Brass container with rosary beads inside
Object detail
Description
Round brass container with hinged lid. Madonna in relief on lid, grape vine pattern on base. Contains rosary beads.
Classification
RELIGIONS Catholic rosary
Measurements
Container: Diameter 55 mm x H22 mm, weight 27 gm.
Beads: L370 mm, weight 5 gm.
Beads: L370 mm, weight 5 gm.
History and use
These items were some of several battlefield souvenirs collected by Francis Joseph Brewer during World War 1 and posted home to family members.
A journalist from Bondi, New South Wales, Francis Brewer saw active service in France and in 1918 was shot in the ankle, an injury which eventually led to him being returned to Australia. Like many soldiers, he collected souvenirs, many of which he posted home to his family. He also kept a journal throughout the War (allegedly sold for 50 pounds during the depression years) which is now held in the Mitchell Library.
On his return to Australia, Francis continued his work as a journalist covering politics and court proceedings. He also authored several publications including ‘All About War Gratuity : instructions how to get it, together with a gratuity ready reckoner; Australian handbook for nurses, sailors, soldiers and dependants’ and ‘Sixty-six years of municipal government’ for the Brisbane Council.
A journalist from Bondi, New South Wales, Francis Brewer saw active service in France and in 1918 was shot in the ankle, an injury which eventually led to him being returned to Australia. Like many soldiers, he collected souvenirs, many of which he posted home to his family. He also kept a journal throughout the War (allegedly sold for 50 pounds during the depression years) which is now held in the Mitchell Library.
On his return to Australia, Francis continued his work as a journalist covering politics and court proceedings. He also authored several publications including ‘All About War Gratuity : instructions how to get it, together with a gratuity ready reckoner; Australian handbook for nurses, sailors, soldiers and dependants’ and ‘Sixty-six years of municipal government’ for the Brisbane Council.
Associated person
Registration number
H48413
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