Historical information

This book, likely published in 1917, features a total of 256 songs intended for use in churches, evangelistic services, and during Sunday school lessons. It comprises a series of church hymns, revival songs, responsive readings, songs for male voices, children's songs, Sunday school songs, and solos and choruses. The book belonged to Flora Ryberg, the mother of Gus Ryberg OAM. Flora played the organ for 25 years at St. Mark's Catholic Church in Emerald, Victoria. Flora Jane Ryberg (formerly Warner) was one of the first female missionaries sent to the First Nations communities in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia. She was sent there by the London Bible Mission. Her mission was shortlived, and she returned soon after.

Significance

The record is historically significant as it belonged to Flora Jane Ryberg, the mother of Gus Ryberg OAM; a prominent resident of Emerald. He was an employee of Nobelius family, and was instrumental in saving the last remnant of the Nursery, and preserving it as a public Heritage Park. His effort to establish the Emerald Museum from its inception to current location within the park is a testament to his commitment to conserving local history. Additionally, its historic significance is enhanced by the connection to St. Mark's church in Emerald; a longstanding Catholic institution with a history dating back over 100 years.

Physical description

Khaki hardcover book, potentially canvas or leather-bound, filled with sheet music including staves, notes and lyrics, plus printed text. The obverse cover features a black debossed title which reads "Awakening Songs", accompanied by a black image of a stave with notes in a rainbow-style shape in front of a cloud. 256 pages.

Inscriptions & markings

Obverse:
Every cloud will wear a rainbow, If your heart keeps right. /
Awakening /
Songs /