Summary

Medal issued to commemorate the proclamation of Western Australia in 1890. It names William Cleaver Francis as Governor of Western Australia. Robinson was a career governor who had previously governed Western Australia. Chosen to inaugurate parliamentary government in Western Australia, he assisted the Colony's delegates and the Colonial Office in drafting the Constitution bill before he left London, and took the new Constitution to Perth in October 1890. His arrival was widely acclaimed since he knew more about the colony than any other imperial officer. He arranged for the first elections of the Legislative Assembly, chose the first premier, John Forrest, and nominated members of the Legislative Council. His practical role in politics thereafter diminished. Robinson retired in March 1895, returned to London.
Mint: not recorded.
Previous Collections: George McArthur, Maldon.

Obverse Description

Bust of Governor Robinson 3/4 facing left; around, PROCLAMATION MEDAL OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (Note: die cracked at base of buts, new obverse die for NU18982)

Reverse Description

At centre in three lines, W.C.F.ROBINSON / OCT. 1890 / GOVERNOR; around, INAUGURATION OF RESPONSIBLE GOVERNMENT

Edge Description

Plain

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