Jane Free

Datec 1895

Object number00049104

NamePhotograph

MediumPaint on photograph, timber, cardboard, paper, glass

DimensionsOverall: 440 x 340 x 40 mm, 999.38 g

ClassificationsPhotographs

Credit LineANMM Collection Norma Dorothy Free Bequest

Terms

DescriptionA collection of material relating to the manuscript diary of Captain Edwin Thomas Free, produced in manuscript form by Norma Dorothy Free circa 1975 as 'A Saga of the Sea' and held in the Vaughan Evans Library (RARE 910.45092 FRE).HistoryThis collection of various material from the Estate of Norma Dorothy Free includes objects, text and images relating to Norma's manuscript 'A Saga of the Sea', based on the diary of Captain Edwin Thomas Free, one of Norma's ancestors. The folders contain 'addenda' to the manuscript and include ship medallions, Merchant Navy records, letters, certificates of discharge, certificates of qualifications, commemorative and World War One service medals, hatbands and badges, etc., all relating to the period circa 1890s to the early twentieth century. The collection also contains a telescope, that according to Norma, that was presented to Thomas Free's uncle in 1890. Also, there are 2 oval framed paintings (possibly hand-tinted photographs) of Thomas Free and 6 watercolour paintings by well known maritime artist John Allcot, including one long painting of the BENALLA under fire in the Mediterranean during World War One, another 5 smaller ship paintings, one of the WESTLAND, another sailing vessel and 3 steamships. SignificanceThe collection of objects and archival material relating to Captain Edwin Thomas Free is a comprehensive documentation of the life of a merchant sailor from the late 19th century and early twentieth centuries, including experience in the First World War. It includes significant works of art by well known maritime artist John Allcot, as well as significant memorabilia such as war service medals.

It is an important collection that includes a range of diverse material, and highlights the diary of Captain Free, held in the ANMM library.