Search the collections
Badge - 'Wattle Day for Children', Australia, 1914-1918
Reg. No: HT 24251
- Summary:
- Alternative Name(s): Button
'Wattle Day for Children' badge, made circa 1914-1919. Badge intended to be pinned to clothing.
The first 'national' Wattle Day was celebrated in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide on 1 September 1910. Wattle had become a symbol of Australia with the approach of Federation. It was particularly promoted by the Australian Natives' Association, established in 1871 and a strong advocate for native-born Australians and Federation. It later became an advocate for White Australia. Public support for Wattle Day peaked during World War I, when it was a potent symbol of home for military personnel serving overseas, and a means of raising money for organisations such as the Red Cross. Beautifully designed Wattle Day badges as well as wattle sprigs were sold. The influence of Wattle Day waned as the 20th century progressed, but in 1992 the Governor-General declared 1 September National Wattle Day. - Description:
- Round metal badge with blue outer border. Words printed in red on outer border and in blue in banner below central image of a yellow crown with three feathers behind it (Prince of Wales' feathers - heraldic symbol). The lower banner is in front of a wreath of wattle blossom. Maker printed on outer lower rim edge. Metal pin in back fits in slot.
- Acquisition Information:
- Donation from Mr H. Legge, 1989
| Discipline: | History |
| Dimensions: | 5 mm (Height), 32 mm (Diameter) |
More information
| Tagged with: | community organisations, fundraising, wattle day, wars conflicts, world war i 1914-1918 |
| Themes this item is part of: | Wattle Day, Public Life & Institutions Collection |
| Primary Classification: | CELEBRATIONS & TRADITIONS |
| Secondary Classification: | Wattle Day |
| Tertiary Classification: | badges |
| Inscriptions: | Outer border: "WATTLE DAY" Lower banner: " FOR CHILDREN" On lower outer rim: "A W PATRICK 440 RAE ST N FITZROY VIC". |
| Manufacturer: | A.W. Patrick, Australia, 1914-1918 The donor believed this badge to date to World War I. |
Add your question or comment