eMelbourne feature

Duty Calls

Public expressions of loyalty took on many forms during the war: from fundraising events such as balls and concerts to marches through the city streets; from the provision of comfort funds for soldiers to the display of flags and patriotic slogans on business letterheads; from the promotion of war bonds to the push for conscription.

Digital Resources

Why Should We Fight For England?
Patriotic Pamphlets No. 27, by Ambrose Pratt. Critchley Parker Series, Australian Industrial and Mining Standard, Melbourne, 1917.
Manchester Unity Active Service Fund
How We Advertised the Liberty War Loan: Selling Bonds by Advertising
Paton Advertising Service, How We Advertised the Liberty War Loan: Selling Bonds by Advertising (Melbourne: Paton Advertising Service, 1917-1818?)
War Savings Campaign
War Savings Campaign (Sydney: John Sands, 1917?)
The American City
The American City (New York: The Civic Press, 1917-1918?)
Join Up!
Norman Lindsay (artwork), Join Up! (Melbourne: Director General of Recruiting, 1918)
Life, 1 March 1917
Life Magazine (Melbourne: Fitchett Brothers, 1917)
Stead's, 26 May 1917
Stead's (Melbourne: The Review of Reviews Pty Ltd, 1917)
Life, February 1918
Life Magazine (Melbourne: Fitchett Brothers, 1918)
Hurry!
Norman Lindsay (artwork), Hurry! (Melbourne: Director General of Recruiting, 1918)
Now!
Norman Lindsay (artwork), Now! (Melbourne: Director General of Recruiting, 1918)
Quick!
Norman Lindsay (artwork), Quick! (Melbourne: Director General of Recruiting, 1918)
The German Savages at Home
The British Empire Union, The German Savages at Home (Melbourne: The British Empire Union, 1914?)
Stead's, 31 March 1917
Stead's (Melbourne: The Review of Reviews Pty Ltd, 1917)
Win the War Day
Win the War Day: Official Souvenir Programme (Melbourne: The State Recruiting Committee, 1917)
Letter from Mrs J Graham
Re use of Kensington Municipal Buildings on 8th September to hold a Euchre Party in aid of the Patriotic Fund
Letter from City Treasurer
Memo, stating that he has received instructions to report himself for Military Duty at Broadmeadows
Letter from Mrs M C Braddy
Permission to give Band Performance in Fitzroy Gardens on Sunday 23rd idem in aid of the Lady Mayoress's Patriotic League Fund
Letter from City Electrical Engineer
Reporting that (2) Working Men's College Students have been called for Military duty suggesting that Salary of Brinkley be raised to 10£2/10/- per week
Letter from Miss Mabel Mattingly
Requesting free use of North Melbourne Town Hall to give concert in aid of Patriotic League inaugurated by the Lady Mayoress (30th September)
Letter from F Sherwin
Permission to use North Melbourne Town Hall 3rd September to hold a Social in aid of the Patriotic Fund
Letter from Continental C and G Rubber Coy Pty Ltd
Circular letter relating to the above Company since the Outbreak of War, stating Company has large stocks of its well known Tyres available
Letter from T G Scott and Son
Advising Despatch by next Mail, of a Copy of first issue of the Manufacturers' Illustrated Post, to be known as M I P
Letter from Amy Thaw
Requesting free use of Kensington Town Hall to hold Patriotic Concert and referring to use of a room for a meeting
Letter from C E Sweetland
Permission to use Band Stand in Queen Victoria Gardens on 6th September for performance in aid of the Australian Patriotic Fund
Letter from F R Morton
Re use of North Melbourne Municipal Buildings to hold a Patriotic Carnival on 22nd September 1914
Letter from H Benjamin
Statement of Receipts etc in connection with performance given in Fitzroy Gardens on 30th August
Letter from J C Williamson Ltd
Permit to march in connection with Patriotic Matinee
Letter from Honourable Secretary Loyal Monster Patriotic Carnival
Asking the Committee to give the Lighting for the Patriotic Carnival at the Exhibition Free
Letter from Honourable Secretary Code's Concert Band
Re use of Queen Vic Fitzroy Gardens on Sunday 6th inst for concert in aid of the Patriotic Fund
Letter from Inspector Montgomery
Report with regard to arrangements made for Stands in connection with Bus and Cab traffic to Military Encampment
Letter from Joint Secretaries of Patriotic Movement North and West Melbourne
Requesting free use of North Melbourne Town Hall on 8th September a demonstration for the send off of the Troops
Letter from Secretary Motor Transport Committee Defence Department
With regard to purchase of Motor Vehicles by the Commonwealth for Defence purposes
Letter from Principal Working Men's College
Requesting free use of Town Hall on 6th October to give Patriotic Concert
Letter from Director Agriculture Department
With regard to the Selling of Sheep horses etc as the Cattle Yards the proceeds to be donated to the Patriotic Fund
Letter from Honourable Secretary Monster Patriotic Carnival
Permission for Scouts Riflemen and Bands to March
Letter from A E Rane (Ancient Mariners of Victoria)
Permission to Parade City Streets with a motor lorry filled up as a Ship
Letter from Cab Owners and Drivers Protective and Benefit Union
Asking that temporary cab stand be fixed at terminus of Coburg horse tramway for use re military encampment at Broadmeadows
Letter from Mrs V L [Alice] Solomon
Stating that they have decided to hold the Conversazione in the Masonic Hall, so will not require the Town Hall
Letter from House Secretary Kangaroo Club
Re giving a concert in October in aid of the Patriotic Fund and the dates the Town Hall is Vacant
Letter from J Sutton Crow
Re Mademoiselle Dolores Concert in aid of the 'Belgian Relief Fund' and the charge fo the rent of Town Hall
Letter from J Troup
Requesting refund of £2/2/- paid as rent for use of the North Melbourne Recreation Reserve on 26th September in aid of Lady Mayoress' Fund and Christian Brothers' Bazaar
Letter from Officer of Health
Forwarding memo from L J Bird stating he will be away at Queenscliffe for 16 days
Letter from Miss Metta de Kock
Requesting rebate on the rental paid for use of Town Hall Kensington to give Patriotic Concert
Letter from City Surveyor
Memo re request from Defence Department for space to store about 40 Motor Waggons during time departure of troops delayed
Letter from Australian Imperial Force Assistant Provost-Marshal
Requesting use of a room to be used by men on piquet duty
Letter from Secretary Melbourne Harbour Trust Commissioners
Asking that no charge be made for loan of hurdles used at wharf in connection with the departure of Troops from Victoria Dock
Letter from Newton and Company
Circular re supplying a Series of Lantern Slides explaining the causes and progress of the War
Letter from Tarrant Motors Ltd
With regard to Council presenting a Motor Ambulance to the Expeditionary Force
Letter from Secretary Musicians Union of Australia
Re giving Pand performance 1st November near the Queen's Monument in Alexandra Parade in aid of Red Cross League
Letter from Secretary Melbourne Philharmonic Society
Desiring to transfer date of Concert from 17th November to 24th November
Letter from P Phillips
Re Stand for disengaged Drags in Swanston Street near Flinders Street to be used after 11pm (to go to Broadmeadows)
Letter from Honourable Secretary British Red Cross Society (Richmond)
Statement of receipts etc of performance given in Fitzroy Gardens 22nd inst in aid of the fund of the above Society
Letter from Honourable Secretary South Melbourne City Brass Band
Re use of Lady Clarke Memorial Band Stand on 6th December to give performancei in Aid of the Lord Mayor's Patriotic Fund
Letter from Secretary The Prime Minister's Department
Stating resolution adopted by Council in respect of the death of Field Marshal Earl Roberts was forwarded through His Excellency the Governor General for communication to Lady Roberts
Letter from Acting Secretary Defence Department
Expressing Minister's thanks and high appreciation of the donation of a Motor Ambulance Waggon for use with the 2nd Contingent, Australian Imperial Force
Letter from Kellow Falkiner Motor Company
Enclosing account for Motor Ambulance supplied to the Council to be presented to the Defence Department
Letter from Building Surveyor
Application of S Arnold Best and Company requesting permission to re-erect wooden verandah at 124 Macaulay Road Flemington
Letter from Police Department
Relative to complaints re unlicensed Motor Car and drags being used for plying for Hire in the City and at Broadmeadows
Letter from Town Clerk Collingwood
Statement of Receipts etc of Band performance in Fitzroy Gardens 29th November in aid of Red Cross Fund
Letter from Miss G H Block
Statement of receipts etc in connection with concert 24th November North Melbourne Town Hall in aid of Red Cross Society
Letter from Gordon and Gotch Ltd
Forwarding 50 copies of booklet containing report of the Speech by the Right Honourable David Lloyd George on the Great War
Letter from Secretary Cab Owners and Drivers Protection and Benefit Union
Re providing a Cab Stand in Swanston Street for Late Loading to the Military Camp
Letter from His Majesty's Trade Commissioners in Japan
Expressing thanks at action of Council to support Imperial interests as suggested in his letter of 30th December
Letter from Manager A N A Fete Committee
Requesting patronage and Co-operation of Council at their 26th Annual National Holiday gathering on Monday 1st February 1915 in aid of Melbourne and Austin Hospital
Letter from Charley Cars Ltd
Circular Letter stating they are now supplying Ambulance in accordance with the Military requirements
Letter from Salvation Army
Requesting free use of Town Hall to give a demonstration in and of their Fund for the comfort of the troops
Letter from President The Empire Patriotic League
Re 'The Further Defence of Australia' movement and bringing under notice the 'Citizens Patriotic Memorial'
Letter from City Surveyor
Recommending offer of Tarrant Motors Pty Ltd to supply Side Curtains and reccovering front of Hood of Ford Car for £11/10/-
Letter from Capt Story
With regard to an inservices relative to use of Market Reserve (Hotham and McIlwraith St) for Drill purpose
Letter from McIlwraith and McEacharn
Forwarding 12 copies in book form of the speeches delivered by their Prime Minister on the War etc
Letter from Butlers Ltd
Expressing thanks for passing their samples of Patriotic Badges and quotation to the President of the Chamber of Commerce
Letter from McIlwraith and McEacharn
Stating ordinary goods traffic has not been accepted by the Railway Companies [in England] owing to the transfer of troops etc
Letter from J H Egan (Secretary Patriotic Dog Parade)
Requesting permission for dogs to parade City Streets on certain dates
Letter from Hugh Trumble Secretary Governing Bodies of Sport
Requesting free use of Town Hall on 24th inst for a Public meeting re proposed Defence movement
Letter from Honourable Secretary The Royal Vic Liedertafel
Re use of Town Hall and organ (free) on 20th inst to give concert in aid of the Belgian Relief Fund
Letter from J Hay
With regard to providing a tent for use of soldiers at Broadmeadows and requesting patronage of Council
Letter from L J Doogood
Requesting permit for Band to March etc
Letter from Secretary Malvern Tramways Band
Requesting use of Alexandra Avenue on 17th inst to give performance in aid of the Belgian Fund
Letter from Town Clerk Brisbane
Asking if permission has been given for the use of the Arms of the City of Melbourne as badges for the HMAS 'Melbourne'
Letter from Honourable Secretary Albert Park Surf Club
Requesting use of Barriers in connection with Carnival in aid of the Belgians
Letter from Secretary Masonic Club of Victoria
Enclosing circular sent to members and prominent Freemasons requesting their help towards the Belgian Fund
Letter from General Secretary Young Men's Christian Association
Requesting free use of Town Hall on 27th inst half proceeds to go to help the starving Belgians
Letter from Shire Secretary Mornington
Circular letter with regard to the present method of raising funds for Patriotic purposes being unsystematic and as to forming a War League
Letter from Commonwealth Military Forces 3rd Military District
Requesting loan of Street Sweeping Machines for use at Broadmeadows Camp
Letter from Town Clerk Brunswick
Requesting loan free of charge of 440 yds of festooning and Lamps for Aquatic Carnival 27th inst in aid of the Belgians
Letter from Honourable Secretary North Melbourne Lady Mayoress' Patriotic League
Free use of North Melbourne Town Hall 30th April to hold a Patriotic Demonstration
Letter from C J Dacomb
Expressing thanks for free use of Town Hall on 13th May to give concert in aid of the Belgians
Letter from Secretary Yarra Borderers Band
Forwarding receipt for £8/-/- amount Collected in aid of Belgian Relief Fund
Letter from Australian Women's National League
Stating meeting to arrange for the encouragement of recruiting will not be held
Letter from Honourable Secretary Belgian Rose Day Committee
Requesting a supply of Rose Blooms for delivery at Commerce House to be sold on 8th April
Letter from Madame Melba
Re free use fo the Town Hall on 27th April for concert in aid of the Belgian Relief Fund
Letter from Secretary Melbourne Vice Regal Band
Re use of the Janet Lady Clarke Band Stand Q V Gardens on Sunday 18th inst for performances in aid of the Belgian Fund
Letter from Town Clerk South Melbourne
Balance Sheet of Band Performance QV Gardens 28th March in aid of the Belgian Relief Fund
Letter from Secretary Rileys Military Band
Statement of receipts etc in connection with performance given in aid of the Belgian Relief Fund
Letter from Honourable Secretary Ministers Association
Requesting use of North Melbourne Town Hall on Sunday 30th May
Letter from Police Department
Report re sale of Art Union Tickets in connection with Lady Mayoress' Patriotic Fund (Oil Painting)
Letter from Town Clerk
Memo re damage to window in Dept Room in Courtyard used by Soldiers and enclosing Postal Notes (2) for 6/-
Letter from Officer of Health
Reporting that L J Bird has left with the Australian Expeditionary Forces
Letter from Police Department
Reporting A Daniels, E G Randall, R Woods S Isaacs, J Edmonds, H Owen for over loading Motor Cars at Broadmeadows [with soldiers]
Letter from Naval and Military Carnival
Asking for the use of a room
Letter from Adjutant 60th (Princes Hill) Infantry
Use of Princes Park, Carlton on Saturday May 29th and June 5th in connection with Presentation of Colors
Letter from Electrical Engineer
Re leave of absence to T Scott to attend Officers School of Instruction at Broadmeadows
Letter from Melbourne Philharmonic Society
Applying for free use of Town Hall for a concert in aid of Victorian Red Cross Fund
Letter from Royal Australian Naval Bridging Train [Lieutenant Commander Bracegirdle]
Asking permission to march through the city on 29th May 1915
Letter from Secretary Hobart Municipal Officers' Association
Requesting information re Military and Civil pay to all Officers in the Service joining the Expeditionary Forces
Letter from Secretary The Master Builders Association of Melbourne
Fixing Thursday 8th July for Patriotic Smoke Concert in aid of Red Cross Society
Letter from Bjelke-Peterson [sic] Bros
Re refund of amount paid for use of Town Hall on 29th April 12/-/- and enclosing statement etc of Demonstration given in the Exhibition
Letter from Stockmens Carnival (J Molloy)
Requesting rebate on cheque paid for Lighting at Stockmen's Carnival (Exhibition Buildings on 24th April)
Letter from Alma McKenna
Requesting free use of Kensington Town Hall on 21st of July to hold a Patriotic Entertainment
Letter from City Architect
Re Visit of Japanese Training Squadron and stating flags of the Allies were purchased from Morwick for £10/-/-
Letter from Shire Secretary, Shire of Dunmunkle
Circular urging Municipalities in the State to take action re Securing men and munitions for the War
Letter from Honorable Secretary Austral Salon
Requesting committee to refund the cost of Lighting of Kings Theatre on 30th May (Sunday) Red Cross Concert
Letter from Staff Officer for Engineers 3rd Military District
Relative to accounts for erection of barriers etc on the occasion of the march past of Troops on 17th December 1914 and 20th January 1915
Letter from Baths Superintendent
Memo with regard to Military men visiting the Baths
Letter from City Architect
Forwarding letter from A E Darnton Draughtsman, stating he intends volunteering for active service
Letter from The Melbourne Athenaeum
Re demonstration in aid of Patriotic Funds and as to refunding Registration Fee
Letter from The Victorian Football Association
Stating the whole of the Association Footballers Patriotic Fund will be donated to the Lady Stanley Special Appeal Fund
Letter from C Davidson
Stating Brougham Methodist Young Men request free use of Hall for a Rehearsal of concert on 7th July (Red Cross)
Letter from Conservatorium of Music Melbourne
Use Town Hall, free of charge, for a concert in aid of Red Cross Funds
Letter from A J Curran
Re permission to march through the city and use of a room in Town Hall for Massed Bands Sacred performance [in aid of Red Cross Ambulance Fund]
Letter from The Lord Mayor
Relative to the establishment of a Recruiting Depot at the Town Hall
Letter from Eric E Poole
Stating that he has joined the Expeditionary Forces
Letter from J J Cairns
Stating that he has joined the Expeditionary Forces
Letter from Superintendent Robertson
Stating L F Armstrong, Meat Inspector, and Ballantyne, Branding Boy, are enlisting in the Expeditionary Forces
Letter from Carlton Patriotic Committee
Permission to hold a Fancy Costume Procession on Saturday 10th July
Letter from Patriotic and Presentation Committee North Melbourne
Applying for free use of North Melbourne Town Hall on 8th July
Letter from Electrical Engineer
Relative to the filling of vacancies caused by enlistments in the Expeditionary Force
Letter from Clerk of Accounts
Salaries of Officers enlisted in the Expeditionary Forces
Letter from J and N Tait
Hire of Town Hall - Miss Amy Castles' Concert
Letter from Victorian Red Cross Fund
Cancelling application for use of Town Hall
Letter from State Parliamentary Recruiting Committee
Recruiting, March of Boy Scouts 17th July
Letter from Superintendent Robertson
Charles Edward Cobb, Laborer, Abattoirs, enlistment in Expeditionary Forces
Letter from Colonel Hawker
Town Hall Recruiting Depot
Letter from 49th (Prahran) Infantry
Lighting facilities Fawkner Park
Letter from Department of Defence
Return of Military Hats found in Motor Buses
Letter from North and West Melbourne Committee for Australia Day
Free use of North Melbourne Town Hall
Letter from Royal Agricultural Society
Abandonment of Royal Show 1915
Letter from Australia Day Committee
Permission to march through the City
Letter from Munitions Committee, Defence Department
Production of Toluene for manufacture of High Explosives
Letter from Kingaroy Patriotic Committee
Supply of Recruiting Posters
Letter from K A Stennett
Forwarding copy of lines to stimulate recruiting
Letter from Mrs John Murray's Appeal
Returning thanks for the loan of tables, Trestles etc
Letter from Austral-Indian Society
Permission to hold a Religious Procession
Letter from Amy Thaw
Forward Balance Sheet of Patriotic Carnival held on 3rd July and asking for refund of rent paid for Kensington Municipal Hall
Letter from 64th City of Melbourne Regiment
Band for Parade of Returned Soldiers on 10th August
Letter from Australasian League of Honour
Use of room once a month during period of war
Letter from J H Beecham
Disorderly contuct of haranguers in Carlton Gardens
Letter from H Montgomery (Hackney Carriage Inspector)
Suggesting Stand for Cabs and Motors in Flemington Road (with plan)
Letter from Defence Department
Declining to provide Sanitary Accommodation for Cab Drivers andc at Broadmeadows
Letter from City Architect
Cost of fitting out Recruiting Room (Town Hall)
Letter from Commonwealth Military Forces
Thanking Baths and Parks Committee for free use of Swimming Baths for members of Australian Imperial Force
Letter from Town Clerk
Military Police to use room in basement used by Police on point duty and Police to use Hackney Carriage Committee's room
Letter from Salvation Army
Sending Balance Sheet of Demonstration in Town Hall on 9th August
Letter from Kensington and Flemington Red Cross Branch
Applying for use of Supper Room at Flemington Municipal Buildings
Letter from Commonwealth Statistician
Sending duplicate documents in connection with War Census
Letter from North Melbourne Patriotic Committee
Application for free use of North Melbourne Recreation on 19 September for Sacred Concert
Letter from Building Surveyor
Submitting application by Salvation Army to erect soldiers' institute at Royal Park Military Camp
Letter from G H Knibbs
Sending Instruction for Guidance in making [War] Census
Letter from Australian Patriotic League
Application for free use of Town Hall on 30th September
Letter from Red Cross Society (newmarket Branch)
Sending Balance Sheet of Concert held on 18th August
Letter from Secretary Leather Trades Social
Sending Balance Sheet of Conversazione held on 28th July 1915
Letter from Commonwealth Military Forces
Enquiring if Electric Supply Committee will bear expense of erecting 2 poles for 20 arc lamps on North Carton Market site for drill purposes
Letter from Richard Almond (Employe Alexandra Park)
Asking for leave of absence to join Expeditionary Forces
Letter from Past Pupils Association (Christian Brothers)
Stating that they are unable to pay gross proceeds of Annual Ball to Red Cross Funds
Letter from Captain Macdonald
Complaint against A Cullen Driver of Motor Car No. 121 for not pulling up when requested by Military Police
Letter from Defence Department
Re closing Recruitment Depot at Town Hall
Letter from Baths Superintendent
Forwarding application for use of baths by 22nd Depot Battalion on 22 September
Letter from Department of Lands and Survey
Approving of proposal to pay employees of Park and Gardens Committed who enlist the difference between military and usual pay
Letter from City Electrical Engineer
Sending estimate of cost of lighting at the Camp at Royal Park
Letter from Red Cross Society (Victorian Branch)
Thanking Council for donation of £50 for Rest Home at Wirth's Arena
Letter from H F Mathieu
Asking permission for Band Performances on Sunday 7th November? For French Red Cross [Buffon?] Hospital
Letter from Baths Superintendent
Report re rendering first aid to soldier who was found unconcious
Letter from Town Clerk Hobart
Asking information re investment of Patriotic Funds
Letter from Methodist Soldiers' Trust
Permission to erect weather board and iron building at Royal Park Camp
Letter from Commonwealth Military Forces
Stating that about 2000 troops will be marching through city on 5th November
Letter from Commonwealth Military Forces
Stating that about 200 Officers and NCOs will march through City on Monday 8th inst
Letter from Commonwealth Military Forces
Stating the 4th Artillery Brigade AIF will march through City on 9th inst
Letter from Commonwealth Military Forces
Re 4th Artillery Brigades march through City on 9th inst Also 6th ditto on 10th inst
Letter from Commonwealth Military Forces
Re march to city of 6th Artillery Brigade (alteration of route)
Letter from Australian Catholic Federation
Permission to erect small hall at Royal Park Camp
Letter from Girls Guild Union
Free use of Town Hall on 23rd 28th and 30th October
Letter from Misses Mathieu
Result of concert in Aid of French Red Cross Society (£22-1-3)
Letter from National Rose Society of Victoria
Forwarding balance sheet for concert held on 27th October last
Letter from Colonial Mutual Fire Insurance Co
Re storage of wooden cases and c by Patriotic League in basement of Town Hall
Letter from Building Surveyor
Diocesian Registry asking permission to erect tempory [sic] building at Royal Park Camp
Letter from Commonwealth Military Forces (Major Dowes)
Complaint re drainage Military Camp Show Ground Ascot Vale
Letter from Melbourne Young Men's Christian Association
Permission to erect weatherboard Hall at Royal Park Camp
Letter from British Red Cross League Fitzroy Branch
Stating they will not require Fitzroy Gardens for Band performance on 12th December 1915
Letter from Shire Secretary Broadmeadows
Asking if carters and carriers at Broadmeadows Camp are licensed under Council's Reg[ulations]
Letter from Electrical Engineer and City Treasurer
Re increments to members of staff serving with AIF
Letter from Commonwealth Military Forces
Re procession through streets on 10th and 18th inst (Military Sports at M C Grounds)
Letter from North Melbourne Red Cross Society
Use of North Melbourne Town Hall on Wednesday 22nd December
Letter from St Johns Ambulance Association
Asking for refund of account for lighting Exhibition Building on 20th November
Letter from Inspector of Hackney Carriages
Arrangement for stands at Broadmeadows Camp and Railway Station
Letter from Police Department
Re complaint of persons playing football gambling andc in Yarra Park on Sundays
Letter from Cab Owners Protective and Benefit Union
Re annual inspection of Hackney Carriages asking that Broadmeadows stand be included
Letter from French Red Cross Society
Balance sheet for concert held in Town Hall on 16th ultimo
Letter from State Parliamentary Recruiting Committee
Use of Town Hall on Thursday 13th inst., for Recruiting Meeting
Letter from Superintendent Robertson
Reporting that C W Scott assistant clerk at Abattoirs has enlisted
Letter from City Treasurer
Application from J E Brown for leave of absence to serve with Expeditionary Forces
Letter from Swanson Bros
Offering office accommodation in connection with recruiting campaign
Letter from Officer in Commander Royal Park Camp
Removal of empty tins andc from camp discontinuance of
Letter from Richmond Recruiting Committee
Application for permission for recruits to march through City
Letter from Principal Medical Officer
Re sanitary conveniences at Royal Park Camp . Stating same has been rectified
Letter from Town Clerk
Re use of Main Hall for Recruiting Depot
Letter from Town Clerk
Re Licensing of Drivers, Conductors andc of Military Age
Letter from North and West Melbourne Button Fund Committee
Application for use of room in North Melbourne Town Hall Friday 25th February
Letter from State Parliamentary Recruiting Committee
Application for free use of Town Hall for 26th February 1916
Letter from City Engineer
List of single men employed in Department, together with their dependants etc
Letter from Southern Cross Tobacco Fund
Forwarding 200 Collection lists
Letter from Town Clerk
Officer re-arrangements consequent upon enlistment for active service
Letter from George C Allen
Re placing Belgium Flag and Tablet in Town Hall, Melbourne
Letter from French Red Cross Society
Asking for donation to Ambulance Fund
Letter from Victorian Football Association
Stating Association has decided to abandon football matches during currency of the war
Letter from City Treasurer and City Electrical Engineer
Increase in salaries of Clerical staff
Letter from Electrical Engineer
Exemption of Shift Engineer McLean from Military Service
Letter from Kensington and Flemington Red Cross Society
Refund of rent paid for use of Kensington Town Hall on 14th March
Letter from Henry Morris
Stating window at his premises Eastern Market was broken by 2 soldiers
Letter from City Engineer
Estimated cost of enclosing arch-way at rear of Administrative Buildings for Military Police
Letter from Young Mens Christian Association
Asking for information re Patriotic fund for insertion in Australian Army Handbook
Letter from William Eagles
Application for difference between military and civil pay
Letter from Returned Soldiers Association
Permission for troops to march on 24th 25th 28th and 30th inst. Also re use of barriers
Letter from Deputy Postmaster General
Re necessity for exercising economy during present financial stress
Letter from City Electrical Engineer
Re use of room ground floor for store room also re room used by Patriotic Fund
Letter from Diocesan Registry
Invitation to attend Anzac Day Commemoration Service
Letter from Defence Department
Stating that a body of troops 1000 strong will march through City on Friday 28th inst
Letter from Australia's Citizens Committee
To deal with Aliens and Alien Trade and to protect British Interests
Letter from Defence Department
Stating that a body troops 3,500 strong will march through City on in 1st May 1916
Letter from Australian Natives Association
Application for free use of Melbourne Town Hall
Letter from Reverend W Hopkins
Application for use of room in Town Hall for expression of views of persons opposed to conscription
Letter from Hampton Political Labor Council
Re meeting held on Yarra Bank
Letter from Defence Department
Stating that a body of troops 1000 strong will march through City on 10th May
Letter from Defence Department (Colonel Cuscaden)
Asking for loan of 400 chairs from Council
Letter from Defence Department
Stating that a body of troops will march through the city on 11th inst
Letter from London Agents
Re Floating Police covering merchandise against risk of damage from zeppelins etc
Letter from Defence Department
Acknowledging receipt of resolutions by council in favour of conscription
Letter from Defence Department
Advising that a body of troops (about 1,000 strong) will march through the City on Sunday 21/5/16
Letter from Defence Department
Stating funeral of the late Colonel W G Patterson will leave the Victoria Barracks at 3pm 28/5/16
Letter from French Red Cross Society
Application for free use of Melbourne Town Hall from 8th to 15th July 1916
Letter from Public Health Department
Re diseased meat from W H Blackman and Co supplied to Troop Transport
Letter from K and F Matthieu
Permission to hold Band performance in Fitzroy Gardens Sunday 4th June
Letter from Defence Department
Stating 3rd Divisional Supply Column will march through City on 26th inst. 12 noon
Letter from National Rose Society of Victoria
Application for refund of rent paid for use of Town Hall 19 April 1916
Letter from Royal Entertainers
Permission for 'Kilties Band' to march. Saturday 3rd June
Letter from Melbourne Rifle Club
Forwarding printed cards re providing training for intending volunteers in the AIF
Letter from Miss K L Mathieu
Result of performance by Collingwood Band, in the Fitzroy Gardens on 4th June 1916
Letter from Defence Department
Re supply of hardy flowering plants for Langwarrin Camp
Letter from N A Clack
Reporting driver of motor car No 4066 for asking excessive fare between Camp and Broadmeadowns Station
Letter from Public Library of South Australia
Acknowledging receipt of medal circulated by Commonwealth Button Fund on Anzac Day
Letter from State Parliamentary Recruiting Committee
Stating that owing to the lack of recruits Mr Cohen's services will no longer be required
Letter from American Consular Service
Expressing thanks for Recruiting Posters
Letter from Queen of Defence Committee
Band performance, Sunday 13th June 1916 in Janet Lady Clarke memorial Band Stand
Letter from Secretary Victorian Scottish Union
Application for use of Town Hall September 28th 1916
Letter from Honourary Secretary Victorian Artist's Pageant Play
Application for use of Town Hall in 18th and 19th or 24th and 28th August 1916
Letter from Defence Department
Stating body of troops 700 strong will march through City on Friday 30th inst
Letter from Officer in Command Supply Depot Broadmeadows
Supply of small palms for planting at Depot
Letter from Richmond City Brass Band
Permission to hold Band performance in Fitzroy Gardens Sunday 9th July
Letter from Colonial Mutual Fire Insurance Co
Councils General Fire Insurance Policy. Re Recruiting Depot and Military Police Depot at Town Hall
Letter from City Treasurer
Fortnightly Report
Letter from City Electrical Engineer
Erection of festoons outside the Portico of Town Hall during French Patriotic week
Letter from Defence Department
Night march of troops through the City on 19th July
Letter from Defence Department
Parade through City French Day July 14th
Letter from Richmond City Brass Band
Balance sheet of band performance in Fitzroy Gardens Sunday 9th July
Letter from Defence Department
Damage to property at Recruiting and Military Police Depots Town Hall Melbourne
Letter from Congress of Unions of Australia
Deputation to Lord Mayor re holding meeting in Town Hall to discuss question of Conscription
Letter from Defence Department Commanding Officer Royal Park
Stating 3,000 troops will parade through town on 19th July at 7.30 pm
Letter from J Livingstone
Conduct of persons in Carlton Gardens
Letter from Mrs E Mills
Permission for procession through local streets of Kensington on 18th August
Letter from City Treasurer
Commonwealth War Loan - Employes subscription to
Letter from Miss Mathieu
Permission for Band performance in Fitzroy Gardens on Sunday 3st and 17th September in aid of Russian Refugees
Letter from City Engineer
Honor Roll removal of H O'Brien and A E Cannards name
Letter from North and West Melbourne Red Cross Society
Permission to erect 4 Kiosks at North Melbourne on Violet Day 4/8/16 and use of room
Letter from Russian Refugees Appeal Fund
Permission to hold processions Saturday 12th August
Letter from Department of Defence
Re providing opening from back road, Alexandra Park, across tan track to Red Cross Kitchen in the Domain
Letter from Hallkeeper
Damage to doors and notice boards of Town Hall by crowd on occasion of Mr WM Hughes' public meeting
Letter from Lady Mayoress's Patriotic League
Re use of Supper Room
Letter from North Melbourne Patriotic Committee
Application for use of room in North Melbourne Town Hall every Tuesday afternoon and evening
Letter from Ernest H Gambling
Pasting of hand-bills on electric light posts andc re Anti-Conscription meeting
Letter from Flemington and Kensington Red Cross Society
Application for refund of rent paid for use of Flemington Hall on August 8th 1916
Letter from Divisional Returning Officer Melbourne
Re use of Town Halls Melbourne and North Melbourne for Polling Booths on 28th October 1916
Letter from Melbourne University Football Club
Re erection of sign on Morell's Oriental Hotel and permission for a donkey cart to parade through the city
Letter from State Parliamentary Recruiting Committee
Re Prime Minister's Appeal for Voluntary Enlistment
Letter from Government Statistician NSW
Asking approximate amount contributed in goods to Lady Mayoress's League
Letter from Loyal Good Intent Lodge Cricket Club
Cricket Pitch Fawkner Park
Letter from Salvation Army, Kensington
Application for refund of rent paid for hire of Kensington Town Hall on 2nd 4th and 5th September1916
Letter from The Salvation Army Appeal
Australian Appeal for £15,000 for the Salvation Army Work amongst Australian Soldiers
Letter from By Laws Officer
Result of prosecution of F C Holland and others for taking part in an Anti Conscription Procession
Letter from Henry Morrison
Repeating that window at premises occupied by him was broken by a soldier on Saturday afternoon (Eastern Market)
Letter from Military Registrar Melbourne Sub District 44
Forwarding posters to be exhibited in conspicuous place
Letter from Town Clerk
Re use of North Melbourne Municipal Hall for Recruiting purposes in connection with compulsory military service
Letter from Town Clerk
National Referendum Campaign
Letter from State Munitions Committee
Stating that cancellation or postponement of enlistment of certain employes by them; does not relieve any of those liable under current Proclamation, from reporting themselves
Letter from National Referendum Council
Re use of Melbourne Town Hall on 17th and 27th inst., and Kensington Hall on 9th inst., for Public Meetings
Letter from Victorian Scottish Union
Permission for band to march through the City on Wednesday 27th inst
Letter from Secretary, Womens Brigade and Battallion Depots
Application for use of Melbourne Town Hall on Wednesday 18th October 1916 for Conscription Meeting for Women
Letter from Amy Shaw
Application for free use of Kensington Town Hall on Friday evening the 20th inst. for Conscription meeting
Letter from Clerk of Disbursements
Asking instructions re payment to men on military service, under the compulsion scheme
Letter from Town Clerk
re Compulsory Military Service and payment of difference in salary andc to officers and employes
Letter from National Referendum Council
Forwarding cheque for £10- deposit against damages to Hall at Womens' Meeting on 23rd inst
Letter from National Referendum Council
Organising loan of large fleet of motor cars to take 'YES' votes to the polls
Letter from Defence Department 3rd Military District
Advising that 3000 men will march through streets on Thursday 26th starting from King Street at 2:30 pm
Letter from Superintendent Robertson and others
Re necessity of applying for exemptions from Military Service in certain cases of employes
Letter from Mrs E Warren
Applying on behalf of the National Red Cross of West and North Melbourne, for use of room at North Melbourne Town Hall on Monday evenings
Letter from Hallkeeper
Reporting that at the No Conscription Fellowship Meeting in the Town Hall on Monday the 6th inst. the centre door leading to crush lobby was broken
Letter from Defence Department (Dental) AAMC Res
Asking for passageway to be made through rockery in front of new Dental Hospital Building Domain Camp
Letter from State War Council
Circular to Recruiting Committees, asking co ordination with new organization recently formed for administration of the War Service Regulations 1916
Letter from Second Infantry Brigade Depôt
Asking for use of room at Town Hall once a month for purpose of ordinary meeting of members
Letter from Military Registrar
Asking that poster be exhibited in Town Hall
Letter from Carlton Patriotic Committee
Permission for bands to march through City on Sunday 5th November 1916
Letter from Australian Military Forces (Captain Fairnie)
Re. A. Cavanagh motor driver employed by the Council not reporting himself for military training also price road repair
Letter from Private Secretary to Prime Minister
Thanking Council for their kind congratulations and good wishes. Re Referendum Campaign
Letter from Registrar Commonwealth Government Inscribed Stock
Inscription of Stock Commonwealth War Loan
Letter from Town Clerk
State War Council Bill
Letter from Victorian Scottish Union
Permission for Brass Band to march through City on Thursday 30th November 7.30 pm
Letter from Australian Military Force (C.O. 52 A Area)
Requesting that leave of absence be grated for Sergeant Major James P. Biggs from 23rd December to 2nd January to attend Battalion Camp
Letter from Defence Department
March through City of about 750 troops on Thursday 14th inst
Letter from Australian Womens' National League
Re decision of Town Hall Committee, that the Town Hall would not be granted for meetings at which Adela Pankhurst would speak
Letter from Town Clerk Williamstown
Stating Council has no objection to Stand for Hackney Carriage at Williamstown Station to run to Altona Camp
Letter from James Prendergast
Application for difference between Military and Civil pay
Letter from Carlton Patriotic Committee
Permission for bands to march through City on Sunday 17th December
Letter from Defence Department
Re Recruiting Scheme
Letter from State Recruiting Committee of Victoria
Erection of six Recruiting Thermometers on Administrative Buildings
Letter from Overseas Club. Southern Cross Tobacco Fund
Thanking Council for donations towards Tobacco Fund, and forwarding new subscription list
Letter from City Treasurer
Recommending increased salaries to officers in the Department
Letter from John Danks and Son
Reporting that the Defence Department has requisitioned the 5th floor of their building, and that any structural alterations are made by them and that Danks cannot be responsible
Letter from Superintendent of Markets
Renovations to premises vacated by the State War Council at Western Market
Letter from State Recruiting Committee
Recruiting meeting Alexandra Park. Sunday 17th [February]
Letter from State War Council
Indulgence passage for wife of James Sherry a gardener employed by the Council
Letter from Sergeant E. Bastings
Thanking Council for their congratulations on his decoration
Letter from Education Department
Requesting Council's permission for children to sell Flowers and badges in the City on Childrens Flower Day (1.11.18)
Letter from Mrs S.A. Southgate
re Arctic Exploration Medal

Site-wide information and acknowledgements

This eMelbourne feature was curated by Professor Andrew J. May and Nicole Davis, with research assistance from Nick Coyne. Financial and in-kind support was provided by the School of Historical and Philosophical Studies, Faculty of Arts, The University of Melbourne, and Public Record Office Victoria.

Special Thanks to: History Program, School of Historical and Philosophical Studies

Thanks to: Helen Morgan (eScholarship Research Centre), Daniel Wilksch (Public Record Office Victoria) and John Lycette (Lycette Bros.)
The University of Melbourne Public Record Office Victoria