Former Maitland mayor and artist John Martin remembered by colleagues

From the Maitland Mercury report:

Former Maitland mayor John Martin has been remembered as a man with a passion for art, education and his community. 

Mr Martin, an artist, died earlier this month after a brief battle with illness.

He served multiple terms as a councillor during the 1990s, with a three-year stint as mayor from 1994 to 1996.  

His 1990s council colleagues Henry Meskauskas and Ray Fairweather both recalled a man who loved art and his community. 

Retired councillor Mr Fairweather said he could still clearly remember the night Mr Martin was elected as mayor.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, December 15 2017.

Trove Newspapers (August-November 2017 Update)

AUSTRALIA
Australian Government Gazette (National: 1973)
Australian Government Gazette. Public Service (National: 1974-1977)
Australian Government Gazette. General (National: 1974-1977)
Australian Government Gazette. Special (National: 1974-1977)
Commonwealth of Australia Gazette. General (National: 1977-1987)
Commonwealth of Australia Gazette. Government Notices (National: 1987-2012)
Commonwealth of Australia Gazette. Special (National: 1977-2012)
NEW SOUTH WALES
The Auburn and Lidcombe Advance (NSW: 1925-1939)
Granville Independent and Parramatta Advertiser (NSW: 1900-1901)
The Weekly Advance (Granville, NSW: 1892-1893)

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/

Construction works finish at historic Maitland aged care facility Benhome

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The keys have been handed over for aged care facility Benhome, following the completion of a revamp worth $18m.
The expansion, which has added 45 additional residential aged care beds to the centre, comes after nearly 18 months of construction at the Regent Street premises.

Benhome chairman of the board Bob Geoghegan said the development had numerous benefits, including the addition of a registered nurse being on site at all times.
The project also included the refurbishment of an historical, 1800s era Rose Cottage, which will be used as a staff headquarters.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, December 7 2017.

Mistress of her Profession: Colonial Midwives of Sydney 1788-1901

New book release: Mistress of her Profession: Colonial Midwives of Sydney 1788-1901
Media: BOOK - paperback, 192 pages
Author: L. Potter
Year: 2017
ISBN: 9780648061601
Other: colour photos, appendixes, bibliog, index
Publisher: Anchor Books Australia

Before any official midwifery training was instigated in New South Wales, numerous women worked as midwives. Many were untrained and practised independently but a few had overseas midwifery qualifications which gave them prestige in the practise of their craft.
In the days of secret abortions and baby farming, before modern medical procedures saved the lives of thousands of women and babies, midwives emerged from the ranks of convicts and free immigrants as entrepreneurs. Their business activities, attitudes, work ethic and experiences formed the foundations that helped to shape midwifery for future generations.
This book weaves the stories of nine midwives into an account of the development of midwifery training in New South Wales. The women's lives span the nineteenth century and provide a fascinating perspective of maternity care and life in colonial Sydney.

Inside History - Tracing house histories

Tracing your house history: Top research tips
Before I investigated my house history, I had no concept of where to begin and was amazed by my Local Studies Librarian’s wealth of knowledge as she steered me to uncovering Barwon’s past.

Here, Ryde Library’s Local Studies and Family History Librarian Angela Phippen shares her insights into tracing house histories.

How can a local studies librarian assist people in tracing their house history?
Each local government area has different surviving records, for example, rate books, and so this will impact the assistance a librarian can give. Some records, such as Land Titles and Sands Directories are digitised, whereas the Local Council may hold others, for example, building application registers. Also consider the records held in your state’s Archives.
My top tips for researching a house history are to examine the Land Title records, and make a chronology of the buying and selling of the land. Other sources to examine include:

• Rate books
• Land valuations
• Sewerage diagrams
• Sands Directories (for NSW) or their equivalent in other states
• Electoral rolls
• Probate packages and deceased estate files (for NSW)
• Birth, death and marriage notices in newspapers

When researching, you might find conflicting records, so then it’s important to consider the relative value of each one. Sometimes too, house numbers change so it’s crucial to have the correct Lot and Deposited Plan number.

What are the most common questions people ask?
People are mostly interested in the age of their house and whether it has a name. The ease of discovering the age of a house can vary. Dating a nineteenth-century sandstone cottage is harder than, for instance, a twentieth-century house because the architecture and records of a twentieth-century house provide more information.

Access full article here.

Maitland Gaol to host art exhibition showcasing hundreds of years of Australian prison life

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Walls may not be able to talk, but Brett Leigh Dicks reckons he has still heard plenty of colourful yarns by photographing them.
Over the last year the artist has walked the eerie halls of eight decommissioned gaols across Australia, with his images capturing hundreds of years worth of life on the inside.

According to the Santa Barbara based snapper, human nature draws us to want to know what happens on the other side of prison walls.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, December 6 2017.

Morpeth heritage listing battle continues at Maitland Council

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland Council will meet with the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) to clear up “misinformation” around the process to list significant parts of Morpeth on the State Heritage Register.
Councillors voted on Tuesday night to allow the meeting, which was requested by the OEH.

It follows council’s decision not to support community consultation on listing of the Morpeth Heritage Conservation area on the State Heritage Register.

In a letter to council, Katrina Stankowski from the OEH said information in media and social media reports was “troubling” as it contained misinformation about the process that could have affected some people’s perceptions.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, November 30 2017.

Maitland's Grossmann House: Dressed for a Victorian Christmas

Decorations and aura of a real Victorian Christmas

Open 10am - 3pm

First 3 Sundays in December $8 Adults $6 Concession
Free - National Trust members

Every child receives a small gift.
73 Church St, Maitland.

State Archives & Records new exhibition, Captured Portraits of Crime 1870-1930

Our new exhibition Captured: Portraits of Crime 1870-1930 explores the stories of men, women and children who were incarcerated in NSW gaols from 1870 to 1930. The exhibition was launched at our Open Day on Friday 8 September 2017, and was attended by descendants of two prisoners featured in the exhibition as well as a number of dignitaries.

A key feature of this exhibition is the strong online presence through an e-catalogue. This expands on the number of case studies able to be portrayed in the onsite display at the Western Sydney Records Centre. The exhibition has also been supplemented by 46,000 digitised gaol photos being linked to our online Index to Gaol Photographs.

The opening of the travelling version of the exhibition took place at Broken Hill on 3 October 2017. This coincided with the centenary of the Broken Hill gaol. The exhibition will continue to travel across NSW throughout 2018.

Maitland Council votes down motion to find out cost of re-fitting Walka Water Works Pump for a cafe

From the Maitland Mercury report:
A motion to find out the cost of re-fitting the Walka Water Works Pump House building to make it open to the public was voted down at Tuesday night’s Maitland Council meeting.
The motion, which was raised by Independent councillor Philip Penfold, also requested a report considering possible difficulties, including DA requirements to operate a café at the premises and that the report be prepared in time for next year’s operational plan.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, November 29 2017.

Australians on the Western Front: Call-up divides nation

From the Maitland Mercury report:
As casualty lists soared on the Western Front in the Great War, Australians twice voted to reject the introduction of conscription.
From 1914, enlistment in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) was restricted to volunteers but from mid-1916 encouraging enough eligible recruits became increasingly difficult.

Australian Prime Minister Billy Hughes came under sustained pressure from Britain’s War Council to follow Britain and New Zealand in introducing conscription.

 

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, November 24 2017.

Maitland and District Historical Society Bulletin

The November Bulletin of the Maitland and District Historical Society is now available at the Society's website: November Bulletin

Indigenous Names Research – Making Connections - University of Newcastle

This work is conducted in memory and respectfully honours the First Australian People, the Aboriginal People of this land.

UON’s Culture Collections has a rich archival collection of primary written sources containing information about Aboriginal culture. This project has established a framework to better collate information including names (Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal) and meaning of names, age, social status of Aboriginal people of the Hunter Region. The project has located, recorded and made accessible documents and summaries of the findings, and attempted to create a framework documenting Aboriginal content of relevant documents.

The project sets out a foundation for further study of primary written sources, and to record names and other information about Aboriginal people in the Hunter region during the 19th century. The project was co-ordinated by Gionni di Gravio and Dr Ann Hardy who had ongoing discussions with Dr Greg Blyton about the project to ensure that a culturally appropriate framework was followed. Sharing the project will increase public awareness of Aboriginal culture of the Hunter Region, and be a useful educational resource tool for further research.

More information: Indigenous Names Research

Calls for suggestions for Lavenders tree site

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Lavenders Riverside Cafe owner Stephanie Purdon is asking the people of Maitland what they would like to see at her business now the iconic Camphor Laurel tree has been removed.
“We really don’t know what to do with the space so I would like to throw the suggestions open to the people,” Mrs Purdon said.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, November 19 2017 .

Maitland councillor Mitchell Griffin resigns from Morpeth Museum Committee

From the Maitland Mercury report:
One week after Maitland Liberal councillor Mitchell Griffin declared there was a need to protect Morpeth’s heritage, he has resigned from Morpeth Museum Committee.
An item on Maitland City Council’s Tuesday meeting agenda, calls for a new councillor representative on the committee.
In a Mercury opinion piece last week, Cr Griffin declared there was a need to protect Morpeth’s Heritage and commended Morpeth Conservation Group for its ongoing efforts to protect the town.
“I feel there is a need for protection in some sections of Morpeth, although I do hold concerns for the current nomination (from the Office of Environment and Heritage to have the entire suburb placed on the State heritage register),” he said in the editorial.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, November 13 2017.

Huge void created on city's river bank now Lavender's historic Camphor Laurel tree gone

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The death knell has finally sounded for the historic Camphor Laurel tree at Lavender’s Riverside Cafe leaving a huge void on the city’s river bank landscape.
The final branch fell on Tuesday setting the scene for a not so shady or leafy cafe environment.

The landmark tree was marked for destruction after its huge scale reportedly caused significant maintenance issues due to leaf litter and associated water damage.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, November 15 2017.

Plenty of reminiscing as 80 past and present Big W employees attend 40th reunion

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Saturday’s reunion for past and present employees of Big W Green Hills store was just as big as the store’s official opening in 1977.
There was plenty of reminiscing, laughter, smiles, hugs and handshakes as workers gathered at The Bradford Hotel, Rutherford for the milestone event.

There may have been a few more grey hairs and wrinkles but the staff celebrated in fine form catching up with each other, talking about the good old days and discussing how the once small neighbourhood shopping complex had evolved into a leading regional retail centre.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, November 12 2017.

Lavenders Riverside Cafe staff have said their final farewells to the historic tree

From the Maitland Mercury report:
In a moving gathering, customers and staff of Lavenders Riverside Cafe have said their final farewells to an historic camphor laurel tree set to be cut down on Monday.
About 30 people gathered at the cafe on The Levee on Sunday afternoon to bid farewell to the tree, believed to be more than 100 years old.

The tree has been part of the landscape of Maitland’s riverbank for decades and is coming down at 7am Monday because its huge scale has caused significant maintenance issues due to leaf litter and associated water damage.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, November 12 2017.

Parramatta Female Factory and Institutions Precinct

The Parramatta Female Factory and Institutions Precinct was added to the National Heritage Listing on Tuesday 14th of November 2017: it is the 113th item to be classified as a national heritage place. Environment Minister Josh Frydenberg said that the precinct was “highly valued for its heritage importance by the local, state and national community and this National Heritage listing will allow the Australian community to stand witness to the lives and experiences of women and children who lived there.

From the Royal Australian Historical Society blog.

Richmond Vale Railway Museum to hold limited re-opening

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Richmond Vale Railway Museum will hold a limited re-opening this Sunday for its annual Santa Special Day.
The museum was devastated by bushfire on September 13 and has been slowly proceeding towards a safe re-opening.
Sunday will be the first opportunity for members of the public to witness the fire’s impact.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, November 12 2017.

Historic Camphor Laurel tree at Lavenders Riverside Cafe will be cut down

From the Maitland Mercury report:
An historic Camphor Laurel tree that has been part of the landscape of Maitland’s river bank for more than 100 years will be cut down on Monday morning.
Lavenders Riverside Cafe owner Stephanie Purdon has lost her appeal to save the iconic tree, which has provided a picturesque backdrop and shade for her patrons.

After a meeting with her solicitor on Thursday morning, Mrs Purdon said the fight to save the tree was becoming too expensive and there was nothing more she could do to stop its demise.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, November 9 2017.

Community still being misled according to Morpeth Heritage Conservation Group

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Morpeth Heritage Conservation group president Simon Brooker said Maitland councillors are still misleading the community about a consultation process regarding the possibility of listing the village on the State Heritage Register.
Mr Brooker said comments made by Maitland councillor Mitchell Griffin in today’s Maitland Mercury were misleading.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, November 8 2017.

40-year reunion planned for Big W Green Hills

From the Maitland Mercury report:
It opened with great fanfare on November 14, 1977 and Kerry Jackson was there to witness the ribbon cutting.
Kerry is the only original employee still working at Big W Green Hills, 40 years after the store flung open its doors.

It was a sea of green as more than 1000 shoppers queued and waited eagerly for doors to open to take advantage of opening specials.
Men and women wearing green were taking part in local radio station 2NX’s Big W opening promotion for free dinner tickets.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, November 2 2017.

Morpeth's historic Kiora Villa open to the public this weekend

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Visitors to Morpeth’s historic landmark residence Kiora Villa this weekend will be given a rare opportunity to look inside one of the country’s leading architectural gems.
Elegant Kiora Villa is nestled among rambling old gardens on the fringe of the historic river port.

Built in 1878, Kiora’s owners will throw its doors open to the public this weekend to help raise funds for Friends of Grossmann House.
Kiora Villa will open on Sunday between 2pm and 4pm. Bookings are essential and can be made by contacting Lynn on 49320518.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, October 31 2017.

Related Histories: Studying the Family

Related Histories: Studying the Family is a two-day conference convened by the National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, and the Centre for Applied History, Macquarie University, in partnership with the National Library of Australia. It will consider some of the big questions in family history in keynote addresses, and hear from a wide variety of family history practitioners through research papers and ten minute presentations. The conference will allow space for discussion and debate of the key questions: How can the different sectors – academics, students, genealogists, and amateur historians – work together to support the development of family history?

When: Tuesday 28 November to Wednesday 29 November 2017, 9:00am-5:00pm.
Where: National Library of Australia, Parkes Place, Barton, ACT
Cost: Both days $165 ($140 concession; $110 students), Daily rate $85 ($70 concession; $55 students)
Contact: Malcolm Allbrook malcolm.allbrook@anu.edu.au

Amphibious Vehicle gathering at Clarence Town

From the Maitland Mercury report:
There are only about 15 operational WW11 amphibious jeeps in Australia and this weekend at Clarence Town you will have the chance to see at least six of them.
The second annual Swim-in and Rally will be held at Clarence Town with a grand parade of vehicles at 9.15am Saturday.

Most of the vehicles taking part in the event were made during WWII with a handful from the Vietnam era. “Seventy-five years on and they are still going strong,” said one of the event organisers Craig Olsen.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, October 31 2017.

Historic Morpeth caught in Maitland council crossfire

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Just three meetings into Maitland’s newly elected council and there is already a clear division between elected representatives with historic Morpeth caught in the crossfire.
A seemingly mundane recommendation to consult Morpeth community members on a State plan to list Morpeth as a heritage conservation area was overturned in a shock motion during Tuesday night’s council meeting.

Labor’s Robert Aitchison supported a council officer’s recommendation to consult the community but team Penfold member Mike Yarrington moved to quash the plan which Deputy Mayor Sally Halliday supported.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, October 29 2017.

Old and new worlds collide in Maitland Regional Art Gallery exhibitions

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland Regional Art Gallery will launch five new exhibitions on Saturday with a celebration of artists and a live dance performance.
The opening will include history, art, refreshments, a chance to meet the artists, and dance courtesy of Maitland High School students.

Australian war photographers Frank Hurley and Hubert Wilkins are drawing huge crowds to the Passchendaele: photography and the moving image in battle.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, October 27 2017.

$2.9 million Roads and Maritime Services upgrade to historic Morpeth Bridge complete

From the Maitland Mercury report:
More than a year’s worth of improvements to Morpeth Bridge over the Hunter River have been completed.

The $2.9 million NSW Government project aimed to maintain the strength and capacity of the state heritage listed bridge.
Roads and Maritime Services started work during the middle of 2016, which involved replacing most of the timber truss elements on the bridge.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald said work on the bridge was delicate because the bridge is listed on the state heritage register.
“It is assessed as being nationally significant, primarily on the basis of its technical and historical characteristics,” Mr MacDonald said.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, October 26 2017.

Throwback Thursday: Hunter parades from the archives

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Whether it be a ticker tape parade or a military march, parades have long been part of life in the Hunter.
Some would remember the street marches of the 1960s, but for those who don’t, check out the photos from the Fairfax archives.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, October 26 2017.

Marist Brothers Class of 1967 catch up for 50th high school reunion

From the Maitland Mercury report:
THE Maitland Marist Brothers’ Class of 1967 took a trip down memory lane earlier this month.
On Saturday and Sunday, October 7 and 8, the group met for their 50^th school reunion.

“This class was the first year of the Wyndham scheme, whereby the school secondary term was increased from five years to six years,” former classmate Graham Banister said, adding it was the year the Higher School Certificate was born.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, October 23 2017.

Maitland Gaol to host new Escapes Torchlight Tour

From the Maitland Mercury report:
JUST when you thought Maitland Gaol couldn’t get more eerie at night, their latest tour is sure to raise the bar.
The team will take 90 minutes to shed light – torchlight – on the variety of creatives escapes.

Escapes Torchlight Tour attendees will find themselves face to face with individuals who tried to run free, some more successfully than others.
On Saturday, October 28, from 8pm, join guides as they launch the novelty event, walking through seven individual stories of daring prison breaks.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, October 23 2017.

Beresfield's rail accident 1997

From the Maitland Mercury report:
On this day in 1997 Beresfield train station was wiped out in seconds. On the morning of October 23 coal train DR396 was returning to Port Waratah, Newcastle, after taking on a full load of coal from the Drayton loading terminal in the Hunter Valley. At 6.32am the FreightCorp coal train ran through a red signal and ploughed into the rear of a second coal train.
The collision caused a massive derailment that blocked all four tracks of the Main Northern line.

Incredibly, no one was killed in the accident with the two drivers of the rogue train leaping from the cabin before impact. The driver and observer suffered serious injuries, as did a person standing on the station platform. The stationmaster also suffered minor injuries.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, October 23 2017.

Coffin Lane, Central Maitland to become Halloween underworld

From the Maitland Mercury
Its name is creepy and this Saturday night its appearance will match when Coffin Lane, Central Maitland is transformed into a Halloween underworld to kick off the Arts About Town grant program.
The Arts About Town grant program invites artists to create temporary and semi-permanent works for public spaces, streets and laneways across Maitland that were identified as in need of transformation and revitalisation.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, October 26 2017

Maitland's "crown jewel" Mansfield House to celebrate 130th birthday on Sunday

From the Maitland Mercury report:
It’s a grand old number for a grand old building.

Mansfield House will celebrate its 130^th birthday this weekend, complete with an afternoon of high tea befitting the regal old mansion. 

“It hasn’t had much exposure and celebration the last few years, but we thought we couldn’t let this occasion go by,” said the man behind Mansfield’s famed teas, Huckleberry Campbell.
Huckleberry has been hard at work organising the birthday bash, with the afternoon set to feature a packed itinerary.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, October 26 2017

Historic train collection and hundreds of homes feared to be in the line of fire at North Rothbury

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The man behind one of NSW’s most extensive historic train collections fears that tonnes of flammable coal waste and dry vegetation have created potentially disastrous fire conditions metres away from hundreds of homes.
Maitland’s Chris Richards fears that more than 100 historic train carriages making up the Hunter Valley Railway Trust at North Rothbury could be destroyed if action isn’t taken to address bushfire concerns surrounding it.

The train collection is nestled in the grounds of the former Ayrfield Colliery at North Rothbury, which closed in 1975 after decades of operation.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, October 27 2017.

HMAS Maitland to exercise their right to Freedom of Entry to Maitland City

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland will take a step back to medieval times for an official ceremony this Saturday morning.
About 30 officers and sailors from HMAS Maitland will be in the Levee to exercise their right to Freedom of Entry to the City.
The concept goes back to the middle ages when there were disputes between land owning nobles, and armed bodies were rarely admitted into cities. However, in special cases, they were given freedom of entry and it signified true friendship and often the expectation that the armed body would assist in the defence of the city.
The granting of Freedom of Entry is the highest accolade a town or city can bestow upon a group or individual.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 19 Oct 2017.

Ceremony to honour 100 years since Passchendaele WWI battle at Maitland Park draws big crowd

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The Passchendaele march and ceremony at Maitland Park came in the middle of a challenging dry spell – and it suddenly decided to rain.

Not that it dampened the enthusiasm of the more than 200 people who attended Saturday’s ceremony at the cenotaph to honour the historic WWI battle in which Maitland’s own 34th Battalion was heavily involved.
“We were worried when the showers came that the Tiger Moth flyover we had organised would have to be called off,” Peter Hedges, chairman of the organising committee said.
“But we looked up and there they were ... these two little Tiger Moths emerging from the black clouds. It was terrific.

“I know the 34th Battalion was Maitland’s Own but I am still surprised every time at the number of people in the area who had a descendant there.”

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 15 Oct 2017.

Historic Maitland residence Regents Park Mansion

From the Maitland Mercury report:
“One of the best restoration projects” Maitland has ever seen has hit the market, with the historic Regents Park Mansion up for sale.
Built for a judge complete with a convict jail, the stunningly restored circa 1830 property has hit the market with a price guide of $2 million.
Set on five acres in Regent Street, Maitland, the mansion appears comparatively modest from the road.
But stepping inside reveals a residence opulent in every way.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 15 Oct 2017.

100th anniversary of the Third Battle of Ypres

Australian forces were involved in two significant actions in the latter half of 1917. The first, fought in Belgium, would test our troops to their limits, while the other, waged in the Middle East, would earn a central place in Australia’s military history. They were Passchendaele and Beersheba.

Watch Dr Brendan Nelson’s emotional address “Tragedy and triumph – 1917” at the National Press Club of Australia HERE

Memories of a Greta camp kid

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Paul Szumilas recons you’d be hard pressed to have a more enjoyable childhood than his.
Born at the Greta Migrant Camp to Polish immigrant parents, Paul can still vividly running around with a mob of kids, all fellow children of European migrants.
 “For a kid, life in the camp was fascinating,” he recalled.
“We ran around playing games. It was great for the kids. Most of us didn’t know what our parents had been through.”
Operating from 1949-1960, the Greta camp was the largest in Australia, with 100,000 migrants from across Europe settling there after fleeing their World War II-ravaged home continent.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 12 Oct 2017.

Maitland conservationist Chris Richards hopes Masters will help in battle to preserve vintage buildings

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland conservationist Chris Richards hopes the completion of a Master’s degree in heritage conservation will lend extra weight to his mission to preserve the city’s vintage buildings.
Mr Richards graduated from the University of Sydney earlier this year with a Master's degree in heritage conservation.
He said a passion for protecting the city’s ageing structures underpinned his motivation to undertake the study.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 9 Oct 2017.

Centenary service to honour 34th Battalion Maitland's Own involvement in the Battle of Passchendaele

From the Maitland Mercury report:
march, ceremony and aircraft flyover will take place at Maitland Park this Saturday in honour of the centenary of the Battle of Passchendaele.
The 34^th Battalion, also known as Maitland’s Own, was heavily involved in the World War I battle.
The troop entered the battle on 12 October 1917, but after a period of heavy rain the battlefield was a quagmire. Thick mud stopped the troops’ advance and fouled their weapons.
The battle ended in a disastrous defeat, with more than 50 per cent casualties for the 34th.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury,  8 Oct 2017.

Familyhistory.link from the Gould History Group

Familyhistory.link is the latest web site from the Gould History Group, innovators in history and Genealogy since 1976. It has been created to guide those who are on the journey to discover their past – to learn how to go about it, find and use the tools and how to present and preserve their research. Familyhistory.link has a threefold aim:
to introduce you to useful products and services – our own and those of others

• to develop a wide range of free articles from experts to guide you on the journey
• to provide a platform for others to promote their products and services in Australia and internationally. There are a number of avenues for this – especially through submission of articles for this site and various partnering opportunities with our other brands.

Maitland's Passchendaele centenary

The centenary of the battle of Passchendaele will be commemorated in Maitland on Saturday 14^th October, with a march and commemorative service at the Cenotaph, Maitland Park, 10.30 am.

The 34^th battalion, known as ‘Maitland’s Own’ led the battle on 12 October 1917.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Passchendaele.Maitland.Centenary/

Maitland and the Battle of Passchendaele - Public Talk 3 Cotober

34th Battalion, Maitland’s Own

Public talk by Janis Wilton at Maitland & District Historical Society
3 Cathedral Street, Maitland
5.30 pm
Tuesday 3 October 2017

Maitland Regional Museum display exhibition on 34th Battalion centenary of the First Battle of Passchendaele

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland’s rich war history will be on show from this weekend in honour of the centenary of the First Battle of Passchendaele and the involvement of the 34^th Battalion.
Maitland Regional Museum will showcase the people and stories of the 34th Battalion, known as Maitland’s Own, at Brough House for two months from this Saturday.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 28 Sep 2017.

Passchendaele October to December Maitland City Library

The latest Walls That Talk installation at Maitland Library commemorates the Battle of Passchendaele focusing on important photographs taken by Frank Hurley. Read more

Maitland Library exhibits a series of eye-catching installations as part of the Walls That Talk place activation initiative.  Installations celebrate iconic people and places in Maitland, community diversity and have included an exploration of heroes from the world of comics.

Bridging the Past and Future: Australasian Congress on Genealogy 2018

15th Australasian Congress on Genealogy and Heraldry
Friday 9 to Monday 12 March 2018, Sydney

The Society of Australian Genealogists is excited to be hosting the 15th Australasian Congress on Genealogy and Heraldry at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Darling Harbour, Sydney. Congress is held every three years under the auspices of AFFHO, the Australasian Federation of Family History Organisations and brings together passionate family historians from around Australia, New Zealand and many parts of the world. 
Early Bird Registration closes 20 September 2017
Final registration closes 15 February 2018

Wentworth Mausoleum Walking Tour

In March 1872, William Charles Wentworth died in England, aged 81. His widow, Sarah Wentworth, adhered to William’s wish to be buried on his Vaucluse estate, and ordered their son-in-law Thomas Fisher to construct the burial vault in which William was to be buried.

Walk to the family Mausoleum located 10 minutes’ walk from Vaucluse House, and hear about the extravagant funeral service and the accompanying procession that brought Sydney to a standstill. Listen to commentary from the colonial newspapers about this great event, and enter the rarely opened Mausoleum to hear extracts from the funeral oration extolling Wentworth’s character.

Sunday 8 October 2017 10.30AM–12PM

Sunday 8 October 2017 2PM–3.30PM

Vaucluse House

Wentworth Road, Vaucluse, NSW 2030

House: 02 9388 7922

Tearooms: 02 9388 8188                  More information: https://sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/events/wentworth-mausoleum-walking-tour

Maitland’s Passchendaele Centenary - Events

From late September 2017, there will be a number of events and exhibitions to mark 100 years since the Battle of Passchendaele. Fought in Flanders, the 34^th Battalion (known as Maitland’s Own) was at the front of the charge on 12^th October 1917.

29 September, 6 for 6.30    Opening of ‘Maitland’s Own’ exhibition at Brough House, Church Street, Maitland.

3 October, 5.30pm:               Public Lecture,  ‘Maitland and Passchendaele’, at  Maitland and District Historical Society, 3 Cathedral St, Maitland. and opening of ‘Remembering World War I’ display.

Visit the Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/Passchendaele.Maitland.Centenary/

Open Museums, Open Minds : Maitland

Open Museums, Open Minds

Council is seeking your input and feedback around options for museum experiences in Maitland.

People seek to experience history and culture in diverse ways and not all museum experiences have walls. A museum experience could be an interpretive walk, a pop up creative installation, an open day around a series of buildings, temporary displays, collections or a series of monuments that can be found at different locations around a city. These experiences are more broadly referred to as an open air museum or open museum experience.

A number of groups in Maitland, including Council, are already offering open museum style experiences, including events, history tours, heritage buildings, local library studies and local history programs, Maitland Gaol tours, Maitland Hall of Fame and more.

From now until October 2017 we are inviting you to share your thoughts on areas of Maitland’s heritage that interest you and the types of ways you would like to experience our history.

Vintage looms restored and operating at Brough House

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Two vintage weaving looms that were passed down through generations of East Maitland’s Petherbridge family, have been lovingly restored and are now in full operation at Brough House, Maitland.
It was by chance that Maitland’s Grossmann House acquired the looms after the National Trust approved their acquisition as part of the Grossmann House Collection.
One of the looms was disassembled but both had been lovingly passed down through the weavers of the Petherbridge family.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 20 Sep 2017.

Australian Doctors on the Western Front: France and Belgium 1916-1918

Media: BOOK - hardcover, 496 pages
Author: R. Likeman
Year: 2014
ISBN: 9781925078121
Other: b&w photos, maps, appendix, index
Publisher: Rosenberg
This book covers the carnage on the Western Front from 1916-1918. Likeman provides mini-biographies of each of the more than 700 doctors who served on the Western Front and in the training establishments and hospitals in the UK. Each officer's medical qualifications and career highlights are listed together with any honours and awards, and numerous photographs.
In addition to these accounts, the book also contains chapters on the Australian Imperial Force in England from 1915-1919, and nominal rolls of the Australian medical officers who served in sea transport and in the RAMC.
There is also a section of mini-biographies of the Australian women doctors who served overseas in theatres of war between 1914-1918, and AAMC medical officers who took part in the Samoa Relief Force in 1918.

More information: Australian Doctors on the Western Front

Richmond Vale Rail Museum in the path of a devastating fire

From ABC News:
The Richmond Vale Rail Museum was in the path of a devastating fire near Cessnock yesterday.
The scale of the damage was realised at first light today, when emotional volunteers gathered at the site to survey damage.
Director Graham Smith said there were now asbestos fears, with the substance dropping out of some carriages, prompting Fire and Rescue NSW to declare it a hazardous material site.
"And until they clear the site neither our members nor members of the public will be admitted," he said.
Mr Smith said the damage was worse than first thought and described it as utter devastation.

Full article available at ABC News 14 Sept. 2017

Landmark sale as Belmore Hotel sells

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland’s iconic Belmore Hotel has sold for $9 million in what is reported to be one of the largest NSW regional pub transactions for 2017.
Ray White Hotels sold the High Street premises on behalf of long-time owners the Murphy family, to a prominent local businessman.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 14 Sep 2017.

Maitland’s Passchendaele Centenary Commemoration

Maitland’s Passchendaele Centenary Facebook page has been created for community involvement and communication relating to the centenary of the Battle of Passchendaele, 12 October 2017.
A number of events have been planned for the Maitland’s Passchendaele Centenary Commemoration and details of these will be provided through this Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Passchendaele.Maitland.Centenary/

60,000 years of Australian History: A Plea for Interdisciplinarity

The Department of History, University of Sydney, is hosting the 2nd Bicentennial Australian History Lecture, to be delivered this year by Professor Lynette Russell, Monash Indigenous Studies Centre, Monash University.
How do we understand, imagine, visualise and create narratives for 50,000 years of Australian history?
The Bicentennial Australian History Lecture is a biennial public lecture hosted by the Department of History in the School of Philosophical and Historical Inquiry, University of Sydney. Distinguished historians offer engaged and critical perspectives on Australia’s past and the legacies of colonisation.

When: Thursday 19 October 2017, 5-7.30pm
5-6pm: Reception in the Nicholson Museum
6-7.30pm: Lecture in General Lecture Theatre
Where: The Quadrangle, The University of Sydney
Cost: Free
Contact: sydney.ideas@sydney.edu.au

The Regents Park is part of the 2017 Maitland Garden Ramble

From the Maitland Mercury report:
When Clint Marquet bought the Regent Street property, called The Regents Park, two years ago the garden had been neglected for at least a decade.
Plants were overgrown, or had died, the pool had been deprived of sunlight and there was piles of rubbish and tree branches growing in long grass.
He started the massive challenge without a green thumb and has proved that perseverance – and some help from two gardeners – can help you conquer the plant world. 

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 12 Sep 2017.

Maitland Post Office and Morpeth identity Graham Dunlop

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The larger than life character from Morpeth has sadly passed away aged 80.
Mr Dunlop was born in Stockton in 1936, the second of five children of Nancy and William Dunlop. The family moved a number of times before finally settling in Morpeth in 1941.
He attended Morpeth Primary School then Maitland Boys High leaving at age 15 when he was recruited to Morpeth Post Office after one of the post office employees broke his leg after falling from a bakers cart.
Mr Dunlop worked for Australia Post for 44 years and retired in November 1996.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 9 Sep 2017.

Maitland's Passchendaele Centenary

A Facebook page has been established for Maitland's Passchendaele Centenary
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Passchendaele.Maitland.Centenary

The Facebook page has been created for community involvement and communication relating to the centenary of the Battle of Passchendaele, 12 October 2017.
A number of events have been planned for the Maitland’s Passchendaele Centenary Commemoration and details of these will be provided through this Facebook page.

Four Bolwarra Holden tragics feature in a book on the history of the Holden brand

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Four Bolwarra men have had their stories and photos included in the recently released book "The Passion for Holden" by Harrington resident Joel Wakely.
Bruce Soper, John and David Bambach and Glen Lee are proud owners of Holden's from the 48 -215 (1950) to the last Holden produced in Australia in 2016.The four were delighted to be among the 48 Holden owners featured in the book - 48 because the production of Holdens began in 1948.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 7 Sep 2017.

Spring Harvest Festival: Sydney Living Museums

Taste your history at our unique artisan food market, Spring Harvest Festival, at Elizabeth Farm.

Elizabeth Farm was built by John and Elizabeth Macarthur in 1793.  They quickly established a productive farm with an abundance of fresh produce, grains and livestock. At Spring Harvest Festival, we invite you to step inside  and discover the interiors of Australia’s oldest surviving homestead.
See how the Macarthurs’ dining table would have been set for a formal meal. Explore the kitchen with its wood-fired stove, see what’s growing in the kitchen garden and then discover the food and stories of the colonial dining table as you browse, sample, sip and shop from a handpicked selection of products from Sydney’s finest artisan producers.

Sunday 17 September 2017 10AM–3PMElizabeth Farm

70 Alice Street,
Rosehill, NSW 2142

Maitland's Own: Honoring the 34th Battalion

HONOURING OUR 34th BATTALION VETERANS, NURSES & THE WAR EFFORT “AT HOME”

Open FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS

10.00 am – 3.00 pm

30 th SEPTEMBER to 26 th NOVEMBER 2017

At

BROUGH HOUSE, 73 Church St., Maitland

Contributions of artefacts, memorabilia, stories and photographs have been loaned by the veteran’s

families and the Australian War Memorial. Much of this material has not previously been on public

display.

Entry will be by gold coin or donation (School children free).

Groups are very welcome and exhibition open at other times by appointment.

Morning Tea can be provided @ $6/head.

For Group Bookings: Phone 02 49334450

Email maitlandrmuseum@gmail.com OR janece.mcdonald@newcastle.edu.au

Umbrella Foundation of Australia to host Gatsby-themed event

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Local charity The Umbrella Foundation Australia, is hosting a Gatsby-era themed affair to remember at Mansfield House on Saturday October 7 kicking off at 6:30pm.
It will be an evening of costumes, jazz, fine wine, good food, frivolity and mystery.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 5 Sep 2017.

Turning Morpeth's history into a future

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Trevor Richards clearly remembers the moment – and the feeling of relief – when he realised his investment in the past just might have a future.
Richards is the owner of Campbell’s Store, the antique and craft centre in Morpeth’s Swan Street. It is perhaps the biggest drawcard in the tourist town, attracting up to 5000 people through its doors each week.
These days, particularly on weekends, visitors wander through history in Morpeth, soaking up the nostalgia in the museum, shopping in the stores in restored terraces, and sipping coffee or eating gourmet meals in the restaurants and cafes. That is, once they’ve managed to find a car park. There are always vehicles in Swan Street now.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 3 Sep 2017.

Inside History Magazine

Hot off the press: The latest history and genie resourcesIt's that time of the month where we round up all the history and genealogy collections recently digitised and made available online! Artworks, mental health records, female convict returns and more make the list this month. Check out the August edition of What's New Online, now live on our site.

Writing the National Library of Australia's Great War Book

Professor Peter Stanley uncovered a treasure trove of WWI material in the Library's collection for his new book The Crying Years.
How does a book begin? I can pinpoint the exact moment when the idea for what became The Crying Years popped into my head. Almost five years ago, National Library of Australia pictures curator Nicky Mackay-Sim presented a talk to the Canberra Great War Study Group—otherwise known as The Estaminet.
The Estaminet at that time was a group of Great War researchers, small enough to fit into its then regular meeting place, the tiny ‘Chapel' at the National Museum of Australia, where I was working. Nicky brought along and discussed images from the Library's pictures collection, photographs that hardly any of us—Great War specialists—had seen before. Even before she had finished speaking, I realised that here was a rich and almost entirely unknown visual resource. Soon, I was talking to the Library's publisher, Susan Hall. What about a book exposing and interpreting the Library's photographs of the Great War?

Further information: http://www.nla.gov.au/blogs/behind-the-scenes/2017/08/15/writing-the-nlas-great-war-book
     

Full steam ahead for Hunter heritage trains

From the Maitland Mercury report:
On Saturday, a historic diesel will depart Maitland at 9am for a trip to Gosford where riders will be able to enjoy a day out on the waterfront, before returning at 4.20pm.
The following day travelers will have the opportunity to enjoy a special side by side run with Steam Locomotive 5917 as they ride in a streamliner diesel train from Maitland to Waratah. The train will depart Maitland at 9.10am, returning at 12.05pm.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 31 Aug 2017.

Maitland councillor Arch Humphery is retiring from local government

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Today, 46 years on, amalgamations are still a hot topic but one Cr Humphery is happy to walk away from.
“I’m not staying for the sake of staying,” he said. “I’m leaving on a positive note, from a council that has done so well, particularly under the leadership of Mayor Peter Blackmore and General Manager David Evans,” Cr Humphery said.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 28 Aug 2017.

Traces magazine - for anyone interested in Australian history

Traces magazine is for anyone interested in this country’s history, from ancient Indigenous heritage to European settlement, local history, artefacts and family genealogy.

Due to be launched in December 2017, Traces is the only quarterly printed magazine dedicated to providing its readers with insight into the latest historical research, news, events and heritage projects taking place around Australia. The expert voices of historians, researchers, heritage professionals, genealogists and journalists uncover the fascinating characters and stories of our past.

With the partnership and collaboration of key national and local heritage organisations, as well as state libraries, Traces has its finger on the pulse of heritage news and developments around the country, making it the best consumer publication for anyone passionate about Australian history.

Website http://tracesmagazine.com.au/

Lavenders Riverside Cafe Camphor Laurel tree to be chopped down

From the Maitland Merc
The owner of a well-known CBD cafe has grave fears for the future of her business after an iconic tree on site has been approved for removal.
The Camphor Laurel tree at Lavenders Riverside Cafe is set to come down, taking with it shade protection and much of the cafe’s ambience.
Maitland Council approved the removal after an assessment was made by tree service company Assurance Treesury report.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 25 Aug 2017.

Home in Church Street heritage precinct will be demolished for housing units

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Local heritage conservationist Chris Richards said a decision to demolish an old Maitland home to make way for four units has broken a long-standing precedent for council.
Maitland councillors voted last night to demolish No. 83 Church Street, Maitland, a move Mr Richards said will have developers rubbing their hands in glee.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 23 Aug 2017.

Reunion for Maitland Girls High Students who completed HSC in 1967

From the Maitland Mercury report:
A special reunion has been organised over the weekend of September 9 and 10 for Maitland Girls High students who commenced their secondary education in 1962.
The students started high school under the Wyndham Scheme in 1962 and took part in the first HSC (Higher School Certificate) in 1967. All girls are invited regardless of sitting the HSC or not.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 22 Aug 2017.

Maitland Council to vote on whether to demolish house in Church Street heritage precinct

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland City Council will vote on Tuesday night on whether to demolish a property that could “open the floodgates” on the protection of heritage buildings.
The house in one of Maitland’s oldest sections at 83 Church Street has been recommended for demolition. If approved, heritage conservationist Chris Richards says it will break a long-standing precedent for council.
“In the past when buildings in Maitland’s heritage zones have been recommended for demolition, it has invariably been on a run down property that has been substantially modified over the years, but this time it’s different,” Mr Richards said. “This property is original, in good restorable order and in a conservation zone.”

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 21 Aug 2017.

Chance for public to ride historic 1923 train Tin Hare

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Kurri Kurri Public School, alongside The Rail Motor Society of Paterson, are offering members of the public a chance to ride a 1923 passenger train from Maitland to Cessnock on Saturday, September 16.
The train has been nicknamed the ‘Tin Hare’ and is one of 10 CPH railmotors still running in NSW. The train’s first journey can be tracked back to 1923.
“The idea behind the day is to bring back some wonderful memories for the residents of Maitland, Kurri and Cessnock who all have fond memories of riding on the rail motors back in the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s,” Kurri Kurri Public School spokesperson Davina Dawes said.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 20 Aug 2017.

68 years since the first migrant ship berthed in Newcastle

From the Maitland Mercury report:
This story was originally published in 2016 for the 67^th anniversary of the MV Fairsea’s arrival.It has been republished to coincide with Saturday August 19 2017 marking the 68^th anniversary. 
It may be 67 years on but Vitaly (Victor) Lupish, remembers disembarking the MV Fairsea at Newcastle’s Lee Wharf as if it was yesterday.
Aged 14, with no English and eyes as big as saucers, Mr Lupish set foot on Australian soil to begin a journey that would shape the rest of his life.
Friday marks the 67th anniversary of the arrival of the Fairsea which carried 1896 refugees from Europe to Australia. It was the first migrant ship to Newcastle.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 18 Aug 2017.

Maitland Basketball Association celebrates 60 years

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland Basketball Association is about to celebrate a major milestone marking 60 years since its formation.
The association has a proud history starting in 1957 in James Street, Maitland behind the current site of Maitland Regional Art Gallery.
From its humble beginnings the association has grown to become one of the premier basketball associations in country NSW and boasts players and club officials representing the city at State and national levels.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 15 Aug 2017.

Maitland council is calling for help to decide what museums in Maitland should look like

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland City Council is seeking the help of locals to have their say on what type of museum experience they want to see developed within the area.
The initiative is part of the Open Museums, Open Minds project which is hoped to revitalise the area as well as the museum experience itself.
Interested participants can select from a variety of museum experiences including: interpretative walks, pop up museums or creative installations, open days for historic buildings, temporary displays, traditional museums or even a series of monuments that can be found at different locations across the city.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 11 Aug 2017.

National Family History Month

Family history and genealogy is one of the most popular hobbies around the world. There are over 250,000 Australians who are members of family history related organisations and the month has broad appeal across Australia. Libraries, archives and other organisations also participate in National Family History Month.

During August events will be conducted across Australia and online that focus on genealogy, family history, heraldry and related subjects. Check your state for details of local events and remember to check online events which you can do at home.

When Today This Week This Month

What Archives tourBook launchConferenceGoogle HangoutLibrary tourMonthly meetingOnline activityOpen dayOtherSeminar/talkWebinarWorkshop

Where ACTNew South WalesNorthern TerritoryOnlineQueenslandSouth AustraliaTasmaniaVictoriaWestern Australia

National Family History Month (NFHM) which is held in Australia every August,
an initiative of AFFHO (Australasian Federation of Family History Organisations).

Pop! Celebrate popular culture across the decades - Newcastle Region Library

Celebrate History Week with Newcastle Region Library. View some of their favourite pop culture items from the Heritage Collection and discover the stories behind the objects. Items will be available to view in the Local History Lounge from 1.00pm – 4.00pm.
When: Monday 4 September 2017 to Wednesday 6 September 2017, 1:00-4:00pm
Where: Local History Lounge, Newcastle Region Library, Laman Street, Newcastle
Cost: Free
Contact: library@ncc.nsw.gov.au or 02 4974 5330

Pop! goes the beach: Women’s Popular Culture on Newcastle’s Beaches

Pop! Goes the beach features in a session on Significant Women of the Hunter in History Illuminated, Lake Macquarie’s inaugural festival of history. The full program is available at library.lakemac.com.au
When: Monday 4 September 2017, 6:00pm-7:00pm
Where: Toronto Library, Corner Brighton Avenue and Pemell Street, Toronto
Cost: Free, book now
Contact: lakelibraries@lakemac.nsw.gov.au or 02 4921 0463

History Week: Annual History Lecture 2017

The History Council of NSW is excited to announce one of its most popular events, the Annual History Lecture – ‘The Popular is Political: struggles over national culture in 1970s Australia’ – will be delivered by Associate Professor Michelle Arrow. The lecture will take place during our flagship festival, History Week, on Tuesday 5 September 2017. Join us for all things history & networking

When: 6pm-9pm, Tuesday 5 September 2017
Where: The Mint, 10 Macquarie Street, Sydney
Tickets: $45 HCNSW members / $50 General admission (excl fees)
Contact: 02 9252 8715, admin@historycouncilnsw.org.au

Historic Arnott's Biscuits building for sale at Morpeth

From the Maitland Mercury report:
If only the walls of Morpeth's former Arnott's Biscuits building could talk they would tell a tale of a thriving river port turned internationally acclaimed tourist destination and a family business that became an Aussie food icon.
It is with a heavy heart that founder William Arnott’s great great great grand son, Stephen and wife Allison are selling the Swan Street flagship where the business started in 2003 and now sells their Morpeth Sourdough products.
After the sale of the property Morpeth Sourdough will continue to distribute their sourdough and muesli nationally.
The building will go to auction on Saturday, September 16 at 1.30pm in the Elgin Street, Maitland office of McGrath Estate Agents.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 9 Aug 2017.

Historic Lorn home Warrane sold

From the Maitland Mercury report:
A local family has snapped up historic Lorn property Warrane, in what could be the most expensive residential sale in Maitland’s history.
The Belmore Road home, believed to be about 130 years old, was purchased in June after nearly 18 months on the market.
Marketing agent Rhonda Nyquist of PRD nationwide said there was plenty to attract buyers to the Victorian-style home.
“It’s uniqueness – it’s a quality heritage home on two acres that’s retained a lot of its Victorian splendour,” she said.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 7 Aug 2017.

After 30 years Morpeth Tea Pot and Tea Cosy exhibition draws to a close

From the Maitland Mercury report:
It started out in 1987 with a stunning array of 53 weird tea pots and will wind up later this month with more than 4000 of the vessels on show.
Morpeth Tea Pot and Tea Cosy exhibition will run for the last time from August 17 to 27, marking the end of an era in Maitland tourism.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 3 Aug 2017.

Ukulele group 'Ukastle Ukestra' at Grossmann House / Brough House

Friends of Grossmann House event:
For a fun afternoon at Brough House, local Ukulele group Ukastle Ukestra  will play a variety of music, ranging from pop, folk, world music and jazz. Their music is infectious so singing along and dancing are part of the fun. It is a family friendly afternoon, 2-5pm on Saturday August 19. People are encouraged to wear their most “out there” shirt. Homemade pizza will be served at half time. Cost $25/20 NT members.

Saturday 19 August, 2.00pm to 5.00pm
Brough House, 73 Church street, Maitland
Bookings essential

Helen 49344087, 0427 977 392

 

 

Trove Newspapers May-July 2017 Update

During the past three months Trove has added over 26 million new records to their collection. Of these over 5 million are articles from old newspapers, taking the current total of old newspapers records to a whopping 211,080,170! That’s right … over 211 MILLION records. All online, and all free for anyone to use.
Here’s the list the latest titles they’ve released over the past few months, as well as those that are coming soon.

See Genealogy & History News,  28 July 2017.

Maitland in 1960s

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The 1960s have been renowned for opening up the Hunter Region to the outside world.
Fashion changed from being very simple and traditional into something more relaxed. At the same time there were countless advancements in technology and the expansion of suburbs increased the need for faster and more reliable forms of transport.
Here is only a handful of archived photographs from the 1960s, giving a small snapshot of life.

Full report available at Maitland Mercury, 27 Jul 2017.

Historic St Paul's Rectory at Paterson up for auction

From the Maitland Mercury report:
A key part of Hunter Anglican Church history, the landmark building will go under the auctioneer’s hammer on site on Saturday, September 2.
Charlie Lund of McGrath Real Estate has listed the grand Edwardian property which has been tastefully renovated to honour its timeless beauty.
The rectory was built in 1906 after the former rectory was demolished.
Original cedar from the demolished residence was used in the current building most notably including the cedar skirting and French doors in the drawing room, dining room and master bedroom.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 31 Jul 2017.

How Maitland has changed in 10 years | Photos

From the Maitland Mercury report:
Maitland’s population is forecast to reach more than 104,000 by 2036.  About 14,000 new home lots have been approved and a 20-year supply of land identified for future residential purposes.
As Maitland's population changes, so does the face of the city.
We took a look at Google Street View photographs from 2007 and 2008, then compared the images to today. The changes are significant, with some locations completely unrecognisable.
Take a look at the changes in the gallery above.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 26 Jul 2017.

Les Darcy mural unveiled at aged care home

From the Maitland Mercury report:
The tale of legendary boxer Les Darcy will continue to be passed down through the Hunter aided by the unveiling of a large mural at a Maitland aged care home.
The image, by long-time Newcastle Herald cartoonist Peter Lewis, appeared in the Herald and Maitland Mercury earlier this year as part of the centenary commemorations of Darcy’s death in 1917. 
Opal Maitland manager Julie Lewis, who is also the wife of Peter, said the piece was already a talking point among those at the home.

Full article available at Maitland Mercury, 26 Jul 2017.

Maitland & District Historical Society’s guest speaker - Photographing Maitland in the Nineteenth Century

On Tuesday, 1 August, the Maitland & District Historical Society’s guest speaker will be Judy Nicholson, the Local Studies Librarian at the Maitland City Library. Her topic will be ‘Photographing Maitland in the Nineteenth Century’.

In this talk, Judy will touch on early photographic equipment and processes, but her main purposes will be to identify the main photographers who were active in Maitland between 1845 and 1900 and to provide examples of their work. Among the first... commercial photographers of Maitland were Morris Moss, George Kedwell, Harrie Ballard, Ernest Cameron and Jacob Audet. Some of these men focused on studio portraits of individuals and small groups and on business advertising, but a few did outside work capturing such things as river scenes and grand houses. In these early days of photography there were many who operated studios, and they left behind rich bodies of work about the people and places they captured.

The talk will be given at 5.30pm on Tuesday, 1 August at the Society’s Rooms at 3 Cathedral St, Maitland, and members of the public are most welcome. The Society asks for a gold coin donation to cover the costs of refreshments.
Contact details for the Maitland & District Historical Society are:
Phone: 0438 623299
Email: maitlandhistorical @gmail.com