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Williamstown was first incorporated as a borough on 14 March 1856. It became a town on 2 April 1886, subdivided into four wards in 28 October 1887 and was proclaimed a city on 17 May 1919. The city was proclaimed by His Excellency the State Governor, the Hon. Sir Arthur Stanley on 17 May 1919. At the same time he unveiled a photographic honour board in memory of local soldiers killed during World War One and officially opened the Town Hall/Council Chambers building at 104 Ferguson Street. The Governor was presented with this proclamation and asked to sign the parchment. The official birth of the city was celebrated by 2000 residents.

Commemorates the movement of Williamstown to the status of a city and also marks the occasion of the opening of the new municipal buildings, Council Chamber and unveiling of a collective photo of local soldiers who had died during WW1.

Bound Proclamation of City of Williamstown signed by Governor of State Victoria. 3rd April 1919, black tooled leather with gilt embossing, two fold with ribbon from date of visit - 17th May 1919

Arnall & Jackson, Melb Proclamation City of Williamstown

council chambers, williamstown,

This hat was part of the ceremonial dress of Williamstown Mayors. It is evident in early photographs of Williamstown Mayors from circa 1880 to the 1920's. The hat is designed to be folded as is often shown carried under the arm in Mayoral portraits.

The hat is significant as an example of Mayoral ceremonial dress and is documented in Mayoral portraits associated with Williamstown Council.

Black beaver fur bicorn ceremonial hat with silk brocade and ostrich feather trim. Silk lined.

This seal was stamped into hot wax to officialise documents. Armorial bearings are used by municipal councils to authenticate documents and deeds with a clearly recognisable 'corporate signature', known as the Common Seal. It is an adaptation of a tradition used in medieval England. Seals usually combine a coat of arms or logo with some sort of motto. The Williamstown City Council seal is simply composed of text.

Brass round seal with wooden handle. Remnants of red wax remain in seal.

Williamstown City Council Seal Roeszler, Melbourne

common seal, williamstown city council, hobsons bay city council, melbourne, australia, roeszler, local government