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December 2015

"Three Antiquities Writing a Book"

Writing the Bicentennial History of Canberra


The ANU to the Rescue

In March 1983, before the suggested transfer took place, Professor John Molony of the ANU History Department proposed the DCT fund two scholarships. The DCT would advertise the scholarships subject to the awardees enrolling at the ANU for a degree of Doctor of Philosophy. The ANU would then supervise the candidates' research and writing of the remaining volumes.

In September 1983, the DCT advertised for persons interested in the three-year Ph.D Scholarships at a flat rate of $11,000 adjusted annually. Out of the 14 applicants received, Eric Sparke and James (Jim) Gibbney were successful. Work on the books commenced on the 20th of January 1984. The project was unique in that all three authors worked together rather than as individuals to produce the set.


Drawing of Historians in Conference

The Christmas card includes this drawing; presumably representing the three authors "in conference".


During 1984 and 1985, the Information and Public Relations Branch contacted many Federal Departments and agencies to advise them of the project and to seek assistance with access to research material. All responded helpfully.

In July 1985, the ACT and Island Territory Council of the Australian Bicentennial Authority (ABA) endorsed the History of Canberra publications as a Bicentennial Activity. This authorised the use of the Bicentennial symbol and logo on the books.

Emeritus Professor Manning Clark, AC, launched Canberra 1913-1953 (Gibbney) and Canberra 1954-1980 (Sparke) at Olims Ainslie Hotel on the 19th of April 1988. Two years later, ACT Chief Minister, Trevor Kaine, launched Canberra 1920-1913 (Gillespie) at the Albert Hall on the 12th of March 1991.


1988 order form

Order form for Canberra 1913-1953 and Canberra 1954-1980

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More Than Just Books

ArchivesACT's copies of the History of Canberra illustrate the importance of archival provenance. We are fortunate that this Christmas card and invitations remained with the books. They provide context and authenticity to these particular volumes, linking them back to the authors and a key individual in their production. These items, along with the authors' personal messages, are a lasting reminder of Neville Braidwood's involvement in their publishing. They are no longer just books but are now a small piece of Canberra's history.


Jim Gibbney's thanks to Neville Braidwood


Special Thanks To Mary Ryan, Steve Ryan and David Wardle for their assistance with this month's Find.

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Files Used

  • 87/7368: PUBLIC INFORMATION SECTION - PRODUCTION OF PROPOSED HISTORY OF CANBERRA
  • 88/3345: PUBLIC INFORMATION SECTION, HISTORY OF CANBERRA, DISTRIBUTION LIST
  • 88/13685: PUBLIC AFFAIRS BRANCH, HISTORY OF CANBERRA 1981 - 1990
  • 89/19960: PUBLIC AFFAIRS BRANCH, HISTORY OF CANBERRA - PRODUCTION OF
  • 92/7555: HERITAGE & MUSEUMS SECTION, HISTORY OF CANBERRA - 1988 BOOK LAUNCH


Links to Webpages About Neville Braidwood


Links to Webpages About the History of Canberra Books


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