Historical information

The invitation reflects official civic and vice‑regal ceremonial culture in Victoria during the mid‑20th century. Queen’s Birthday receptions at Government House were significant social and political events attended by local dignitaries and civic leaders.

Significance

This item has historic and social significance as a tangible record of mid‑20th century vice‑regal ceremonial life in Victoria and reflects the formal conventions, design, and social networks of the period.

Physical description

Cream card invitation with black printed text and crown motif at top centre. Rectangular with rounded corners. Printed on one side (recto); verso blank except for later catalogue label.

Inscriptions & markings

Recto (printed):
“In Honour of the Birthday of Her Majesty the Queen / His Excellency The Governor and Lady Delacombe / request the pleasure of the company of / Councillor R. R. Evans & Miss K. Fletcher / at an Evening Reception / to be held on Friday, the 12th June, 1964, at 8.30 o’clock / Evening Dress or Uniform and Decorations / An answer is requested to the Aide‑de‑Camp in Waiting, Government House, Melbourne”
Verso:
“WI‑4292” (paper label, top right)