Collection Stories

Delve into the stories behind some of the objects in our collection.

Geoffrey Collins – a 1930s correspondence school boy

Geoffrey was a student of Blackfriars Correspondence School in the 1930s. Story – Geoffrey Collins – a 1930s Correspondence School Boy

JS Middenway – teacher, headmaster, photographer

John Saunders Middenway taught for 48 years through the 1800s and captured his world through the lens of his stereoscopic camera. Story – JS Middenway – teacher, headmaster, photographer

Claude Schumacher’s prized handwriting

A student of Tent Hill Public School, under the tutorship of teacher Mr Tomkinson, Claude’s handwriting won first prize in London in 1896. Story – Claude Schumacher’s Prized Handwriting

Jean and John Whiteman’s homework, mapping and medals

Jean and John Whiteman attended North Ryde Public School in the early 1930s. Jean’s homework and mapping books provide a window into lessons and life at the time. Story – Jean and John Whiteman’s homework, mapping and medals

Gould League of Bird Lovers of NSW membership 

The Gould League of Bird Lovers of New South Wales operated from 1910 to 2010 in NSW schools. Members received colourful certificates and badges, entered competitions and undertook nature-based activities. Story – Gould League of Bird Lovers of New South Wales membership.

 

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands of these stories and pay our respect to Elders past, present and emerging. We recognise the continuing learning systems of Aboriginal Peoples and acknowledge the impact of past government policies on the education of Aboriginal children.