Museum Metadata Exchange

Names

Name PrimaryThe Riley Family Collection

IDs

ID LocalWAM 17

ID Urihttp://www.museum.wa.gov.au/research/collections/social-history/history-introduction

Descriptions

Brief DescriptionThis near complete collection of 150 toys, photos and other items belonged to the six children (b.1887-97) of Perth's first Anglican Archbishop, the Rev C O Riley. It is believed to be one of the most complete holdings of a single family collection of toys of this period in Australia.

Full DescriptionPart of the ECU Museum of Childhood Collection, this near complete collection of 150 toys, photos and other items belonged to the six children (b.1887-97) of Perth's first Anglican Archbishop, the Rev C O Riley. It is believed to be one of the most complete holdings of a single family collection of toys of this period in Australia and is of national significance. It was played with at 'Bishop's House' in central Perth. The extensive range of toys is in excellent condition and includes many individually provenanced and rare items. The Collection of toys has historic significance in representing the experience of a privileged middle class Australian family at the turn of the last century. It casts light on social class, gender roles, religious observance, patterns of children's play and the acculturation of Australian children into the British Empire. The collection is particularly significant for its integrity - both its excellent condition and its completeness as a family collection - and its provenance. Many of the toys have aesthetic significance, as beautifully styled and crafted artefacts. The collection has social significance to the community who remembers Archbishop Riley and his family. The collection is supported by published and archival material about the family, particularly the oldest child, Pauline. In addition, the Museum holds photographs of the children, some with their toys; an oral history with Pauline at 98; an extensively researched history of the children; and other items belonging to them.

RightsSome material may be subject to copyright.

AccessAvailable by appointment - http://www.museum.wa.gov.au/about/contact-us

Subjects

person_orgAnglican Church; Archbishop CO Riley; Charles Riley; Pauline Riley; Riley Family Collection

localArchbishop CO Riley; Bishop's House; Charles Riley; Pauline Riley; Perth; Photographs; Riley Family Collection; Toys; Western Australia; Western Australian childhood

scotChildren; Costume; Education; Families; Games; Photography; Play (Recreation); Toys

aptChildren's effects; Domestic life; Photography

pontPhotographs; Toys

Coverage Spatial

TextInternational; Western Australia; Perth; Bishop's House, Perth

Coverage Temporal

From1880

To1915

Related Collections

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Dates

Date Record Updated2012-05-30 23:42

Date Created in MME2011-03-25 14:57