Geraldton Agricultural Society President's Cup for 1911

This trophy was made by Robert Pringle & Co, London, and is engraved "Geraldton Agricultural Society President's Cup presented by W.V. Sewell Esq. Won by R.E. Morrell with 22 points 1911 Show."

As usual the President of the Geraldton Agricultural Society this year donated a silver cup to the bona fide farmer (owning not more than 2,999 sheep), who secured the highest number of points in the livestock and produce sections at the Geraldton show, 1911. For a first and champion prize 5 points were awarded, for a first prize only, 3 points; and for a second, 1 point. Mr. R.E. Morrell is the winner of this year's cup, scoring 22 points. Mr. Morrell is a consistent exhibitor at the Geraldton show, and has previously succeeded in securing the president's cup. Mr. J. Bridgeman, another regular exhibitor, was second with 21 points, and Mr. A. C. Clinch third with 19 points. Mr S. Haddy secured 23 points, but not being a farmer, he was not eligible to compete.
Local News. President's Cup, Geraldton Guardian, 10 October 1911

Ironbarks Farm, North Greenough was purchased by the Morrell family in the c1870s. Reuben and Elizabeth Morrell raised eight children at Ironbarks and eventually three of their children, Fred, Septimus and their sister Gladys took over the property.

This trophy was proudly displayed for many years in the front room at Ironbarks. The farm remained in the Morrell family until 1980, when the remaining two siblings, Septimus then aged 79 and Gladys, 85, sold up.

When the new owners, Max and Sue Shields moved in, much of the Morrell possessions remained, including according to an article in the Geraldton Guardian dated 11 December 1981 …photos, letters, clothes and even trophies are just some of the treasures. They were mainly from the Morrell era and include both sporting and agricultural trophies… Some objects, including photos and show certificates were donated to this museum, but not this trophy.

Steve Daymond bought it c2006 from a young couple at his local Swap Meet in the City of Cockburn. It was in a box with dirty plastic flower pots and was black and unrecognisable. Steve cleaned it up before putting it on EBay for auction. It was purchased for this museum for $172.50 on 1 March 2014 with funds provided by Ron Bradfield.