eHive Object Details

Name/TitleExhibition Building: opening of First Federal Parliament, 1901

About this objectThis is a photograph of a painting by Tom Roberts (1856-1931), 'The Opening of Federal Parliament 9 May, 1901', oil on canvas. He has depicted the scene in the Exhibition Building from an imaginary point in the eastern transept. (Source: Victorian Icon: The Royal Exhibition Building, Melbourne by David Dunstan, pl.13)

One of the many glass slides purchased from retailers or specifically made for illustrated lectures given by Isaac Selby between c. 1930 and c. 1955 to raise money for the Old Pioneers Memorial Fund.

Selby gave a lecture on "Melbourne Exhibitions" on August 10th, 1932 at the public library. He also spoke at Independent Hall, Collins Street, on "Great Exhibitions of the World - with a plea for one at the Centenary of Victoria", July 5th 1949. He also gave a lecture titled, 'The Pageant of Federation', at the Assembly Hall, Collins Street, on July 2nd, 1951.

For more information about this image contact Royal Historical Society of Victoria

MakerGunn's Slides (Firm)

Maker RoleSlide Maker

Date Made1901

Inscription and MarksTWENTY-FIVE YEARS AGO.-- The scene in the Exhibition Building at Melbourne on May 9, 1901, when the King (then Duke of Cornwall and York) opened the first Parliament of the Australian Commonwealth. He is seen on the platform reading his speech with the Duchess and Lord Hopetoun, the Governor-General, standing behind. Members of the Senate are standing at the back of the platform, and members of the House of Representatives in the body of the building.

Measurements8.2 x 8.2 cm

Period1900-1910

Object TypePhotograph

Subject and Association KeywordsSelby, Isaac, 1859-1956

Subject and Association KeywordsFederation (1901)

Subject and Association KeywordsRoyal Exhibition Building (Melbourne, Vic.)

Subject and Association KeywordsRoberts, Tom, 1856-1931

Subject and Association KeywordsFestivals and celebrations

Named CollectionImages collection

Object numberGS-BCS-10

Copyright LicenceAll rights reserved