Harvesting History – the Museum’s Harvest Jug

The project seeks to explore and document the history of Harvest Jugs, and to position this Harvest Jug within this broader historical context. Since this particular object has wonderful provenance, the Museum hopes to be able to use it to tell narratives about the gender in rural Australia and overseas.

The project will involve research into Harvest Jugs, and searches on other cultural collections. Findings will be submitted as a report which will provide the bases for future interpretation of the Jug. The project will also include conducting an oral history with the donor regarding the jug, its discovery and the broader history of the family farm.

The student will submit a report outlining research findings, source bibliography, documentation of experts and organisations contacted and information provided, and copies of related articles, images, websites, etc.; as well as recommendations for future use and interpretation of the object. The student will also submit the oral history tapes and possibly a transcript depending on the length of interview.

The student should be undertaking a relevant degree in history, museum studies/art curatorship, or related heritage studies; have some research experience and a desire to engage with material culture.