The Hennings House, a mid-century modern ranch-style residence built in 1960, was a prominent part of Elderslie's architectural landscape until its demolition in 2011 for a preschool. Known for its distinctive features and design, the house highlighted the cultural significance of post-World War II domestic architecture in Camden.
Category: Sense of place
Exploring Elderslie’s Ranch-Style Homes, lost mid-century Camden
Tarn House, a ranch-style residence built in 1963 by Dr. Gordon Clowes in Elderslie, represents Camden's mid-century modern architecture. Clowes, an influential community figure and surgeon, lived there with his family. The house, now lost, was part of a broader trend of ranch-style homes in the area during the 1960s.
Clarice Faithfull Anderson’s Historic Ball Gown
The 1929 CWA Blue & Gold Ball at Sydney's Ambassador Cabaret was a prestigious fundraising event attended by significant dignitaries, including the Governor General. The ball featured "living pictures" and showcased elaborate gowns, including Clarice Faithfull Anderson's historic dress from the 18th century, which later became a treasured family heirloom and is now part of the textile collection of the National Museum of Australia.
Exploring Caroline’s Diary: A Women’s Perspective on Colonial Australia
Anne Philp's "Caroline’s Diary" narrates the life of Caroline Husband, an Englishwoman who migrated to colonial Australia in the mid-19th century. Through her personal diaries, readers explore her adventures, social life, and experiences from England to New South Wales, providing insights into women's roles and societal dynamics during this period.
Discover the Golden Fleece Globe Light at Camden Museum
The Camden Museum showcases the Golden Fleece Globe Light, a plastic ram, symbolizing Australia's wool industry and its historical significance. Donated by Milton Ray in 2002, it highlights the Golden Fleece brand's marketing legacy. The ram, based on a prized merino, represents both local history and broader national heritage.
The Role of Historians in an AI World
A Microsoft study suggests historians are among jobs most at risk from AI, particularly due to AI's ability to gather data. However, historians play a crucial role in interpretation, analysis, and narrative construction, capabilities AI lacks. Therefore, while AI may assist, it cannot replace historians, ensuring their continued relevance in understanding the past.
Camden’s Treadle Sewing Machine: A Revolution in Women’s Agency
The Camden Museum's treadle sewing machine symbolizes the significant role of sewing in women's lives from the 19th century onwards. Sewing machines democratized work, enhancing women’s agency by saving time and allowing for business opportunities. Women contributed immensely to the war efforts through Red Cross circles, producing thousands of items during both World Wars.
Exploring Belgenny Farm: Australia’s Oldest Farm Complex
Belgenny Farm, located in Camden, NSW, is Australia’s oldest surviving group of farm buildings, dating back to the 1820s. This historical site includes significant structures like stables, a coach house, and a community hall. It holds cultural importance through its association with the Macarthur family and continues to serve educational purposes.
Discovering Australia’s Hidden Historical Sites
The local historical and cultural landscape in Australia is highly fragmented, lacking a central repository for information. Various apps, websites, and blogs exist but offer scattered data. Clio, a well-coordinated platform in the USA, exemplifies effective organization of local history, contrasting with Australia's disjointed efforts, which face funding challenges.
Discover the Hidden Signatures of Camden’s Former Bank
In Camden's old bank building, a hidden strongroom features signatures of former bank employees, each telling a unique story. Now part of Camden Markets Collective, these signatures are viewed as graffiti art, reflecting local history and culture. The community seeks to preserve this unique public art for future generations.
