Dress sword protector.
Object detail
Description
Protective, form fitted bag for sword in scabbard, soft weather lining at top in area of hilt, undyed cotton inner layer in area of scabbard, outer layer is black and of uncertain composition - possibly black painted cotton canvas, or possibly coated with tar. Surface is hard, brittle and cracking, and was probably originally intended as waterproofing.
Classification
ARMS & ARMOUR Edged weapons
Measurements
L980 x W180 x H20 mm
Media/Materials description
Cotton, leather, paint (?), tar (?).
History and use
This sword was part of the uniform worn by Sir Samuel Griffith on ceremonial occasions. Sir Samuel Griffith (1845-1920) held numerous positions including Attorney General, Premier in 1883 and 1890, Chief Justice of Queensland, Lieutenant Governor of Queensland, and Chief Justice of Australia. He married Julia Thompson (later referred to as Lady Griffith) of Maitland, NSW in July, 1870. They had six children, Mary, Llewellyn (Llew), helen (Nellie), Edward (Percy), Alice (Gwen) and Edith (Edie). In 1886 he was made Knight Commander of St Michael and St George, and in 1895 Grand Companion. In 1875 as Attorney General he introduced the State Education Act, which provided free primary school education for all Queensland children. In the following year he was appointed Secretary of Public Instruction (now Education Queensland). Griffith's illustrious career in the law and in Queensland politics culminated in his role in Federation. Following the drafting of the federal constitution during the latter part of the 1890s, and the proclamation of Federation in January 1901, Sir Samuel was appointed Chief Justice of Australia in 1903.
Associated person
Registration number
H49758
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