Historical information

The construction on Lake Kerferd began in 1862 however it wasn't completed until 1874 due to engineering and funding issues. The lake was named after George Briscoe Kerferd (1831–1889) who was responsible for Beechworth's water scheme.

George Briscoe Kerferd was born on 21 January 1831 in Liverpool, England and arrived in Melbourne April 1853. He spent his first years in Australia in Bendigo before settling down in Beechworth as a wine and spirits merchant. He married Ann Martindale on 17th December 1853 at St James Cathedral, Melbourne and between them they had three sons and five daughters. Kerferd began his political and legal career in Beechworth when he was first elected to the Municipal Council in May 1857. Later he would be elected to the Legislative Assembly for the Ovens District in November 1864, and continued to represent the area until February 1886.

Significance

The postcard holds Historic significance due to its connection to Beechworth and its Lake Kerford. It demonstrates the interactions between nature and colonialists, especially how the lake has somewhat been 'protected' with the man made fencing. It also presents information on the environmental development or degradation for the area, with possible changes to the environment that may have been caused by human physical forces, natural decay or Global Warming.

Physical description

Sepia rectangular postcard printed on paper.

Inscriptions & markings

Obverse:
The Rose Series P. 10542 /
Copyright /
Evening lights, Lake Kerferd, Beechworth, VIC

Reverse:
Farley /
Published by the Rose Stereograph Co., /
Armadale Victoria. /
84-132-1 /
Post card /
The "Rose" Series De Luxe /
A Real Photograph Produced in Australia /
BMM299