Summary

Glass negative stereograph showing the Duke's Arch on Bourke Street, with some cyclists and horse-drawn carriages. It is part of the G. H. Myers Collection which consists of 73 photographs taken by Godfrey Henry Myers, an electrician and amateur photographer, in Melbourne during May 1901. 72 of these photographs depict preparations for the celebrations that surrounded Federation; all but one are glass stereographs. This collection represents Myers' one venture into commercial photography. It is significant for its images of the crowds, which do not feature so prominently in commercial photographs. The remaining photograph is a family portrait.

The opening of the Australian Parliament on May 9 1901 was an occasion for great celebrations in Melbourne. Ten days of festivities (from 6-16 May) were planned to mark the Federation of the new nation and honour the Royal visitors, the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York. The city was transformed with decorations - flags, bunting, colourful lights and festive arches - and a series of public events were held, including a military tattoo and several street parades. Unprecedented numbers of people arrived in Melbourne from the rest of Victoria and throughout Australia to take part in the celebrations.

Description of Content

Duke's Arch, Federation Celebrations, Bourke Street, Melbourne, May 1901. The naval themed arch was covered in velveteen fabric in marine colours with orange lining and gold tracery. On the left tower there is a large photograph of the Duke of Cornwall, on the right, the Duchess. In the centre, up on top, an 8 foot model of the man-of-war 'Melampus' pitched and rolled as waves rose and fell. When the Royal carriage was to approach, tiny guns would fire, and a Welcome pennant would be raised. In the background is the tower and clock of the General Post Office. In the centre of the road a bicyclist is looking at a tandem bicycle going past.

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