Photograph of staff of Cheer-Up Society Hut, 1947

« Prev Item Next Item »

1947

Overview

Greyscale portrait of a group of 44 female workers from the Cheer-up Society Hut, taken in 1947. They are dressed in the style of nurses, with white dresses and veils on their hair. Some members are wearing tippets (nursing style capes) and are possibly the more senior among the group. Most have a badge on their collar lapels. They are wearing white lace-up shoes.
The reverse of the photograph has many inscriptions. It would appear that the photo was taken to a reunion of staff of the Hut on February 20 1980 and was signed by the attendees.

Historical information

The South Australian Cheer-up Society was established in 1914 and comprised volunteer women workers who offered support to soldiers through the distribution of comforts, provision of meals and entertainment. The society also wished to shield soldiers from alcohol and disreputable city entertainments such as bars and brothels. In World War One, they established the Cheer-Up Hut and in World War Two, the Cheer-Up Hostel.

Badges and pins were sold in an effort to raise funds.

South Australia was very active on the home front during wartime, having several fundraising charities unique to the state. These included the School's Patriotic Fund, Fighting Forces Comforts Fund, Violet Day and the Cheer Up Society.

A Cheer Up Hut or Hostel was a place for men to eat, rest, socialise and either recover or prepare for service. The volunteers were known as 'The Cheer-Ups'. They prepared and served meals, after which they danced with the men.

A link to the history of the Cheer-Up Society Hut is attached.

Details

Registration number

cwa-org-119-RoW00293

Place made

Adelaide
South Australia
Australia

Year

1947

Primary significance criteria

Historic significance

Scientific or research significance

Social or spiritual significance