Historical information

The City of St Kilda was directly involved in fundraising for the Red Cross in both WWI and WWII. There was, for example, a Grand Patriotic and Red Cross Festival in October 1916, with proceeds going to the Patriotic and Red Cross funds. There was also a St Kilda Patriotic Carnival at Luna Park in 1917 to raise money for the Australian Comforts Fund and the Red Cross Fund. The typography, the relatively utilitarian wooden construction of the box and its poor condition indicate that it is likely to have been associated with that time. However, it may be connected with WWII. Shortly after the outbreak of WWII the City of St Kilda convened a meeting at St Kilda Town Hall concerning local patriotic activities and the formation of a St Kilda Branch of the Red Cross, and had an active Red Cross fundraising network throughout the war.

Physical description

Wooden box, plywood construction with paper label on top and front, printed in red. One side is hinged to allow opening. Back of box extends up to form a handle. On the top is a slot for coins.

Inscriptions & markings

On the top, and on the front: City of St. Kilda. Appeal on behalf of the RED CROSS FUNDS