Historical information

Alex Mamot was a White Russian immigrant from China, sponsored by the Association of the Blind. Despite initial language barriers, his determination to succeed was an inspiration to those around him, who developed new ways of teaching which took into account his growing knowledge of English. In these images Alex Momot is showing with a Russian typewriter, being shown how to make stools by Mollie McDowell, feeling texture of a new suit held up by Matron Agar, being taught English by Carole Laird, learning the alphabet with H. Mackenzie and greeted at Brighton reception by Ms A. Mann.
In addition, there are two typed notes without images:
- The ship Tjiluwak, carrying Alexander Momot and other White Russian refugees approaching the wharf in Melbourne.
- On the wharf, Alex 2nd from left, is greeted by Mrs W Christian (left) a blind Committee member of the Association for the Blind and Miss Constance Duncan of the Australian Council of Churches. At the right is Sergie Bankovski, also a blind White Russian who acted as interpreter. Miss Duncan also initiated the move which resulted in the Association for the Blind giving refuge to Sergie and his mother. Standing at the rear is Major General S.F. Legge, Director of Public Relations for the Association of the Blind.

Physical description

12 b/w photographs of Alex Mamot

Inscriptions & markings

1 - No 4, 3" wide all in full depth, Hayer top + Bottom, #85, 3178
3 - P14. Reduce to 3" wide. Hayer top + Bottom, #85. 3178
4 - Volunteer Carole Opperman teaches English to White Russian refugee Alex Momot, who has been sponsored by the Association for the Blind. 2/8
9 - Celine Mann & Alex Mamot at point of arrival. No 1. 3" wide all in, full depth, Hayer top + Bottom, 3178, 45, 16B.
12 - 3181