail the social structure and the ongoing changes that faced the people of Jamaica before and after British colonial rule. It is a historic perspective of Jamaica's reckoning with the slave trade.

A hardcover book bound in navy blue fabric with gilt embosses titles and decals.

Image one: WHERE/ THE TWAIN/ MEET/ _ MARY GAUNT/ JOHN MURRAY Image three: Sister Bessie Smythe/ Dear Bushwanderer/ With love from/ aunt Prue/ Gb. Wood/ Jan. 16 1923/ Image four: (embossed) WITH Mr MURRAY'S COMPLIMENTS/ WHERE THE TWAIN MEET/ BY MARY GAUNT/ Author of "Alone in West Africa,""A Woman in China,"/ "A Broken Journey,""The Uncounted Cost," etc./ LONDON/ JOHN MURRAY, ALBEMARLE STREET, W.1/ 1922/

mary eliza gaunt

Photographs of portraits of Mary Gaunt (nee Palmer) and Judge William Henry Gaunt, Parents of Mary Eliza Gaunt

These two photographs are rare depictions of members of the Gaunt Family, a family of historic influence in the Indigo Shire during the nineteenth century. Photographed are Judge William Henry Gaunt, a respected member of the community whose work in law and order in multiple roles gained him high esteem. Also photographed is his wife, Mary Gaunt, someone rarely depicted and little associated history outside the connection to her husband.

Two portrait black and white photographs, female on the left and male on the right, in a single black frame with basic relief and white matte board. Paper overlay in top of frame with text

Mary Gaunt Judge William Henry Gaunt/ (nee Palmer)/ Parents of Mary Eliza Gaunt

mary gaunt, judge william henry gaunt, william henry gaunt, william gaunt, mary eliza gaunt

Bartley's Brewery, Howlong Road, Chiltern (photograph of a painting by Fanny Bartley) Property owned by Benjaming Jackson Bartley 1834-1899

Australian Impressionism, Naturalism, Colonial Art, Folk Art

A small, rectangular painting with a wood frame in a basic relief style

Signature in bottom right corner of painting

australian landscape, landscape, farm

This photograph is a copy displayed in the Australian Dictionary of Biography. The original photograph is in the La Trobe Collection in the State Library of Victoria. William Henry Gaunt (1830-1905), judge, was born on 27 July 1830 at Leek, Staffordshire, England, son of John Gaunt, banker, and his wife Mary, née Bakewell. Educated at Leek Grammar School and Whitchurch, Salop, he migrated to Melbourne, and entered the Victorian public service and was rapidly promoted. By March 1854 he was chief clerk at Beechworth, the administrative centre of the Ovens goldfield. In July 1855 the resident warden commended Gaunt as 'a highly valuable public servant' with an intimate knowledge of the district and the 'temper and disposition of the miners'. Appointed sub-warden in the Beechworth district in January 1856 and a Chinese protector in August, he was given control of the extensive Woolshed district. When European miners attacked a party of Chinese at the Buckland River diggings in May 1857 Gaunt was sent to restore order. One of his proclamations, issued in Chinese characters, concluded 'W. H. Gaunt, your protector—tremble and obey!' In June he was appointed a police magistrate and next month was sent to take charge at the Buckland where the Chinese had been expelled from the diggings; the police force assisting him was led by Robert O'Hara Burke. In January 1858 Gaunt was appointed a warden, in November was transferred to Chiltern, north of Beechworth, and in August 1859 was made a commissioner of crown lands. In February 1860 Gaunt was appointed a coroner of Victoria, acting at Indigo, near Chiltern. In April 1865 he was transferred to Beechworth, became visiting justice of the gaol and later moved to Sandhurst. In January 1869 he was appointed returning officer for the mining district of Ballarat and visiting justice of the gaol. He was associated with this area for the rest of his life and won high repute for his integrity. In 1874 he chaired the inaugural meeting of the first Australian competitive swimming club. For years he studied law and was called to the Bar in December 1873. He was one of the many public servants dismissed by Graham Berry on 9 January 1878 (Black Wednesday). After petitioning the Queen in vain over his dismissal he began practice in Ballarat as a barrister. He soon became a leading authority on mining laws; one of the cases in which he was involved was the lengthy inquest on the bodies of the twenty-two miners drowned in the New Australasian mine disaster at Creswick in 1882. He was appointed a temporary judge of the Insolvency Court in 1889 and a County Court judge in 1891. In 1900 he was chairman of the royal commission which considered Metropolitan Board of Works matters, and in 1902 was president of the inquiry into the unification of municipalities in Victoria. In 1860 Gaunt married Elizabeth Mary, the youngest daughter of Frederick Palmer; they had nine children. Of the surviving five sons and two daughters, Ernest Frederick Augustus and Guy Reginald Archer both became admirals and were knighted; Cecil Robert became a lieutenant-colonel, Clive Herbert a government advocate in Rangoon and Mary (Mrs H. L. Miller) one of the first women students to enrol at the University of Melbourne (1881), although she did not complete her degree; she became a successful novelist. Gaunt died on 5 October 1905. An anonymous colleague said: 'I don't think he was ever excelled as a police magistrate, and during the many years he was on the County Court bench he earned the highest regard. His capacities were as unquestioned as his integrity, and more could not be said of any judge'. Select Bibliography Votes and Proceedings (Legislative Assembly, Victoria), 1878, 3, (58) Government Gazette (Victoria), 22 Feb, 15 Aug 1856, 30 June 1857, 5 Jan 1858, 16 Aug 1859, 3 Feb 1860, 7 Mar, 11 Oct 1862, 28 Mar, 4 Apr 1865, 17 May 1867, 9 June 1868, 22, 29 Jan 1869 Ovens and Murray Advertiser, 21 May 1857, 11 Mar 1865 Colonial Secretary's in-letters, goldfields, 25 Mar 1854, 21 July, 18 Nov 1855, 22 Aug 1857 (Public Record Office Victoria) scrapbook and newsclippings (privately held). Related Entries in NCB Sitesview family tree Gaunt, Mary Eliza (daughter)go to ADB entry

Photograph of Judge W. H. Gaunt standing beside chair holding top hat and cane, under glass, in cream frame with cream matte.

Printed name underneath: JUDGE W. H. GAUNT

No specific information is available for this object. However, fountain pens originated in France in 1827, with the first patent attributed to a Parisian student named Romanian Petrache Poenaru. The fountain pen typically has a fine stainless-steel tip that is filled with ink via an ink well. Widespread production of fountain pens occurred from 1857, with new designs having improved filling techniques. Fountain pens became popular with professionals, such as barristers, professors, doctors, and accountants for over 100 years. The only downside to using fountain pens was their tendency to sometimes leak onto documents, so in the 1950s, they were made with disposable cartridges. The cartridges made the pens more popular, especially with university students. For this reason, in the early 1960s, fountain pens were renamed cartridge pens and were deemed the best writing instrument in most schools.

This object is an example of the use of fountain pens in domestic households and professional workplaces since 1827.

A solid and complete black patterned fountain pen.

There is black decorative patterning on the body.

pen, fountain pen, ink, france, chiltern athenaeum museum, victoria

No specific information is available for this object. However, fountain pens originated in France in 1827, with the first patent attributed to a Parisian student named Romanian Petrache Poenaru. The fountain pen typically has a fine stainless-steel tip that is filled with ink via an ink well. Widespread production of fountain pens occurred from 1857, with new designs having improved filling techniques. Fountain pens became popular with professionals, such as barristers, professors, doctors, and accountants for over 100 years. The only downside to using fountain pens was their tendency to sometimes leak onto documents, so in the 1950s, they were made with disposable cartridges. The cartridges made the pens more popular, especially with university students. For this reason, in the early 1960s, fountain pens were renamed cartridge pens and were deemed the best writing instrument in most schools.

This object is an example of the use of fountain pens in domestic households and professional workplaces since 1827.

A solid and complete green and gold patterned fountain pen.

There is green shimmer-like decorative patterning on the body with gold-coloured veining.

pen, fountain pen, ink, france, chiltern athenaeum museum, victoria

No specific information is available for this item. However, ivory was common in early 20th century household items, which were often purchased overseas as souvenirs. Many ivory items originated from Asia. Letter openers are still used today; however, they are now made out of steel as ivory is illegal.

This item is an example of the use of ivory in domestic households early in the 20th century.

A long, cream-white letter opener made out of ivory with a plain blade and rounded handle.

There is decorative patterning on the handle consisting of holes and circles.

ivory, letter opener, letters, chiltern athenaeum museum, mail

Ladies’ gloves were an essential part of life in the 1840s to 1900 Victorian era, regardless of class most ladies wore gloves. The glove design, material, and fit would hint at a lady's status, despite their hands being covered. A shorter style of glove would have been used for daytime wear, along with the matching parasol cover and would be matched to the owner's outfit. Leather was a material often used since the 1900s, however when WWI hit the price of leather gloves increased and many resorted to cheaper materials for their accessories. Although particular styles for evening-wear gloves altered throughout the 20th Century, the classic neutral leather glove was a staple throughout Australian ladies' fashion during this time. The need for gloves and parasol cover however disappeared in the 1960s when gloves were only used in the winter months as a practicality rather than a fashion accessory.

The leather gloves and parasol cover indicate the owner was wealthy and was able to spend money on good quality accessories. This may have been due to the fact that Chiltern was a gold-rush town and would have had some wealthy families living there from the late 19th Century. The leather items are a symbol of such wealth and social signifiance in the rural town of Chiltern.

Gloves: Beige colour with brown hand stitched detail on the upper hand - 3 lengths. Brown stitched all around with finger gussets. Three brown leather button detail to the upper cuff (actual leather circular pieces meant to resemble buttons, hand stitched in beige). Umbrella/parasol cover: Same soft leather as gloves and detail, metal zip along the length and tapered to one end. Two leather circular pieces meant to resemble buttons, one missing at the top).

chiltern, leather, leather gloves, leather parasol cover, parasol, parasol cover, gloves, wealth, gold rush, chiltern athenaeum museum, chiltern gold rush

Shoe-making began in Australia among the penal colonies in 1790 who crafted shoes from imported leather. The first Australian-made shoes were expensive and many people were sent back to England for their shoes until the 1830s. However, in the years after Australian shoe-making became more accessible and affordable. Toward the end of the 19th Century, many wealthy women became obsessed with the latest fashions for both themselves and their children. Shoe-making became a profitable business for several leading companies during the 20th Century, as the industry was seen as a successful and practical item that most Australians required.

The baby shoe holds significance as it represents the craftsmanship of Australian leather shoe-making from the 20th Century. As the style of shoe is more modest and stylish, it can be assumed that it was the type of footwear used for the Church Sunday Service or for special occasions, with further gives insight into the social constructs of Chiltern, a rural town in Victoria, at that time.

Black leather shoe. Leather sole is black and the inner of the shoe is tan. Discolouration on the shoe due to dirt.

chiltern, shoe, footwear, leather shoe, baby shoe, chiltern athenaeum

Shoe-making began in Australia among the penal colonies in 1790 who crafted shoes from imported leather. The first Australian-made shoes were expensive and many people were sent back to England for their shoes until the 1830s. However, in the years after Australian shoe-making became more accessible and affordable. Toward the end of the 19th Century, many wealthy women became obsessed with the latest fashions for both themselves and their children. Shoe-making became a profitable business for several leading companies during the 20th Century, as the industry was seen as a successful and practical item that most Australians required.

The baby shoe holds significance as it represents the craftsmanship of Australian leather shoe-making from the 20th Century. As the style of shoe is more modest and stylish, it can be assumed that it was the type of footwear used for the Church Sunday Service or for special occasions, with further gives insight into the social constructs of Chiltern, a rural town in Victoria, at that time.

Black leather with wool pom pom attached with a metal stud. Leather sole is black and the inner of the shoe is cream. Discolouration on the bottom of the shoe due to dirt.

chiltern, shoe, footwear, leather shoe, baby shoe, chiltern athenaeum

These baby shoes show evidence of once having an additional embellishment on the toe, such as a bow, flower or pom pom. The label written into the bottom of the shoe indicates that it was made by Everbest. Everbest is a shoe company that was established in 1979 in Singapore and primarily sells in South East Asia. Their brand is centred around timeless elegance and quality, which this pair of baby shoes is in keeping with. The Mary Jane shoe was popularised in the early 20th century as a shoe for children regardless of gender. They began to be known as Mary Jane's because of the character of Mary Jane in the Mary Jane and Buster Brown comics, a series of advertisements by the Brown Shoe Company in the USA. They remain a classic style for women and children.

These shoes are a record of a small part of the social history of Chiltern, as well as show the continuing popularity of this style of shoe through time. They are also a record that a product of a Singaporean company that primary sells in other countries in South East Asia was able to travel all the way to regional Victoria and be present in the collection of the Chiltern Athenaeum.

Pair of pink leather mary jane style baby shoes with gold metallic label on inner sole

Inner Sole: Lesley Everbest / Baby Shoe / Size 0

baby shoe, leather shoe, everbest, leather, shoe, baby clothes, leatherworking, singapore, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, chiltern athenaeum museum, chiltern athenaeum collection

These copies of five oil on gum leaf paintings by Alfred William Eustace (1820-1907) display the subjects and detail of his small gum leaf paintings. A.W. Eustace, a well-known Australian artist, was born in Berkshire, England, where he was an assistant gamekeeper to the Earl of Craven at Ashdown Park. He migrated to Australia with his wife and children in 1851 and worked on the Ullina and Eldorado Runs on the Black Dog Creek at Chiltern, which was in excess of 50,000 acres of grazing land. A.W. Eustace was employed as a shepherd by Jason Withers and while tending his flocks in the solitude of the bush, Eustace turned his attention to painting and music to while away the long and weary hours. He endeavoured to capture the spirit of the bush and painted on board, canvas or tin plate, but as these materials were not always readily available he then started painting on large round eucalyptus leaves from the White and Red Box trees that grew around about him. He became known as the "Bush Artist." About 1856 he painted a small picture of the famous Woolshed goldrush and during the next few years became well known in North-East Victoria. John Sadlier, a police officer stationed at Beechworth said that Eustace painted 'some really exquisite scenes. He was of an easy-going dreamy temperament, a student of nature only, despising the works of men. Unfortunately his drawings were on eucalyptus leaves, the largest and roundest he could find and not on canvas, and no doubt have all perished long ago.' In 1876 the Melbourne Age newspaper reported, 'Eustace’s celebrated paintings on gum leaves are again attracting attention,…Mr Eustace is an elegant artist…he seems without effort to catch the colour and spirit of Australian scenery…' In 1864 A.W. Eustace held an Art Union in Albury, and again in 1884 in Ballarat. He exhibited at the Victorian Academy of Arts in 1877 and also held an exhibition of gum leaf paintings at Stevens Gallery, Melbourne in 1893. By 1896 he was receiving orders from heads of states in Europe, with his works acknowledged by Queen Victoria, Emperor Frederick of Germany and the Czar of Russia, as well as the Governors of New South Wales and Victoria. His paintings reflected his ability to paint the sky in his realistic style which is still noted by art critics of the day. A.W. Eustace was also a skillful taxidermist. The collection of birds and animals that can be seen at the Beechworth Museum are examples of his taxidermy skill. When not doing his work, painting or taxidermy, he regularly contributed letters and verse to the Chiltern newspaper, The Federal Standard. A book of verse in his hand writing was presented to The Athenaeum Trust by the Boadle family. In the 1870’s he became interested in spiritualism often being involved in lively debate at lectures and séances. Alfred William Eustace died in 1907 and is buried in the Chiltern New Cemetery with his wife Sarah and one of his daughters, Elizabeth.

Alfred William Eustace was a well-known self-taught Australian artist who was known worldwide for her unique oil on gum leaf paintings. He was also a prominent Chiltern citizen.

Copies of five A.W.Eustace oil paintings on gum leaf, under glass, displayed on blue paper in a black metal frame.

alfred eustace, gum leaf painting, chiltern

Annie Jessup, an artist, was the youngest daughter of the well-known Australian self-taught artist, Alfred William Eustace. Like her father, Annie created some of her oil landscape paintings on gum leaves. Her older brother Sidney presented one of her paintings to the Chiltern Athenaeum together with his own timber collection.

Annie Jessup, and artist, was the daughter of the well-known Australian self-taught artist Alfred William Eustace.

Photograph of an oil painting on gum leaf by Annie Jessup, under glass on blue paper in a reddish plastic timber-look frame.

Artist's signature on bottom right hand corner of photograph: Annie Jessup/ Myrniong Sticker on back: MADE IN/ CHINA/ FABRIQUE'AU/ CHINE

annie jessup, gum leaf painting, landscape

Alfred William Eustace (1820-1907), an Australian artist, was born in Berkshire, England, where he was an assistant gamekeeper to the Earl of Craven at Ashdown Park. He migrated to Australia with his wife and children in 1851 and camped beside the Ullina and Eldorado Runs on the Black Dog Creek at Chiltern, which was in excess of 50,000 acres of grazing land. A.W. Eustace was employed as a shepherd by Jason Withers and while tending his flocks in the solitude of the bush, Eustace turned his attention to painting and music to while away the long and weary hours. He endeavoured to capture the spirit of the bush and painted on board, canvas or tin plate, but as these materials were not always readily available he then started painting on large round eucalyptus leaves from the White and Red Box trees that grew around about him. He became known as the "Bush Artist." About 1856 he painted a small picture of the famous Woolshed goldrush and during the next few years became well known in North-East Victoria. John Sadlier, a police officer stationed at Beechworth said that Eustace painted 'some really exquisite scenes. He was of an easy-going dreamy temperament, a student of nature only, despising the works of men. Unfortunately his drawings were on eucalyptus leaves, the largest and roundest he could find and not on canvas, and no doubt have all perished long ago.' In 1876 the Melbourne Age newspaper reported, 'Eustace’s celebrated paintings on gum leaves are again attracting attention,…Mr Eustace is an elegant artist…he seems without effort to catch the colour and spirit of Australian scenery…' In 1864 A.W. Eustace held an Art Union in Albury, and again in 1884 in Ballarat. He exhibited at the Victorian Academy of Arts in 1877 and also held an exhibition of gum leaf paintings at Stevens Gallery, Melbourne in 1893. By 1896 he was receiving orders from heads of states in Europe, with his works acknowledged by Queen Victoria, Emperor Frederick of Germany and the Czar of Russia, as well as the Governors of New South Wales and Victoria. His paintings reflected his ability to paint the sky in his realistic style which is still noted by art critics of the day. A.W. Eustace was also a skilful taxidermist. The collection of birds and animals that can be seen at the Beechworth Museum are examples of his taxidermy skill. When not doing his work, painting or taxidermy, he regularly contributed letters and verse to the Chiltern newspaper, The Federal Standard. A book of verse in his hand writing was presented to The Athenaeum Trust by the Boadle family. In the 1870’s he became interested in spiritualism often being involved in lively debate at lectures and séances. Alfred William Eustace died in 1907 and is buried in the Chiltern New Cemetery with his wife Sarah and one of his daughters, Elizabeth.

A.W. Eustace was a significant member of the Chiltern community during the 19th century and his artwork was displayed widely, even in European royal homes.

Copy of sepia photograph of A.W. Eustace in a brown wooden oval frame with a copy of A.W. Eustace's signature across the bottom of the photograph.

Sticker on back: 194 Sticker on back: MADE IN/ CHINA/ FABRIQUE 'AU/CHINE

a.w.eustace, photograph, chiltern

This black and white photograph of the grave of A.W. Eustace is believed to have been taken in September 1987 at the Chiltern New Cemetery. Alfred William Eustace, an Australian artist, was born in the small village of Ashbury, Berkshire, England, the son of John Eustace, Head Game-keeper to the Earl of Craven at the beautiful Ashdown Park. He migrated to Australia with his wife and children in 1851 and camped next to the Ullina and Eldorado Runs on the Black Dog Creek at Chiltern, which was owned by the Withers family and was in excess of 55,000 acres of grazing land. A.W. Eustace was employed as a shepherd by Jason Withers and while tending his flocks in the solitude of the bush, Eustace turned his attention to painting and music to while away the long and weary hours. He endeavoured to capture the spirit of the bush painting on board, canvas or tin plate, but as these materials were not always readily available he then started painting on large round eucalyptus leaves from the White and Red Box trees that grew around about him. About 1856 he painted a small picture of the famous Woolshed goldrush and during the next few years became well known in North-East Victoria. John Sadlier, a police officer stationed at Beechworth said that Eustace painted 'some really exquisite scenes. He was of an easy-going dreamy temperament, a student of nature only, despising the works of men. Unfortunately his drawings were on eucalyptus leaves, the largest and roundest he could find and not on canvas, and no doubt have all perished long ago.' In 1876 the Melbourne Age newspaper reported, 'Eustace’s celebrated paintings on gum leaves are again attracting attention,…Mr Eustace is an elegant artist…he seems without effort to catch the colour and spirit of Australian scenery…' In 1864 A.W. Eustace held an Art Union in Albury, and again in 1884 in Ballarat. He exhibited at the Victorian Academy of Arts in 1877 and also held an exhibition of gum leaf paintings at Stevens Gallery, Melbourne in 1893. By 1896 he was receiving orders from heads of states in Europe, with his works acknowledged by Queen Victoria, Emperor Frederick of Germany and the Czar of Russia, as well as the Governors of New South Wales and Victoria. His paintings reflected his ability to paint the sky in his realistic style which is still noted by art critics of the day. A.W. Eustace was also a skillful taxidermist. The collection of birds and animals that are in the Beechworth Museum collection are examples of his taxidermy skill. When not doing his work, painting or taxidermy, he regularly contributed letters and verse to the Chiltern newspaper, The Federal Standard. A book of verse in his hand writing was presented to The Athenaeum Trust by his relatives from the Boadle family. In the 1870’s he became interested in spiritualism often being involved in lively debate at lectures and séances. Alfred William Eustace died in 1907 and is buried in the Chiltern New Cemetery with his wife Sarah and one of his daughters, Elizabeth.

A. W. Eustace, as well as being a well-known Australian artist, was a significant member of the Chiltern community.

Black and white photograph of the grave of A.W. Eustace, under glass, in a metal frame.

Sticker on back: 184 (original Registration number)

a. w. eustace, grave, chiltern new cemetery

This colour photograph of a gum leaf painting shows one of the many landscapes done by the well-known self-taught Australian artist Alfred William Eustace (1820-1907). A.W. Eustace, an Australian artist and taxidermist, was born in Berkshire, England, where he was an assistant gamekeeper to the Earl of Craven at Ashdown Park. He migrated to Australia with his wife and children in 1851 and worked on the Ullina and Eldorado Runs on the Black Dog Creek at Chiltern, which was in excess of 50,000 acres of grazing land. A.W. Eustace was employed as a shepherd by Jason Withers and while tending his flocks in the solitude of the bush, Eustace turned his attention to painting and music to while away the long and weary hours. He endeavoured to capture the spirit of the bush painting on board, canvas or tin plate, but as these materials were not always readily available he then started painting on large round eucalyptus leaves from the White and Red Box trees that grew around about him. About 1856 he painted a small picture of the famous Woolshed goldrush and during the next few years became well known in North-East Victoria. John Sadlier, a police officer stationed at Beechworth said that Eustace painted 'some really exquisite scenes. He was of an easy-going dreamy temperament, a student of nature only, despising the works of men. Unfortunately his drawings were on eucalyptus leaves, the largest and roundest he could find and not on canvas, and no doubt have all perished long ago.' In 1876 the Melbourne Age newspaper reported, 'Eustace’s celebrated paintings on gum leaves are again attracting attention,…Mr Eustace is an elegant artist…he seems without effort to catch the colour and spirit of Australian scenery…' In 1864 A.W. Eustace held an Art Union in Albury, and again in 1884 in Ballarat. He exhibited at the Victorian Academy of Arts in 1877 and also held an exhibition of gum leaf paintings at Stevens Gallery, Melbourne in 1893. By 1896 he was receiving orders from heads of states in Europe, with his works acknowledged by Queen Victoria, Emperor Frederick of Germany and the Czar of Russia, as well as the Governors of New South Wales and Victoria. His paintings reflected his ability to paint the sky in his realistic style which is still noted by art critics of the day. A.W. Eustace was also a skilful taxidermist. The collection of birds and animals that can be seen at the Beechworth Museum are examples of his taxidermy skill. When not doing his work, painting or taxidermy, he regularly contributed letters and verse to the Chiltern newspaper, The Federal Standard. A book of verse in his hand writing was presented to The Athenaeum Trust by the Boadle family. In the 1870’s he became interested in spiritualism often being involved in lively debate at lectures and séances. Alfred William Eustace died in 1907 and is buried in the Chiltern New Cemetery with his wife Sarah and one of his daughters, Elizabeth.

Colour photograph of an oil painting on gum leaf by Alfred Eustace. Landscape featuring a deep creek surrounded by thick bushland displayed against dark brown backing paper which has a gilt oval surround to highlight the painting. Under glass, in a gold and dark brown metal frame.

Sticker on back: 189. (the original registration number)

alfred eustace, gum leaf painting, landscape

This is a colour photograph of a gum leaf painting that is one of many done by the well-known self-taught Australian artist Alfred William Eustace (1820-1907). A.W. Eustace, an Australian artist, was born in Berkshire, England, where he was an assistant gamekeeper to the Earl of Craven at Ashdown Park. He migrated to Australia with his wife and children in 1851 and worked on the Ullina and Eldorado Runs on the Black Dog Creek at Chiltern, which was in excess of 50,000 acres of grazing land. A.W. Eustace was employed as a shepherd by Jason Withers and while tending his flocks in the solitude of the bush, Eustace turned his attention to painting and music to while away the long and weary hours. He endeavoured to capture the spirit of the bush painting on board, canvas or tin plate, but as these materials were not always readily available he then started painting on large round eucalyptus leaves from the White and Red Box trees that grew around about him. About 1856 he painted a small picture of the famous Woolshed goldrush and during the next few years became well known in North-East Victoria. John Sadlier, a police officer stationed at Beechworth said that Eustace painted 'some really exquisite scenes. He was of an easy-going dreamy temperament, a student of nature only, despising the works of men. Unfortunately his drawings were on eucalyptus leaves, the largest and roundest he could find and not on canvas, and no doubt have all perished long ago.' In 1876 the Melbourne Age newspaper reported, 'Eustace’s celebrated paintings on gum leaves are again attracting attention,…Mr Eustace is an elegant artist…he seems without effort to catch the colour and spirit of Australian scenery…' In 1864 A.W. Eustace held an Art Union in Albury, and again in 1884 in Ballarat. He exhibited at the Victorian Academy of Arts in 1877 and also held an exhibition of gum leaf paintings at Stevens Gallery, Melbourne in 1893. By 1896 he was receiving orders from heads of states in Europe, with his works acknowledged by Queen Victoria, Emperor Frederick of Germany and the Czar of Russia, as well as the Governors of New South Wales and Victoria. His paintings reflected his ability to paint the sky in his realistic style which is still noted by art critics of the day. A.W. Eustace was also a skilful taxidermist. The collection of birds and animals that can be seen at the Beechworth Museum are examples of his taxidermy skill. When not doing his work, painting or taxidermy, he regularly contributed letters and verse to the Chiltern newspaper, The Federal Standard. A book of verse in his hand writing was presented to The Athenaeum Trust by the Boadle family. In the 1870’s he became interested in spiritualism often being involved in lively debate at lectures and séances. Alfred William Eustace died in 1907 and is buried in the Chiltern New Cemetery with his wife Sarah and one of his daughters, Elizabeth.

Colour photograph of an oil painting on gum leaf by A.W. Eustace. A man is panning for gold in a stream with a house and hills in the background. Under glass in a decorative gilt and cream coloured plastic frame.

Hand writing on tape at back of frame: COPY OIL ON GUM LEAF 10" x 5" A W EUSTACE owned by Betty & Alf Brownlie 2260

alfred eustace, gum leaf painting, chiltern, gold panning, gold

This is one of a set of 3 miniature oil paintings by the self-taught artist Alfred William Eustace (1820-1907). A.W. Eustace, an Australian artist, was born in Berkshire, England, where he was an assistant gamekeeper to the Earl of Craven at Ashdown Park. He migrated to Australia with his wife and children in 1851 and worked on the Ullina and Eldorado Runs on the Black Dog Creek at Chiltern, which was in excess of 50,000 acres of grazing land. A.W. Eustace was employed as a shepherd by Jason Withers and while tending his flocks in the solitude of the bush, Eustace turned his attention to painting and music to while away the long and weary hours. He endeavoured to capture the spirit of the bush painting on board, canvas or tin plate, but as these materials were not always readily available he then started painting on large round eucalyptus leaves from the White and Red Box trees that grew around about him. About 1856 he painted a small picture of the famous Woolshed goldrush and during the next few years became well known in North-East Victoria. John Sadlier, a police officer stationed at Beechworth said that Eustace painted 'some really exquisite scenes. He was of an easy-going dreamy temperament, a student of nature only, despising the works of men. Unfortunately his drawings were on eucalyptus leaves, the largest and roundest he could find and not on canvas, and no doubt have all perished long ago.' In 1876 the Melbourne Age newspaper reported, 'Eustace’s celebrated paintings on gum leaves are again attracting attention,…Mr Eustace is an elegant artist…he seems without effort to catch the colour and spirit of Australian scenery…' In 1864 A.W. Eustace held an Art Union in Albury, and again in 1884 in Ballarat. He exhibited at the Victorian Academy of Arts in 1877 and also held an exhibition of gum leaf paintings at Stevens Gallery, Melbourne in 1893. By 1896 he was receiving orders from heads of states in Europe, with his works acknowledged by Queen Victoria, Emperor Frederick of Germany and the Czar of Russia, as well as the Governors of New South Wales and Victoria. His paintings reflected his ability to paint the sky in his realistic style which is still noted by art critics of the day. A.W. Eustace was also a skilful taxidermist. The collection of birds and animals that can be seen at the Beechworth Museum are examples of his taxidermy skill. When not doing his work, painting or taxidermy, he regularly contributed letters and verse to the Chiltern newspaper, The Federal Standard. A book of verse in his hand writing was presented to The Athenaeum Trust by the Boadle family. In the 1870’s he became interested in spiritualism often being involved in lively debate at lectures and séances. Alfred William Eustace died in 1907 and is buried in the Chiltern New Cemetery with his wife Sarah and one of his daughters, Elizabeth.

Miniature oil painting of a landscape with creek and surrounding trees by A.W. Eustace, under glass, in original dark brown timber frame with beige matte and a twist wire stand. One of 3 miniatures.

Sticker on back: 188 (original Registration number)

alfred eustace, chiltern, oil, landscape

This is one of a set of 3 miniature oil paintings by the self-taught artist Alfred William Eustace (1820-1907). A.W. Eustace, an Australian artist and taxidermist, was born in Berkshire, England, where he was an assistant gamekeeper to the Earl of Craven at Ashdown Park. He migrated to Australia with his wife and children in 1851 and worked on the Ullina and Eldorado Runs on the Black Dog Creek at Chiltern, which was in excess of 50,000 acres of grazing land. A.W. Eustace was employed as a shepherd by Jason Withers and while tending his flocks in the solitude of the bush, Eustace turned his attention to painting and music to while away the long and weary hours. He endeavoured to capture the spirit of the bush painting on board, canvas or tin plate, but as these materials were not always readily available he then started painting on large round eucalyptus leaves from the White and Red Box trees that grew around about him. About 1856 he painted a small picture of the famous Woolshed goldrush and during the next few years became well known in North-East Victoria. John Sadlier, a police officer stationed at Beechworth said that Eustace painted 'some really exquisite scenes. He was of an easy-going dreamy temperament, a student of nature only, despising the works of men. Unfortunately his drawings were on eucalyptus leaves, the largest and roundest he could find and not on canvas, and no doubt have all perished long ago.' In 1876 the Melbourne Age newspaper reported, 'Eustace’s celebrated paintings on gum leaves are again attracting attention,…Mr Eustace is an elegant artist…he seems without effort to catch the colour and spirit of Australian scenery…' In 1864 A.W. Eustace held an Art Union in Albury, and again in 1884 in Ballarat. He exhibited at the Victorian Academy of Arts in 1877 and also held an exhibition of gum leaf paintings at Stevens Gallery, Melbourne in 1893. By 1896 he was receiving orders from heads of states in Europe, with his works acknowledged by Queen Victoria, Emperor Frederick of Germany and the Czar of Russia, as well as the Governors of New South Wales and Victoria. His paintings reflected his ability to paint the sky in his realistic style which is still noted by art critics of the day. A.W. Eustace was also a skilful taxidermist. The collection of birds and animals that can be seen at the Beechworth Museum are examples of his taxidermy skill. When not doing his work, painting or taxidermy, he regularly contributed letters and verse to the Chiltern newspaper, The Federal Standard. A book of verse in his hand writing was presented to The Athenaeum Trust by the Boadle family. In the 1870’s he became interested in spiritualism often being involved in lively debate at lectures and séances. Alfred William Eustace died in 1907 and is buried in the Chiltern New Cemetery with his wife Sarah and one of his daughters, Elizabeth.

Miniature oil painting of a landscape, with creek and grassland in foreground surrounded by bushland and hill in distance, by A.W. Eustace, under glass in original timber frame with beige matte and a twist wire stand. One of 3 miniatures.

No signature visible

alfred eustace, oil painting, landscape, chiltern

This is one of a set of 3 miniature oil paintings by the self-taught artist Alfred William Eustace (1820-1907). A.W. Eustace, an Australian artist, was born in Berkshire, England, where he was an assistant gamekeeper to the Earl of Craven at Ashdown Park. He migrated to Australia with his wife and children in 1851 and worked on the Ullina and Eldorado Runs on the Black Dog Creek at Chiltern, which was in excess of 50,000 acres of grazing land. A.W. Eustace was employed as a shepherd by Jason Withers and while tending his flocks in the solitude of the bush, Eustace turned his attention to painting and music to while away the long and weary hours. He endeavoured to capture the spirit of the bush and painted on board, canvas or tin plate, but as these materials were not always readily available he then started painting on large round eucalyptus leaves from the White and Red Box trees that grew around about him. He became known as the "Bush Artist." About 1856 he painted a small picture of the famous Woolshed goldrush and during the next few years became well known in North-East Victoria. John Sadlier, a police officer stationed at Beechworth said that Eustace painted 'some really exquisite scenes. He was of an easy-going dreamy temperament, a student of nature only, despising the works of men. Unfortunately his drawings were on eucalyptus leaves, the largest and roundest he could find and not on canvas, and no doubt have all perished long ago.' In 1876 the Melbourne Age newspaper reported, 'Eustace’s celebrated paintings on gum leaves are again attracting attention,…Mr Eustace is an elegant artist…he seems without effort to catch the colour and spirit of Australian scenery…' In 1864 A.W. Eustace held an Art Union in Albury, and again in 1884 in Ballarat. He exhibited at the Victorian Academy of Arts in 1877 and also held an exhibition of gum leaf paintings at Stevens Gallery, Melbourne in 1893. By 1896 he was receiving orders from heads of states in Europe, with his works acknowledged by Queen Victoria, Emperor Frederick of Germany and the Czar of Russia, as well as the Governors of New South Wales and Victoria. His paintings reflected his ability to paint the sky in his realistic style which is still noted by art critics of the day. A.W. Eustace was also a skilful taxidermist. The collection of birds and animals that can be seen at the Beechworth Museum are examples of his taxidermy skill. When not doing his work, painting or taxidermy, he regularly contributed letters and verse to the Chiltern newspaper, The Federal Standard. A book of verse in his hand writing was presented to The Athenaeum Trust by the Boadle family. In the 1870’s he became interested in spiritualism often being involved in lively debate at lectures and séances. Alfred William Eustace died in 1907 and is buried in the Chiltern New Cemetery with his wife Sarah and one of his daughters, Elizabeth.

Miniature oil painting of a landscape, with creek in foreground and bush and hill behind, by A.W. Eustace, under glass, in original timber frame with beige matte and a twist wire stand. One of 3 miniatures.

No signature visible

alfred eustace, chiltern, oil painting, landscape

Alfred William Eustace was a well-known self-taught Australian artist who spent his spare time painting the local landscapes in the Chiltern area. When not doing his work or painting, Eustace regularly contributed letters and verse to the Chiltern newspaper "The Federal Standard". A collection of A. W Eustace's verse and other writings, written between 1845 and 1899, was presented to The Chiltern Athenaeum Trust by Cam Boadle, a grandson of A.W. Eustace, and his wife Connie. The Chiltern Athenaeum Trust created a booklet of some of his poetry which was published in 1992. Copyright for the booklet is held by Chiltern Athenaeum Museum 1992. In the 1870’s he became interested in spiritualism often being involved in lively debate at lectures and séances. A.W.Eustace was born in Berkshire, England, where he was an assistant gamekeeper to the Earl of Craven at Ashdown Park. He migrated to Australia with his wife and children in 1851 and worked on the Ullina and Eldorado Runs on the Black Dog Creek at Chiltern, which was in excess of 50,000 acres of grazing land. A.W. Eustace was employed as a shepherd by Jason Withers and while tending his flocks in the solitude of the bush, Eustace turned his attention to painting and music to while away the long and weary hours. He endeavoured to capture the spirit of the bush painting on board, canvas or tin plate, but as these materials were not always readily available he then started painting on large round eucalyptus leaves from the White and Red Box trees that grew around about him. About 1856 he painted a small picture of the famous Woolshed goldrush and during the next few years became well known in North-East Victoria. John Sadlier, a police officer stationed at Beechworth said that Eustace painted 'some really exquisite scenes. He was of an easy-going dreamy temperament, a student of nature only, despising the works of men. Unfortunately his drawings were on eucalyptus leaves, the largest and roundest he could find and not on canvas, and no doubt have all perished long ago.' In 1876 the Melbourne Age newspaper reported, 'Eustace’s celebrated paintings on gum leaves are again attracting attention,…Mr Eustace is an elegant artist…he seems without effort to catch the colour and spirit of Australian scenery…' In 1864 A.W. Eustace held an Art Union in Albury, and again in 1884 in Ballarat. He exhibited at the Victorian Academy of Arts in 1877 and also held an exhibition of gum leaf paintings at Stevens Gallery, Melbourne in 1893. By 1896 he was receiving orders from heads of states in Europe, with his works acknowledged by Queen Victoria, Emperor Frederich of Germany and the Czar of Russia, as well as the Governors of New South Wales and Victoria. His paintings reflected his ability to paint the sky in his realistic style which is still noted by art critics of the day. A.W. Eustace was also a skilful taxidermist. The collection of birds and animals that can be seen at the Beechworth Museum are examples of his taxidermy skill. Alfred William Eustace died in 1907 and is buried in the Chiltern New Cemetery with his wife Sarah and one of his daughters, Elizabeth.

Alfred William Eustace made a valuable contribution to the culture of 19th century Chiltern and his booklet of Selected Verse gives us an insight into life during that time.

22 page booklet of Selected Verse/ A.W. Eustace of Chiltern/ 1820-1907. Printed on thick cream paper with a copy of an oval photograph of the author.

a. w. eustace, selected verse, chiltern

Clara Jane Matthews was born in 1870 as the eldest daughter of Robert Matthews. She married William Frederick Busse on the 5th of December, 1894 at St Columb’s church, Hawthorn. Clara and her husband lived on Main Street in Chiltern, and her husband was a Clerk of Courts in Chiltern and Wodonga throughout his life. Clara and William also owned a 640 acre farm called Clairedale Park, four miles (6.5km) outside of Barnawartha. They had both crops and sheep on the property, and adopted innovative farming practices. It appears that Clara was heavily involved in the farm business, as she is listed as a purchaser of sheep in multiple stock reports between 1914 and 1918. This is very unusual for the era, as women were not generally involved in stock markets, especially if her husband was still alive. Clara’s husband’s work at the court likely meant that he wasn’t able to travel to the markets in order to purchase stock. Clara’s taking the reigns in this manner was highly unusual, and signals just how strong of a woman she must have been. Clara Busse died in Chiltern in 1968, when she was 98 years old. She is also the mother of Wilfred C Busse, who was an author and a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum.

This photograph is of a woman who lived most of her life in Chiltern, and undoubtedly contributed to the community of the town within her 98 years. She will most likely be remembered as the wife of William Frederic Busse, Clerk of Petty Sessions, or as the mother or Wilfred Clarence Busse, author and barrister. Although the records of her time almost entirely connect her with the men of her life, her father, husband and then her son, some digging can reveal that she was an entire person of her own, who broke norms of her time and is worthy of being remembered for her own sake.

Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper mounted on board in a textured metallic frame

Obverse: Clara Jane Busse / (nee Mathews) / Mother of W. C. Busse /

clara jane busse, clara busse, c j busse, busse, women in agriculture, remarkable women, 20th century women, women's history, working women, wilfred busse, wilfred clarence busse

This certificate, drawn in a very elegant hand, contains the biographical information of Wilfred Busse. It is assumed to be a funeral or memorial card. Born in Chiltern in 1898, Wilfred Clarence Busse was educted at Wesley College and then the University of Melbourne. He became a barrister and through his time at the University of Melbourne studied with future Chief Justice and Governor of Victoria Sir Henry Arthur Winneke (1908–1985), as well as spending time in the chanbers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933), who was a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Busse also wrote two novels, 'The Blue Beyond' and 'The Golden Plague'. In 1931, 'The Golden Plague' was awarded the T. E. Rofe gold medal by the Henry Lawson Literary Society for its ''its vivid scenes of the Ovens River [gold] rushes, in the early [eighteen] fifties".

Ivory rectangular certificate with rounded corners made of thick paper with inked writing and two small photographs mounted

Obverse: Wilfred Clarence Busse/ 1898 – 1960 / Barrister and Author / Born in Chiltern. Educated at Melbourne / University. Studied Law with former Governor / of Victoria Sir Henry Winneke. In 1928 / published his first novel, “The Blue Beyond”. / In 1930 published “The Golden Plague” for / Which he was awarded the Henry Lawson / Literary Society’s Gold Medal. / Wilfred Busse was a member of the Chiltern / Athenaeum. He valued the historical works / In the library. /

wilfred busse, wilfred clarence busse, wilfred c. busse, busse, w.c. busse, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", "the blue beyond, henry lawson society, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, chiltern athenaeum museum, sir henry arthur winneke, sir leo finn bernard cussen, funeral card, memorial card

This photograph shows a young Wilfred Busse wearing work clothes in the Australian bush. These clothes were all chosen for their practicality in the Australian bush, and create together a distinctive style that is easily recognisable. While it initially appears that he wears long boots, he actually wears shorter shoes with an additional leg protection called gaiters. These protected the legs and were particularly useful to Australian settlers to protect from snake bites. His trousers, or breeches, are of a similar style to the ones issued as Australian Army regulation during the First World War, which were baggy around the thighs and became tighter below the knee. His long shirt protects him from the harsh Australian sun, and he wears an iconic Akubra hat for sun protection on his face. It is assumed that this photograph shows Busse when he was working on a Station in Victoria in his twenties, which is supported by the style of his clothing and his age.

This photograph is significant as it shows Wilfred Busse as he appeared in his younger years, presumably on a Station in Victoria. It also provides a primary resource of working clothes for white settlers in the early 20th century

Black and white rectangualr photograph on matte photographic paper in wooden frame

australian settlement, settlement, workmen, work, clothing, workwear, bush, wilfred busse, busse, busse author, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, chiltern athenaeum museum, 1920s

Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern, Victoria in 1898. His family moved to the region during the gold rush and continued to resided in the area, purchasing land adjacent the Murray River. Busse completed his secondary education at Wesley College in Melbourne then studied law at the University of Melbourne. Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Busse was also an avid fictional writer and in 1930 he published two novels "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia” and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties." "The Golden Plague” won the T. E. Role gold medal for the best historical novel which went on to become a best seller. Busse often drew inspiration for his novels from his younger years living Chiltern. His passion for the region lead him to write “The History of Chiltern” which was published in a serial form in the Chiltern Federal Standard from 1922-1923. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a member of Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960

This photograph is of considerable importance to Chiltern Athenaeum as it was written by Wilfred Clarence Busse, a barrister and author born in Chiltern. Busse drew inspiration to write novels from his life growing up in Chiltern which is apparent in "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties."

Sepia rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper mounted on board placed within a silver frame.

photograph, indigo shire, chiltern athenaeum museum, framed photograph, wilfred clarence busse, busse, chiltern athenaeum, "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia”, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", “the history of chiltern”

Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern, Victoria in 1898. Busse attended secondary school at Wesley College before graduating and studying law at the University of Melbourne. After graduating from University, Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Busse was also a fictional writer seen by his novels "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" was written in 1928 and published in 1930 and "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties" written in 1930. "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties" won the T.E.Role gold medal for the best historical novel published that year and went on to become a best seller. Busse wrote a series of articles for "The Federal Standard" newspaper in Chiltern, about the history of Chiltern. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960. Frederick Busse was born Henry Louis Friedrich in 1827, in Salzgitter Germany. He is the grandfather of Wilfred Busse. Upon his death, he was survived by his sons Reinhold and William and his wife Wilhelmina.

This memorial card is important to Chiltern Athenaeum as it is of a resident who spent many years in the region before being buried in a cemetery in Indigo Shire. It is also important as it is a familial extension of Wilfred Clarence Busse who was born and raised in Chiltern and drew inspiration for his novels from his life in Chiltern.

A brown rectangular card with golden boarders and writing memorialising Frederick Busse. There is an angel in the top left corner and bible verses in the top right corner and at the bottom.

Obverse: The Lord/ Gave/ And the/ Lord hath/ Taken away/ Blessed be/ the name of/ the Lord In/ Loving Remembrance/ Of/ Our Dear Father/ Frederick Busse/ A colonist of 43 Years/ Died September 3 1897, Aged 70 Years/ Tis hard to break the tender cord;/ When love has bound the heart;/ Tis hard, so hard to speak the words:/ We for a time must part./ Dearest loved one, we have laid thee/ In the peaceful grave’s embrace,/ But thy memory will be cherished/ Till we see they heavenly face/ DEEPLY REGRETTED/ The Art Engraving Company (unknown) Street Melbourne

wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, busse, law student, barrister, fictional writer, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", "the blue beyond, a romance of the early days in south eastern australia", t.e.role gold meda, the federal standard, indigo shire

This is a photograph from the W.C. Busse Collection and an elderly woman is illustrated sitting on a couch. Wilfred Clarence Busse 1898-1960, born in Chiltern, was a barrister and author. His family moved to the region during the gold rush and continued to reside in the area, purchasing land adjacent the Murray River. Busse attended school at Wesley College and studied law at the University of Melbourne. Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Time spent on a Victorian station in his early twenties, as well as careful documentary research, informed the writing of his historical novels of bush life. "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" was written in 1928 and published in 1930. "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties", written in 1930, won the T. E. Role gold medal for the best historical novel published that year and went on to become a best seller. His passion for the region led him to write “The History of Chiltern”, which was published in a serial form in the Chiltern Federal Standard from 1922-1923. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960.

The photograph belongs to the W.C. Busse Collection, which is of great importance to Chiltern Athenaeum. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a barrister and author born in Chiltern and drew inspiration to write novels from his life growing up in Chiltern.

Black and white framed photograph printed on paper.

Obverse: 1,018/

w.c. busse collection, wesley college, leo finn bernard cussen, supreme court of victoria, wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, murray river, barrister, author, bush life, the blue beyond, the golden plague, t. e. role gold medal, the history of chiltern, chiltern federal standard, chiltern athenaeum, historical novels, university of melbourne, gold rush, best seller

This is a photograph from the W.C. Busse Collection and a woman is illustrated with a bun hair tie and a pearl necklace. Wilfred Clarence Busse 1898-1960, born in Chiltern, was a barrister and author. His family moved to the region during the gold rush and continued to reside in the area, purchasing land adjacent the Murray River. Busse attended school at Wesley College and studied law at the University of Melbourne. Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Time spent on a Victorian station in his early twenties, as well as careful documentary research, informed the writing of his historical novels of bush life. "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" was written in 1928 and published in 1930. "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties", written in 1930, won the T. E. Role gold medal for the best historical novel published that year and went on to become a best seller. His passion for the region led him to write “The History of Chiltern”, which was published in a serial form in the Chiltern Federal Standard from 1922-1923. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960.

The photograph belongs to the W.C. Busse Collection, which is of great importance to Chiltern Athenaeum. Wilfred Clarence Busse was a barrister and author born in Chiltern and drew inspiration to write novels from his life growing up in Chiltern.

Black and white framed photograph printed on paper and wooden frame.

w.c. busse collection, wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, barrister, author, murray river, wesley college, university of melbourne, chambers, leo finn bernard cussen, judge, supreme court of victoria, historical novels, bush life, the blue beyond, the golden plague, t. e. role gold medal, the history of chiltern, chiltern federal standard, chiltern athenaeum

Wilfred Clarence Busse 1898-1960, born in Chiltern, was a barrister and author. His family moved to the region during the gold rush and continued to reside in the area, purchasing land adjacent the Murray River. Busse attended school at Wesley College and studied law at the University of Melbourne. Busse went on to become a barrister, often in the chambers of Sir Leo Finn Bernard Cussen (1859-1933) a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria. Time spent on a Victorian station in his early twenties, as well as careful documentary research, informed the writing of his historical novels of bush life. "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia" was written in 1928 and published in 1930. "The Golden Plague: A Romance of the Early Fifties", written in 1930, won the T. E. Role gold medal for the best historical novel published that year and went on to become a best seller. His passion for the region led him to write “The History of Chiltern”, which was published in a serial form in the Chiltern Federal Standard from 1922-1923. He was a member of the Chiltern Athenaeum upon his death in 1960.

This book is of considerable importance to Chiltern Athenaeum as it was written by Wilfred Clarence Busse, a barrister and author born in Chiltern. Busse drew inspiration to write novels from his life growing up in Chiltern which is apparent in "The Blue Beyond; A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia".

A small sized book in blue hardback binding, with the title and the author`s name in dark blue fonts at the top of the front cover. There are 288 pages.

Front cover: The Blue Beyond/Wilfred C. Busse/ Title page: The Blue Beyond/A Romance of the Early Days in South-Eastern Australia/by Wilfred C. Busse/ Hutchinson & Co (Publishers), LTD. /34-36 Paternoster Row, EC4 /

wilfred clarence busse, chiltern, barrister, author, wesley college, university of melbourne, supreme court of victoria, leo finn bernard cussen, historical novels, bush life, the golden plague, the blue beyond, the history of chiltern, chiltern athenaeum, gold rush, murray river, chambers, 1928, 1930, chiltern federal standard, t. e. role gold medal

This object is part of the Wilfred Clarence Busse Collection. Wilfred Clarence Busse was born in Chiltern, Victoria in 1898. His family first arrived in this region during the gold rush era, purchasing a piece of land adjacent to the Murray River. The spectacular scenery and rich history of the area is said to have inspired Busse in his writing. He attended Wesley College in his school days, before going on to study law at the University of Melbourne. After graduating from university, Busse would go on to become a barrister, but he is best known as a writer of fiction, publishing two novels: 'The Blue Beyond: A Romance of the Early Days in South Eastern Australia' and 'The Golden Plague: A Romance in the Early Fifties'. Busse died in 1960.

This object is significant as it is associated with Wilfred Clarence Busse, a successful writer and barrister who was born in Chiltern, Victoria.

A small fan with a metal base and three brown blades protruding upwards; possibly only partially complete.

wilfred clarence busse, w.c. busse, busse, handheld fan, fan, "the blue beyond", "the blue beyond: a romance of the early days in south eastern australia", "the golden plague”, "the golden plague: a romance of the early fifties.", gold rush