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Desk set made from the wood of the HMAS SYDNEY I
Desk set made from the wood of the HMAS SYDNEY I

Desk set made from the wood of the HMAS SYDNEY I

Datec 1920
Object number00031046
NameDesk set
MediumWood, brass, enamel, aluminium, felt
DimensionsOverall: 40 x 390 x 178 mm, 1.35 kg
Display Dimensions: 179 x 387 mm
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from M Herman
DescriptionDesk set made from the wood of the first HMAS SYDNEY. In front of the inkwells is a blue enamel inlay with gold lettering reading "wood from HMAS SYDNEY".HistoryHMAS SYDNEY was part of the first Royal Australian Navy fleet. Built in England in 1912, SYDNEY saw spectacular success in World War I during an engagement in the Indian Ocean against the German raider SMS EMDEN. In November 1915 SYDNEY defeated EMDEN in battle - an event that placed the RAN on the map in its own right. For the remainder of the War, the cruiser was deployed to the North Atlantic and West Indies Station, then the South Atlantic Station, the North Sea, and was present at the surrender of the German High Seas Fleet in November 1918. From 1919 to 1928 SYDNEY undertook routine duties with the Australian Squadron until final decommissioning in 1928.SignificanceThe HMAS SYDNEY and SMS EMDEN battle was one of immense significance for the RAN and the people of Australia. It proved the RAN was just as professional as the Royal Navy and also had a significant role to play in the Allied forces. The event was widely celebrated in Australia with many souvenirs and mementoes being manufactured. In addition to these souvenirs some were made from pieces of the ship, such as this desk set.