The Gap, Sydney Heads

Datec 1934

Object numberANMS0227[021]

(not entered)Postcard

NamePostcard

MediumSilver gelatin print

DimensionsOverall: 45 x 69 mm

ClassificationsPhotographs

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Robert D McKilliam

Terms

DescriptionA hand coloured postcard of the rocky headland on Sydney Harbour known as 'The Gap' produced by the well known photographic studio of Kerry & Co in Sydney. Handwritten on the front is 'Wishing you many happy returns of the 25th. Inst. Norah & Arthur [...Les?]' and it is addressed to Captain McKilliam of the SS SALAMIS. HistoryIn 1894 Captain Robert McKilliam's was assigned his first command of the clipper ship SALAMIS. Of this promotion Captain McKilliam said "This appointment meant a dramatic change from a comparatively easy life on a steamer back to a sailing ship, so I didn’t enthuse much over it. It meant one had to be constantly on watch - rigging and gear, masts, spars, sails, winds and weather, and to a ship with such a great record." McKilliam earned an excellent reputation aboard the SALAMIS, commanding the vessel on four voyages to Sydney. After this Captain McKilliam returned to the steamers of the Aberdeen White Star Line. He commanded the SS DAMASCUS, SS SOPHOCLES and finally the SS SALAMIS (named after the earlier sailing vessel). SignificanceThis image is a part of the Captain Robert McKilliam collection. Captain McKilliam worked for the Aberdeen White Star Line for 32 years and sailed aboard such famous clipper ships as SALAMIS and THERMOPYLAE. He moved to Sydney in 1913 where he served as Assistant Wharf Master on Darling Island.