Summary

Diary kept as part of the school curriculum by Claire (Clara) French (nee Wieser) at primary school from 1935-1936 in Bolzano. The book contains drawings of the Italian national flag, which Claire describes as evidence of the fascist indoctrination of the time. With one picture showing a group of children in regimented uniforms in front of the Italian national flag, Claire has drawn herself at the front of the group saluting and chanting. Of Germany ethnicity, but born in South Tyrol and considered an Italian citizen, Claire spent four years at a convent school in Italy so she could inherit the family property. She migrated to Australia in 1951 with her family, eventually marrying and settling here. The Wieser family's migration experience, is one of statelessness and displacement, both during World War II and afterwards, and of continual movement and fracturing of the family upon their arrival in Australia.

Description of Content

Diary kept as part of school curriculum by the donor at primary school in 1935-1936 in Bolzano. Brought to Australia by the donor in 1951. Of particular interest is a drawing of children in regimented uniforms and Italian national flag - donor depicts herself at the front of the group saluting and chanting. The donor describes as evidence of the fascist indoctrination of the time;

Physical Description

Blue covered thin lined exercise book, with thirty eight pahes. The cover is labelled 'Diario Wieser Clara/S.Maria/1935,36'. The book is filled with illustrations and diary entries.

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