1909 Victoria League Presentation Scroll

The aim of this project is to find out more about the scroll, both in its origins in Bristol, United Kingdom, and its subsequent history in Australia. This would also involve looking at the aims and objectives of both leagues, and finding out more about the Victoria League members who signed the roll.

The scroll was purchased by the Museum in December 2007. Nothing is known of its history, as it was found by the vendor in a Brisbane second hand shop. According to the scroll, it was presented in 1909 by the Bristol Branch of the Victoria League to the Women’s Branch of the British Empire League in Australia. It is signed by a number of prominent members, including the President of the League, the Duchess of Beaufort. In part it records `hearty greetings to the officers and members of the Women’s Branch British Empire League in Australia’ and ‘best wishes for the success of their efforts in maintaining the unity and development of our beloved British Empire.’  It also makes mention of an accompanying Bristol City Banner.

The project will require the student/researcher to spend time with the object at Melbourne Museum, where a desk will be provided for their use. The student/researcher will have access to the collection, the museum’s database and museum libary. The student/researcher will be expected to use the resources of other relevant research facilities, such as the State Library of Victoria, and make contact with any relevant interstate and overseas organisations.

Findings will be submitted in a report which will be linked to the object record. This report will outline 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. There is also the potential for this reasearch to be published on the museum’s website or in the museum’s biannual magazine.

The student/researcher should be undertaking or have completed 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.