A Letter "From Somewhere in France" (1916).

A Letter "From Somewhere in France." To be continued.

Reg C Young, 11 Barker Road, Subiaco.

This is an interesting article found while researching and writing on Trove, the database at the National Library of Australia. 

The article states the letter copied below is from a soldier from Subiaco in Western Australia fighting in Europe during World War 1 in 1916. The soldier and his mother lived at 11 Barker Road, Subiaco. The letter describes the leave from a soldier's perspective.

Curious I wanted to find out more about Reg C. Young and his family. The usual sources were checked. The Post Office Directories of W.A. show there was no 11 Barker Road, Subiaco during the World War One years. While there were many individuals and families with the name Young none lived at 11 Barker Road Subiaco. There was no Reg C. Young or Reginald C. Young registered in the National Archives of Australia where records of men who served are kept. The lack of information doesn't mean there isn't a Young family with a Reg C. Young maybe just at a different address.     

The article is from Trove, the database of the National Library of Australia. No copyright 

Sunday Times, 30 April 1916.

A West Australian Soldier

Writes to His Mother From "Somewhere in France"

Writing from "Somewhere in France" to his mother, at 11 Barker-road Subiaco, Reg. C. Young (he is well known in yachting circles here) dilates on "Home on leave" "The most absorbing topic at the from is 'leave'. No matter where you are at the rail head, in billets or in the fire trench - the only question is 'Have you been home on leave ?' If answered in the affirmative, 'Lucky man ! Did you enjoy it ?' If answered negative, 'When are going?' as one who has been home on leave, I will try and describe my feelings on various occasions. When leave was first mention great excitement prevailed, and the questions arose as to how many were going and in what order. Many were the suggestions put forward, but the OC tabooed them all, and sent ideas of his own. At last came the da when the first lucky me shouldered their packs and rifles, and amid much demonstration of the rest of the company not in the trenches set off for the train for England.  

'In the subsequent draw for positions, I was luckily drawn fourth in my sections, and high hopes for Christmas leave. My feelings were alternatively at a high and ebb feeling to the frequent postponements, because of submarines in the Channel, rough weather or German offensives. As my turn drew near I was sent away with section to another part of the lines and my hopes dropped to zero, as out work was urgent. Frequent rumors which drifted from departments did ten to raise my hopes and I had practically reconciled myself to the fact that I was spending Christmas in the trenches. Suddenly one day, however when my knees deep in mud an orderly handed me my pass together with two of men and orders to proceed on leave at once.

Great was our excitement and after much bustling and joking we got our valises packed in our dug-outs, and to the best wishes of the rest of the section set off down the communication trench, is pouring rain, but with light hears. 

We did not relish our tramp to the rail head in the rain, but before getting far we got a lift on the waggon lines from a battery. After a rough ride over a road strewn with shell-holes we eventually reached the railway, and spent the night in an artillery dug-out. At 5 o'clock next morning and spent the night in an artillery dug-out. A 5 o'clock next morning we reported to the Railway Transport Officer, and boarded the train for the first stage of our journey to London. 

'I had travelled in French trains in peace times and them very fast but this train was in limit in slowness, taking 15 hours to do 102 miles. It was long train of 55 coaches carrying some 300 troops on leave. Men frequently jumped out of the front coaches and picked mistletoe catching the coaches catching the rear coaches again and those armfuls of mistletoe were taken to London with us. En-route we were given coffee and cream by the Y.M.C.A. people who are doing great work amongst the troops in France and Flanders. 

At last, at 11.30 p.m. we pulled up at the wharf ready for embarkation, the first stage of our journey completed. After passing through the inspection room, where selected men's packs are searched we boarded the streamer for Merry England. At 12.30 a.m. we left the wharf, and after a fast but rough trip across Channel we again sighted England's shores, after an absence on active service of many months. Everybody was merry and light-hearted as the steamer drew up to the wharf and packs were shouldered right willingly, and a scramble began for the gangway. 

At last I was ashore and settle in the train, and oh what a sigh of relief I heaved to be in England again in English train free from death in various forms for a few days at least. At 8 a.m. to minute the trainload of happy men drew out of the station in glorious sunshine for its two hours run to Waterloo. As we passed through the green fields, villages, and towns and at length London suburbs out fellings rose to a high pitch, and at all when the train drew in at Waterloo Station we were rushed by the waiting crowd, who made a great demonstration, our feelings knew no bounds. Strong men wept when they met their wives. mothers, or sweethearts and others shouted for the very joy of seeing London again and in the festive season. To describe the scene at the station at the arrival of the Christmas train from the trenches is beyond my powers. I, no one to meet, set for a glorious hot bath and other luxuries. 

"I will rapidly pass over the Christmas days spent in luxury comfort, cleanliness, and at theatres and amusements and come to the time when I had to return. As the hour for my departure to the trenches drew near my spirits drooped, and it was very poor spirit that I shouldered my pack and set of for Waterloo. Once again I must say that I cannot describe the station scene at Waterloo occasioned by the departure of the daily train carry its human freight back to the trenches. I leave it to your imagination to picture married men leaving their wives and children, young men leaving their mothers and sweethearts, and returning to a shell swept and ruined land, where death lurks at one and every turn. 

At last the moment of departure drew near, and feelings ran high as the long train carrying some thousands of Britain's bravest and best drew out of the station to the good wishes and cheers of the swaying crowd on its long and weary journey to the trenches. We crossed the same night in a fast steamer, which was before the are on the flushing and after a two hours tramp in mud and rain we arrived at out dug-outs only to find our had moved on another eight or nine miles. At last, tire and cross with the world at large and the Germans in particular, we reached our comrades. 

"So ended my first leave from the front."

Edith Daglish...

Edith Daglish...To be continued. 

West Australian, 29 May 1946.

WOMAN'S RELM

MRS. DAGLISH DIES. Widow of Former Premier. Numbered among the many friends who will mourn the passing of Mrs. Edith Daglish, whose death occurred yesterday, are hundreds of subscribers to the Subiaco Municipal Library, of which she was secretary and librarian for 23 years. 

Mrs. Daglish, who had been in hospital since May 13 following injuries sustained when she was struck by a utility truck, was the widow of the late Mr. Henry Daglish, first Labour Premier of this State and member of the Legislative Assembly for Subiaco from 1901 to 1910. 

Throughout the long period of her residence in the district, Mrs. Daglish took a keen and active interest in the affairs of the Subiaco Municipality and was a prime mover in the social activities of its people.

Her interest in social welfare was of a universal nature and her co-workers, paying tribute to her service for humanity generally, describe her as a "wonderful woman." During the 1914-1918 war she was a prominent worker on behalf of the fighting forces, taking an active part in the running of canteens and other patriotic organisations. In recognition of this work she was awarded the O.B.E. 

Her home was at 9 Munsie avenue, Daglish, a suburb named after her husband, who died in 1920. Here she lived with her daughter, Miss R. Daglish. Her son, Mr. Harry Daglish, is with the Bank of New South Wales and is at present stationed at Narembeen. 

Mrs. Daglish was the second woman who held the O.B.E. to die this month from injuries sustained in a traffic accident The other was Mrs. Bessie Louise Hubbard, who died in the Fremantle Hospital on May 2 after being hit by a car in Stirling-highway, Cottesloe, on April 27.

Kathleen Yeates, Highly Decorated Nurse (1951).

Kathleen Yeates, A Highly Decorated Nurse (1951).

The blog post is a continuation of the previous post about Charles Samuel Sparks Yeates who was an astronomer at the Perth Observatory and his daughter Mary Kathleen (Kath) Yeates who went on to be a highly decorated nurse.  Miss Kathleen Yeates was the first Australian trained sister to be made an honorary member of the Australian College of Nursing in 1951. 

Charles married Catherine Janet Hinckley in 1889. They had two children Mary Kathleen (Kath) Yeates (1900), and Horatio Thomas Yeates (1898). The family lived at 441 Rokeby Road, Subiaco.  

Throughout the years Kathleen was a nurse at King Edward Memorial Hospital, in charge of the infant health center at Shenton Park, honorary secretary of the Australian Trained Nurses Association, involved in the foundation of the Florence Nightingale Club and was a qualified lecturer for postgraduate studies in nursing. She was also involved in creating a union for nurses.  

The 1931 the Mirror newspaper wrote the following article about Charles and his daughter Kathleen who trained to be a nurse...

"Charles Yeates, who has been on the staff of the Perth Observatory since 1897, is one of the best know of our citizens. He reads the stars and their courses and is regarded as one of Australia's foremost astronomers. He first saw the light in England in 1881, and after experience in S.A. and Vic. came West and joined our Observatory. Charles Yeates has given much of his private time to those interested in the mysteries of the heavens and many a party can thank him for conducting them.

Charles Yeates has given much of his private time to those interested in the mysteries of the heavens and many a party can thank for conducting them. The Observatory to him has been something more than a bread-winning establishment and over a long association he has given his knowledge freely with the hope of making the Western Australian Observatory a model in the Commonwealth. Mr. Yeates is proud man these days in his daughter Kathleen, a native of the West, recently topped the State in her maternity course at the King Edward Hospital, Subiaco.

She is fully qualified, having taken out A.T.N.A. certificate at Perth Hospital where she underwent her training. She is at present finishing a child welfare course prior to commencing active practice of her profession. The possessor of a charming personality this young lady is a real chip of the old block and a credit to her Dad to whom she is more a pal than a daughter. Incidentally when Kathleen qualified as a trained nurse she gained fifth place in the State and as she followed up this performance with a first in maternity nursing can be seen that is going to be a star in her particular sphere." (Mirror, 14 Saturday, 1931). 

In 1951 Kathleen Yeates was the first Australian trained sister to be made an honorary member of the Australian College of Nursing. The West Australian wrote the following article about her achievements. 

"Honour For W.A. Nurse ...A West Australian nurse, Miss Kathleen Yeates, of Gooseberry Hill, is the first Australian trained sister to be made an honorary member of the Australian College of Nursing. This honour was conferred on her on Tuesday in recognition of her honorary work for nurses over a number of years. 

Miss Yeates, who is now retired. began her training at the Perth Hospital in 1927, and after a period at the King Edward Memorial Hospital was in charge of the infant health centre at Shenton Park for some years. During that time she was appointed honorary secretary of the Australian Trained Nurses' Association, and saw that body established in a permanent office in the city. 

With the foundation of the Florence Nightingale Club, of which she was also honorary secretary a permanent centre was established for nursing activity. In association with the club, the A.T.N.A. began a series of postgraduate lectures each year. "These were most valuable to nurses," Miss Yeates said, "and were greatly appreciated." 

More progress was made in 1936 when the Florence Nightingale Memorial Committee was formed to provide scholarships for nurses. With this work Miss Yeates is still actively interested. The Society for the Care of Aged and Incapacitated Nurses, which was followed by the founding of Eleanor Harvey House, and the "Journal of W.A. Nurses," of which she was the first editor, were among her other interests. 

Miss Yeates says that she feels greatly honoured to have been made an honorary member of the Australian College of Nursing, adding that she was present when the first discussions about its foundation on a national basis took place in Melbourne. Mrs. S. Wheatley, of Bridgetown, who is on a short visit to Perth, is staying at the Adelphi Hotel. Red Cross Society: The Quanmby club branch of the Red Cross Society will conduct a bridge party. at the club rooms. London Court, at 2 p.m. today." (West Australian, 25 January 1951.)

Mary Kathleen Yeates, Mirror, 14 February 1931.





BA3491/65: Left-right standing: Unknown, C.S.S. Yeates; sitting: Mary Kathleen 'Kath' Yeates, Catherine Janet 'Kate' Yeates, Horatio Thomas Yeates, ca.1906.

Charles Samuel Sparks Yeates...(1872 - 1961).

Charles Samuel Sparks Yeates...(1872 - 1961).

Charles Samuel Sparks Yeates (Yeates, C. S. S.) was born on the 5 March, 1872 in England. The family migrated to Australia and then move to Western Australia where he gained a position at the Perth Observatory. The family lived at 441 Rokeby Road, Subiaco. 

"...Charles Yeates was born in England and came to Adelaide in 1881. He later went to Melbourne, where he was apprenticed to his father, a maker of scientific instruments. He spent some time in work at the Melbourne Observatory and came to this State in 1895, before the observatory was founded. When the observatory was founded in the next year Mr. Yeates joined the staff as mechanic and clerk under the Government Astronomer of the day, Mr. Cooke..." (West Australian, 5 November 1935).

Charles married Catherine Janet Hinckley in 1889. They lived at 441 Rokeby-road, Subiaco. The following notice was put in the West Australian .. "YEATES - HINCKLEY (Silver Wedding). On January 6, 1898, at St. Alban's Highgate, by Rev. F. J. Price, Charles S. S. Yeates, youngest son of late Horatio Yeates, Melbourne and Tasmania, to Catherine Janet second daughter of the late Thomas and Mary Hinckley, South Australia and Western Australia. Present address: 441 Rokeby-road, Subiaco, Western Australia. Victorian and South Australian papers please copy."  They have two children Mary Kathleen (Kath) Yeates (1900), and Horatio Thomas Yeates (1898).

The Mirror newspaper wrote the following article about Charles and his daughter Kathleen who trained to be a nurse...

"Charles Yeates, who has been on the staff of the Perth Observatory since 1897, is one of the best know of our citizens. He reads the stars and their courses and is regarded as one of Australia's foremost astronomers. He first saw the light in England in 1881, and after experience in S.A. and Vic. came West and joined our Observatory. Charles Yeates has given much of his private time to those interested in the mysteries of the heavens and many a party can thank him for conducting them.

Charles Yeates has given much of his private time to those interested in the mysteries of the heavens and many a party can thank for conducting them. The Observatory to him has been something more than a bread-winning establishment and over a long association he has given his knowledge freely with the hope of making the Western Australian Observatory a model in the Commonwealth. Mr. Yeates is proud man these days in his daughter Kathleen, a native of the West, recently topped the State in her maternity course at the King Edward Hospital, Subiaco.

She is fully qualified, having taken out A.T.N.A. certificate at Perth Hospital where she underwent her training. She is at present finishing a child welfare course prior to commencing active practice of her profession. The possessor of a charming personality this young lady is a real chip of the old block and a credit to her Dad to whom she is more a pal than a daughter. Incidentally when Kathleen qualified as a trained nurse she gained fifth place in the State and as she followed up this performance with a first in maternity nursing it can be seen that is going to be a star in her particular sphere." (Mirror, 14 Saturday, 1931). Kathleen Yeates went on to be a highly decorate nurse. 

In 1935 Charles Yeates explained the total eclipse of the moon in the Daily New newspaper..."TOTAL ECLIPSE OF MOON For the first time since September 27, 1931, a total eclipse of the moon will be observed by Perth people tonight. It will begin at 11.4 p.m. and finish at 12.31. We have not made any special arrangements to observe it, said Mr., C. S. S. Yeates, of the Observatory today. 'An eclipse or partial eclipse of the moon is a common thing.' 

'One interesting point to note is that during the time of total eclipse, the moon appears to be copper colored. This is due to the reflected light off our earthy said Mr. Yeates. It is proof that our earth throws out a red light into space. As seen from Mars we would appear to be a red planet. The earth gets between the sun and the moon, completely cutting off the sun's light from the moon. Therefore, if no light were thrown off from the earth we should not be able to see m moon at a1.1 during totality.' The total eclipse occurs only during the time of full moon. 'We shall take a photograph of the partial eclipse,' said Mr. Yeates. 'We cannot take one of the total eclipse, as we would obtain no results, copper colored light being bad for photography. There was a partial eclipse of the moon on July 26, 1934, but there he been a total eclipse since September... (Daily News, 19 January 1935).

In 1936 Charles Yeates retired and the following article was published in the Western Australian...."ASSISTANT ASTRONOMER. Mr. Yeates's Long Service Ends. After having been associated with the Perth Observatory throughout its whole life-some 40 years-the Assistant Government Astronomer (Mr. C. S. F. Yeates) will retire today. 

He will be remembered and missed by some thousands of members of the general public who visited the Observatory and listened to Mr. Yeates's painstaking explanations. Mr. Yeates was born in England and came to Adelaide in 1881. He later went to Melbourne, where he was apprenticed to his father, a maker of scientific instruments. He spent some time in work at the Melbourne Observatory and came to this State in 1895, before the observatory was founded. 

When the observatory was founded in the next year Mr. Yeates joined the staff as mechanic and clerk under the Government Astronomer of the day, Mr. Cooke. The department was then housed in the building now occupied by the Agricultural Department. The staff was later transferred to the present main observatory building-the familiar domed building did not exist until some years later-before the building was completed. The staffs first work in its new quarters, Mr. Yeates relates, was carried on while the finishing touches were being applied to the building. Yesterday the Government Astronomer (Mr. H. B. Curlewis) paid a tribute to his assistant's reliability and precision in his duties. He had a record unique in the civil service, if popular opinion was to be believed, said Mr. Curlewis, of having never been late in his 40 years service" (West Australian, 5 November 1935).

Charles Yeates died on 22 November, 1961 aged 89. His ashes were scattered at Karrakatta Cemetery.

The photographs are from the State Library of Western Australia. No copyright infringement intended. 

The articles are from Trove the database at the National Library of Australia. No copyright infringement intended.





The groom C.S.S. Yeates is seated second from left beside his bride Kate (Catherine Janet) Yeates nee Hinckley. They were married at St Alban's Church, Highgate Hill at 4pm 6 January 1898. The wedding is described in an article published in the Western Mail 14/1/1898, p.44."

"BA3491/65: Left-right standing: Unknown, C.S.S. Yeates; sitting: Mary Kathleen 'Kath' Yeates, Catherine Janet 'Kate' Yeates, Horatio Thomas Yeates, ca.1906."

Daily News, 10 January 1928.

Subiaco Snaps (1906).

Subiaco Snaps (1906).

While there are many extraordinary stories about women and children (and men) from Subiaco, one of the most interesting topics is the ordinariness of the lives recorded in the early newspapers of Western Australia.

Recently one of those stories about Subiaco in 1906 from the State Library of Western Australia was shared on their Facebook page. The post is copied below. The post also contained some wonderful photographs from the Yeates family who lived at 441 Rokeby Road, Subiaco in the collection. 

The next blog post is about the Yeates family. 

The post and photographs are from the State Library of Western Australia's official Facebook page. No copyright infringement intended.    

"SUBIACO SNAPS

In 1906 the Yeates family lived at 441 Rokeby Road in Subiaco, near the intersection of Thomas Street.

The family home 'Breffni' was rather a delightful one as evident in these photographs from the Yeates family album. Comfortably furnished, it boasted a fine verandah, an extensive garden for entertaining, and even a lookout.  

So what was it like to live in Subiaco in 1906? The Express newspaper's column 'Subiaco Snaps' sharing little snippets of life in Subiaco, gives us a wonderful insight... 

"The work of asphalting Rokeby Road and Hay Street paths is to be proceeded with at once."

"The health officer has condemned the tank water at Subiaco State School. For some days there were complaints as to the quality of water used by the pupils. Examination revealed the presence of a dead cat and five dead pigeons."

"For garden seeds, try the paint shop, where Mrs. Williams has fall stock."

"Mr. T.C. Wadson has completed the renovation of the Subiaco Hotel, and Host Murphy has the house in A1 trim. Mr. Wadson is in his new shop and is ready to take on anything in the line of house decoration and repairs."

"On Wednesday a plain and fancy dress ball by the juveniles connected with St. Andrew's Church was held at the King's Hall. As those in authority preferred to furnish a detailed report to a city paper, we are unable to give particulars."

"Persons desirous of selling houses and land are requested to send particulars to the Subiaco Property Exchange, corner Rokeby, and Bagot Road immediately opposite the Post Office."

"On Tuesday, much interest was taken locally in a bolt. The fractious gee-gee careered around the principal streets for some time and collided with a sulky. The damage was only slight."

"Mrs. Silvester's seventh annual plain and fancy dress ball with take place in the King's Hall, Wednesday, October 17th. Sheridan's Band will supply the music. Supper will be provided, and one of the best dancing floors. A pleasant evening is anticipated."

"The Municipal garden seats have been stored to avoid wetting. Result - residents can sit on wet grass and contract all sorts of complaints. Is the Council catering for medical commissions?"

"Gulley Bros. tender, £1,480, has been accepted for the erection of the first section of the Anglican Church, Barker Road."

"Yesterday morning a heavily laden lorry of wood got stuck in the sand on Barker Road and the work of digging it out amused a large group of unemployed."

"On Friday evening a Miss Crane was seized with a hysterical attack in the Church of Christ and was moved to her home in the Fire Brigade ambulance."

"Messrs, Keener, and Co, fishmongers, Rokeby Road had a view on "Ally Sloper," (a British comic character) in the shape of a schnapper head presenting most peculiar features. The representation provided quite a draw."

"Mr. H. Gould is finally leaving the corner he has been for some years, and today intends to clear out his stock or drapery at prices never before seen in Subiaco."

"Plans have been completed for the West Subiaco Station, and the Minister is to inspect the locality and fix the site within the next couple of weeks."

"Much progress has been made with the new fire station, which is now ready to house the horse reel. The work of installing the alarms is well in hand. A fine switchboard of polished cedar has already been placed in position."

"The continued whizz of a saw on Barker Road frequently catches the ear of passers-by. It comes from McDonald's wood yard, where stacks of dry wood are ready for the house stove."

Gallery - 'Breffni' at 441 Rokeby Road in Subiaco

Yeates collection of photographs 

Yeates, C.S.S. (Charles Samuel Sparks), 1872-1961,

Photograph | 1898-1899.

Available at 3rd Floor Pictorial (Call number: 27951P-27972P (Vol. 214))

ABC Perth PerthNow - Western Suburbs PerthNow Subiaco Library Subiaco Library and Museum City of Subiaco Mayor David McMullen, City of Subiaco Museum of Perth Heritage Perth History Council of Western Australia..." (State Library of Western Australia, 18 June 2022).

BA3491/21: View from Rokeby Road east over Thomas Street and the entrance to Kings Park at Saw Avenue, Subiaco, ca.1905.

"Probably taken from the lookout at Breffni, home of astronomer and photographer C.S.S. Yeates at 441 Rokeby Road, Subiaco which is pictured at BA3491/79. Yeates' home was on the corner of Rokeby Rd and Keightley Road which the right place to be the location this photograph was taken from. The old lodge at the entrance can be clearly seen. There is a tram at the Subiaco Tram Terminus. A closer view of the tram terminus with the lodge and entrance to Kings Park behind it is published in the Western Mail 12/5/1906, p.27 with details looking very similar to this image dating it to about the same time."

BA3491/77: Breffni home of C.S.S. Yeates, 441 Rokeby Road, Subiaco, 1899.

Home Made Remedies From Subiaco Women... (1910-1920).

Home Made Remedies From Subiaco Women... (1910-1920). 

This blog post contains recipes for home made remedies for common health problems of the time including whooping cough, insomnia, sunburn and the common cough from the women of Subiaco.     

This blog post is a continuation of previous posts about recipes and household hints supplied to the Sunday Times newspaper recipe and household hints contest in the early years of the Western Australian colony. 

From the previous blog post..."During the early years of the colony the Sunday Times newspaper ran a recipe and household hints contest. The letters competed for prizes and the winning entries and honourable mentions were published in the newspaper. 

The rules of the contest state the recipe could be taken from any cookery book or newspaper or better still be the invention of the sender. Many women sent in original recipes and household hints. Any woman could enter as many recipes and household hints as they please. Both single and married women and even children competed for a variety of prizes over the years. 

Like many women from around the State, the women of Subiaco shared their favourite recipes. These recipes provide a wonderful insight into the variety of food available and consumed by individuals and families from a variety of sources, their resourcefulness when food like meat was not at its best, some advice on how to provide nourishment to an invalid and make home made remedies for the sick..." 

In 1912 the following poem about first aid was submitted by Mrs. M. Tait from Armadale to help women to remember their first aid in an emergency...

An Emergency Rhyme...

"If poisoned, take mustard or salt, tablespoon

In cup of warm water, and swallow right soon

For burns, put day soda, and wet bandage too;

If blistered the oil and dry flannel will do.

In children's convulsions, warm baths are the rule

(With castor oil dose, too), but keep the head cool. 

Give syrup of ipeca when croup is in store. 

For fainting, stretch patient right on the floor.

To soak in hot water is best for sprain;

Remember these rules, and 'twill save you much pain."

-Mrs. M. Tait, Armadale, S. W. R. (Sunday Times, 4 August 1912).

The traditional spelling and grammar found in the published recipe and household hints has been maintained. 

The articles and photographs are from Trove the databased of the National Library of Australia. No copyright infringement intended. 

Sunday Times, 6 August 1911.

Ladies Pages. 

Household Hints. 

HONORABLE MENTION.

Cough Mixture. - 3 oz. linseed, 6 oz. sugar, one large lemon cut in slices, one stick of liquorice (small one). Boil together in a quart of water until reduced to a pint and a half, strain when cool, add three pennyworth each of aniseed and paregoric, shake well and use as required. Dose for adult, tablespoonful; children according to age. - Mrs. Walker, 226 Rokeby-road, Subiaco. 

 

Sunday Times December, 1914.

Ladies Pages. 

Household Hints.

Honourable Mentions.

Whooping Cough. - Sunflower seeds, browned as you would coffee beans, and made as you do coffee sweeten the decoction and let the child drink it freely at night. - Mrs. C. Slaney, Subiaco.

Sunday Times, 30 January 1917.

Ladies Pages. 

The Prize Hints.

Honorable Mention.

For the Throat.- A teaspoonful of glycerine added to the well-beaten white of an egg, the juice of a lemon, and enough sugar to make it palatable, will relieve hoarseness. - Miss Dawkins, 212 Park-street, Subiaco.

Sunday Times, 11 February 1912.

Ladies Pages. 

Household Hints. 

Honorable Mention.

For Insomnia. - Make a large pillow case of muslin lined with a thin sheet of cotton wool, and fill it with new dry hops, renewing them every week. The scent of the hope is very soothing to the nerves and induces sleep. - Miss W. Archer, c/- 252 Barker-road, Subiaco.

Sunday Times, 23 July 1911.

Ladies Pages.

Household Hints.

THIRD PRIZE.

Third prize awarded to Mrs. M. Harding, 220 Barker-road, Subiaco, for hint on

USES OF SALT.

Salt may be made useful in many directions besides table use. First, as a tooth powder, it will keep gums had and the teeth beautifully white; also if you have a tooth extracted and the bleeding does not stop, rinsing the mouth with salt and water will prove a quick remedy. Mixed with hot water salt makes a good gargle for a sore throat, and if a little is put with lemon stains on fingers from ink, peeling potatoes, et will be easily removed. When teacups are discolored rub a little salt on stains before washing them, and the blemish quickly disappears. 

Sunday Times, 13 August 1911.

Ladies Pages.

Household Hints.

Honorable Mention. 

How to Remove Freckles and Sunburn Caused by Sea Air. - Mix a teaspoonful of borax with a tablespoonful of glycerine, and add three tablespoonful of rosewater; shake, and it is ready for use. Wash hands or face well, and carefully dry them and rub lotion in. Use this at night so as to cause no inconvenience. - Miss R. Ferrow, 192 Bagot-road, Subiaco. 

Subiaco Original Recipes (1910 -1920).

Subiaco Original Recipes (1910 -1920).

This blog post is a continuation of previous posts about recipes supplied to the Sunday Times newspaper recipe contest in the early years of the Western Australian colony. 

During the early years of the colony The Sunday Times newspaper ran a recipe contest. The letters competed for prizes and the winning entries and honourable mentions were published in the newspaper. 

The rules of the contest state the recipe could be taken from any cookery book or newspaper or better still be the invention of the sender. Many women sent in original recipes. Any woman could enter as many recipes as they please. Both single and married women and even children competed for a variety of prizes over the years. 

Like many women from around the State, the women of Subiaco shared their favourite recipes. These recipes provide a wonderful insight into the variety of food available and consumed by individuals and families from a variety of sources, their resourcefulness when food like meat was not at its best, some advice on how to provide nourishment to an invalid, make home made remedies for the sick and make a good old fashion English Christmas pudding that could last over a year.

The recipes provide an interesting insight into cooking, the methods used and some of the equipment available for example like stewing-jars and sausage mincers. Some homes had a wood fires and others were equipped with an oven. Measurements were not exact and women were required to make judgements based on their previous cooking experience. 

The recipes below are some of the original recipes published from the women of Subiaco.  The articles are from Trove, the database of the National Library of Australia. No copyright intended.

Sunday Times, 13 August 1911.

The Prizes Recipes.

HONORABLE MENTION.

Lemon and Melon Jam (original). - Procure a nice green citron melon, cut it into slices, remove the rind and seeds, then cut up into dice and place in an enamelled pan. Then take some oranges and lemons and pare very finely so as not to get any of the white, as this makes it bitter. Cut up the rind finely, and put with the melon, sprinkle sugar over, and let stand all night. In the morning place on the fire, add the juice of the lemons and the oranges cat up after the pith has been re-moved. Boil two hours. Then add the remaining sugar, and boil quickly from three to four hours, removing the scam as it rises. Bottle while hot, and when cold cork and seal. A good proportion is 12 lb. melon, 9 lb. sugar, 1/2 doz. each of oranges and lemons. Mrs. R. Byrn., 188 Perth-street, Subiaco.

Sunday Times, 23 June 1912.

The Prize Recipes.

FIRST.

First prize is awarded to Mrs. H. Smith, Hensman-road, Subiaco for recipe for 

NAPOLEON CAKE (Original). 

Make a sponge with one cup of self-raising flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 2 eggs, 2 tablespoonfuls of cold water; beat eggs with sugar well: add water, and lastly the flour. Bake in a long tin for 10 minutes. When cold spread both sides with jam and mock cream, cover with layer of puff pastry, sprinkle with icing sugar and cut into squares. The below recipe is for mock cream:- 1 tablespoonful of butter beaten to a cream, flavored with essence of vanilla, and enough icing sugar to make it the consistency of cream. 

Sunday Times, 21 September 1913.

The Prize Recipes.

Fourth Prize. 

Fourth prize is awarded to G. M. Hadlow, Jolimont-terrace, Subiaco for recipe for

THICK GINGERBREAD (Original).

Mix 3/4 lb. flour, 3/4 oz. ground ginger, 1/2 oz. carbonate of soda, 2 oz. of shreeded candied peel together; put 2 oz. of butter and 2 oz. of dripping into a saucepan to melt; add 4 oz. of brown sugar and 1/2 lb. of golden syrup, and allow sugar to dissolve over heat. Make a hole in the middle of the flour, and pour in sugar, butter and syrup. When it is partly mixed and slightly cooled add two eggs and a little milk. The mixture should be just moist enough to run off the spoon. Bake in a deep tin for two hours. Cut into squares. This gingerbread will keep for weeks in a covered tin. 

Sunday Times, 4 January 1914.

The Prize Recipes.

A Subiaco Summer Dish (original).

Ingredients: One pint milk, 4 eggs, 2 oz. passion fruit, 1 oz. gelatine, sugar to taste. Mode: Soak the gelatine in a little water. Make a custard of the milk and yolks of eggs. Be careful it does not boil after the eggs are stirred into it or it will curdle, then add gelatine, and when cool mix in passion fruit pulp. Well sweeten the whites of the eggs, and beat to a stiff froth. Put in a mould. Serve cold. Mrs. E. A. Clarke, 63 Rupert-Street, Subiaco. 





Sunday Times, 9 August 1914.

The Prize Recipes.

HONORABLE MENTION.

Jugged Rabbit (Original). - Ingredients: One rabbit, 1 1/2 pints stock, two onions, little bacon, clovers, peppercorns, port wine, one lemon, 2 oz. butter, 2 oz. flour, salt and pepper, black currant jelly. Mode: Wipe the rabbit well, cut into pieces, flour them, melt the butter, and fry the rabbit in the for about ten minutes, pour in the stock, add onions whole, add the mace, peppercorns and cloves tied up in a piece of muslin: add the bacon cut small, put in the rind of the lemon, and half a cup of port wine, salt, and pepper: cover lightly, and simmer for three hours: add a little thickening if necessary. Serve with fried snippets of bread, placing a small piece of jelly on each. This dish is greatly improved if served with forcemeat balls. Miss F. Starks, 242 York-street, Subiaco.  

The Sunday Times, 15 July 1917.

Recipes.

Honorable Mention.

Melon Chutney (original). - Ingredients: 6 lb of piemelon, 3 or 4 lb. of apples, 3 lb. onions, 2 lb. of sugar, l oz. garlic, 1/2 oz. chillies, 2 tablespoons salt, 1 lb. stoned raisins, 1 tablespoon ground ginger or small spoon of cayenne. Slice everything fine; cover with vinegar, cover and stand all night. Boll quickly for about three hours.- Mrs. A. E. Crisp. 34 Nicholson-road. Subiaco.

Sunday Times, 11 February 1917.

The Prize Recipes. 

Fourth Prize.

Fourth prize is awarded to Miss Alma Winning, 414 Hay-street, Subiaco, for recipe for

SELF-RAISING FLOUR (Original).

Take 25 lb. flour and add 10 oz. cream of- tartar, 4 oz. carbonate of soda, 4 oz. salt, and 4 oz. icing sugar. Mix the above thoroughly together.

The Sunday Times, 18 March 1917.

The Prize Recipes. 

First Prize.

First prize is awarded to Mrs. Gordon, 12 Rankin-road, West Subiaco, for

SALMON MOULD (Original).

One pound of tin salmon, 1/2. oz. gelatine soaked in half a breakfastcup of warm water; when dissolved add half a breakfastcup of vinegar, pepper and salt to taste. Mix all well together, turn into a mould, put in a cool place to set. Serve with lettuce and tomato salad: Delicious also used as a tilling for picnic sandwiches.

Sunday Times, 22 April 1917.

The Prize Recipes. 

Third Prize.

Third prize is awarded to Alma Winning, 414 Hay-street, Subiaco, for 

GREEN TOMATO JAM (Original).

Fifteen pounds of tomatoes, one 1 oz. sugar, five or six lemons (according to size), 1/4 lb. of ginger or one tablespoonful of ground ginger, one dessertspoonful of vanilla essence. Cut the tomatoes in halves and quarters, and put half the sugar out and then let stand for 24 hours. Slice the peel of tomatoes very finely, cover with water, and also let stand for 24 hours. Boil until very soft, keeping partly covered while boiling, then add the pulp of lemon, and boil for a few minutes longer. Boil tomatoes until they begin to thicken and set, and do not stir more than necessary. Then add the other half of sugar, ginger, and lemon , pulp, and boil 25 or 30 minutes more from time sugar and pulp is added. It should then be cooked enough. After taking jam from the fire add vanilla. When it forms skin in saucer it is cooked. Allow about two and a half hours for this quantity.





Sunday Times, 21 March 1920.

The Prize Recipes. 

First Prize.

First prize is awarded to Miss Earle, 265 Hamersley-road, Subiaco, for recipe for

FRUIT SAUCE (original).

Take 6 lb. figs, 6 lb. tomatoes, 1 lb. each apples, plums, grapes, pears, peaches, 2 lemons, 2 lb. brown sugar, 1/2 Ib. salt, 2 oz. stick cinnamon, 2 all-spice, 2 oz. cloves, and a few blades of mace, 1 tablespoonful cayenne pepper and ground ginger, and 2 large bottles of vinegar. Cut up all the fruit and boil two hours; put in skins and cores; strain through fine sieve and press well through with a knife, so as to leave toothing but seeds and skins; add vinegar to pulp and spices tied in muslin. Stir in sugar, salt pepper and ginger. Boil gently two or three hours, stirring constantly until nice and thick. Bottle and cut off corks level, and then dip the neck of bottle in hot sealing wax.

Nellie Harrison, Sunshine League Member From Subiaco (Aged 6 1908).

Nellie Harrison, Sunshine League Member From Subiaco (Aged 6 1908).

Under construction...

One of the really interesting things I love researching and writing for my blog greetingsfromSubiaco.blogspot.com is about the children of Subiaco and their daily lives and contribution to the community in the early 1900's. 

Recently while researching Trove, the database at the National Library of Australia I came across the name Nellie Harrison, who lived at 256 Perth street, Subiaco around the early 1900's. Nellie submitted recipes to the Sunday Times Recipe and Household Hints competition and won prizes and received honourable mentions. Her recipes were published in the paper. So I wanted to see if I could find out more about Nellie and her family. During this time Nellie and her family had a friend Olive Dunn stay with them. Olive Dunn also became a member of the Sunshine League and entered the Sunday Times Recipe and Household Hints competition, received honourable mentions and had her suggestions published. 

Throughout Nellie's time as a member of the Sunshine League she made visits to various causes supported by Sunshine League, performed in concerts at the Home of Peace in Hamersley road, Subiaco helping to raise money for the various causes of the Sunshine League including the Perth Children's Hospital. She saved and donated her pocket money, volunteered for the Sewing Circle making pillow cases and sheets for the Perth Children's Hospital, entered the competitions and won prizes and had her creative work published in the Daily News newspaper.

Nellie Harrison from 256 Perth street, Subiaco name first appears in the local newspapers on 19 October, 1907 in letter from the Matron at the Home of Peace in Hamersley Road, Subiaco after the children from the Sunshine League made a visit to the Home of Peace in Hamersley Road, Subiaco.  

The Matron writes "Dear Dear Sir, - I am sorry I could not write about the children last week, and I hope they will not think we do not appreciate their visits and flowers. Our wards would look very bare indeed were it not for the beautiful flowers they bring. I am enclosing a list of names, so that you will know your nieces and nephews who visit the Home. Children of the Sunshine Patches: - Miss Rita Wilde, Master Jack Robinson and Miss Edie Robinson, Miss Mavis Waterhouse and Master Jack Waterhouse, Miss Edith and Thede Beck, Miss Nellie Harrison arid Master L. Harrison... All the above have brought flowers to the Home for two weeks now. May I offer a suggestion to the children through your paper. We are in need of old linen; calico, and flannelette or flannel. It does not matter how old, we have use for the smallest piece. - Yours truly, KATE M. ANDERSON, Matron (Daily News, 19 October, 1907).

In January, 1908 Nellie wrote to Uncle Tom, the editor and co-ordinator of the Sunshine League at the Daily News newspaper and asked to be put on the Sunshine League roll. She was member 120 and 6 years old in 1908. "256 Perth-street, Subiaco. Dear Uncle Tom. - Will you put my name of your roll. I was six year old on September 25. I went to school last year, and I am to get a medal. Good-bye. Uncle Tom. - Your little niece, NELLIE HARRISON, aged 6." (Daily News, 25 January 1908). She told Uncle Tom she was born on 25 September, was attending school and had recently received a medal. Her brother Willie was also a member of the Sunshine League and he entered competitions and wrote letters. 

In July 1908 Nellie wrote to Uncle Tom about her sick brother Louie..."Uncle Tom. 256 Perth-street, Subiaco. Dear Uncle Tom, The doctor says Louie must go under an operation before long, and mother thinks it may be put off until the Children's Hospital is open. Good-bye Uncle. - Your loving niece, NELLIE HARRISON, aged 6. Dear Nellie, - I am sorry Louie is not well, and that an operation is necessary. If I were your mother I would not put it off if the doctor's, say it is urgent. Will you gave him my kind regards and accept same yourself ? - Uncle Tom." (Daily News 18 July 1908). 

During 1908 Nellie volunteered for the Sunshine League Sewing Circle. The Sewing Circle was established for members to make sheets, pillow cases, dusters and towels for the new Perth Children's Hospital. The Sewing Scheme was explained in the Daily News on the 18 July 1908..."In regard to the sewing scheme, I have made arrangements with the drapery houses to supply the material for the sheets and pillow-slips required for our two wards at the Children's Hospital at a cheaper rate than usual. On presentation, of an order. which I will supply, my nieces will be able to procure the materials. (Daily News, 18 July 1908). The children who contributed to the scheme had their names and what they made published in the newspaper. Many children from Perth and Subiaco made goods for the new Perth Children's Hospital. Nellie made some pillowcases (Daily News, 15 August 1908).

In November 1908 Nellie won a prize for her letter she wrote to Uncle Tom. In the letter she wrote she tells us her father was working at the Girl's Orphanage on Adelaide Terrace and provides a second had description about the children who were living there... "My dada is working at the Girls' Orphanage, on Adelaide terrace, and he says all the children look so nice and happy, and well-cared for there; and when I am older I am, going to visit them" (Daily News, 14 November 1908.) She donated a present and volunteered at the Orphan's Christmas Festivities at the St Joseph's Orphanage in Subiaco. Nellie was 7 years old. 

December 1908 Nellie wrote to Uncle Tom to thank him for the book she had received and told his she was learning to read, to donate her pocket money and wish everyone a merry Christmas... "Uncle Tom. 256 Perth-street, Subiaco. Dear Uncle Tom, - I thank you for the nice book you sent me. I can read it too. I have saved 12½d. of my own money, and mama is going to buy something for the orphans' Christmas Tree, and will send it to you early this week. I had a card to collect for the Children's Hospital, and I got it full, so I am going to get a medal. I hope you will get plenty of presents for the children all to get something, and I wish them all a Merry Xmas. Good-bye, dear Uncle. - Your loving little niece, NELLIE HARRISON, aged 7. Dear Nellie, - I was very pleased to get your nice letter, especially as you are. thinking of the little orphans who haven't a nice kind mother like you have to buy them nice presents at Christmas time. Will you ask your mother to take you to the Girls' Orphanage, Adelaide-terrace, Perth, on December 28, to see Father Christmas give out the presents. (Daily News, 19 December, 1908).

In 1909 Nellie and her brother Willie continued to write to Uncle Tom and raise money for the Perth Children's Hospital including selling tickets to events and sending stamps despite their family news in that her brothers were sick, and a bit of the interesting history about Subiaco and Perth she had learned from a neighbour. She also wrote an essay about spiders..."256 Perth-street, Subiaco. Dear Uncle Tom, - I am sending you a little essay on spiders, so I will write only a short letter. I am in the big school now in the second standard. Good-bye, dear Uncle. - Your living little niece, NELLIE HARRISON. Aged 7 years and 4 months. P.S. - I send 6d. for the Children's Hospital, Sunshine Ward Fund. xxxx Dear Nellie. - You have  written a nice essay. I can see that you have paid attention to your teacher at nature study lesson. I thank you for your contribution to the Children's Hospital Fund, and send you three xxx - Uncle Tom (Daily News, 6 February 1909).... "256 Perth-street, Subiaco. Dear Uncle Tom, - I thank you for my prize which I received a little while ago.  I have read it and Will has too. And dada is away in Albany. On Friday after school I went to Congdon-street to stay till Monday morning with Mrs. Richardson. Mama told me that Mr. Richardson built your 'Dally News' office and the Home of Peace, too. On Sunday while I was away our dear little baby Charlie was sick; and mama toad to send for the doctor. It was convulsions, but he got up to-day. I am glad he is better. On Monday when Willie was at carpentry he fainted, and he is sick now. Will asks me to say he would try and sell a few tickets for 'The Carnival of Flowers' on May 1. He will write when he gets up. I am sending three stamps for the Children's Hospital. I am tired now, dear Uncle Tom. - Your loving little niece, NELLIE HARRISON, aged 7 1/2..." (Daily News, April 10 1909).

By 1909 the Harrison family had Olive Dunn with them. Olive Dunn, a 11 year old girl asked to join the Sunshine League. Olive and Nellie went visiting a sick child at the new Perth Children's Hospital and Olive shared her thoughts with Uncle Tom... "256 Perth-street, Subiaco. Dear Uncle Tom, - I would like to become on of your nieces. I live in Stratham's Siding, but I am staying with Nellie for a few months. I go to Subiaco school I am in the third standard. I was 11 on March 16. I am sending 3d for the Orphans' Xmas Cheer. We were asked at school to bring a fresh egg on Friday for the Children's Hospital. I went to the hospital with Nellie to see a little sick girl. I think it is a very nice place for the little sick ones. I think that is all. Good-bye dear Uncle Tom. - I remain, loving niece. OLIVE DUNN, aged 11...Dear Olive, - I accept you as a niece, and I am pleased to have been given the opportunity of accepting you as you appear to be a kindly-disposed little girl. I agree with you that the Children's Hospital is a nice place for sick children, and I am glad that you have paid a Sunshine visit.- Uncle Tom." (Daily News, 18 December 1909).

By March 1910 Uncle Tom has left the Daily News newspaper and was replaced with Auntie Nell. Nellie wrote to Auntie Nell the new editor and co-ordinator in August 1910 and provided a wonderful description of her little brother Charlie who is now three..."256 Perth-street, Subiaco. Dear Auntie Nell, - I have not written to you for a long time, but I have not forgotten you. I was one of Uncle Tom's nieces, and I have four prizes which I got from him. They are very nice books, the names of them are 'Road Rail,' 'Sea Dorothy,' 'In Dormsdorp,' and 'Sunshine ' and the 'Fairy Queen.' Our baby will be three years old, next Saturday. He as such a funny little fellow; his name is, Charlie George, but he calls himself Charlie Mick Harrison.  I will now say good-bye, dear Auntie. - Your loving little niece, NELLIE F. HARRISON,' aged 8." 

During 1910 Nellie started entering the Sunday Times Recipe competition and wins second prize for Lemon Jam (Sunday Times, 10 August, 1910). In February 1911 Nellie won a prize for the recipe Plum Jelly (Sunday Times, 5 February 1911). Olive Dunn also began to the competition and won an honourable mention and had her letter published with a household hint. 

In 1910 Uncle Tom states the essay topic would be 'How I Spent My Holidays'. Nellie's brother Willie and house guest Olive Dunn entered the competition providing a wonderful insight into the families and how they spent the summer in the early years of the colony. Their entries won a prize and were published... "PRIZE ESSAY (The Prize is a Book for Boys.) 256 Perth-street, Subiaco. Dear Uncle Tom, - I am writing you an essay on my holidays. During the first week Louis and I went to Crawley fishing, and on Christmas Eve we went to the Queen's Hall with two boy friends to see the pictures, and thought they were good. On Christmas Day we did not go out as Louis had a bad toothache, and on Boxing Day we did not go out either, but my father took Louis to get his tooth out. On Monday we made an early start to Nedland's Park. We had a good day, but when we got home we were tired. On Wednesday we went to the orphans' Christmas picnic, and although I had a headache, I was pleased to see the orphans enjoy themselves. On New Year's Eve we all stayed up to see the New Year in. Several times this week I went to Crawley. I went on Saturday, and caught eighteen whiting and a flathead. Louis and Nellie went to Statham's on Saturday for a week. When they come home I am going up to stay for some months. I hope you have had an enjoyable Christmas arid will have a bright New Year. - I remain, your loving nephew, W. HARRISON, aged 11 (Daily News, 15 January, 1910).

PRIZE LETTER. (The Prize is a Book for Girls.) 256 Perth-street, Subiaco. Dear Uncle Tom, I am going to write you an essay about my 'holidays' The first, week of our holidays Nellie and I helped Mrs. Harrison with her work, and on Christmas Eve my mother and father and my little, sister and two brothers came down to Subiaco for a week, and we all went into Perth, and when little Charlie Harrison saw the pretty lights, he said ;'Ah,' and after having a good look around town, we arrived home about half-past 10. On Christmas Day we stayed home and rested, and on Sunday we went to the Fallen Soldiers Memorial in the afternoon, and then I went to Fremantle to see a friend, and stayed there all night, and on Monday morning our friend came up to Subiaco and we all went to Nedlands Park and had a real good day: We returned home about 9 o'clock. On Tuesday we stayed home, and on Wednesday morning we started off about 10 o'clock for the Zoo to see all: the little orphans, and I am sure they all had a good, enjoyable day. We looked at the tables, and thought how lovely and bright they looked. I think the Sunshine League is a grand thing, and I am sure the little orphans do, too. We got home about half-past 8, tired out. On Thursday we stayed home, and on Friday we went to Crawley, and we caught 38 crabs, and we children got very much sunburnt, and our backs were very sore. We stayed up to see the old year out and, the new year in. On New Year's Day we did not go out at all, but on Sunday, the 2nd, we went to Sunday-school, and in the evening to church, and on Monday my parents, went home, and we have had a quiet week since. On Saturday about 20 girls my Sunday-school class went down to Nedlands on our invitation, and we enjoyed ourselves well. Now, dear uncle, I have told - you all about my holidays. I had a very enjoyable time, and I hope you and your nieces and nephews and all the little orphans have, too Good-bye, dear Uncle Tom, - I remain, your loving little niece, OLIVE DUNN, aged 11 (Daily News, 15 January 1910).

During 1912 Nellie wrote to Auntie Nell and entered the competition. She wrote about the prizes she has won with Uncle Tom, and informs Auntie Nell she has three brothers, two older and one younger and her grade at school. Nellie is now ten years and in the higher fifth grade at school... "254 Perth-street, Subiaco. Dear Auntie Nell, - It is a long time since I have written to you but I always read the Children's Page. I use to write to "Uncle Tom" and I got three prizes from him. One was for an essay "The Spider" and the others were for two letters. I have colored the Scout, and I am enclosing it. I have three brothers, two older than myself and one younger, and I am ten years old, and will be eleven next September. I am in the higher fifth at school. I will close, as it is bedtime. Hoping you are well, - I remain your loving niece. NELLIE HARRISON. Dear Nellie. - I do not remember you writing me before. It was possibly in "Uncle Tom" that you wrote, and I have been so busy that I have not been able to look your letter up. Now that you tell me about the essay on the Spider, I shall find it and read it. Can't you get your brothers to join the League? - Do you think you and your brothers could help in a pretty opera if we decide to give it in aid of the Children's Hospital ? With love, dear - From yours lovingly, Auntie Nell (Daily News, 12 July 1912).

In August 1912 Nellie wrote to Auntie Nell and enters the competition. She informs us she is learning first aid. "My Dear Auntie Nell. - Just a few lines hoping to find you well. I was wishing last week I was old enough to try for the first aid prize. We have a St. John's Ambulance book and I often read it. In last Saturday's paper I saw a puzzle. There was the young son his father, and his grandfather, and three of them spent fourpence each so three fourpences are a a shilling. I will now close my letter hoping it will prove successful. - I remain your loving niece. NELLIE HARRISON, age 10 3/4. Dear Nellie. - I am pleased to know that I have a little niece who employs her time so profitably as to read up on the subject of "First Aid." Perhaps you will make a good little nurse some-day. You have solved this week's puzzle correctly, dear. I hope you are one of the prize-winners. Look for the list of names. - Lovingly your Auntie Nell (Daily News 12 August 1912). 

From Trove, the database of the National Library of Australia. No copyright infringement intended. 

Daily News, 19 October 1907.

Home of Peace, Townshend-road Subiaco.

To Uncle Tom, "The Daily News" office. -

Dear Dear Sir,— I am sorry I could not write about the children last week, and I hope they will not think we do not appreciate their visits and flowers. Our wards would, look very bare indeed were it not for the beautiful flowers they bring. I am enclosing a list of names, so that you will know your nieces and nephews who visit the Home. Children of the Sunshine Patches:- Miss Rita Wilde, Master Jack Robinson and Miss Edie Robinson, Miss Mavis Waterhouse and Master Jack Waterhouse, Miss Edith and Thede Beck, Miss Nellie Harrison arid Master L. Harrison, Miss Pearly Forbes, Miss Muriel Francis, Misses Stella and Gladys Davies, Miss Grace Youngberg, Miss Lorna Chandler, Miss Clarice Stone, Misses Eileen Crowley, and Winifred Crowley, Miss Merton Peachey, Miss Vera Gill, Miss Kathleen Dempsey, Miss Sissie Dowling. All the above have brought flowers to the Home for two weeks now. May I offer a suggestion to the children through, your paper. We are in need of old linen; calico, and flannelette or flannel. It does not matter how old, we have use for the smallest piece. — Yours truly, KATE M. ANDERSON, Matron.  

Daily News, 18 July 1908.

HOW IT IS TO BE CARRIED OUT.

In regard to the sewing scheme, I have made arrangements with the drapery houses to supply the material for the sheets and pillow-slips required for our two wards at the Children's Hospital at a cheaper rate than usual. On presentation, of an order. which I will supply, my nieces will be able to procure the materials. It would not be fair to ask these houses to be continually showing and explaining' the samples, and I have decided therefore to have the samples at 'The Daily News' offices, Perth and Fremantle, where they may be examined between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily. When examining the samples you will' obtain, the orders for the material. The finished articles need not be made in a hurry, far there is plenty of time. 

In addition to the sheets and pillowslips, we shall require some special towels, and some dusters, and I will give this work to some of those who have volunteered. One of my nieces suggested having a red rosette worked into the material. The idea is; a good one, but the consensus of opinion among those capable of judging is that the names of nieces worked in small plain round lettering below the hems, with good red ingrained cotton (the drapers will tell you the proper kind), wild be most suitable. I want you all, therefore, to work your names into the pillowslips and sheets just below the hems in the following style. The above letters will be far easier ordinary signatures were worked to work, and more serviceable than if ordinary signatures were worked over. 

Daily News, 14 November 1908.

PRIZE LETTER.

(The Prize is a Picture and Story Book.) 256 Perth-street, Subiaco.

Dear Uncle Tom, — I thank you for the nice card you sent me for my birthday. My dada is working at the Girls' Orphanage, on Adelaide terrace, and he says all the children look so nice and happy, and well-cared for there; and when I am older I am, going to visit them. Enclosed sixpence for their Xmas Cheer Fund. - Your loving little, niece, NELLIE HARRISON, aged 7. Dear Nellie, - I thank you for your subscription for the Orphans' Christmas Cheer. I would be, very, pleased if you would save your pennies and buy a present for one of the orphans. If you send something to me I will write the name of one of the children on the present, and will put it on the Christmas tree. Uncle Tom.

Daily News, 10 April 1909. 

256 Perth-street, Subiaco. Dear Uncle Tom, — I thank you for my prize which I received a little while ago.  I have read it ? and Will has too. And dada is away in Albany. On Friday after school I went to Congdon-street to stay till Monday morning with Mrs. Richardson. Mama told me that Mr. Richardson built your 'Dally News' office and the Home of Peace, too. On- Sunday while I was away our dear little baby Charlie was sick; and mama toad to send for the doctor. It was convulsions, but he got up to-day. I am glad he is better. On Monday when Willie was at carpentry he fainted, and he is sick now. Will asks me to say he would try and sell a few tickets for 'The Carnival of Flowers' on May 1. He will write when he gets up. I am sending three stamps for the Children's Hospital. I am tired now, dear Uncle Tom. - Your loving little niece, NELLIE HARRISON, aged 7 1/2. Dear Nellie, - I have sent Willie a few tickets to sell for the 'Carnival of Flowers, I shall be pleased to see you all present. You have sent me  lot of bad news this week. I hope you next letter will be full of good news - Uncle Tom. (Daily News 1O April, 1909)

Sunday Times, 7 August 1910

Recipes.

SECOND.

Second prize is awarded to Miss Nellie Harrison, 256 Perth-street, Subiaco for recipe for

LEMON JAM.

Ingredients: Six large lemons, six pounds of sugar, six pints water. Method: Cut lemons in half length-wise, then in the thin slices, removing pips, and soak in the six pints of water for 24 hours; boil half an hour before adding sugar. Then boil one hour, or until it jellies nicely. 

Sunday Times, 5 February 1911.

The Prize Recipes.

THIRD.

Third prize is awarded to Miss Nellie Harrison, 256 Perth-street, Subiaco, for recipe for

PLUM JELLY.

Mode: Put plums into preserving pan and barely cover with water; boil until the plums will mash readily; then strain through a fine strainer and return juice to pan and boil for twenty minutes; then add to each cup of the juice one cup of sugar, and boil until it jellies, which will be about twenty minutes.

Sunday Times, 18 May 1913.

Honorable Mention

To Stop a Tank from Leaking. Make a paste of common soap and whiting, and put it on the hole, and it will instantly, stop the leak, and will last for months. -Olive Dunne, 256 Perth-street. Subiaco. 

Adelaide Ilfra "Queenie" Chugg...(1898 - 1981).

Adelaide Ilfra "Queenie" Chugg...(1898 - 1981).

"Miss Queenie Chugg expresses' her opinion and considers it is essential for women to be able to state their views in a capable manner at all times, and to help West Australians in the country the Penguin Club hopes to establish groups for this purpose, and indeed most states have already formed country branches. What an opportunity for the shy but intelligent woman to join this movement and learn to speak as a delegate, and take the chair when it is necessary without feeling nervous1 (Reliance Weekly, 19 November 1953).

This blog post is a continuation of the previous blog posts "Alexandra McKinnon Burns... Subiaco Business Woman (1938)", the "Lipfert Sisters" and "Ethel Maude Thomas" about the women mentioned in the Museum of Subiaco exhibition on International Women's Day. This post is about Adelaide Ilfra Chugg, a Subiaco business woman. 

The following information about is from the previous blog post..."During March International Women's Day was held. The Subiaco Museum created an exhibition to highlight the contribution of women to the Subiaco community. 

The women included Alexandra McKinnon Burns (1864 -1961), Dame Annie Florence Gillies Cardell-Oliver (1876 - 1965), Adelaide 'Queenie' Chugg (1898 - 1981), The Lipfert Sisters (Minna Maria Lipfert (1902 – 1959), Olga Gertrude Lipfert (1906 - 1989) and Thekla Elsa Lipfert (1912 - 1989) and Ethel Maude Thomas M.B.E (1881 - 1961). The exhibition contained a number of wonderful photographs and artefacts and are available on the webpage from the Subiaco Museum.

While there is a substantial amount of information information about the exceptional work and life of Dame Cardell-Oliver available on various sites on the Internet, Trove, the database of the National Library of Australia contains some wonderful information and photographs about the women mentioned by the Subiaco Museum in their exhibition..."

Simon and Louisa Matilda (nee Atkins) had two children Adelaide Ilfra (1898) and Rita Winifred. 

From the Subiaco Museum webpage...

"...Adelaide Ilya Chugg was born in Subiaco to Simon and Louisa Chugg. The Chuggs lived at 168 Townsend Road, Subiaco and established a business S Chugg & Co. Importers in Railway Road Subiaco, 1897. Adelaide received her teachers diploma from the Trinity College of London in 1937.

In 1979 Miss Chugg donated an outdoor chess table for use in Council Gardens in memory of her father.  Miss Chugg and Miss Daglish were invited to open Subiaco Historical Society's Museum in November 1975 by turning a golden key in the door.  They were the first people to enter and sign the visitor's book.  

Known affectionately as ‘Queenie’, Miss Chugg was the founding Vice-President and later Patron of the Subiaco Historical Society. She gave generously during her life to the museum and her bequest at her death in 1981 to the Museum made the interior refurbishment and new displays possible. Her donations included furniture made from Australian timbers, such as a Tasmanian cedar chest of drawers, a jarrah book shelf, documents, photographs and a set of lace-making bobbins. At the end of the Museum's entrance hall is a glass fronted display case marked by a plaque acknowledging the bequest made by Miss Chugg. The bequest provided for the construction of the display case and also allowed for significant improvements to and refurbishment of, the interior of the Museum, including the restoration of its magnificent jarrah floors..."

Trove, the database of the National Library of Australia provides many articles about Adelaide "Queenie" Chugg as she was regularly mentioned in the local social scene and involved in the dramatic arts scene producing and starring in productions. Many of these productions were held in the Subiaco library and other venues around Perth. They were well attended and received great reviews in local newspapers.  

Throughout her life Adelaide was involved in many causes including the committee for the West Australian Elocution Teachers' Association. Adelaide was a committee member and president of the Marlow Club. She produced and starred in plays for Felica's Art of Speech Club, the Marlow Club and Mrs. Walter M'Rostie's Dramatic Society that raised money for various causes around Perth. In the 1950's Adelaide was secretary of the West Australian Penguin Club for over eight years.  

In 1953 the West Australian published the following article about Adelaide's work in the West Australian Penguin Club who attended a conference in Sydney...

"Women Must Be Able To Express Views....It is essential, now that women are "taking their place," for them to be able to express their views in a capable manner. The secretary of the West Australian Penguin Club (Miss Queenie Chugg) who recently returned from the club's interstate convention in Sydney, said this yesterday. To help West Australian country women, Miss Chugg said, the club hopes to establish groups in country centres. New South Wales and Victoria had already formed several country branches. All States except Queensland had an active Penguin Club and delegates at the interstate convention were women from all walks of life, Miss Chugg said. Many were business women and wives of politicians and others were mothers and housewives. This State had 130 members and they were divided into groups of 25 so that each member had an opportunity to speak and take the chair. At the final meeting of the convention five women, one of whom was Miss Chugg, spoke on Australia's future in world affairs. Miss Chugg and the three other West Australian delegates, Mrs. W. H. Barndon, Miss R. Daglish and Mrs. J. A. Cundill, were given a welcome home party, last night" (West Australian, 10 November 1953).

The "J S Battye Library of West Australian History Ephemera Collection – Collection Listing Pioneer Women’s Memorial Fund" states that A. I "Queenie" Chugg was involved in extensive community work that included "Foundation member W.A. Branch Penguin Club 1945, pioneered establishment of W.A. branch. Member of Soroptimists Club, Tree Society, National Trust and many others."

Adelaide "Queenie" Chugg died on 29 December, 1981 and was buried in Karrakatta Cemetery in the Anglican section. She was 81 years of age. 

Note...The birth certificate and Karrakatta burial details state different middle names for Adelaide "Queenie" Chugg. The birth certificate states her middle name was Jefra. There was no death certificate registered. The burial details state her middle name was Ilfra. 

The articles and photograph are from Trove, the national database of the National Library of Australia. No copyright infringement intended. 





The West Australian, 18 Nov 1938 (photo)

Daily News, 16 December 1929.

SUBIACO INSTITUTE

Musical & Dramatic Evening,

To an audience filling the Subiaco Library and presided over by Mr. G. Olney, the Mayor, the Subiaco Civic Dramatic Society, presented on Wednesday evening, December 11, two sketches, both of which were attractively staged.

'Dearest Mama,' the name part taken by Miss Rae Daglish, belied her name and made herself successfully obnoxious in disrupting the honeymoon harmony of a hymeneal couple (played by Mr. H. Betteridge and Miss Queenie Chugg) throughout the piece and succeeded admirably in railing foul of the household guests, Uncle Browser (Mr. Allan O'Keefe) and Mr. Croker (Mr. Lewis Weeden), and also provided excuse for the sudden departure of an attractive maid (Miss Jean Galbraith.) But eventually, by the comfortable stolid placidity of Uncle Browser and gentle shatts of sarcastic raillery from Mr. Croker. 'Dearest Mama' was deported , to the tender matrimonial mercies of distant cousin Towzler. Mrs. Honeywood, an attractive widow played by Miss Betty Moore, innocently provided fuel for the wrath of 'Dearest Mama.' The second offering was a short' sketch, 'Mrs. Hamblett Records Her Vote,' and provided ample opportunity for farcical effects, and Mrs. E. A. Donegan as the garrulous, if not bibulous ancient voter, with deaf ears and blind intellect, left no stone unturned in her efforts at obtuseness. In this she was ably supported by her daughter Gerty (Miss Rene Roberts), the pair making strenuous demands on the limited patience of the returning officers (played by Mr. G. Coxon and Mr. L. T. Boas.) This was a diverting piece of work and left the audience in high good humor. The success of the initial productions of this society augurs well for . their future efforts. Musical and elocutionary items of first-class merit were provided by Mr. Lyall Richardson, Miss Gillett, Mr. H. Neate, Miss Edna Williams, Miss Joyce Fuller and Miss Bloxsome. A delicious supper concluded a happy evening's entertainment.

Daily News, 4 March 1930.

MAINLY ABOUT PEOPLE Here, There and Everywhere

The Subiaco Library was filled to its utmost capacity last Wednesday evening, when the members of the Subiaco Civic Dramatic Club held a social evening, presided over by Colonel Roberts, D.S.O. A delightful musical and elocutionary programme, each item of which won enthusiastic applause, was contributed to by Mr. Harold Betteridge, Miss Willmott, Miss N. Shortland-Jones, Mr. and Mrs. Hemmingway, Mr. Orgill, Miss Simpson, and the graceful dancing of Miss Felicity Sands was much admired. A feature of the evening was the staging of a one act play entitled 'Followers.' produced by Miss Queenie Chugg. The various characters were cleverly enacted by Miss Nancy Bloxsome, Miss Betty Moore, Miss. Chugg, and Mr. G. Coxon. The old fashioned parlor setting and frocks of 1850 called forth much admiration. Miss Chugg was heartily congratulated on this her first attempt at production. During the evening dainty refreshments were served by the members of the club.

Daily News, 19 September 1931.

Assembly Hall

'All of-a-Sudden Peggy'

Members of Mrs. Walter M'Rostie's Dramatic Society presented 'All of a Sudden Peggy' last evening in the Assembly Hall before a very appreciative audience. Miss Queenie Chugg, who gave a very pleasing performance ot Peggy was consistent and natural throughout, and Mr. W. A. Hoey, who played the Hon. Jimmy Keppel, brother lo Lord Crackenthorpe, was equally successful. 

The work of all on the stage was good, Mrs. M'Rostie taking the part of Lady Crackenthorpe with her usual skill. Each individual in the cast has some fairly difficult character work to carry, and their production was highly commendable. The spider-loving entomologist, Lord Crackenthorpe, taken by Mr. R. Mooney, and the individual who has the good of the family at heart, were both clearly portrayed, Mr. G. Savage giving an impression of naturalness that is not easy. Miss Edna Burgess, as the Hon. Millicent Keppel, carried a minor role capably, as did Miss Iris Parker, who was Hon. Mrs. Colquhoun. Miss Nancy Hill was Mrs. O'Mara, Peggy's mother, widow of Professor O'Mara, F.R.S. Mr. L. Green had the role of a man servant, and Mr. Schuster as Jack Menzies was also adequate. Mrs. M'Rostie was producer, and was responsible for the hundred and one details of work. 

The Subiaco Church of Christ orchestra provide pleasing incidental music. The performance will be repeated this evening, and the proceeds of last evening's work are to be devoted to the unemployment relief funds.

Daily News, 19 September 1932.

Subiaco Dramatic Club.

The Subiaco Civic and Dramatic Club presented three charming short plays in the Subiaco Library ; Mrs. Sands carrying out the duties of producer in her usual capable manner.

The Misses Galbraith, Bloxsome, Neate and and Roberts supported by Messrs. Graham, Weedon, Coxon and O'Keefe were responsible for the success of 'The Bracelet'; J. M. Barrie's .'Twelve Pound Look' received much applause, the liar's being taken by Misses Daglish and Hraly and Messrs. Larrard and Nave. Miss Queenie Chugg and Mr. Nave held the audience breathless during the presentation of 'The Brass Door Knob.' During the intervals musical items were rendered by Mr. L. Richardson, accompanied by Mrs. Dickinson, and wireless selections were enjoyed through the loan of a wireless set by Mr. H. Moody. Miss E. McCallum delighted everyone present with her recitations. At the conclusion of the programme a dainty supper was served by members of the club.