Historical information

Australia's Red Cross was formed 9 days after war was declared in 1914. Seven ladies gathered at the home of Mrs J.B. Pearson in Berwick shortly after and decided to form the Berwick Branch of the Australian Red Cross. Mrs Scott Sharp became the first president and Mrs A.E. Thomas, the first secretary of the branch. The other 5 founding members were Mrs L.D. Beaumont, Mrs William Wilson, Mrs John Brown, Mrs Chris Griffiths and Mrs Pearson.

Physical description

An 18.5 x 12.5 cm black and white photograph of seven ladies on the steps of a building. Three ladies are standing behind four ladies sitting. The lady at the front left appears to be sitting on the steps, the others look to be sitting on chairs. The photo appears to have been taken during the colder months as all ladies are wearing coats and/or furs and hats. The photo is mounted on a board behind interleaving in a white patterned paper folder.

Inscriptions & markings

Inside front cover in black pen: This photo was taken on the steps of Mrs. Pearson's home, still in use as part of present St. Margaret's School - 1984.
Below photograph in same handwriting and pen: Back Row, L to R:- Mrs A.E. Thomas (Secretary) Mrs. L.D. Beaumont, Mrs. Wm Wilson. Front Row, L to R:- Mrs. John Brown, Mrs. Chris Griffiths, Mrs. J.B. Pearson, Mrs Scott Sharp (President). BERWICK RED CROSS BRANCH 1914