Photograph of Australian Red Cross Society Ambulance

c. 1941
Overview

Black and white, mounted photograph of a Chevrolet Modified Civilian Pattern (MCP) or Indian Pattern ambulance. The ambulance is facing to the right. It has a distinctive overhanging visor which protects the driver from the elements at the sides and front.
There is a spare tyre attached to the driver's side door. The Red Cross logo is painted on a white circular background in the centre of the canopy side. A serial number is painted in white on the side of the bonnet. A number of nurses wearing high heels and different coloured uniforms can be seen in the background on the extreme left of the photograph.
The photo is first mounted onto a textured fawn coloured matte and then a lighter cream coloured backing board.
The photograph has been framed at some point, as there are remnants of tape and rust marks from the tacks used to hold it in the frame.
A label for the photographic studio which either produced or framed the item is affixed to the reverse.

Historical information

This ambulance is believed to be a 4X2 conversion of the standard Modified Civilian Pattern 1941 Chevrolet Chassis. The rear body was made from wooden framing covered with doped canvas. It was used in the Middle East and all areas of the Pacific by Australian Forces.

Details

Details

Registration number
cwa-org-119-RoW00626
Width
308 mm
Height or length
235 mm
Inscriptions and markings

On label:

"W. POLAND
AURORA STUDIO
CROWS NEST"

PHOTO ENHANCING
HAND PAINTED
ORIGINAL OR WORKED IN
BACKGROUND

FRAMES TO SUIT
SQUARE, OVAL OR OCTAGON"

Place made
United States
Year
Primary significance criteria
Historic significance
Social or spiritual significance
Comparative significance criteria
Interpretive capacity
Last modified
Monday, 4 August, 2025
Completeness
100
Recollections of War

Recollections of War

Organisation details
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Photograph of Australian Red Cross Society Ambulance
Photograph of Australian Red Cross Society Ambulance
Reverse of photograph of Australian Red Cross Society Ambulance
Reverse of photograph of Australian Red Cross Society Ambulance
Close up of photographic studio label on reverse of photograph
Close up of photographic studio label on reverse of photograph

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