Historical information

Robert Clark was a self educated man who had arrived in Australia with his step father to take up mining in 1854. He worked in several local mines and being familiar with the hardships associated with mining life, helping to establish the eight hour day for miners. Robert married Sarah Jane Kernaghan in 1862 and together they had nine children. Robert Clark was first elected in 1872 and remained a councillor until his death in 1883. He died aged 41 years.
This elaborate Letter of Appreciation was hand drawn and painted by artist and photographer Frederick de Kock who was associated with Mr N Caire's photographic Studio, View Place and by 1882 was producing and teaching hand painting on ceramics. In 1883 he advertised as a photographer with his own studio on the corner of Mitchell and King Street, which was later named the Bendigo Portrait Rooms.

Physical description

Illuminated Letter of Appreciation in shape of arched window. From Sandhurst Pioneer Co-Operative Co Limited to Robert Clark. Hand drawn and painted on card. Signed by eight directors.