Queenscliffe Historical Museum in Queenscliff, Victoria | Arts and entertainment

Queenscliffe Historical Museum

Locality: Queenscliff, Victoria

Phone: +61 3 5258 2511

Address: 49 Hesse St 3225 Queenscliff, VIC, Australia

Website: http://www.queenscliffe-history.org

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25.01.2022 "Passersby would be forgiven for presuming that this eerie, foreboding eyesore was utterly insignificant in a historical sense. However, this unassuming patch of prime local real estate actually holds countless stories which offer a fascinating insight into Victorian history." Read the full story Point Lonsdale Camp - Toc H in the September edition of the Queenscliffe Herald. http://www.queenscliffeherald.com.au//09/September-2020.pdf

24.01.2022 A number of steamer ferries provided a service of bringing visitors from the city to Queenscliff, the Hygeia and Ozone among them. Perhaps the best known though was the Weeroona, the last ferry steamer to join the run. Built in Glasgow, the Weeroona was a steel paddle steamer with a foremast and two funnels and three-cylinder compound engines. She joined the service in 1910 with her larger decks and luxurious public areas. One of the distinguishing features that set her apart from the others was her siren, rather than a normal whistle.

23.01.2022 This online event is being held by Geelong Regional Libraries.

22.01.2022 Alfred Deakin, Australias second prime minister, had a large block of native woodland in Point Lonsdale which proved to be a retreat away from the demands of a busy life. On it they built a spacious house in the federation-bungalow style, with dormer windows and a wide veranda. This property and that of Herbert and Ivy (the eldest daughter) next door, are now two of the few blocks of remnant vegetation on the Bellarine Peninsula.

21.01.2022 With the museum closed, the pack up of the collection has begun in preparation of the new Hub development. http://www.historyofqueenscliffe.com/packup.html

21.01.2022 The Museum Collection has been enhanced by the gift of an elegant two-piece Prue Acton summer outfit owned by Michele Spencer of Point Lonsdale. http://www.historyofqueenscliffe.com/prue-acton.html

21.01.2022 After World War I and during the 1930s there was a push for novelty events of a relaxing and entertaining nature. Scooter racing became popular. The 1963 Geelong to Queenscliff Scooter Race has was organised by the Lions Club. It was watched by 3,000 people and marked by fanfare and celebration.

20.01.2022 In an effort to contain the potential spread of the coronavirus, the executive of the QHM (a place of public congregation in the Borough) has resolved to close the facility to the public until further notice.

19.01.2022 The Museum has a collection of handwork done by women of the Borough. Smocking was taught to the girls in school. We have a fine wooden aid for smocking which features in this photo.

19.01.2022 As part of our Covid-19 research project QHM is undertaking with Monash University students, we wish to record the responses and reactions of the people of the wider Borough community during the Covid-19 pandemic. We are seeking a diverse range of stories to create a detailed picture of the present that will be used to inform future generations. If youre interested in helping us to inform the future Queenscliffe community please complete our short survey here: https://forms....gle/YsshaX7yxfUxj4jX9 or for business owners here: https://forms.gle/m4Kqa6QC6msibUJH9 Visit our website for all the details: http://www.historyofqueenscliffe.com/covid19-research.html

19.01.2022 The draft design of The Hub is now available. If you think you can identify any other improvements to the draft, please communicate your ideas to Council as your feedback will influence the final outcome.

18.01.2022 Past Temporary Exhibit: Shoes - Best Foot Forward A few years ago this display delved into the mysteries of shoes. The display was inspired by the discovery of a well-worn childrens shoe in the foundations of a chimney built in the late 1800s. It was believed the concealment shoe would protect the house from evil spirits. Other shoes included girls pumps from 1900-1930s, baby footwear from as early as 1913, a RM Williams boot collection, a collection of ladies shoes d...ating from 1915 to 1980 and canvas uppers from 1865 which were to be used to make slippers. We look forward to seeing the new exhibits the museum will have on display when open again.

17.01.2022 Point Lonsdale was part of a lease granted to Swanston and Willis from 1844 to 1854. After that it was divided up into small farms and early settler names include Gill, Ward, Arkin, Lawrence and Cayzer. Mr Edward Gill was photographed in 1929 with his beloved little cow.

17.01.2022 Over the years the museum has received several donations of hanmade toys. During World War II, Alfred McDonald and his wife Janey Oatey of 52 Steven Street, made toys. Alfred, a handyman on Swan Island Military base, carved and painted the heads of toys, while his wife dressed the dolls from colourful scraps of material. The toys were donated to the Museum by Margaret Willison in 1999. World War II veteran Albert Moden (1911-1956), was from Kerila farm, Queenscliff. He retu...rned home wounded and while recuperating in Ballarat, he made felt toys for children. Also in 1999, Jennifer Zikos, granddaughter of the McDonald family, donated her grandparents dolls to the Historical Museum, and in 2001, Marg Willisons niece, similarly donated the felt toys. See more

17.01.2022 Charles Cheney Simpson, who arrived in Australia in 1856, on board the Anglesey. He spent several years working locally and in Geelong and in 1860 came to Queenscliff where he set up in Mercer Street as a druggist and chemist. Simpson settled into the town, where his entrepreneurial skills were to have a considerable influence on the social fabric of this developing town. 1862 saw Charles and his wife Jane move their business and residence to Hesse Street, across from what is now the Museum. Here in a semi- detached building there were two shops: J.H. Henley The Victorian Stores, next door to Chemist Simpson Druggist. This was the site of the town’s first chemist and remarkably it remains so to this day, where it now operates as Pardeys Pharmacy.

16.01.2022 Past Temporary Exhibit: 'Stitchers & Stories' The women of the Borough have always been busy with needles. Over the years the museum has collected local craft work and selected pieces to have on display in February 2018 and to honour the quiet women of our community who kept craft alive. One local craft person researched successfully is Miss Anne McDonald (1911 to 1997). Anne came to Queenscliff with her father and stepmother from England. Alfred McDonald, a wheelwright, work...ed on Swan Island. Anne met ted Foster who was working locally. She was a very skilled crafts person and always had a project on her needles. We look forward to seeing the new exhibits the museum will have on display when open again.

15.01.2022 Read about the start of the museum packup on page 5 of the Bellarine Times.

15.01.2022 The pack up of the Museum continues. Last week the compactus and the library were packed into boxes and then unpacked at the Tavern. Once at home in The Tavern and Covid-19 restrictions permitting, the Museum intends to offer a modified range of services which will include some displays, local history research facilities and advice, and screening some of the popular old movies.

15.01.2022 Volunteers create a smooth move for Queenscliffe Historical Museum

14.01.2022 Theres still time to share your story. Help us to inform future generations on life during a global pandemic.

14.01.2022 The Museum is about to start a major new research project to archive the social, cultural, and economic impacts of Covid-19 on the wider Borough community. We are seeking a diverse range of stories to create a detailed picture of the present that will be used to inform future generations. This research is being conducted by Monash University students Grace (Master of Cultural and Creative Industries) and Phillippa (Bachelor of Arts- Ancient Cultures) as part of a Work Integra...ted Learning Internship. Visit our website for all the details: http://www.historyofqueenscliffe.com/covid19-research.html

14.01.2022 Conceptualised by local architect, Warren Hobbs the team rolling out the fabulous QR project include Borough of Queenscliffe's Shannon Di Lisio and Leanne Stein..., and Di Sawyer from the Queenscliffe Historical Museum. There's one more QR code to spot in town and the project won't be alone in some exciting historical projects rolling out around P/LQ. When it comes to history, you must #visitplq

13.01.2022 The Paris sisal hat, made between 1952 and 1954, and donated by Ronda Symon of Point Lonsdale. This straw hat was possibly woven in Italy and then sold on to a hatmaker. It was then trimmed with fine quality hand tooled French silk flowers.

13.01.2022 On the evening of 26 April 1879, the completion of the laying of the rails for the Geelong to Queenscliff railway was celebrated by having Mr Watson, the Engineer-in-Chief, drive home a silver spike. Photo: 1910 W Class Locomotive at Queenscliff Station.

13.01.2022 We have a variety of books and publications available which have been carefully selected for their relevance to the region. If you would like to purchase any, please contact us for details. View the range here: http://www.historyofqueenscliffe.com/publications.html

12.01.2022 The Queenscliffe Historical Museum AGM will take place on Thursday 26 November 2020. Owing to restrictions imposed because of Covid-19, this year’s AGM will be conducted online via Zoom. If you wish to attend please register by email to [email protected]

12.01.2022 Elizabeth Hooton was born 1832 in Lincolnshire. She was married to Joseph Wensor who died, leaving Elizabeth a widow. It was then that Elizabeth bought the Junction Hotel at Fyansford, and married a Mr Charles Keen in 1872. Being a dressmaker she now found time to devote to sewing, in particular this quilt which was completed in 1879. Mrs Keens Quilt 1879, is an attractive piece of patchwork of blocks in cotton, velvet and silk, designed in the traditional star pattern with applique and measures 233x266cm. The quilt which was chosen by the National Art Gallery for exhibition in 2016, has been acknowledged as a key work of Australian quilting heritage. The Patchwork Quilt was donated by Mrs Flora Liddell Wayth in 1966.

11.01.2022 A great article in the Queenscliffe Herald about volunteers Rosemary and Bill Brown being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia. http://www.queenscliffeherald.com.au//2020/06/June-2020.pdf

11.01.2022 A new publication by the Queenscliffe Historical Museum will be launched this year. The book provides a glimpse into life on the area of land in Queenscliff known as The Flat. Read the article here: http://www.queenscliffeherald.com.au//20/03/April-2020.pdf

10.01.2022 "Learmonth Street, running parallel to the main street, Hesse Street, has been the home of many important and diverse buildings throughout Queenscliffs history." Read the full article in the Queenscliffe Herald: http://www.queenscliffeherald.com.au//July-August-2020-1.p

10.01.2022 A update about the Museum's relocation to the Tavern in the Queenscliffe Herald. http://www.queenscliffeherald.com.au//November-December-20

09.01.2022 Accompany some Queenscliffe Historical Museum visitors as they discover our collection, meet our volunteers and learn about our research service.

07.01.2022 This portrait was painted by Dargie while giving a demonstration in portrait painting in oils at the Geelong Art Gallery in 1949. William Dargie went on to win eight Archibald Prizes with his portraits. Nancy May Golightly (1930-2015) belonged to a well-known local family who arrived in Queenscliff from England in 1852. The family have since made significant contributions to the town in the areas of local government; community service; building contracting; plumbing and saili...ng. Nancy herself was Citizen of the Yearin 2015. Among her many activities were contributions to Red Cross; the Anglican Church; Lighthouse Theatre; Maritime Museum; Swan Bay Club. Nan was married to Gil Allbutt. In 2016, Nan’s family donated the painting to the Historical Museum in memory of Nancy. Portrait of Nancy Golightly by William Dargie (1912 -2003).

07.01.2022 Norma Roddick, a distinguished member of the Queenscliffe Historical Museum, celebrated her 100th birthday earlier this year. She is a long-time resident of Point Lonsdale and has contributed to the history of the region. Congratulations! http://www.historyofqueenscliffe.com/100-birthday.html Photo: Norma Roddick with her relatives John and Pauline Truman and Diana Allen taken a few years ago at Kialla.

07.01.2022 The current interior of the Museum has to be seen to be believed. Visitors who have memories of the orderly and informative displays they were accustomed to seeing when they were able to access the building would not believe their eyes. They would be confronted by a cavernous open space holding the few items not already packed and transferred to temporary accommodation in readiness for the demolition of the building which has held its collections for over 50 years. Read all ...the details here: http://www.historyofqueenscliffe.com/packup-almost-complete See more

06.01.2022 1 July is Victoria Day, commemorating the anniversary of the separation of the colony of Victoria from NSW in 1851 and obtaining responsible government. Garry Spry, current president of QHM, with Les Dusting former Mayor of the Borough of Queenscliff and current Queenscliffe Maritime Museum president raise the Victorian Flag at Queenscliffe Maritime Museum. Flags Australia are sharing a detailed history on the origins of the Victorian state flag.... Photos from Andrew Scorgie.

06.01.2022 An interesting read on Vera Deakin.

06.01.2022 This week is National Volunteer Week and we would like to say a big THANK YOU to all our volunteers. The Museum is solely operated by volunteers and without them we would not be able to assist with research, provide events, catalogue items, create interesting displays, and greet you at the door. Their passion for history and The Borough always shines through. Thank you!

06.01.2022 One of the best vantage points on a beautiful summer’s day. Not much has changed from this shot of Point Lonsdale Pier more than half a century ago! A day ...out at the beach with family remains one of life’s great pleasures. Do you recall any stories of the Borough from this time? Photo via SLV Heritage Collection.

05.01.2022 Celebrating History, the Museums book celebrating our collection, includes a Bible rescued from the Columbine, wrecked on the Ocean Grove/ Point Lonsdale Beach in April 1854: but more was rescued from that wreck. This and other publications are available for sale at the museum, please contact us for details. http://www.historyofqueenscliffe.com/publications.html

04.01.2022 Do you remember Queenscliff or Point Lonsdale in the 1950s and early 60s? Local Queenscliff resident and post graduate Melbourne University student, Lesley Alway, is currently completing a research placement at the Museum. If you have any photographs, articles, brochures, plans or other documents relating to the buildings and events of this period of Queenscliffes history, Lesley would love to hear from you. http://www.historyofqueenscliffe.com/lesley-alway-research. Photo: Queenscliff High School first assembly 1957

03.01.2022 Our new DVD "Queenscliffe: Now and Then" is now available for sale. The DVD includes three sections: Queenscliffe: Now & Then, A Day at The Museum, and the Monthly Talk - Feb 2020. The DVD has been directed and produced by Diana Hodgetts, granddaughter of QHM volunteer Ron. Please contact QHM for purchase details.

03.01.2022 At the Museum we like to celebrate milestone artefacts. Artefact number 2000 is this lovely watercolour of a weatherboard cottage that used to be at 10 Henry St. in Queenscliff. The cottage was typical of so many of the early Australian homes that were full of character and charm. It overlooked Swan Bay and seemed to add to the serenity of the time and era.

02.01.2022 Past Temporary Exhibit: 'In The Bag' In Winter on 2015 the display, 'In the Bag', showcased treasures from the QHM collection. Many were gifted by local families and remind us of the great changes the town has experienced. Leather suitcases, trunks, a Gladstone bag, kitbags, a game bag, a school satchel, hat boxes, and through to delicate evening bags all now outdated and unused.... The Johnston family from Point Lonsdale has donated many items. This time the huge trunks and heavy suit cases designed for sea travel were selected. Point Lonsdale’s favourite son, Judy Patching, was acknowledged by a tribute display showing his carry-bag used in 1988 for the Seoul Olympics. The Moden family was well represented with Kate Angwin’s leatherette hat box, Albie Moden’s kitbag and Philip Modens’s Gladstone bag and his ink stained compendium dated 1908. Beaded Victorian evening bags too delicate to use are keeping company with more recent evening bags also no longer fashionable. Betty Martin has given a dainty little Italian straw bag dated 1955. Also from the fifties is Ann Foster’s sophisticated handbag that she took to a garden party at Buckingham Palace. We look forward to seeing the new exhibits the museum will have on display when open again. Photos: Red Straw Bag, Beaded Bag, Gladstone Bag, Kitbag.

01.01.2022 A letter from George Francis Baillieu to Mr Lingford. This is a letter from the Mayor of the time, Mr George Francis Baillieu, a member of the well-known Baillieu family. Dated 27 August 1898, it marks a significant period in the life of George Baillieu. This prominent citizen was the owner of the Ozone Hotel, the Worshipful Master at the Cosmopolitan Lodge, and the Mayor of the Borough of Queenscliffe in the years 1895-96 and 1897-98. The letter to Mr Lingford is one of ackn...owledgement and thanks for services as engineer and surveyor of the Borough. Baillieu makes special reference to the establishment and maintenance of underground drainage in Queenscliff, the building of roads and the improvement of parks and gardens in the area. Words of recognition and appreciation for the manner in which Mr Lingford conducts business with his staff, also get a mention. Of note is George Baillieus handwriting, a beautiful calligraphers signature. This document was donated by Mr Darren Baillieu. See more

01.01.2022 The Customs at Queenscliff from 1836-1867 showed a picture of the daily life of the boatmen. Up early, in all weather, to row out to several ships. The Health boat was going alongside vessels and making a daily visit to Point Nepean and to any quarantined ships. The Customs boat was taking aboard the Geelong and Western District Mails. The pilots boat was taking the pilots to or from the incoming or outgoing ships. The Water Police also had a boat. The Government Estimates for 1857 allowed for a Tide Surveyor of Customs at Queenscliff, 450 per year, with a coxswain, and 5 boatmen.