Summary

Silver cradle ornament presented to Councillor Jacob Fletcher by councillors and officers of the St Arnaud Shire in 1890, on the birth of his first born during his term as President of the Shire.
It was made by jewellers Weir and Company of Donald in 1890.
The cradle was originally in a glass dome.

Physical Description

Small ornament in the shape of a baby's cradle suspended on a frame and with a metal support for a miniature hanging curtain. The cradle contains two tiny dolls, dressed in cream-coloured material with white lace trim lying on a satin cushion with pearl and lace trim, under a coverlet with pearl, lace and ribbon trim. There is a net curtain at the head of the cradle. The body of the cradle is finely patterned metal, apparently silver, and the stand is also finely wrought. At the base of the cradle is an engraved plaque.

Significance

Reason for Acquisition: Such cradles were presented to anyone performing a 'hat trick' in any one year - becoming a Shire President, marrying, and becoming a father in one year. At its presentation it was reported as being the fourth such presentation in the State. See The Donald Times, Tuesday 9 September 1890.

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