Edward Smith Hall was of those early pioneers whose great work in winning for us the freedom of the Australian Press has been obscured by the more widely known achievements of Wentworth. Bom in London in 1786, Hall came to Australia in 1812 armed with … Continue reading “Edward Smith Hall”

Oral History Group

We need people to carry out interviews, transcribe/log tapes and also convert tapes to digital for preservation. We already have some people who have volunteered for this and we will be calling a meeting shortly. If you would like to become part of thi … Continue reading “Oral History Group”

Thomas Walker & Edward Smith-Hall

I resume my friend’s chronology:- “Died September 18 Mr. Edward Smith-Hall in the 75th year of his age. This gentleman I think was the first secretary of the Bank of New South Wales when that institution opened for business in Macquarie Place in 1817; … Continue reading “Thomas Walker & Edward Smith-Hall”

Walker Volunteers

We urgently need more guides – guide kits with all the information you need are supplied. We also need more help with Devonshire teas and “baby-sitting” some of the area.

Professor Anderson’s Conundrum

Professor Anderson, the Wizard of the North, was a well-known magician who travelled the world putting on performances. When he was in Sydney in 1859, performing at the Prince of Wales Theatre, he offered two prizes for the best conundrums from a lady … Continue reading “Professor Anderson’s Conundrum”

Nichols and the bare knuckle fighter

A gentleman supplies me with some very interesting particulars as to Mr. Charles Hamilton Nichols, one of the proprietors of “Bell’s Life” at the time of Professor Anderson’s conundrum prize-drawing. Mr. Nichols was one of the sons of Isaac Nichols, fi … Continue reading “Nichols and the bare knuckle fighter”

Museum Committee

Calling all members! Are you already a member of this committee? If not, why don’t you think about becoming part of it. We meet once a month to talk about our museum – plan displays – plan jobs that need to be done. There’s a lot of background work in … Continue reading “Museum Committee”

Society General Meetings

For some time we have been concerned about the lack of attendance at these meetings – in some cases not enough members to form a quorum. It is now being suggested that General Meetings only be held when deemed necessary by the Executive or when essenti … Continue reading “Society General Meetings”