Please be advised: this website contains the names, images and voices of people who are now deceased.
Collections WA has a responsibility to preserve and make accessible the history and culture of Western Australia in all its various forms. The intention of Collections WA is to support research, and to reveal actions of the past that have impacted upon communities, families, and individuals.
In doing so, Collections WA acknowledges the need to respond sensitively and appropriately in cases when accessing this material may be confronting to Aboriginal visitors and clients.
Please also note: Some historical materials within this portal may include language or opinions that today are considered inappropriate or even offensive. Collections WA does not endorse this language and apologises for any distress caused.
This black top hat made from beaver fur was worn by Mr Thomas Paisley, who became a teacher in Bunbury when he was only 19 years old. He became Headmaster and continued to teach in Bunbury for 32 years, retiring in 1913.
