Historical information

Franz Gördes (b.1843) who immigrated to Australia from Germany in 1871. After docking in Melbourne Franz headed for the goldfields at Spring Gully near Beechworth, but didn't strike gold. He returned to his trade and opened a boot shop in Wodonga, which burnt to the ground the day before the opening. Undeterred, he rebuilt and operated the business until his death on 8 June 1928. He was survived by his widow, Margaret as well as six sons and three daughters. Franz Gordes’ Boot & Shoe Warehouse was situated in Sydney Road, now High Street, Wodonga.

Significance

This item has a well documented provenance and connection to the local history of Wodonga.

Physical description

A black and white photo which has also been digitised.

Inscriptions & markings

Above shop: Cheap / Boot & Shoe Warehouse