History House Museum - 100th Anniversary of World War exhibition in 2015

The City of Armadale’s History House Museum is seeking information relating to what life was like living in the City of Armadale during World War I.

The information will be displayed during an exhibition that will be held in 2015 as part of the commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of World War I.

The exhibition will focus on what life in the City of Armadale was like for those who stayed home, while many young men and a few women from the district enlisted to serve with the AIF in Gallipoli and Europe.

The exhibition will delve into many issues of the time, such as how the men that stayed behind were treated and the persecution of non-naturalised residents who were born in countries that were now the enemy.

The war caused many Australians to turn against their German and Italian neighbours, even though many had been naturalised and had sons fighting in the AIF; some families had to register with the local police station and were subject to unjustified searches, surveillance and arrest.

The exhibition will also give an insight into the impact on the workforce, when the young men enlisted and left the district, and the contribution of women who had no choice but to take on traditional male roles in the workforce.

Armadale Mayor Henry Zelones said there are still many older residents living in the City that would have a wealth of information relating to this era that needs to be documented to ensure the stories can be captured for future generations.

“We are hoping to obtain a variety of information and stories, including photographs and any objects that relate to this period in history from diaries to business ledgers, letters, or any other memorabilia.

“Maybe you knew someone who volunteered with the Red Cross during the war, a family that lost a son, brother, husband or father in the line of duty, or knew of community events that were held to help raise money for the war effort.

“Do you have childhood memories of growing up during the war or knowledge of any families that had loved ones interned during the war, or deported at the end of the war?

“I encourage residents to share their stories and information so that visitors to History House during the exhibition can learn about the war effort and the effects it had on the home front, especially in the Armadale area,” said Mayor Zelones.

History House Museum is located in the Minnawarra Historic Precinct on Jull Street, Armadale. For information and opening times call 9399 0670 or visit www.armadale.wa.gov.au.