Functional object - Boiler engine, 1927

Historical information

This is the Ruston and Proctor engine and boiler from the PS Little Wonder built by R Barbour, Cornella NSW. It was launched in December 1878. Owned by Murray River Sawmills, it was used for logging operations until 1904, when the vessel was dismantled. The engine and boiler was purchased by the Robins family and ran a pump on their property by the Goulburn River. The boiler was later condemned by the engine continued to be used with steam supplied by another boiler up until the 1950s. Now considered to be beyond repair.

Significance

A good example of the technology and industrial history of northern Victoria and along the Goulburn River.

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