Historical information

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf.

Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux."

This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 9 December 1949 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.

Significance

The record is historically significant due to the time period in which it was produced. This significance is strengthened in the way the record stands as a testament to the way Ruyton recognises, celebrates and engages its student through programming and events.

The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection to a former notable student.

Physical description

A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.

Inscriptions & markings

Reverse:
RGS008/2024/0013 /