Item HT 21120 Ribbon - Masonic Concert, Melbourne Liedertafel, 1887

Summary

Ribbon for a Masonic concert, of the Melbourne Liedertafel, 1887. One of the most popular recreational activities of the early German immigrants was singing. Music was an important social activity and every German settlement of significant size in the 19th century had a brass band. Usually the girls learned the piano and the boys learned brass instruments.Male singers sang not only in church but also formed singing groups, known as Liedertafel.

The Club Tivoli is one of the oldest clubs in Victoria. In the 1850s there were several German-language groups and clubs in Melbourne. On the 1st May 1860 the "Deutsche Turnverein Melbourne" was founded. The already existing and reputable 'Liedertafel Harmonia' (male choir) joined the new club on the same day. In 1885 the choir changed its name from 'Harmonia' to 'Arion'. On the 1st May 1921 the 'Deutsche Turnverein Melbourne' and the Club Tivoli amalgamated under the name 'Club Tivoli Deutscher Verein Melbourne'. The club bought its present club rooms in Dandenong Rd Windsor in 1989. The Liedertafel Arion and the Liederkranz Tivoli (a mixed choir) continue to be active singing groups.

Physical Description

Pale blue ribbon, brushed smooth on facing side, with gold printed inscription and masonic motif of set square and set square. Ends folded back.

Significance

This ribbon demonstrates the diversity of immigrant settlement during the nineteenth century in Victoria, as well as the determination of cultural groups such as the Germans to maintain cultural traditions and activities in a new homeland.