We are lucky enough to hold various artefacts from the wrecking of the Maitland steamer. The following information comes from: http://www.abc.net.au/backyard/shipwrecks/nsw/maitland.htm
Such was the impact when the steamer Maitland wrecked in 1898 that it led to the naming of a bay, a bombora and the storm that sank it!
Photographs of the iron paddle steamer portray its beautiful sleek lines. Of 231 feet (70.00 m) in length, the vessel was built at Glasgow, United Kingdom, in 1870. Famed as a regular trader along the New South Wales coast, excited passengers queued at Sydney to board before the 11.00 p.m. departure. By the time the steamer reached the Sydney Heads, they began to fear for their lives.
Labouring into a frightening gale, the Maitland immediately began shipping water. Seas carried away the deckhouse as all aboard assisted in bailing water from the flooding hull. Struggling in the pitch-black night, frantic efforts were made to dump cargo in a last ditch effort to stay upright. However, by the time they passed Barrenjoey Headland, huge seas flooded the engine fires, they were now adrift at the mercy of the driving seas. As one survivor was later to remark, "it seemed as if all the winds of heaven from every point of the compass had been let loose from their caverns". Captain Skinner got everybody together and instructed them "to prepare themselves for what was to come".
Just before 6.00 a.m. on 6 May 1898, the Maitland was driven onto the foot of East Reef with a mighty crash and driven high up into the air. The hull immediately wrenched apart amidships, carrying most of the crew and steerage passengers in the forward section to their deaths. Those swept ashore alive were severely injured by the jagged rocks and pounding surf. The remainder survived on the shattered stern, eventually making it ashore by the afternoon, after several nerve-racking attempts to secure a line to the beach. At one stage four of the crew including the Stewardess were crossing by the line when it broke. Only the Third Engineer made it to safety.
The tragic death of 24 from 63 aboard appalled the population. One young women found drowned had been buried under sand and wreckage, near naked, and with her teeth smashed away.
There were many tales of gallantry however, one involved the remarkable survival of baby Daisy Hammond. Trapped on the wreck after her mother had carried ashore, Daisy was nursed by crew through the night. Next morning, she was carried through the surf on the Boatswain's back. Many years later, Daisy Stevens visited the wreck, and when she died in 1988 at the age of 90, had her ashes flown from Canada and scattered over the wreck site.
The "Maitland Gale" also claimed the schooners Amelia White, Philip Palfrey, Adelaide, Isabel, J.G. Kondio; the ketch Coral; the barquentine Fido; the ship Hereward and the steamers Ethel, Merksworth and Saxonia. In 1909, the timber steamer Narooma ran ashore on the beach at Boat Harbour and became a total wreck. The Maitland's exposed boilers were still clearly visible in photographs taken at the time. Today little is left of the Maitland wreck, other than fragments of the hull and remains of a boiler on the exposed East Reef at low tide.
Sydney Morning Herald 9, 10, 11 & 12 May 1898
Central Coast Express, 8 April 1988
Gosford Heritage Association
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Around the grounds
Our front entrance has had a bit of a facelift. The “Maitland” Bell has
been erected, along with two of the “Maitland” portholes, on a strong
stand made by Clark Equipment at Hornsby. This stand enables the Bell
to be presented hanging, as a Bell should be - and it has a lovely sound
when struck.
The picket fence between the Cottage and Museum has been
removed and this gives a clearer view of the Cottage. When the
Heritage Architect inspected our complex recently this was one of his
recommendations.
The lattice work behind the bullock wagon has gone and this also gives
a clearer view of the Cottage and Museum. The unfinished bullock yoke
which belonged to Horace Frost was donated to BWHS by Geoff Potter
of Gosford City library and this has been erected behind the bullock
wagon, which also belonged to Horace Frost.
been erected, along with two of the “Maitland” portholes, on a strong
stand made by Clark Equipment at Hornsby. This stand enables the Bell
to be presented hanging, as a Bell should be - and it has a lovely sound
when struck.
The picket fence between the Cottage and Museum has been
removed and this gives a clearer view of the Cottage. When the
Heritage Architect inspected our complex recently this was one of his
recommendations.
The lattice work behind the bullock wagon has gone and this also gives
a clearer view of the Cottage and Museum. The unfinished bullock yoke
which belonged to Horace Frost was donated to BWHS by Geoff Potter
of Gosford City library and this has been erected behind the bullock
wagon, which also belonged to Horace Frost.
Grant Success
Since recently receiving a Grant from Gosford City Council for an
inspection by a Heritage Architect, we received a subsequent Grant for
the essential work to be carried out. This entailed treating the ‘spalling’
or rising damp on the front wall of the Cottage and this has now been
successfully completed. It also covered the installation of a drainage
trench across the front wall, tying in with the existing drains so that the
same problem would not occur again. This has also been carried out
successfully. A small Grant was also received for replacing cracked
window panes in the Cottage. So thanks to Gosford Council, including
their Heritage Committee, for these Grants and to BWHS member Ros Ellis for
requesting them.
inspection by a Heritage Architect, we received a subsequent Grant for
the essential work to be carried out. This entailed treating the ‘spalling’
or rising damp on the front wall of the Cottage and this has now been
successfully completed. It also covered the installation of a drainage
trench across the front wall, tying in with the existing drains so that the
same problem would not occur again. This has also been carried out
successfully. A small Grant was also received for replacing cracked
window panes in the Cottage. So thanks to Gosford Council, including
their Heritage Committee, for these Grants and to BWHS member Ros Ellis for
requesting them.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Dedication of the Lone Pine Memorial Garden at Allison Homestead, Wyong
Brian McCafferty’s report at the General Meeting:
On 12 October, Brian McCafferty and his wife
attended the dedication ceremony for the Lone Pine Tree in the grounds of
Allison Homestead.
Brian reported that it was rather moving and was well organised. About 120 to
150 were in attendance including the Mayor, Local Member of Parliament,
local business leaders, Wyong RSL Sub-Branch members, some school
principals and their respective school captains. A noted item was that an
identical ceremony was being held on the same day on the Beach at
Gallopoli. That ceremony was being conducted by the Wyong Parish Priest
with about 30 people from Wyong and surrounds who accompanied the
Parish Priest to Gallopoli.
Member, Ruth Logan also attended – her comments follow …
On 12 October I attended, on behalf of Brisbane Water Historical
Society, a Service of Dedication at the Lone Pine War Memorial Garden
at Alison Homestead, Wyong.
It was a very moving ceremony conducted by Mr. Phillip Moreley,
President of Wyong District Museum & Historical Society and attended
by the Mayor of Wyong, Mr. Doug Eaton, the State Member of Wyong,
Mr. David Harris and President of Wyong RSL Sub Branch, Mr. Lawrence
Shaw. Rev. Father Michael Kelly OAM, Blessed the Memorial Garden and led
the service.
On this day, Rev. Fr. Bill Stevens, Parish Priest of The Entrance, along with
over 30 people on pilgrimage, were at Gallipoli to place soil, rosemary, poppy,
and a small piece of pine from the garden in Wyong, at a suitable location.
He in turn will bring back a small memento from Gallipoli to be placed in the
Memorial Garden.
Several Pine Trees were originally grown from seeds taken from a Pine Tree
cone carried back by Sgt. Keith McDowell of the 24th Battalion at the end of
the 1914/1918 war and planted in Inverell, NSW in 1928.
From this source there were several Pines grown there and another in
Canberra. The Wyong Pine Tree is from this source.
At the conclusion of the Blessing of The Memorial Garden, the Last
Post was played by a member of the Brisbane Water Brass Band who
also played Revelle.
The gardens and grounds are a credit to the work of Roman Paul, who
designed the Memorial Garden, planted with poppies, rosemary and other
flowers.
On 12 October, Brian McCafferty and his wife
attended the dedication ceremony for the Lone Pine Tree in the grounds of
Allison Homestead.
Brian reported that it was rather moving and was well organised. About 120 to
150 were in attendance including the Mayor, Local Member of Parliament,
local business leaders, Wyong RSL Sub-Branch members, some school
principals and their respective school captains. A noted item was that an
identical ceremony was being held on the same day on the Beach at
Gallopoli. That ceremony was being conducted by the Wyong Parish Priest
with about 30 people from Wyong and surrounds who accompanied the
Parish Priest to Gallopoli.
Member, Ruth Logan also attended – her comments follow …
On 12 October I attended, on behalf of Brisbane Water Historical
Society, a Service of Dedication at the Lone Pine War Memorial Garden
at Alison Homestead, Wyong.
It was a very moving ceremony conducted by Mr. Phillip Moreley,
President of Wyong District Museum & Historical Society and attended
by the Mayor of Wyong, Mr. Doug Eaton, the State Member of Wyong,
Mr. David Harris and President of Wyong RSL Sub Branch, Mr. Lawrence
Shaw. Rev. Father Michael Kelly OAM, Blessed the Memorial Garden and led
the service.
On this day, Rev. Fr. Bill Stevens, Parish Priest of The Entrance, along with
over 30 people on pilgrimage, were at Gallipoli to place soil, rosemary, poppy,
and a small piece of pine from the garden in Wyong, at a suitable location.
He in turn will bring back a small memento from Gallipoli to be placed in the
Memorial Garden.
Several Pine Trees were originally grown from seeds taken from a Pine Tree
cone carried back by Sgt. Keith McDowell of the 24th Battalion at the end of
the 1914/1918 war and planted in Inverell, NSW in 1928.
From this source there were several Pines grown there and another in
Canberra. The Wyong Pine Tree is from this source.
At the conclusion of the Blessing of The Memorial Garden, the Last
Post was played by a member of the Brisbane Water Brass Band who
also played Revelle.
The gardens and grounds are a credit to the work of Roman Paul, who
designed the Memorial Garden, planted with poppies, rosemary and other
flowers.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Ongoing Projects (1)
The Cottage Fence
The committee has resolved to remove the decaying picket fence, between
the Cottage and museum. The yellow rose bush may be re-located to one
corner of the Bullock Wagon cover – so it can ramble freely along the lattice
or other structure.
Newspaper clippings
Member, Brian McCafferty is currently sorting and assembling the newspaper clippings that have been gathered over the years. The clippings date back to 1946. They are being placed on A4 sheets and assigned a category then a sub-heading. Nearly 100 sheets have been assembled so far. The project has a number of steps including scanning all the documents, treating the documents or laminating them to protect them from aging.
The sheets will be scanned and entered onto an archive database.
Bell and Portholes of the SS Maitland
Brian McCafferty initiated the idea of improving the presentation and
repositioning the Maitland display. The idea was approved and he undertook
to have a vertical stand made so the Bell can be presented hanging, as a bell
should. Brian prepared a design and engaged professional engineers
/fabricators to do the final design and the fabrication of a purpose built metal
stand. The terrific stand has been completed.
Our thanks go out to the management and team at Clark Equipment Pty. Ltd.
of Hornsby who graciously donated the material and the time required by the
skilled craftsmen to complete the work.
Our very old books
As you may know, we have a collection of very old, fascinating and possibly
rare books.
These precious old books are being catalogued and re-shelved.
Tyrell, one of our newer members, is helping Jay with this project.
The committee has resolved to remove the decaying picket fence, between
the Cottage and museum. The yellow rose bush may be re-located to one
corner of the Bullock Wagon cover – so it can ramble freely along the lattice
or other structure.
Newspaper clippings
Member, Brian McCafferty is currently sorting and assembling the newspaper clippings that have been gathered over the years. The clippings date back to 1946. They are being placed on A4 sheets and assigned a category then a sub-heading. Nearly 100 sheets have been assembled so far. The project has a number of steps including scanning all the documents, treating the documents or laminating them to protect them from aging.
The sheets will be scanned and entered onto an archive database.
Bell and Portholes of the SS Maitland
Brian McCafferty initiated the idea of improving the presentation and
repositioning the Maitland display. The idea was approved and he undertook
to have a vertical stand made so the Bell can be presented hanging, as a bell
should. Brian prepared a design and engaged professional engineers
/fabricators to do the final design and the fabrication of a purpose built metal
stand. The terrific stand has been completed.
Our thanks go out to the management and team at Clark Equipment Pty. Ltd.
of Hornsby who graciously donated the material and the time required by the
skilled craftsmen to complete the work.
Our very old books
As you may know, we have a collection of very old, fascinating and possibly
rare books.
These precious old books are being catalogued and re-shelved.
Tyrell, one of our newer members, is helping Jay with this project.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Henry Kendall Cottage on Facebook and Twitter
Guest Speakers
The Guest Speaker at the August General Meeting was Derelie Cherry from
the lovely Paradise Gardens, Kulnurra, who gave us an interesting talk about
the McLeay family and Elizabeth House at Potts Point, as well as how lovely
Paradise Gardens are now that spring is here. The Guest Speaker at the General Meeting on September 21st was Lindsay Allen from State Records, NSW. Many thanks for this informative talk.
October’s Guest Speaker will be John Haxton from the First Fleeters (19/10/2010 @ 1.00pm). And our Guest Speaker for November will be Robert Wilson, the lovely gentleman who has rejuvenated our 100 years old Estey Parlour Organ in the Museum and has also done some work on the Cabinet Organ in the Cottage. Robert has some
interesting facts to relate and stories to tell, and also will be playing our organ
so we’ll look forward to his presentation.
All members of the Brisbane Water Historical Society, and any potential members, are most welcome.
the lovely Paradise Gardens, Kulnurra, who gave us an interesting talk about
the McLeay family and Elizabeth House at Potts Point, as well as how lovely
Paradise Gardens are now that spring is here. The Guest Speaker at the General Meeting on September 21st was Lindsay Allen from State Records, NSW. Many thanks for this informative talk.
October’s Guest Speaker will be John Haxton from the First Fleeters (19/10/2010 @ 1.00pm). And our Guest Speaker for November will be Robert Wilson, the lovely gentleman who has rejuvenated our 100 years old Estey Parlour Organ in the Museum and has also done some work on the Cabinet Organ in the Cottage. Robert has some
interesting facts to relate and stories to tell, and also will be playing our organ
so we’ll look forward to his presentation.
All members of the Brisbane Water Historical Society, and any potential members, are most welcome.
Adcock Scrapbook
We hold a very interesting scrapbook that was compiled by Garnet Adcock,
the second owner of Henry Kendall Cottage, and the founder of Jusfrute.
A descendant of Garnet Adcock, Arthur Adcock, visited our complex to do
some research in May this year and was ‘blown away’ by this scrapbook.
Because of its fragile state now, arrangements were made for us to copy it.
Jay Sider did the jpeg images on a CD, a copy for our library and also a copy
for Arthur. Thanks Jay for all your hard work in this.
the second owner of Henry Kendall Cottage, and the founder of Jusfrute.
A descendant of Garnet Adcock, Arthur Adcock, visited our complex to do
some research in May this year and was ‘blown away’ by this scrapbook.
Because of its fragile state now, arrangements were made for us to copy it.
Jay Sider did the jpeg images on a CD, a copy for our library and also a copy
for Arthur. Thanks Jay for all your hard work in this.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Camera Collection
We recently dusted off our photo camera collection. Interest in old cameras,
around the world, is alive and well, therefore not too many such cameras are
rare or valuable (in dollar terms). We do however have in our collection a
notable specimen. The Kodak Medalist II (1946). There were two models
made in the 1940’s and we appear to have a fine example of the revised
model. The design and construction of the Medalist II was a radical departure
from the Kodak consumer camera range. There seems to be no other
camera of its kind from that era.
Although it was commercially available, the Medalist II was made for and
used by, the U.S. military. It was made for rugged use, its casing was mostly
black, it used a large format film (620) and the optics were superior to
anything before it.
During the War Years, steel and aluminium were at a premium but no
expense was spared to make this a solid, reliable camera and it was during
this time that a black veneer was applied to most of the body, revealing less
reflective surface and thus more suited to military recognisance.
Unfortunately, we have no history on our Medalist II but as its manufacture
was near to the end of the War, it may not have seen action.
......(Thanks to Jay Sider for this contribution)
around the world, is alive and well, therefore not too many such cameras are
rare or valuable (in dollar terms). We do however have in our collection a
notable specimen. The Kodak Medalist II (1946). There were two models
made in the 1940’s and we appear to have a fine example of the revised
model. The design and construction of the Medalist II was a radical departure
from the Kodak consumer camera range. There seems to be no other
camera of its kind from that era.
Although it was commercially available, the Medalist II was made for and
used by, the U.S. military. It was made for rugged use, its casing was mostly
black, it used a large format film (620) and the optics were superior to
anything before it.
During the War Years, steel and aluminium were at a premium but no
expense was spared to make this a solid, reliable camera and it was during
this time that a black veneer was applied to most of the body, revealing less
reflective surface and thus more suited to military recognisance.
Unfortunately, we have no history on our Medalist II but as its manufacture
was near to the end of the War, it may not have seen action.
......(Thanks to Jay Sider for this contribution)
1910 Estey Parlour Organ
You will no doubt be aware of the organ in the Museum. It is a 1910 Estey
Reed Organ. We couldn’t find an exact match on the Estey website but
we’re reasonably sure this would have been referred to as a ‘Parlour ‘model. This was Home Entertainment 100 years ago. Our Estey is 100 years old - Happy Birthday!
We offer Bob Wilson, a visitor to the Museum, our sincere thanks for applying his expertise to restoring it to full ‘playability’.
Bob is a professional restorer but has graciously given his time to clean the organ and get it playing again. From him, we’ve now learnt how to effect basic maintenance in order to keep it in good playable condition. If any members can
play the organ, come in and blow the cobwebs away! Bob recently completed a restoration on a similar organ in an old church at Hill End. His next little job will be to join a small team of experts who will be undertaking a thorough cleaning of the grand organ at the Sydney Town Hall. Bob also commented on the organ in
the Cottage - he likes it. We don’t know much about it so more research is
required to establish the maker and year of manufacture. We’ll keep you
posted. Once again, our thanks to Bob for his time and effort.
........(and thanks to Jay Sider for this contribution)
Reed Organ. We couldn’t find an exact match on the Estey website but
we’re reasonably sure this would have been referred to as a ‘Parlour ‘model. This was Home Entertainment 100 years ago. Our Estey is 100 years old - Happy Birthday!
We offer Bob Wilson, a visitor to the Museum, our sincere thanks for applying his expertise to restoring it to full ‘playability’.
Bob is a professional restorer but has graciously given his time to clean the organ and get it playing again. From him, we’ve now learnt how to effect basic maintenance in order to keep it in good playable condition. If any members can
play the organ, come in and blow the cobwebs away! Bob recently completed a restoration on a similar organ in an old church at Hill End. His next little job will be to join a small team of experts who will be undertaking a thorough cleaning of the grand organ at the Sydney Town Hall. Bob also commented on the organ in
the Cottage - he likes it. We don’t know much about it so more research is
required to establish the maker and year of manufacture. We’ll keep you
posted. Once again, our thanks to Bob for his time and effort.
........(and thanks to Jay Sider for this contribution)
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
The Saving of Fairview
From: The Saving of Fairview petition
Fairview is an historic homestead on a property situated in an area of The Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia, called Dubbo Gully, not far from Lower Mangrove. The property is of major significance to the history of the area, with one building there dating back 150 years.
It is owned by Gosford City Council, being purchased by them some years ago in readiness for the construction of a major water storage dam just downstream of the house. The location for the dam was subsequently moved upstream and the house still stands as it was then, deteriorating further every year. Those familiar with the heritage want the property saved and restored to its former glory, but as of May 2010, Gosford City Council is yet to give approval with several reasons being given for why it will not be possible to do so.
Please make use of this petition to let those in power know that it is imperative that this property be saved.
If you are not familiar with the property, please do everything you can to go there and check out the Facebook page The Saving of Fairview and check out the video produced for the cause. It is certainly worth your while going there and experiencing the area for yourself, but of course the video comes in at a close second. I am sure you will understand immediately why the property MUST be saved. Not only is it of historical importance, it is without doubt one of the most beautiful areas of The Central Coast.
Fairview is an historic homestead on a property situated in an area of The Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia, called Dubbo Gully, not far from Lower Mangrove. The property is of major significance to the history of the area, with one building there dating back 150 years.
It is owned by Gosford City Council, being purchased by them some years ago in readiness for the construction of a major water storage dam just downstream of the house. The location for the dam was subsequently moved upstream and the house still stands as it was then, deteriorating further every year. Those familiar with the heritage want the property saved and restored to its former glory, but as of May 2010, Gosford City Council is yet to give approval with several reasons being given for why it will not be possible to do so.
Please make use of this petition to let those in power know that it is imperative that this property be saved.
If you are not familiar with the property, please do everything you can to go there and check out the Facebook page The Saving of Fairview and check out the video produced for the cause. It is certainly worth your while going there and experiencing the area for yourself, but of course the video comes in at a close second. I am sure you will understand immediately why the property MUST be saved. Not only is it of historical importance, it is without doubt one of the most beautiful areas of The Central Coast.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Vale - Frank Chalk
Sadly we report the recent passing of a highly respected and well-loved member of the Brisbane Water Historical Society - Frank Chalk. He is greatly missed by those who knew him. The following is an extract from the Eulogy offered by Elaine Fry:
"Frank, wonderful sincere friend, workaholic, great mate, advisor, you name it and that was Frank...
Frank was born in Birmingham, England in September 1919. His family moved to Australia when he was an infant...Frank joined BWHS in 1981 and became very much involved. No matter what was damaged, Frank knew how to fix it, doing many repairs, soldering, making display cabinets and photo frames, and cleaning of exhibits to display standard, all under the advice of Museums Australia.
Frank, Alice [his wife], Stan (my late husband) and I worked as a team, having our working bees at the museum complex when we had time to spare, often 4-5 hours, 3-4 times a week, to set up a special exhibition. We also spent many. many hours in the gardens and grounds. Our first love was our family and home, closely followed by the cottage complex. Frank's knowledge and assistance was greatly appreciated by the committee and members of BWHS. Frank also joined the roster to open the cottage/museum on a regular basis once a month.
Frank was elected a Vice-President in 1982, a position he held for 3 years, then Treasurer in 1984, a position he held for 16 years. He certainly looked after our monies. He checked every item on every docket or invoice.
Frank was a great ambassador for BWHS and HK Cottage. He was a guest speaker at other organisations' meetings, and carried our brochures to distribute whereever they went on holidays. He was a guide on coach tours visiting from other areas, transported boxes of items to street stalls, displays etc. with no worries and not looking for any pat on the back. Frank also kept a lookout at night. Really he was an unpaid caretaker of the cottage and grounds. No request was ever too large or too small for our Frank.
On 20th February 2001, Frank was appointed a Life Member of BWHS for his dedication to the Society and his voluntary work for HK Cottage, over and above anything that is expected of a volunteer...
In June 2007 when we had those very heavy winds and storms, some trees came down in the cottage grounds, one large tree blocking the driveway. Stan and our son Kelvin, with his chainsaw, came over to see what could be done. Very soon 88 year old Frank came over in the rain to assist in removing most of the trees and branches. Work stopped because the rain became too heavy, but they were back again on Sunday morning and access was made for the garbage truck and for the coach that arrived on Monday morning...
Frank enjoyed life and talking to people, he was happy in life and at peace with himself. The Community is much richer for the time Frank has spent in the area."
"Frank, wonderful sincere friend, workaholic, great mate, advisor, you name it and that was Frank...
Frank was born in Birmingham, England in September 1919. His family moved to Australia when he was an infant...Frank joined BWHS in 1981 and became very much involved. No matter what was damaged, Frank knew how to fix it, doing many repairs, soldering, making display cabinets and photo frames, and cleaning of exhibits to display standard, all under the advice of Museums Australia.
Frank, Alice [his wife], Stan (my late husband) and I worked as a team, having our working bees at the museum complex when we had time to spare, often 4-5 hours, 3-4 times a week, to set up a special exhibition. We also spent many. many hours in the gardens and grounds. Our first love was our family and home, closely followed by the cottage complex. Frank's knowledge and assistance was greatly appreciated by the committee and members of BWHS. Frank also joined the roster to open the cottage/museum on a regular basis once a month.
Frank was elected a Vice-President in 1982, a position he held for 3 years, then Treasurer in 1984, a position he held for 16 years. He certainly looked after our monies. He checked every item on every docket or invoice.
Frank was a great ambassador for BWHS and HK Cottage. He was a guest speaker at other organisations' meetings, and carried our brochures to distribute whereever they went on holidays. He was a guide on coach tours visiting from other areas, transported boxes of items to street stalls, displays etc. with no worries and not looking for any pat on the back. Frank also kept a lookout at night. Really he was an unpaid caretaker of the cottage and grounds. No request was ever too large or too small for our Frank.
On 20th February 2001, Frank was appointed a Life Member of BWHS for his dedication to the Society and his voluntary work for HK Cottage, over and above anything that is expected of a volunteer...
In June 2007 when we had those very heavy winds and storms, some trees came down in the cottage grounds, one large tree blocking the driveway. Stan and our son Kelvin, with his chainsaw, came over to see what could be done. Very soon 88 year old Frank came over in the rain to assist in removing most of the trees and branches. Work stopped because the rain became too heavy, but they were back again on Sunday morning and access was made for the garbage truck and for the coach that arrived on Monday morning...
Frank enjoyed life and talking to people, he was happy in life and at peace with himself. The Community is much richer for the time Frank has spent in the area."
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
From the Curator: Ethnographic Collections & Post-Colonialism
The ethnographic collection is openly influenced by the external socio-political principles that shape attitudes towards the presentation of different cultures. The foremost change came following the move towards political independence of colonised countries, as the desire to represent personal national identity through objects and the theory of post-colonialism flourished. Previously, imperial rule was legitimised through anthropological hypotheses and illustrated in ethnographic museums, so the ethnocentrism of the museums existed in direct opposition to this new shift in the balance of power. Post-colonial breakdown of cultural structures challenged the domination of Western perceptions and established a collection of ethics and values that promoted a more equitable system of societal representation.
Moreover, the traditional ethnography museum was challenged by the post-colonial desire for self-representation and the accompanying realisation that the
collective memory of these events [colonisation] of indigenous peoples and their descendants is vastly different to that of European peoples and their descendants.
Thus, the formerly colonised nations began to establish their own heritage and ethnic legacies for the ‘enrichment, education and collective identity of the citizenry’, with the creation of a national museum part of the ‘criteria of civilisation’.
With respect to these changes in the ideological climate, the ethnographic museum has to operate under the influence of rapidly changing socio-political theories. The museum now has to re-evaluate the particular world-view that it was previously programmed to promote and make attempts to redress the imbalance caused by the endorsement of ‘otherness’ and the portrayal of the colonised peoples privation and hardship as resulting from their own ‘inability, incompetence and sheer laziness’. Consequently, the existence of post-colonialism has created a paradox and raised a variety of key issues that impact upon the ethnographic museum. Their new role to nullify the inequity and undo the damage caused by previous interpretive techniques undermines their own existence.
Hannah Clayton Atkin
Moreover, the traditional ethnography museum was challenged by the post-colonial desire for self-representation and the accompanying realisation that the
collective memory of these events [colonisation] of indigenous peoples and their descendants is vastly different to that of European peoples and their descendants.
Thus, the formerly colonised nations began to establish their own heritage and ethnic legacies for the ‘enrichment, education and collective identity of the citizenry’, with the creation of a national museum part of the ‘criteria of civilisation’.
With respect to these changes in the ideological climate, the ethnographic museum has to operate under the influence of rapidly changing socio-political theories. The museum now has to re-evaluate the particular world-view that it was previously programmed to promote and make attempts to redress the imbalance caused by the endorsement of ‘otherness’ and the portrayal of the colonised peoples privation and hardship as resulting from their own ‘inability, incompetence and sheer laziness’. Consequently, the existence of post-colonialism has created a paradox and raised a variety of key issues that impact upon the ethnographic museum. Their new role to nullify the inequity and undo the damage caused by previous interpretive techniques undermines their own existence.
Hannah Clayton Atkin
Friday, April 30, 2010
The Curator on Art Nouveau & Art Deco in England
The quintessence of Art Nouveau is the curved, supple lines derived directly from nature and first emerging in the 1890s. In England, as with its direct predecessor the Arts and Crafts movement, came the rejection of mass production and the adoption of the sinuous, natural forms that were to dominate Art Nouveau design. Thus, the increased prevalence and popularity of Arts and Crafts ideas abroad and the inspiration of the various nationalistic revivals of the period culminated in the Art Nouveau style.
As Art Nouveau was linked inexorably to regionally specific revivals, such as the early Nordic art revival in the Scandinavian countries, this post will focus on the English Nouveau designs with their naturalistic and Gothic revival influences. Most importantly, England Europe . In addition, the moralising influence of the Arts and Crafts movement was more explicit and unfiltered in its impact on subsequent design; it did not undergo the modifications experienced when ideas move away from their culture of origin.
Significant too was the English expectation of the approaching changes in domestic setting and popular requirements. Since the middle of the 19th century, English designers had been producing furniture that had unsophisticated forms and purposeful structure. Opinion had moved away from the veneration of stylistic imitation to the adaptation of the traditions of the past, thus inspiring such re-appraisals as the Neo-Gothic movement.
Accordingly, at the turn of the century the most important furniture designers were the beneficiaries of the most groundbreaking 19th century developments. The designer Charles Francis Annesley Voysey (1857-1941) was an architect trained using the guidelines espoused by William Morris. His work was inspired by his reading of the Tudor tradition but, in contrast to Morris, he did not reject the concept of mechanisation. Voysey believed the industrialisation of production should be welcomed as an altruistic force that could bring good-quality products to a wider public audience. Despite this philanthropic attitude, Voysey’s move towards ‘naturalness’ often lead to oversimplification and a primitivism that did little to appeal to the public.
Consequently, the Art Nouveau period in England
In contrast, the style identified as Art Deco attained its peak in the interval between the two World Wars. It followed almost directly after the Art Nouveau period and worked as an unequivocal veer away from the natural, complex floral forms to modernised, clean angular lines. Following the seminal Exposition des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels (1925) in Paris
Indeed, the advent of Art Deco signified the arrival of the first all-encompassing fashion that could be adopted regardless of budget. In addition, the advances in new technological communication resulted in an almost uniform, quickly spreading style in direct contrast to the distinct regionality and exclusivity of the Art Nouveau designs.
Moreover, in further contrast to the Art Nouveau Movement, Art Deco was the essence of modernity. Although earlier styles were modified for contemporary use, the Art Deco approach was not dependant on revival or the need to explore historical aspects of design to qualify itself. Art Deco was a volte-face away from a ‘diseased society that had chosen to massacre its youth across the battlefields of the Somme ’[1] to something that was pure, primal and preferably non-European.
However, the impact of the rapid mechanisation of the war years should not be underestimated as an influence on the production techniques, the adoption of new materials and machine based design-styles it invoked. Now, the patterns on tea services echoed the shape of an aeroplane wing and new bakelite radios imitated car radiator grills in an attempt to emphasise the desire to look towards the future via new technology.
For the purposes of this essay, the Art Deco furniture and design qualities studied for a direct comparison will be English. Although there was no substantial regional variations within Art Deco designs, retaining the focus on English furniture means that ‘like is being compared with like’.
In England Paris
In the early Thirties, Russel was joined by his architect son R. D. Russel and machinery was subsequently introduced to the manufacturing process with designs being modified for the mass market. Outlines were simplified and made increasingly geometric and therefore, quite logically, the pieces that were produced became far more modern in their characteristics.
Accordingly, although Art Deco defended the value of craftsmanship, it recognised, accepted and benefited greatly from the advancements in manufacturing. As a result, while Art Nouveau could be intense, multifaceted and congested, Art Deco was fresh and clean. The designs were also flexible enough to adapt in a period of unparalleled change.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
The Big Working Bee
Big Working Bee
Our museum complex will be closed to the public from 17th-23rd May 2010 for a big clean and reorganisation of the displays. Please show your support by joining in. It will be on every day during the week so most members should be able to spare some time - it doesn't matter how little, it all helps. The week will culminate with a Sausage Sizzle on Sunday 23rd May.
As part of the Big Working Bee, Hannah our Curator will be giving a training session on caring for historical artefacts. This will last for approx. 2 hours from 10am on Tuesday 18th May. If you have any particular items that you would be interested in learning how to care for, please contact the Curator via our website.
To take part in our Big Working Bee, you must become a member of the Brisbane Water Historical Society. Click HERE for details on becoming a member.
To take part in our Big Working Bee, you must become a member of the Brisbane Water Historical Society. Click HERE for details on becoming a member.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
200th Anniversary of Lachlan Macquarie's Governorship
2010 is the 200th Anniversary of Lachlan Macquarie's Governorship of New South Wales.
As such, there will be many celebrations and events held in and around Sydney. As part of this the Brisbane Water Historical Society would like to recognise Bungaree, the aborigine that was befriended by Lachlan Macquarie. It is believed that Bungaree came from the Broken Bay area and we would like to highlight this connection between the Central Coast and Governor Macquarie. We do not currently have a set programme of events so any ideas and suggestions would be appreciated.
"Bungaree (or Bongaree) was an Aboriginal man from the Broken Bay area who settled in Sydney in the 1790s. He became a well-known character around Sydney and is often protrayed in distinctive military clothes and hat.
As such, there will be many celebrations and events held in and around Sydney. As part of this the Brisbane Water Historical Society would like to recognise Bungaree, the aborigine that was befriended by Lachlan Macquarie. It is believed that Bungaree came from the Broken Bay area and we would like to highlight this connection between the Central Coast and Governor Macquarie. We do not currently have a set programme of events so any ideas and suggestions would be appreciated.
"Bungaree (or Bongaree) was an Aboriginal man from the Broken Bay area who settled in Sydney in the 1790s. He became a well-known character around Sydney and is often protrayed in distinctive military clothes and hat.
Bungaree accompanied both Matthew Flinders and Phillip Parker King on voyages of discovery. Flinders was attracted to his 'good disposition and manly conduct', and Bungaree became an important crew member on the Norfolk as they sailed to Moreton and Hervey Bays in Queensland in 1799, and on the Investigator during Flinders' circumnavigation of Australia from 1801 - 1803.
Bungaree also sailed with Phillip Parker King to north western Australia where he proved very helpful in making contact with new tribes.
Governor Macquarie conferred upon Bungaree the fictitious title of 'King' in an attempt to create for the Aborigines a leader with whom he could negotiate.
In 1815 Macquarie installed Bungaree and others from his tribe on a farm at George's Head in Sydney. However, the farm was not a success and the venture ultimately failed. Bungaree died in 1830 after a long illness. "
From: http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/discover_collections/history_nation/macquarie/bungaree/index.html
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