Artefact store for local history

• Nigel Mercer, Logan Krushka and Rod Martin in the History Society's new Artefact Store at the Council. 

June 07, 2023

Since its inception five years ago, the Dorset Tasmania History Society has collated and preserved much of the region's history and now they have their own place to call home for keeping these special artefacts. 

Thanks to the Dorset Council the group now has two spacious rooms to provide a long-term repository for any significant artefacts that people would like to donate.

Society president Nigel Mercer said items will be preserved for future generations to enjoy, and for historical research in the new Artefacts Store.

“The Society has been well received by the community, with over current 50 members, including many from outside of our region and a number of expats on the mainland. 

“Covering the whole of the Dorset region, we record and preserve historical information and promote a continued interest in the past by publishing historical materials, and by holding meetings and events,” he said.

In its early years the group focussed on collecting information and images. 

Beginning with Jeff Jennings’ extensive repository of over 3,000 photographs, most collected in the 1980s, they have since built an image archive with almost 18,000 images, each catalogued in the repository. 

“We also have an extensive database of family information, dating back to the earliest pioneers,” Mr Mercer said.

Last year the group decided it was time to expand and have a place where physical items with significant local history interest can be preserved. 

It is not an easy task, it requires secure, climate-controlled, vermin-proof premises and use of archival quality materials.

The group decided from the outset it should be professionally run to a museum standard of storage and care. 

The store’s collection manager, Logan Krushka from Bridport, comes from a museum background and provides the Society with considerable expertise.

“We want to provide a trusted and highly-respected place where physical items can be donated so that they do not end up being thrown out or destroyed. 

“Too much history has been lost over many years, so every little bit that we get to preserve will be appreciated by locals in years to come.”

All sorts of items are relevant, including maps, documents, photos, household items, signs, sporting items – essentially anything that directly refers to Dorset or the people who have lived here and which helps to tell our stories.

The Society will be limited by its available space, but if you think you have something that may be of interest please call Rod Martin 0448 822 314 or contact the Dorset Tasmania History Society via social media.