Historical information

In 1944, due to shortages created by World War II. J.L. Hirst, R.W. Nobelius, H.R. Wardle, H. Wise and J. Eudey came together to form the first co-op in Emerald to evenly distribute provisions to help those in the community, which is still standing today.

Significance

The Emerald Co-Op has huge historical and social significance for the town of Emerald as it changed the way the community worked by coming together to help the townsfolk for common benefit, that is still seen today. In 1944 Emerald like the rest of Australia was affected by the war and provisions for farmers were low, so the co-op was founded by several local members of the community as a way for the town of Emerald to come together to lend a hand to one another and share needed provisions, which has been seen throughout Australian history known as the "Australian Spirit."

Physical description

Black and white rectangular photograph showing the Emerald Co-op printed on matte photographic paper. The black and white photograph shows the Emerald Co-op Hardware Produce & Fodder Real Estate Agents store at 315 Main St, Emerald, which was founded in 1944 due to shortages created by World War II. J.L. Hirst, R.W. Nobelius, H.R. Wardle, H. Wise and J. Eudey came together to form the first co-op to help those in need, which is still standing today.

Inscriptions & markings

Obverse:

Emerald Co-op /
Emerald Co-op Hardware Produce & Fodder Real Estate Agents /
Butcher /