Subiaco State School 1907.

Subiaco State School 1907...Some Reports. 

So what was the Subiaco State School like for a child and teachers in 1907 and in particular the year that Mrs Alice Howe, a headmistress at the school made allegations against the Head of the Education Department (from the previous Mrs Alice Howe. The Life Of A Teacher At A State School In The 1900's.)

In August, 1907, two months before Mrs A. Howe was found in a room at the school with poison in her body and taken to hospital, a reporter from a local newspaper 'The Guardian' was given a tour of the school by the Head teacher Mr. Miles. The report is copied below. While the report highlighted the practical skills being given to students such as gardening (which was done in their own time), the report does not discuss the Infant School and what they were learning, nor does the report discuss the issue of rewards and punishment for children. There are expectations that some of the students were going onto University by studying for examinations. 

In November, 1907 after the poisoning of the female teacher articles were printed in other local newspapers, The Mirror and The Daily News on the exhibition of school work by the children at the end of the year in November. Some of the girls and boys were asked questions about their work on display.

The Daily News newspaper also highlighted some of the differences in the education being provided to boys and girls. For example the girls were taught domestic work such as laundry at James Street an expectation in preparing women for a role within the family home.

The articles and photographs are from Trove, the database of the National Library of Australia. 

Guardian : Suburban and Municipal Recorder (Claremont, WA : 1903 - 1908), Saturday 10 August 1907, page 2

A visit to the Subiaco State School.

Yesterday morning a representative of "The Guardian" called in at the Subiaco State School to make an enquiry concerning the number of scholars going up for the preliminary Adelaide University examination.

"Oh, yes," said the head teacher, Mr. Miles, "we have 14 boys and 14 girls going in for it. Of course, I cannot say how they are going to get on, but I think Subiaco children are likely to prove as smart as anywhere else. To pass such an examination will mean to any child the first step on the road to a University education." 

That was all right, and then our representative asked how the garden was getting on. The right chord was struck, for Mr. Miles takes great interest in the doings of the children in the open air. Passing out of the back door we turned to a gate leading from the school yard to the "garden." At the present time there is not much to be seen here except the beds, which have been laid out and have had seeds sown in them. In one bed appeared the first green head of an Early Rose potato, but in most cases one has to exercise faith in the master's statement that the seed has been sown and the crop is yet to come. The beds are necessarily small, considering the, fact that so many young gardeners have to be satisfied. Mr. Miles pointed out a few beds with a kindly smile, saying, "Those are going to be failures, but I am counting on that fact for the sake of the lesson to be learned by the children who have done the work in them." Then he turned another way and remarked, "Here, you see, are the beds of those who have passed through the experience the othirs have yet to learn, and a good crop of vegetables will be got from here later on."

The Department has been very gool to us," said Mr. Miles, in answer to a question. "Those men sinking that dam and doing other work have been provided by the Department because they recognise the value of the education we are giving to the children in the open air work being done here. Those drains which run from the bore house yonder are to supply the dam, besides which we have the water laid on" "Yes," he said again, " we use this fine piece of school land for various other purposes. Here we give some of the first and most useful lessons in geography. Those small drains running into the larger one are the best explanations we can give as to how the tributaries feed the main streams. The stream, you see, makes its way to the ocean yonder, which unfortunately at the present time covers a portion of our boys' football ground. Where we stand on the high ground the river takes its rise and you can see for yourself thet tableland through which it flows." 

"Very good," we replied, " but, speaking again of the garden, are all the children interested in that sort of thing? "Oh, no," said master, "but we never force them to it if their tastes lie elsewhere. Some boys would rather play football than anything, and a few would prefer a pencil or paint brush to anything else. But we deal with these all in their own way. We are guides as well as taskmasters in fact the tendency of modem education is to develop the child mind upon its own natural tastes and faculties." 

Were our artistic instincts appealed to ? Well, never mind. But what we saw would appeal to any father or mother in Subiaco or elsewhere. The ordinary routine of school work the children received their drawing aud painting lessons, and the work has been collected and displayed in one room. Objects animate and inanimate are included, but bird and animal pictures predominate. It intended to hold an exhibition of school work and methods of teaching in November next, and the routine work which is being done at the present time will be on view.

There  can be no doubt about the practical value of the education the children are receiving , and if parents who are apt to complain about the cost of the latest book which their child asks for would make a call at the school they would be convinced that anything they are spending in that direction is very far removed from any chance of waste.

The Pupils' Garden Subiaco State School 12 July 1908. The Mirror

Mirror (Perth, WA : 1907 - 1910), Friday 22 November 1907, page 28

Subiaco State School.

At the invitation of the head master and staff of the Subiaco State School assembled at the Subiaco State School a large number of parents and friends on Wednesday afternoon to see an exhibition of school work and methods and a display of physical drill. The main hall of the school had been arranged for the reception of visitors, being made gay with bunting, and the various exhibits of the pupils. At the entrance were grouped several exhibits of fruit and flowers, being the  of the nature studies in the school gardens. Here are little plots of ground carefully tended by the beys and girls, the former having the usual products, namely the vegetables, and the latter the ornamental, the floral sections, all well looked after, and the specimens on view showing the care bestowed by all. The drill work in connection with the nature study is very interesting. A child will plant, for instance, a pea, and as its gradual development goes on, an object lesson is given by the teacher, with illustrations of that development. 

Maps, modelled in paper, show how geography is taught, and the various pictures of birds and free hand drawing from the first class children so that done by the monitors, show the progression of the work and its influence on the children. 

Literature is also taught in this way. Various illustrations of the principal stories in Dickens' books give the key note to the child, who will transcribe the stories in their own language afterwards. Writing is also taught, not for its own sake, but as a means to the end, enabling the pupil to express thought in words. All the diiferent birds in Australasia are shown drawn in crayons, beautiful work, and a help to natural history. Sewing, darning, etc., are shown on a table from the drill work to the completion of the articles treated. Cutting out of garments, laundry work, and specimens of cookery form other sections, all splendid illustrations of the work being carried on by Mr. Miles, the headmaster and his staff of assistants. 

Displayed in the hall is the Governor's shield, won for the year 1907-1908 by the Subiaco School pupils against all other State Schools in the Metropolitan area. It may be said that the gardens are attended by the pupils after school hours or during recess, and not during school hours. 

The Inspector-General (Mr. Andrews) and the headmaster (Mr. Miles) gave addresses and a very interesting few hours were spent by the visitors. 

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 - 1950), Wednesday 20 November 1907, page 8

SCHOOL EXHIBITION

AT SUBIACO

An interesting display was given at the Subiaco State School, Bagot-road, by an exhibition of school work by the scholars. Mr. J. A. Mills, B.A head teacher of the school, this morning accompanied a representative of 'The Daily News' round the large school hall and corridors, the walls of which were covered with specimens of the work done by the scholars. Mr. Mills particularly emphasised the fact that the whole of the work on view had not been specially prepared for the exhibition, but that it represented specimens of everyday work in the different subjects. 

A feature of the display was that of the drawing. Special mention may be made of the work of the monitors of the school in different Illustrative drawIngs, including Phillip's farm (from Tennyson's 'Brook'), 'Hiawatha,' 'Marley's Ghost,' 'Scrooge,' 'The Pied Piper of Hamlin,' and 'Dombey and Son.' At Mr. Miles' request, three diminutive scholars gave a pleasing recital of the circumstances surrounding these pictures. Samples of clever freehand drawing were also much in evidence. Questioned as to whether any of these latter were executed under the ambl-texterous method of which so much was spoken of in connection with school work four or five years ago. Mr. Mills replied that this method had been discontinued in the Subiaco and suburban schools, and he understood in most of the country ones. "The most recent research" he said, "in the location oft the cerebral function has proved conclusively that ambi-dexterity was unscientific. He knew of cases in which the use of this method had resulted in loss of speech to the pupil, and the dullest scholar, strangely enough, had in most cases proved the, most expert in ambl-dexterous drawing." 

On Mondays a number of the girl scholars attend housewifery classes at James-street, and on a table in one corner of the hall lay all kinds of wearing apparel. These garments are brought from the girls' own homes, and under the supervision of a departmental instructress the girls receive tuition In the different sections of laundry work. The school gardens were next visited, and if further evidence were necessary, in addition to the display within doors, to illustrate the transformation that has taken place in school work and methods since a few years ago such evidence was afforded in the gardens. Although it Is barely 12 month's since the first soil was turned, there are now considerably over 30 beds laid out, and a large and varied collection of flowers are In bloom.

 
The girls have the care of the flower portion, and the boys attend to ta vegetable culture. Some fine specimens of kidney potatoes and broad beans were on view at the school entrance to the main hall, where also the girls have arranged posies freshly picked from the school flower beds. To each bunch a dainty verse, selected by the girls, is attached, the idea of this being that the child may become endeared to the flowers. "The idea we have" added Mr. Miles, "is that if we make the life of the child here at the school pleasant, teach It to beautify the school, get It to cultivate a love for the flowers, then the child will soon commence to beautify its own home as the result. 
Questioned as to the assistance given by the Education Department in matters horticultural, he stated that beyond giving an annual prize 'for' the best school garden and paying the water rates, the department did nothing further to assist in the movement. The incidental expenses so far incurred had been met by him. 

At 2 o'clock this afternoon the Inspector-General of Schools declared the exhibition open in the presence of a large gathering of parents and residents of Subiaco. The exhibits were viewed with great satisfaction by all present and the complimentary references heard on all sides was sufficient testimony in itself to show that the Innovation was greatly appreciated.

Subiaco State School photographs 12 July 1908 The Mirror

The Story Of Alice Howe... A School Teacher In The Early 1900's.

Mrs Alice Howe. The Life Of A Teacher At A State School In The 1900's.

This is a difficult story to write even though it happened over 110 years in 1907 in Subiaco. This is the story of a female teacher speaking out against alleged favouritism and denied financial rewards she believed she was owed by her employer The Education Department. This is a tragic story in that this female teacher felt so alone after her experience that she resigned from her job, tried to commit suicide and leave her two children without a mother.

The newspapers not just here in Western Australia, but around Australia, reported in September and October 1907 on the story of a teacher and headmistress Alice Howe who was found unconscious in a room at the Subiaco State School one Friday afternoon. The police were called, assistance given and Alice was taken to the Perth Hospital where she was given treatment and was in a stable condition. She had attempted to commit suicide by taking poison after a dispute with the Head of the Education Department. 

Alice Howe was a qualified teacher (with certificates in education from New South Wales and Western Australia). She had moved to Western Australia from New South Wales in 1895 with her husband and got a job with the Western Australian Education Department. Her husband died in 1898. She worked as an assistant in the Infants's School at Subiaco State School.

The Education Circular for Western Australia for WA State School Teachers 1900 -1980 state there was an Alice Howe employed between 1900 and 1907 at several schools in Western Australia including Baker's Hill, Midland Junction Bonnievale, Boulder, Fremantle Girls, Beaconsfield and Perth Infants but not Subiaco State School in a variety of positions including Assistant Teacher on Probation, Assistant Teacher and Head Teacher.

 
In 1907 Alice Howe made allegations against Mr. Andrews, the Head of the Education Department for favouritism in examinations to progress and financial rewards that accompanied that were given to other teachers but not to her. The allegations were investigated and they were dismissed even though some of the facts were admitted. Alice Howe resigned from the Education Department. She attempted to appeal against the decision and clear her name by writing to the Public Service Commissioner and Executive Council of the Education Department to have her case reconsidered.

The Geraldton Guardian wrote on 24 October, 1907 about the injustices "...The real injustice to which teachers are subjected is in connection with the annual examinations for higher classification. The examination for the lower classes— the 'B' and the 'C' grades are said to be conducted fairly enough, but there does seem to be some doubt as to whether the same can be said of the 'A' grade. Teachers assert that candidates in every way competent are deliberately plucked time after time, irrespective of the excellence of their papers, because the Department is not short of 'A' grade teachers. In other words, teachers are encouraged to study for these examinations, when it is not intended under any circumstance to let them through. And this goes on year after year, until the Department needs 'A' grade teachers, and the required number are allowed to pass. If these allegations are true, then the Department is guilty of a breach of faith. The remedy is to appoint an impartial examining body, independent of the Department, who will pass those candidates whose work entitles them to the possession of the 'A' certificate..." 

The following articles were published in The Daily News newspaper that included the allegations made by Alice Howe and her response to the investigation. There are two letters included in this article from Alice Howe. The first one challenging the findings of Public Service Commissioner's was written on 24 September, 1907 and theathe second one her son found in her possession after she was found poisoned in Subiaco State School. They provide insight into the challenges of a working woman in a state school in the early 1900's.

I have copied the articles here. They are from Trove the database of the National Library of Australia. 

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 - 1950), Saturday 19 October 1907, page 11.

"...THE CHARGES.

The charges preferred by Mrs A. Howe against Mr. Andrews can be summarised as follows: -

(a) That Mr. Andrews has been guilty of favoritism in the promotion of, and in granting privileges to teachers. (b) That Mr. Andrews allowed certain teachers who had failed in one subject at an examination to be considered as having passed in all subjects, provided they passed (at an Intermediate examination) in the subject they had failed in, and that this privilege was denied to Mrs. Howe, who was required to take all subjects. 

(c) That Mr. Andrews subsequently rectified this, but whilst allowing the others (to take the subject they failed in at an intermediate examination in March, compelled Mrs. Howe to wait for the ordinary examination in August. 

(d) That by reason of this difference of treatment Mrs. Howe did not receive the increments as early as she otherwise would have done. 

(e) That Mr. Andrews as regards Mrs. Howe has ignored important clauses in the regulations dealing with seniority and classification, thereby retarding the legitimate advancement of Mrs. Howe.

THE REPORT. 

From the evidence taken on oath, and from official files, the Public Service Commissioner reported as follows: —

 (a) That Mr. Andrews has not been guilty of favouritism in the promotion of and granting privileges to teachers. 

(b) That Mr. Andrews did allow certain teachers who had failed in one subject at one examination to be considered as having passed in all subjects provided they passed in the subject, they had failed in at an intermediate examination, and that Mrs. Howe, owing to a clerical error made by the clerk whose, duty it was to calculate percentages, was told that she would have to take all subjects over again, but immediately the mistake was discovered she was granted the same privileges as the others, although had the department desired to do so they might have taken advantage of the fact that she obtained a shadow under 60 per cent, of marks.

(c) That Mr. Andrews' action in allowing certain teachers to take the subjects they failed in at an intermediate examination in March, when Mrs. Howe was compelled to wait for the ordinary examination in August, was quite justified, and others were then and there dealt with similarly to Mrs. Howe. No one was allowed to sit at the intermediate examination in March for written subjects but those who had passed in all subjects except drawing were permitted to complete their examination in March instead of waiting till August. It is understandable that the department would be willing to hold an Intermediate examination in drawing, whilst objecting, owing to the work and trouble involved to hold an intermediate examination in written subjects. 

(d) It is not true that Mrs. Howe, having to wait until August to pass the subjects she failed in, lost an increment which was granted to others. Mrs. Howe does not realise that she was at the maximum of her class, and that those who got increases were below the maximum, of their class.

(e) Mr. Andrews has not ignored important clauses in the regulations, dealing with seniority and classification, thereby retarding the legitimate advancement of Mrs. Howe. I am satisfied that it would not have been in the interest of the State to have advanced Mrs. Howe, to any important position requiring in addition, to educational qualities the necessary ability to administer, organise, and manage the staff and children in a large school. All the witnesses, including, those called by Mrs. Howe herself, confirmed this. 

I further wish to add that the department has during the past 11 years treated Mrs. Howe with great consideration, and in doing so has exercised much patience and forbearance. Mrs. Howe expressed the opinion, that it was cruel of the department, knowing that it would not promote her to be headmistress of a good school to permit her to sit for the 'A' certificate. 

Mr. Andrews, however, successfully pointed put that there were advantages of a financial nature which followed an 'A' certificate, apart from the position of headmistress, vide regulation 69 in 1904 regulations, and No. 71 in 1907 regulations. 

Signed 

M. E. Jull Public Service Commissioner.

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 - 1950), Saturday 19 October 1907, page 11

LETTER TO THE COMMISSIONER.

After receiving a copy of the Commissioner's report, Mrs. Howe addressed the following letter to him:- Subiaco Infants' School, Subiaco W.A. September 24, 1907. I have carefully perused that portion of your report which has been submitted me, and find false statements in three paragraphs. After careful deliberation, I beg to inform you that on two points in this part you have been grossly misled and misinformed. First, in that other teachers were treated as I was in the matter of supplementary examination. Second, Second, in the fact that no papers were set for this examination. Papers were set, and all teachers, except myself, who had failed in one subject were notified that they would be called upon. Subsequently, for some mysterious reason, the two candidates I mentioned, Messrs Poynton and Lee, were not summoned to the general examination, but were called to the office of the chief inspector, and underwent an informal examination there, in April. The falseness of the filed evidence shows how little reliance can be placed on any evidence from the late Inspector-General of Schools. His remark on my appointment to the Canning Mills Scliool is another case in point. He sent me to fill a gap caused by the absence of two teachers, a man and his wife. He had himself recommended leave to the teachers in question. The duties were greatly in excess of that set down by the regulations as the duty of one teacher. You have also used in evidence against me that I am subject to fits of exhaustion. In nearly 12 years of hard service only twice, have these interfered in any way with my  school duties, and were then due to the fact that I taught in an overcrowded room, where the number of children was greatly in excess of the regulation number for one teacher. I am prepared to furnish medical evidence to the department that, given favorable conditions, these attacks would not be likely to interfere with my work in any way. The after effects are due to the severe concussion of falling heavily. The drug I use is a compound of bromide and strychnine prescribed by several men. I also beg to point out that as my grade was raised by the inspector general and I received the appointment of first assistant in one of the leading schools of the State, and was subsequently asked to act as head mistress. I had reasonable grounds to expect further promotion. A certain allowance is due to me for the irritation I have felt, and given way to from the numerous errors of the department, and I think a close examination will show that any socalled consideration extended to me by the department has a background which puts a different aspect on it. The Inspector general saw before hand, and was prepared for all the evidence I could offer on the other hand, I did not know, nor have I yet seen all the evidence on which you have arrived at your conclusion. I am therefore appealing to both you and the Hon the Minister to give me fair play in the matter and allow me to see, the file and make certain comments on technicalities with which you are unfamiliar. I think you will find on further and closer examination that I am right on the points I have brought under your notice as false, and can understand, that you accepted as I did at first the file in good faith. I cannot explain to you the emotion that possesses me when I see such false evidence given against me, but you must not blame me unduly for any efforts I make to establish the truth. I beg therefore that before your report or my resignation be accepted I may comment on some of the evidence disclosed by the report. It would be a grave matter if the inaccuracies I complain of were allowed to stand. I also beg to state that it was because irregularities in dealing with examinations had been suspected that the Teachers' Association asked for a board of examiners, also because Miss Sutton's leave was considered very unfair that the association immediately asked that the terms on which leave could be given should be clearly defined as leave for study had in former cases been denied. I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant. (Signed). ALICE HOWE.

Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 - 1950), Saturday 19 October 1907, page 11

FAREWELL LETTER TO HER SON.

The following letter was discovered by Mrs. Howe's only son, Hedley. In a trunk after his mother's removal to the hospital, 

Dear Jack, - In an inquiry should be held later into my connection with the department, I want you to hold this evidence for me - (1) That the work given me by the department was a humiliation to me. I was sent to the smallest and most obscure country schools, which, under ordinary circumstances, were only given to teachers holding the lowest certificates. (2) There is no evidence to show that I was an unsuccessful teacher of these schools. The report from Bonnievale School is the only bad report on my work, and is not true. I did not neglect the examinations and filed records of each quarter's work. I omitted during one quarter to write a criticism on my work. I did not leave teaching in the hands of a child of eight. During the time set apart for play in the afternoon, the infants (5) were sent into a room adjoining the main classroom, and a child, whose delicate health prevented her from taking ordinary lessons, joined these infants, and led them in a recitation and kindergarten game - the doors were open, and I could command a view of all that went on. The child in question was my own little daughter, who was too ill to have the regular course of lessons. I was not likely to do her an injury, and only followed a practice common in infants kindergarten classes, where the numbers are small. The only books and papers lying about were those in actual use. My care of school material and apparatus is shown by my stock lists. The Inspector, Mr. Hope Robertson, omitted to note that every child in the school had received a promotion during the year and that several had been twice promoted, and also that owing to the mines in the district having reduced their working staffs considerably most of the children I had taught had left the district. When I returned after the Christmas vacation I found only nine out of the 40 children I had been teaching before the holidays. The others were new children, and the total number of children of school age in the district was only 17. I have not at anytime owed my class report any assistance given me in teaching by my head teachers, neither have I asked at any time that they should support my authority. I wrote the department from Boulder, stating that I owed report to the consideration and courtesy of the headmaster, but I did not mean, that he lent assistance in the actual work of teaching, but that he considered, not only me, but every member of his staff, and made the work regular and easy. After the first two months at Boulder the headmaster gave me almost carte blanche after placing my programme in my hands, and commented on the fact that I had not sent a child to him for punishment during my term. He took the mathematics and part of the history, because at certain times I had to leave my class to teach singing in lower standards. In conclusion, I can add that given the same period of unbroken work, my report would be the same in any school if my work were not interfered with nor changed by the head teachers. As it is, I have been a target for eve everyone's  shot, and both inspectors and head teachers are too loyal, to the expressed opinion of their chief to find good what he has resolved to call indifference. You know the humiliations of the past two years, and how I have tried to stand, up against them and to forget them, but I can't do it any longer. The worst thought of all is that I might leave you to hardships worse than mine. Be good Jack and true to your best impulses. You have been a dear son, and have greatest comfort, and I am sure God's blessing will be with you. — Your loving mother, A. HOWE.

Mrs Gorman's Garden.

Greetings From Subiaco: Mrs C. B. Gorman's Garden at 123 Townshend Road, Subiaco.

These beautiful photographs are from a collection of 14 photographs at the State Library of Western Australia taken around 1930. 

I am still trying to find out who Mrs C. B. Gorman was and where exactly this house and garden were in Subiaco. 

The Extraordinary, Ordinary Lives Of Children In Early Subiaco.

The Extraordinary Ordinary Lives Of Children In Early Subiaco. 

So what was it like to be a child in the early years of Subiaco ? A wonderful description about the lives of children in the early years of Subiaco can be found in the books about the history of Subiaco by Ken Spillman. 

Australian author Ken Spillman wrote two comprehensive books about the history of the City of Subiaco. The first book is titled 'Identity Prized A History of Subiaco' and is about the early history of Western Australia and Subiaco published in 1985. The second book about Subiaco is called 'Tales of a singular city. Subiaco since the 1970's' was published in 2006.

The story Spillman (1985) tells in 'Identity Prized A History' is an inclusive story not just of the successful powerful men doing extraordinary things to create the City of Subiaco but also the extraordinary, ordinary, social and cultural lives of men, women and children at home and at the various types of state and church run schools and institutions. The stories are told not only through a huge archived collection of documents from the times written mostly by men but also a wide range of oral histories and personal written reminiscences submitted to the Subiaco Historical Society by the men and women who lived through those times. The stories of their reminiscences as children are supplemented with some beautiful black and white photos of children with their families, in school and playing in the environment. 

Many stories from children themselves about what was important in their lives can be found through the children's pages in the various newspapers of the times. Children were often asked write about their  thoughts on a particular topic of interest to them for example what they did on their school holidays, their favourite possessions, events like the Royal Agricultural Society Show or what they thought about Perth. The essays and letters were published in the newspaper and prizes were given for what were considered to be the best essays according to age groups. It is difficult to know how much help, if any children had from their parents or siblings, but in some cases such as the Catholic papers the children's essays submitted for competitions needed to be supported by a teacher's validation that were the student's own work and by the local priest before being submitted and published. 

Below are some paragraphs about the extraordinary, ordinary lives of children. Much of the history about the Subiaco State School opened in 1897 was written from male headmaster's journals and official documents written by males of the time. 

There is little about the female teachers who taught at the schools in the City of Subiaco. Research on some of the female headmistresses in the Infants' School at Subiaco State School showed that throughout their teaching careers teachers that taught at the school had stood up for women's rights in equal pay and progressed to roles including superintendent of kindergartens ensuring children in early childhood received a good education. There are horrific yet acceptable for the time accounts of the physical punishment dealt to children at school by both male  and female teachers.

Spillman (1985) writes about the lives of children in Subiaco in the late 1800's and early 1900's...

Spillman (1985) writes about children...

"...Children too had household chores. There was the daily ritual of boot polishing, and there was firewood to collect or chop; there were lamps to fill with kerosene, candles to set and knives that needed to be filled. One woman recalls..." 

"...Rigid obedience, rigid discipline, rigid authoritarianism was the practice of the day. That discipline was enforced in schools. It was reinforced in the home, and there was absolute segregation between the duties of boys and girls in the home. There was no sharing of duties - with one exception, now I come to think of it. It was doing the dishes...the heavy task fell to the boys...because the girls in turn had their tasks, their tasks were to make the beds, help lay the table for breakfast, help mother get the meal and do the dishes before they went to school..."

"...Girls also helped their mothers with what was, due to dress habits which made no concession to their lifestyle and conditions of the time, an extremely formidable task: the washing. Accomplished hygienically by boiling a large 'copper' filled with water the washing was a chore which needed doing alarmingly often, as often indeed, as the family's supply of water allowed. Subiaco's settler were people accustomed to wearing a large number of clothes and, with even young boys sometimes wearing white frills, the black sand of Subiaco wreaked havoc. A woman who attended school in Subiaco remembered that... " The washing that went on was colossal - the number of clothes that were worn, the ironing, the goffering of the frills on our petticoats and pants, the pinafores we wore to school over our dark clothes to save them..."

"....Yet, neither parents concerned to keep a good house and build a better suburb nor teachers working to discipline their charges and impart the essentials of a Victorian education could prevent the children of the nineties from finding time for themselves. Organised leisure activities for children were rare, but the developing area was rich in possibilities and an endless variety of games were played in nearby scrub, or around building sites. The large number of children growing up in Subiaco during this period knew each other well: they went to school together, played together, fought one another, and looked to one another for romantic attachments..." (Spillman, 1985, p. 101). 

"...The few organised activities available to children were run by the school or by one of the Sunday schools...Picnics organised by the Sunday schools, held at such places as Crawley, Peppermint Grove, Cottesloe, Guildford and Canning Bridge provided many of the children of Subiaco with some of their happiest memories...(Spillman, 1985, p.102).

"...Generally, Subiaco's 'improvers' were people who led fairly unsettled lives, most having lived in several places before their arrival in the west. The majority were working-class people educated in the art of survival than in the refinements of bourgeois culture, and more inclined to fill their leisure time with outdoor activities than violin practice or poetry readings. Nevertheless, the nineties saw a wide variety of 'cultural' clubs spring into being and most received wide support, a mark, perhaps of the commitment of the people to their vision of Subiaco as a model suburb...Additionally, there were dances, sporting functions and occasionally, travelling entertainers to be enjoyed in Victoria Hall...Several of the churches also built halls and church concerts were widely supported events. Such activities nurtured a feeling of belonging, strengthening bonds between neighbours and re-affirming their already strong sense of community identity..." (Spillman, 1985, p.107).

"...At Subiaco School, while the girls were endowed with sporting talents or a yen for physical release were encouraged to channel their energy into sewing, boys were coached in the skills of cricket and Australian football..." (Spillman, 1985, p. 103).

"...Strict - often - violent - discipline was an integral part of the educational philosophy of the time, not only accepted but expected by parents and higher authorities alike...(Spillman, 1985, p. 142).

"...While such 'hidings' were meted out for a wide variety of seemly minor misdemeanours, it was generally more out of concern for the sacred cows of respect and obedience than the for the effect of such transgressions on a child's formal education. Schooling, whether at Subiaco, Thomas Street, Jolimont or Rosalie, was widely viewed a little more than the introductory phase on an apprenticeship in the world of paid work. For girls it was seen as a preparation for the unpaid tasks of socialising children and serving the men they would marry. Reading, writing and arithmetic - the fundamental skills deemed necessary to participate in society - were taught, and considerable time was spent reinforcing the key tenets of white Australia's most precious faiths, learning scripture and repeatedly enouncing loyalty to the British Crown. In addition, often while boys were experiencing the exhilaration of learning mastery over various types of leather balls, girls received instruction in more domestic matters. For some years girls from Rosalie School attended Subiaco for special guidance and practice in both cooking and laundering. All schools conducted sewing lessons, and prowess with a needle and thread carried with it as much prestige as did good marks in spelling and arithmetic.

This relative indifference to standards of formal education in the arts and sciences was probably in large due to the absence of any real opportunity for the vast majority of Western Australia's children, particularly the children of the labouring classes, to undertake secondary or tertiary education..." (Spillman, 1985, p.151 - 152). 

Children Helping Children : Aunt Dorothy And The Daily News.

Children Helping Children : Aunt Dorothy's Letter And The Daily News

Prior to Uncle Tom (Albert Rust) and Auntie Nell (Jessie Downie, Margaret Main and Boronia Giles) from The Daily News newspaper trying to connect with children and raise money for their charitable causes through  the children's pages there was Aunt Dorothy. 

From August 1899 through to 1900 Aunt Dorothy wrote a letter in The Children's Column to the boys and girls of Western Australia. The object of the column was clearly stated and that was it was there to be 'helpful to children and teach them to be helpful to one another.' The motto was to ' help all those in need ; to lighten sorrow and lessen pain. He prayers best who loves best all things, both great and small'. The children of Western Australia were encouraged to write to Aunt Dorothy sharing information events about themselves and their lives. Aunt Dorothy responded by printing their letters, offering positive feedback, awarding prizes, printing their names, addresses and ages in the paper when they became members, bought badges or had birthdays or made a donation.

Aunt Dorothy attempted to form a society in which children became members with the aim of helping the 'less fortunate and poor children' of Western Australia. Similar societies made of up children had been formed by adults on newspapers throughout Australia. The children were involved in holding events and raised money like having bazaars, concerts, socials and family picnics. The money was then donated to charitable causes. Aunt Dorothy visited the various charitable causes that received the donations and reported back to the children and adults who read her column. Some of those charitable institutions were the Anglican Girls' Orphanage, the Roman Catholic Girls' Orphanage, the Swan Native Girls' Mission, Murray-street Children's Home and the Government Industrial School in Subiaco. 

Eventually after some discussion through The Children's Column a society was formed called the 'Golden Rule Society' of Western Australia and was founded on July 22, 1898. The rules of the society published in The Daily News newspaper on the 19 September, 1898. The society was open to all children between the ages of five and fifteen. Children over the age of fifteen and under the age of twenty one could become associate members with the same privileges. While membership to the society was voluntary both members and associate members could donate a small amount whenever they wished. All funds raised were given to the 'Poor Children's Fund' with the aim of 'bringing a little happiness and pleasure and help to those in need.' 

Aunt Dorothy encouraged children to from their own subgroups and work independently of the main group. When there were six children who lived in close to each other they could form themselves into a circle. The members could appoint a leader for example, an adult or an associate that could assume some responsibility and elect a secretary to record and report what they did. The members were able to meet when it was convenient to the majority. The first hour was spent on working for the society and the second playing games or doing recreation activities. It was clearly stated that the society was not connected to any religious organisation and was to remain undenominational.

Aunt Dorothy's letters published in The Children's Column  1898 and 1900 reported on a number events organised mostly by her and supported by members and their families such as concerts, picnics, socials and bazaars that raised money for a number of charitable institutions. Aunt Dorothy also reported on her visits to the various charitable organisations she decided to give money too. One of those regularly visited was the Government Industrial School in Subiaco. Aunty Dorothy in her column on 7 July, 1900 wrote about her visit to various charitable organisations for children including the Industrial School in Subiaco....

"...we all proceeded in the tram to the Industrial School, Subiaco where we spent a very enjoyable afternoon. Mrs. Knight kindly showed us all over the building, and, as I have  already mentioned, this being my third visit there, everything we saw was so neat and clean, the large dormitory looking so cosy and comfortable, as was also the boys' dormitory. We also inspected the bootmakers' room and the carpenters' shop, and found there many things that interested, also the laundry, which has every convenience, and the kitchen. We then were invited to have afternoon tea, and had the pleasure of eating some scones which were made by a little girl of eight year of age. Before saying good-bye, we went into, the schoolroom, where the children were in their different classes. I then presented Mr. Nelson, the superintendent, witih the £2 10s, and he thanked us in a few nice words, in which he told the children that the donation would buy some books for a small library for them, and then asked them to give three hearty cheers for us. I spoke a few words in which I said that it gave, the members of the Golden Rule Society and myself and friends great pleasure to come and see them that afternoon, and that we hoped they would have as much pleasure in reading the books that the donation would purchase as they have had  in the games we gave them. We all returned to Perth in the quarter to 5 o'clock train, well satisfied with, all we had seen..." 

The 'Golden Rule Society' was short lived and was soon replaced with Uncle Tom and Aunt Nell and the Sunshine League which focused on raising money for the new Children's Hospital, the Orphans Christmas Cheer Found and some charitable causes. There was a greater emphasis on encouraging children's participation in the paper through doing kind deeds, prizes for writing skills for essays and letters and raising funds through a variety of activities that were inclusive of all children regardless of age without families having to spend money and make a donation. The children's page expanded from a few columns and letters to a full page and their activities raised hundreds of pounds for the new Children's Hospital over several decades and generations of families around Western Australia. 

Children Helping Children : Auntie Nell And Ailsa's Sunshine Bazaar (1910)

Children Helping Children. Auntie Nell and Ailsa's Sunshine Bazaar (1910).

Many of The Daily News' Sunshine League children (including some from Subiaco) featured regularly in Auntie Nell's column and pages for raising money for the Orphans Christmas Cheer fund, a picnic that was held at the end of the year for the orphans of Perth. Thelma M'Callum, Fredda Miller, Diana Lazarus, Daphne Pyett (from Subiaco) Edith Dunn (from East Perth) and Ailsa Skene (from North Perth) were some of those children. Thelma M'Callum and her friend Fredda Miller had their bazaar at Thelma's home at 37 York Street, Subiaco. Auntie Nell shared a report in her column.

Ailsa Skene had her bazaar at the Protestant Hall in North Perth. The children of the Sunshine League made things to sell and volunteered to work at the stalls or they had their own bazaar to raise money for the Orphan's Christmas Cheer Fund. 

On Saturday 26 November 1910, Auntie Nell provided the following description in her column. Auntie Nell wrote... "My Dear Nieces and Nephews, - I find it almost impossible to adequately express my thanks and appreciation to Ailsa Skene for her untiring work in connection with the convening and success of carrying out the bazaar at the Protestant Hall, Beauford street last Saturday. The function was one of the prettiest ever yet held by the Sunshine workers. The hall was decorated in a manner that caused many eulogistic comments whilst the refreshment, ice-cream, sweet and fancy stalls attracted by their tasteful arrangement and variety of goods many people, who showed by the expression of their faces that they were having an enjoyable time.

Then there was the Fairy Well or fish pond, and the denizens of the deep that were hooked by the anglers were of the most unusual types. Sometimes a gentleman would fish out a doll, amidst much laughter. Though the fish could not have been eaten, yet the angler always seemed pleased with his catch. If it was of no use to him personally, he would present it to someone and have the satisfaction of seeing somebody else happy. Ailsa indeed worked hard, and even borrowed a hand-cart to convey her goods, to the hall, but I have also to thank the stall holders and others for their assistance. I was pleased to note that all my nieces and nephews wore our red badges. Some of them who forwarded donations came from as far away as York and Collie, and even Geraldton. Mr. Kingsmill, M.L.C. at the last moment was prevented from performing the opening ceremony and instead Mrs. Fallows kindly opened the bazaar. In her charming little address she paid a high tribute to the work done by the Sunshine-makers, and congratulated Ailsa on the great success that attended her efforts. The proceeds and donations received for the bazaar amounted to over £13, of which £10 was clear profit. This amount has been handed over, and will be donated to the orphans cheer fund.

I should particularly desire to thank Mrs. Skene and Mrs. Mantova, who gave so much of their time and help; not only on Saturday but in attending the meetings, prior to the bazaar. I should also like to thank Mrs. Miller and Mrs. M'Callum, who donated all the ice-cream for their ice-cream stall, Professor Wessel, who acted as accompanist through out the day; the Roselea Nursery for the donation of beautiful pot-plants, Mr. Emery, for his gift of half a sovereign, and all others who contributed so materially to the success of the bazaar. I hope to see some of the Perth Sunshine-makers at the fete arranged by Etta Hollis this afternoon. I know that attractive goods may be purchased, and an enjoyable time is anticipated. With much love to one and all, yours affectionally, Auntie Nell."

Soon after on 29 November 1910, Auntie Nell wrote in column that prizes would be given for accounts of Ailsa's Sunshine Bazaar. The Sunshine League children who shared their thoughts and experiences were like reporters. Other topics for essays were given for children who could not attend.

The articles can be found on Trove, the database of the National Library of Australia.


PRIZE ESSAY. Daily News, 26 November 1910.

East Perth.

My Dear Auntie Nell, — I should like to try and write an essay on Ailsa's Bazaar. First of all I think Ailsa was very clever to arrange such a big thing, don't you, auntie? And that we all ought to feel grateful for the way she has made the Thermometer rise.

We were all disappointed that Mr Kingsmill could not open the bazaar for us at the last minute, but Mrs. Fallows did, and she said some very nice things about the Sunshiners. The stalls looked so pretty. The fancy stall had some lovely dolls and dolls' hats. I bought a doll; she looked lovely dressed in yellow silk; with a wreath of yellow roses in her hair. My little sister bought one dressed as a housemaid and my little brother bought a black one with curly hair. Oh, auntie, we did have such, fun at the fairy well; it was in charge of Diana Lazarus one of your nieces, and she was so funny. In the evening there were some grown up people friends of yours there and Diana would give the gentlemen little dolls they dipped, also some pincushions. They did laugh; it really was, great fun. The fancy stall looked very pretty. We also had some icecream at the icecream stall; it was just lovely. Ailsa told me it was homemade. The cakes were also very nice. Mrs. Matova and some of the young girls were in charge there, and we had nice lemonade to drink there. Some of your little Sunshiners were selling buttonholes and bunches of flowers, and others were selling dainty baskets of lollies. In the evening an enjoyable musical programme was given, and then one of your nephews Nathan Mantes offered all the unsold goods up for auction. I thinks this is all I can think of - Your loving niece, EDITH DUNN.

Dear Edith,— I'm glad you enjoyed yourself so much at the bazaar; and that you are so charmed with the doll you purchased. She must look very dainty in her yellow silk gown. Yes, I, too, think. Ailsa is very clever indeed; the way she organised the bazaar and she is to be congratulated on the success of her effort. Your essay has gained a prize, dear. I trust it arrives safely. With much love from you lovingly, Auntie Nell.


THIRD CLASS -

(Over Twelve Years to 16.)

PRIZE LETTER ON THE SUNSHINE BAZAAR The Daily News, 3 December, 1910.

77 Heytesbury-road. Subiaco. 

Dear Auntie Nell, — Just a few lines to tell you what a great time we had on Saturday at Ailsa's bazaar. I got to the hall at about 2.30, and then we commenced work. The stalls were fixed up-in next to no time. Around by 4 o'clock everything was ready, and looked lovely and was very much admired. The sweets stall was very encouraging, and caused many looks of admiration from the little children. We were very disappointed, because Mr. Kingsmill couldn't come to open the bazaar, but, a lady kind consented to open it, but that little disappointment soon wore off as the afternoon began. Mary, Earlie, and myself had a great, time in the fairy well, especially in the evening. We took 14s. 9d, so I don't think that we did badly, and we sold out. I think it was a great success, as everything was sold. What wasn't sold at the stalls were all disposed of at the auction sale in the evening. Everybody seemed to enjoy themselves, both children and grown-ups. The evening's programme was very bright and lively. Well, dear Auntie Nell, as I have no more to say and hoping you enjoyed the bazaar as much as I did, I will close with best love from Gertie and Phillip, and - Your loving niece, DIANA LAZARUS. P.S. I have started collecting for the Orphans Christmas Cheer fund and have 7d and 6s.

Dear Diana, — You have written a very bright and chatty account of the recent Sunshine bazaar. Your letter has gained a prize, dear which I trust arrives safely. I am sure all the Sunshiners at the bazaar, enjoyed themselves very much. My friends and I all spent a happy time also. Your fairy well caused much merriment and the sum of 14s. 9d. accumulated as the result, of three penny and penny 'dips' was very good indeed. The Thermometer is rising on encouraging isn't it. I am glad you are so suscessful with your collecting. I don't think we will have any difficulty finding sufficient money for the orphans if the nieces arid nephews continue working earnestly- for the next few weeks. Thank Gertie and Philip for the sweet kisses. I hope they are both quite, well. Kiss them for for me. Will you take love for yourself. from yours lovingly Auntie Nell.


PRIZE ESSAY The Daily News 3 December, 1910.

57 York-Street. Subiaco.

Dear Auntie Nell,— I am going to tell you a little about Ailsa's bazaar. The stalls were nicely decorated with art muslin. The fancy stall was red and yellow, crowded with dainty articles made by the nieces of the Sunshine League. Some of the things were Dorothy bags, pin-cushions, dolls etc. The sweet stall was pink and green : it had a nice lot of bags, baskets, and boxes full of nice sweets. The fairy well, or fishing pond as it was called, was very funny. A gentleman would get a doll and a lady would very often get a doll's leg or other funny things. At 4 o'clock Mr. Kingsmill did not come, so Mrs. Fallows, a friend of Ailsa's, kindly opened the bazaar for Ailsa. The flower stall was very nice. There was a variety of plants of various descriptions. Then there was the refreshment stall; there were some nice cakes and scones on this stall. I cannot go to Etta's bazaar to-day, because it is too far, but I hope it will be a success. - I remain, your loving niece DAPHNE PYETT. PS Dear auntie, will you tell me when you are going to see Amy, so I can see you there.

Dear Daphne,— I was pleased to receive your letter on our Sunshine bazaar. Your effort has gained a prize. The stalls at Ailsa's bazaar all looked very charming, and I think £10 clear profit is a very excellent result, don't you? You did not come and introduce yourself to me at the bazaar, and I was hoping to meet you. I intend going to see Amy on Sunday afternoon, dear, so perhaps I shall meet you there. It is quite a long time since I have seen her. I have been out of town several times on Sundays lately. With much love, dear, and thanking you very much for the lovely parcel containing gifts for Ailsa's bazaar, also for your help, dear.— Yours lovingly, Auntie Nell.


ESSAYS

PRIZE ESSAY ON THE SUNSHINE BAZAAR

'Eschol,'

No. 2 Avenue. North Perth

Dear Aunt Nell,— I am. writing an essay about Ailsa's bazaar! My mother went to the hall and got there about two o'clock. Mother told Pearl and I to come to the hall about half-past five. We had a great time, I was playing nearly all the time. My brother Alick and Sidney Rowles were at door taking up the money. When my Aunty Addie came she bought me a nice big doll, and Pearl one too. I must ask Pearl to be one of your nieces! I sold buttonholes and, only made sixpence. I was going to sell more, but I felt tired of selling them. So I went round trying to sell a fern but nobody would buy it. Next time I might make a little more. I wish Pearl would be one of your nieces. If I ask her she will be one of your nieces. I was looking after Eva Donegan but I got there too late to see her. I told her that I would look for her. I think whoever was doing the dancing, did it beautifully Ailsa was that busy that she never spoke to me all the time I was there, and same with mother she only spoke a few times to me. I hope you are not offended with me for writing such a little essay. There were such pretty little dresses and bags. We got home about half-past eleven, because we had to stay and help, to clean the hall up and we missed our car to go home. And when we got home we went straight to bed. Wasn't it horrible, the rain and thunder. I was very tired when I got home. It is getting very late now. I will have to go too to be so good-bye. Pearl will write a letter or an essay next week. I just asked her would she be one of your nieces and she said that she will be one of your nieces. The bazaar was lovely I think, and such pretty decorations. There were a lot of pretty dolls too, and pretty hats. Hoping you are quite well, now I think I must close. I remain your loving niece, MARY TOLMIE HOPE SKENE.

My Dear Mary,— Once again you are a successful competitor and have gained a prize. I too, think the bazaar, was lovely, and all those present seemed to enjoy themselves. Then the stalls looked so pretty, and so many pretty flowers could be purchased, and the flowers were quite lovely. Ailsa would be very tired after it was all over. With much love dear, yours lovingly, Auntie Nell.

Daphne Pyett. The Life Of A Teenager In Subiaco In The Early 1900's.

Daphne Pyett And The Life Of A Teenager In Subiaco In The Early 1900's.

So what was it like for a young girl living in Subiaco in the early 1900's ? Daphne Pyett was one of many young girls from Subiaco whose daily life and interests were shared with Uncle Tom and Auntie Nell through the children's pages of the Daily News newspaper. Daphne and her family lived at 57 York-street, Subiaco for many years and continued to live there when she got married in 1923.

Daphne was an active member of the Sunshine League for several years founded by "Uncle Tom" of The Daily News newspaper and helped to raise money for the Children's Hospital and other charitable causes by making things to sell, volunteering for bazaars, concerts and volunteering to help at the Christmas parties and other fundraisers as many young children did with the support of her family. Daphne wrote essays on the topics suggested by Auntie Nell and regularly won prizes. Auntie Nell responded regularly to Daphne and Sunshine League members as well as thanked those who volunteered at regular events.

Ancestor records show that Daphne was born on 12 May, 1898 at the Shilo Hospital in Subiaco. Her father was Joseph Pyett and her mother Janet Eveline Pyett. She had three brothers George, William Milton and Wynne. In an essay to the Daily News in 1912, Auntie Nell asked the children to write about their most valued possession. 

Daphne responded by writing about her mother. She wrote why she loved her mother "Why I love my mother so is because she is always so kind to me: so patient, so loving and so tender. I always try to do what I know mother would like me to do." Beside sides writing to Auntie Nell, Daphne loved to read a range of books. Her letters provide an inside look at social life of children of her time for example going to the Royal show and what they did on holidays or about school. The family were regular church goers and newspaper records show Daphne scoring high marks in the Sunday school competition. She and family attended the Congregational Church.

The National Archives state that when World War 1 broke out Daphne's father Joseph tried to sign up however, there are no documents. From 1914 to 1918 the WA Postal Directories show him as living 57 York Street Subiaco with his occupation as a tailor. Throughout his life Joseph Pyett wrote regular letters to Western Australian and Australian newspapers such as the Sydney Morning Herald and The Mercury in Tasmania on a range of subjects including Australian federation in 1901, the white Australia policy, taxation and land values and the future of his profession tailoring and the impact of machinery. These letters can be found on Trove, the National Library of Australia database.

Western Australian Births, deaths and marriages records and the birth notices on Trove show that Daphne married Alexander Arthur Hart in 1923. The Western Australian Postal Directories show that in 1924 they continued to live in Subiaco after they got married at 125 Gloster-Road. They had three children Charles Alexander on 6 September, 1924 and Betty Eveline on 11 November, 1927 and Wynne (birthdate unknown). Daphne died in Subiaco on 28 July, 1981 aged 83. 

I have copied some of those letters from Trove the database of the National Library of Australia where she shares some of the daily life of a teenager. The articles have been edited for copyright reasons.

PRIZE LETTER The Daily News, 16 October, 1909. 

THE WHITE BEAR The Daily News, 16 October, 1909.

NATURE STUDY

PRIZE ESSAY The Daily News 24 December, 1909.

57 York-street

Dear Uncle,Tom- Very often in spring the birds are kept very busy gathering moss, hay and bits of sticks. It is to build their nests. The outer side of the nest is made of rougher and stronger materials than inside. Very often the inside is of horsehair or soft feathers, so that it will be soft for the young ones. Each bird builds in its own way, and very often you can tell what bird's nest it is. The oriole is called the hanging bird because it has such a queerly shaped nest. It is like a deep pocket or bag. This bird fastens it with bits of string and horsehair up a tree: there on it hangs and swings. The wise little builders gather scrapes of cloth and soft feathers to line the nest. They make it snug for their young ones. It is a very snug little home. Soon the eggs are hatched. Robber birds find it difficult to plunder the nest. There is another strange nest: it belongs to the oven bird. The nest is made of wet clay; the bird gets it from the river. Then the bird mixes it with grass and straw. Then it lets it bake as hard as a rock in the sun. Inside the nest there are two rooms. The mother lays her eggs in one of them, and the other is used by her mate. Some birds are called dome builders, because they build a dome-shaped roof over their house. The magpie is a dome builder, and what a queer nest he makes,mother Cape titmouse in South Africa, weaves a nest of cotton to protect their young ones. - I remain your loving niece 

DAPHNE PYETT

MY LETTER BAG The Daily News. 10 September, 1910.

57 York-street, Subiaco

"Dear Auntie Nell, - I am trying to write a short story. I hope you will like it :

"THE PROUD SOVEREIGN" ...."

THIRD CLASS ESSAY

(Over Twelve Years to 16.) The Daily News 22 October, 1910

57 York-street, Subiaco.

Dear Auntie Nell,- The first thing I must do is thank you for the nice present you sent me. It is called "Jake's Birthday Present," and it is such a nice book. I am very fond of reading. I went to my first meeting in the Protestant Hall. I am making some huckabelt belts and other little things. The belts are light blue and dark blue. Ailsa asked me if I wanted to serve in a stall, so I decided to serve in the sweet stall. I see they are having another meeting next Saturday. Will you be there Auntie? I am going to make a bright read rosette to wear at the Bazaar. I am going in the show for writing. I hope you are well, dear Auntie, as it leaves me at present. - I remain your willing niece,

DAPHNE PYETT,

Eleven kisses, all for you.

P.S. A little girl friend gave me 1 d for the orphans. I went to see Amy the other day. - DP

Dear Daphne, - Your welcome little letter I received during the week; also a penny stamp for the orphan's cheer given to you by your little friend. I wish you would ask her to write to me. I should very much like to make her one of my Sunshine-makers. I am glad you were at the meeting in connection with Ailsa's bazaar, and you are going to be a stall holder. Your huckaback belts sound very pretty and I'm sure they will command a ready sale. No, I will not be at the meeting on Saturday; duty only is responsible for my absence. I trust you girls will all work harmoniously together, and always remember unity is strength. I hope you will gain a prize for writing at the show. If I were a judge I should feel inclined to award you one, as I consider your writing very good indeed. I am glad you've been to see Amy; she gets very lonely, and I know is always pleased to see a bright Sunshine-maker. Goodbye dear. Take much love and kisses from - Yours loving Auntie Nell.

P.S. Thank you for the kisses.

MY LETTER BAG

SUNSHINE MAKING ACCOUNTS

AND WELCOME CORRESPONDENCE The Daily News, 11 February, 1911. 

57 York-street, Sublaco.

Dear Auntie Nell,— Did you got my letter? I wrote to you a few weeks ago, and I have not seen it In print yet. I hope It did not go astray, in the post. Now, I must tell you about 'Our Sunday School Picnic.' For out picnic we went, to Kelmscott. We caught the half past eight train from Subiaco and proceeded to Perth. At the Perth station we got out, and got in the country train. The ride to the country was lovely, and not a bit like Perth. We arrived there at half-past nine. There was a nice swing put up for the children to swlng on. At 12 o'clock we had dinner. We had watermelons and grapes. Then we had races. I came first and got a doll's dinner service, which was very nice. It has knives, forks, and other things In it. We had tea, and each child got a bag of lollies, and then we came home, tired with the running about on the happy day. I think this is all now, dear, Auntie. I will close now.— I remain your loving niece,

DAPHNE PYETT AGED 12

Dear Daphne,— Yes, I received the letter from you about five weeks ago. It found its way safely Into our children's page. I am sorry you missed it. However, I trust you will be more fortunate this time, and see your letter in print. and my answer to it. I enjoyed reading about the enjoyable day you spent in celebrating the annual Sunday school picnic. I can just imagine the lovely time you would have playing and running about in the lovely country meadows. You must be a good little runner to have been first in your race, and what a lovely prize you won. Just fancy, a doll's dinner service, with knives and forks; apt! all tho ncoopsary accessories to make it complete ! Have you given a doll's dinner party yet? I feel quite overcome with all the kisses, but they very welcome and, it is good of you to spare me so many.— 

With much love, your loving Auntie Nell

ESSAYS

27 May, 1911 The Daily News

57 York-street, Subiaco.

My Dear Auntie Nell

I saw by your postscript in to-nights paper that you were offering prizes for the best letters sent to you on "Flowers" so I thought I would compete. Flowers are one of God's gifts. How different is a house that has no flowers to one that has. There are many kinds of flowers, including the rose, the pansy (I think the pansy is my favourite one), and the sweet little violets, all such brilliant colours that make life happier. In the hospitals flowers are always welcome, how the sick ones love the lovely smell of the flowers around them, and seem to feel much better after receiving them. The way in which every little part of the flower is so neatly placed in its calyx. A little time spent in the garden every day makes a wonderful improvement to look at the house. First you put the little seed in, and very often it is no larger than a pins head. Down goes the poor little seed in the cold dark dark earth. But in about three weeks' time up comes the little shoot so young and fresh. Then we water it we must be careful what quantity of water we put on them: if we put too much on them we will drown the poor little things, and we do not want that. What a fine collection of flowers we would have in a few months, if we devoted,a little time everyday to our gardens. Most of the flowers come out in spring, but when summer's searching rays come, the poor little things die. Now is the time to be setting the seeds, then the rain comes it will water them and make them grow. Indeed, we have many beautiful flowers to be grateful for, don't you think so too dear Auntie? I was pleased to hear you had read the "Lamplighter." If anybody spread sunshine in the world, it was Uncle True-I remain your loving niece, 

DAPHNE PYETT

MY LETTER BAG The Daily News 6  January, 1912  

57 York-street, Subiaco

"Dear Auntie Nell, - I saw my letter in Saturday's "Daily News," and was surprised to see you missed me at the Carnival. I was in the West Australian set. As you asked me to write to you about The Carnival, I am going to do so: On Tuesday last was the annual Carnival of the Sunshine League. "West Australia" was the first to present herself to the audience. This showed W.A. In the beginning. The natives corroboree was very funny: the war dance and throwing of was very like a native's corroboree. Mr. C. Borkwood represented Captain Dampier. There were also early settlers. A march was done by the girls; then the Misses Peters did some nice dancing. The curtin fell amidst loud applause..."Subiaco represented about fifty nigger boys, who talked and enjoyed themselves very much. The Shubiaco National Anthem was sung to the tune of "Swanee River." The grand march was done by the Subiaco girls...wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Bright and Happy New Year - I remain, your loving niece, 

DAPHNE PYETT

MY LETTER BAG The Daily News, 30 March, 1912.

Dear Auntie Nell,— I am writing to thank you for the lovely prize you sent me. I thought it was a beautiful story - one that teaches you a lesson. l would have written to thank you for it before, but my practice and lessons take up much of my time. I get-up early and practice every morning. We all went to Point Walter last Saturday, and enjoyed ourselves very much. It was a lovely day far a picnic. I enjoyed the trip down the river the best. Coming home, it was very nice also. 

I went into the races, and came third. But it was better than nothing, don't you think so? I have just come home from the pictures, they were beautiful. I always like pictures that are educational. I think it teaches one a lot. One picture was named 'Vanity Fair.' It was very nice,' but I could not understand it properly. All the proceeds are to be given to the Children's Hospital. I hope a large sum of money is raised to help the poor little sick children. Next Friday we are going to have a collection at our school for the hospital. 

Aren't we having lovely weather? One would never think it was autumn. I send the paper to my cousin in Sydney sometimes, and she is always interested in it. I think I will close now. Hoping you are well, as it leaves me at present. I have had a very bad cold. I am sending you 1s. worth of stamps for the League. 

With love and kisses from your loving niece, 

DAPHNE PYETT. 

Dear Daphne, — I am sorry to hear you have had such a bad cold. I trust you will very soon be better. Many thanks for the shilling's worth of stamps, dear. I have put them towards our Children's Hospital Fund. I too, trust the picture entertainment raised a substantial sum for the Children's Hospital. Lately I have been visiting one of my little Sunshiners, Florle Stubbs, there. I am glad to say she is getting on nicely and will soon be able to return home. You ought to ask your cousin in Sydney to join our League. It would be Interesting receiving a letter from so far away. I am glad you liked your prize; and that it reached you safely.

Much love, dear, from yours lovingly, 

Auntie Nell.

MY LETTER BAG The Daily News, 4 May, 1912

57 York-street, Subiaco.

Dear Auntie Nell, - I saw in your answer to my last letter that you would be pleased if my cousin would write to you. I am writing to her this week, asking her to write you, and giving her your address. I hope you spent a happy Easter as I did, although not at home. I see that by this evening's post that you are offering prizes on "My Most Precious Possession ad Why?" Well, I think my mother is my most precious possession. Where would I be without my mother's love? I often feel for the motherless, and think how sad and lonely they must feel. Why I love my mother so is because she is always so kind to me: so patient, so loving and so tender. I always try to do what I know mother would like me to do. Altogether, I think my mother is my precious possession. Dear Auntie, I think I will close now, as I understand you want letters to be brief. If I get a prize, dear Auntie will please send me one of the "Elsie" books ? I have not got any of these beautiful books, and would like to have them. I get them out of our Sunday-school library, and have read some of them thirteen times, and I would like to read them again. Your loving niece, 

DAPHNE PYETT

Dear Daphne, - I was so pleased to hear from you once more, and enjoyed very much your letter on my most precious possession. As you are a prize-winner, I will try to remember your partiality for "Elsie" books. I shall be pleased to hear from your cousin. It was sweet of you to ask her to write to me. Good-bye dear. Much love from- Yours lovingly, Auntie Nell.

THE SUNSHINE LEAGUE MOTTO The Daily News 4 May, 1912

Jessie Downie, Journalist At The Daily News And Papua New Guinea. Part Two.

Jessie Downie, Journalist At The Daily News and Papua New Guinea. Part Two.

Although this post has nothing to do with Subiaco, Miss Jessie Reid Downie, the former editor of the children's pages and social editor of The Daily News newspaper gave a talk at a meeting of the Women Writers' Club in 1935 about the two years she spent in Papua New Guinea.

From the post 'Jessie Downie, Journalist At The Daily News. Part One' published on September, 4 2020' writes that prior to Margaret Main and Boronia Giles being employed at The Daily News newspaper to take on the role of Auntie Nell and edit the children's pages, Jessie Reid Downie took on the role. She also edited the social pages. 

During the 1900's, Perth newspapers like Rhe Daily News, The West Australian and The Mirror provided an insight into the lives of many of the prominent and social people who lived there, the events, the food they ate and the clothes they wore while keeping track of their comings and goings from the city and state of Western Australia. These insightful snippets of information can be found in the newspapers of the time on Trove, the database at the National Library of Australia. 

For much of her life Jessie Reid Downie lived in a flat in Richardson Road, West Perth. The social pages of the local newspapers reported on the social gatherings of the people she often entertained and what happened at these events. They reported she was an accomplished singer who often sung at social gatherings throughout Perth especially for charity events. On one occasion in 1925 she entertained Mrs Edith Cowan after her return from Washington. On another occasion in 1929, the Truth newspaper reported she saw anthropologist Daisy Bates on a return trip from Sydney to Perth. 

Following the outbreak of World War 1 in 1914, Jessie travelled with a doctor and his wife, Dr. and Mrs Cope where they volunteered to work in a hospital in France run by and funded by the British for two years. She trained as a nurse with the Red Cross, studied French and worked as a V. A. D. Assistant in various hospitals around France. While living in Guernsey with her sister she raised funds for Belgium refugees. This appeal was supported and reported on by the Daily News newspaper, in the Children's Column now edited by Margaret Main. 

Jessie returned to Sydney in 1919 with her sister and brother-in-law after their war work in Europe. After World War One Jessie maintained an active social life attending events around Perth but also entertaining people who visited in her own home. She was active in women's groups that supported writers and journalists including the Women Writers' Club. 

Throughout her life Jessie travelled extensively as part of a group to the Eastern States to visit her sisters and brother, Europe, America and Papua New Guinea with her sister's family. She remained on good terms with her employer and owner of The Daily News, Mr A. Lovekin travelling with him, his wife and daughter and another friend to Asia and Europe in 1926 for three months. 

In 1947 The West Australian reported Miss Jessie Downie died on 30 April in Melbourne. 

In 1932 the social pages of The Daily News reported that Miss Jessie Downie left for New Guinea with her sister and her husband Mr J. Matley who was manager of the Waigani plantation. She returned to Melbourne in 1935 after spending two years there. 

Jessie Downie's sister's husband Jim Matley was employed by the British New Guinea Developement Co Ltd. In his early years he managed plantations in this district, before being  transferred to Waigani, Eastern Division. 

The article below is a report on the talk Jessie Reid Downie gave at a meeting of the Women Writer's Club at Karrakatta in 1935. It can be found on Trove, the database of the National Library of Australia. 

Life in Tropical New Guinea, The Daily News, 1935. 

DESCRIBED BY MISS DOWNIE 

The tropical contradictions of living in a country like New Guinea were discussed today by Miss Jessie Downie, a Perth journalist, who returned recently from nearly two years' stay with her sister, Mrs. J. Matley and her husband on Waigani plantation, about 15 miles from the coast of the mainland. 

 

Miss Downie said that most of the settlements in the area in which she stayed was concentrated in the island off the coast, and life on the mainland was very primitive. Managers of plantations had to build their own roads, and many household necessities had to be grown on the plantations. They had to grind their own wheat for flour, and chop their own wood from the forest. "The boys do everything," said Miss Downie. "They milk the cows, separate the cream, make excellent butter and bread, and are very artist into the bargain." Miss Downie said that the Papuan houseboy was like a "beautiful bronzed statue," but they were not over-scrupulous as to cleanliness if they were not watched. Every morning, however, on her sister's plantations, they were sent for a swim before entering the house. "They wore white calico skirts, which covered the body from the waist down to the calves, but tops of their bodies were bare." 

The natives were child-like, know nothing of the outside world, had quaint sayings, and were very superstitious, according to Miss Downie. If they became sick, they turned their faces to the wall and prepared to die, because they thought it was the will of the "spirit man." They were slow workers, she said and had to be given a definite task to do. If they were pulling out weeds they had to be told at the beginning of the day to work from this tree to that. 

Artistic Houseboys 

 They always decorated the table beautifully for dinner parties - Miss Downie could not say enough for the wonderful flowers and vegetation in New Guinea - and each boy wore in his hair two of the kind of flowers in his table decoration. Nearly all the natives however, spoke a different language. The "calico" boy often spoke a different language from the cook-boy, as neither could speak a work of English, it made things rather difficult.

Explaining the primitive state of the mainland, Miss Downie said that it was quite a hazardous adventure to cross one of the mountain streams, as the only transport was a wire attached to two tress on opposite sides of the bank, and arose seat arrangement, in which you sat, clung on tight, and hoped for the best. These same mountain streams were at times a great source of annoyance to the people on the plantation, as it frequently happened that just as the vegetables were getting ripe the rains would com, flood the streams, and the vegetables would be washed away.

The undergrowth though beautiful and green, housed thousands of snakes. Miss Downie said. They were very "friendly" creatures, and would come into the house and curl up on the chairs. She described the commotion caused one night when a python crawled into the fowlhouse through a hole in the fenced, swallowed two fouls, a duck and two sacks, and was consequently so swollen it could not get out again, and had to wait till the houseboys came and killed it. The 

"Mospuito Room" 

The nights were wonderful, lit with fireflies. But owing to the malaria mosquitos, it was impossible to sit outside and enjoy them. After 6 o'clock everyone had to repair to the 'mosquito room' - wired in until bedtime, when there was a rush to get under mosquito netting." 

Miss Downie said that it was a lazy existence - was too hot to work - but though there was never quiet. "Everything sings," she said "The crickets, the birds - and the mosquitoes." Miss Downie was at one time a member of the "The Daily News" staff for several years. She was the guest of honour at a luncheon in the Karrakatta Club today, given by the committee of the Women Writers' Club.