City of Armadale - History House > Records

LID - OVALTINE RUSK TIN

« Prev Item Next Item »

c. 1940

Overview

Rectangular tin lid made from thin sheet metal with a rolled safety edge around the lip.

Embossed text in middle of the lid. The right leg of the R extends out to form a oval decoration around the text ["OVALTINE" / Rusks].

Historical information

In 1865, Dr George Wander, a Swiss chemist based in Berne, developed a barley extract and drink he called ''Ovomaltine''. In 1909 his son Albert established the British company A Wander Ltd and changed the name of the drink to Ovaltine which was marketed as a health product. The rusks were produced from the early 1920s.

Albert Harrison and his family moved to Kelmscott in the 1920s where he started an apiarist business, placing bee hives throughout the nearby hills. When old enough his sons Albert Lincoln ‘Linc’ and Frank joined the business. Linc continued to run A. Harrison & Sons following his father’s death in 1944. They named the honey after the native Wandoo (Eucalyptus wandoo) trees found in the nearby hills.

Albert, age 57, died following an accident on 12 March. Albert was cutting a piece of wood with a circular saw when it was suddenly thrown backwards, striking Albert in the head. Albert was rushed to hospital but died the following morning. Albert was buried at the Methodist section of the Karrakatta Cemetery on 14 March 1944.

Albert and his family lived at Third Avenue where they also had their honey processing plant. Though not an active member of the community, Albert did financially support a variety of local community groups. The family was also known for their integrity and for being very industrious and hospitable. The Harrison's would regularly exhibit their honey at the Kelmscott show winning numerous prizes.

Details

Registration number

cwa-org-33-AK2001.65B

Material

Ferrous Metal

Year

c. 1940

Statement of significance

his object is part of a collection that represents the commercial history of the City of Armadale. It represents the many different businesses that have operated in the local area and how those businesses have evolved over time. Businesses play an important role within a community, they provide wanted and needed goods and services, employment, income and opportunities to the local community. They can also operate as important social connectors, places where people gathered and engaged with other members of the community.

Last modified

Thursday, 1 October, 2026

Completeness

Item feedback

City of Armadale - History House