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The Digby Mechanics Institute at
the 2006 Exhibition
The Digby Mechanics Institute opened in 1870, and was used for Band of Hope meetings, concerts, dances, games and fundraising. At times it made daily newspapers available to its members, and acted as a library. It also acted as the supper room for the Memorial Hall for some time. Like many halls in small country towns, the Mechanics fell on hard times and became quite run down.
However the Digby townsfolk recently extensively renovated the Mechanics. During the 2006 Collection Exhibition, the Mechanics held a wide-ranging display of local records and memorabilia.
The original shelving has been restored, and many of the library books replaced.
Local history items such as school attendance and inspection reports, letter, bills, school newsletters were on display during the 2006 Vern McCallum Collection Exhibition.
More historical items were displayed in the Institute's front room, including a banner from the State School (which is now closed), old maps of the town showing the names of the plot holders, invitations to social functions, regalia from the local Foresters Lodge, and various letters and ledgers.
These items help reveal the depth of history that hides behind the present day facade of a small country town.
Digby has contributed its share to many wars. Here are the uniform, medals and other articles of two of those who served, Gordon Wombwell and Charles Drew.
The folders at the lower right contain extensive information on all those honoured in the Digby Memorial Plantation. They were researched and presented to the Digby citizens by Christine Dunstan (nee McCallum) who is descended from the town's earliest settlers.
The Collection's photos and the Mechanics' display combined to present a more complete picture of the social history of Digby, and of the Western District in general. The initial display in the Mechanics Institute has stimulated many local memories. More items are coming to light, so plans are already underway to expand this part of the event.
Important !!
Don't let your photographic memories slip away. Add names, place and date NOW !!
