Photograph of staff of Cheer-Up Society Hut, 1947

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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 pale blue veils on their hair. Some members are wearing tippets (nursing style capes) which were blue in colour, 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.
Men also volunteered in the Cheer Up Society establishments, helping to lighten the tasks of the women helpers. There were mainly engaged in duties as Hut wardens and 'washers up', among other roles.
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.

This photograph has 'Cheer Up Hut' written on the reverse, but would have been the hostel in 1947.

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

Item type

Themes

War and Conflict > World War 2

Material

Ink

Paper

Photographic Materials

Width

210 mm

Height or length

160 mm

Inscriptions and markings

On reverse of photo:

"Cheer-Up Hut Reunion Feb. 20th 1980
Jean kumanick
Elva Morison
Edna Collison (Gregorson)
Phylis J. Ludlow (nee Rose)
Kathleen Collison
Margaret Jones (nee Pat Paterson)

Ralda Watson
Pat Jones
2691128

Cheer Up Hut 1947 Pat Paterson

Friday afternoon
Mrs Hyde"

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