Coffs Harbour Regional Museum has been presented with a significant collection of items acquired by the pioneering Hoschke family.
Amandus Hoschke was one of the first settlers to arrive in the Upper Orara region in 1886. He was held in high regard by the local community and is credited with doing much of the pioneering work in the district.
Included in the donated collection is an illuminated address presented to Mr Hoschke in 1909 by the Orara citizenry on the occasion of his departure to Germany to visit his origins.
The illuminated address includes various photographs of the district, a portrait of Mr Hoschke and vibrantly detailed calligraphy and design work.
“This is a beautifully rendered example of this type of work which was typically given as a popular way to mark a special occasion or outstanding service. The Museum is extremely excited to receive this donation as works of this kind and quality are rare,” said Catherine Fogarty, Cultural Development, Gallery and History Services Coordinator.
“The Hoschke family have made a number of generous donations over the years and we thank them for adding to the museums rich collection of historical artefacts.”
In addition to the illuminated address, the Museum also gains two family portraits – one of Clunie Bain Hoschke and the other Frederick Amandus Hoschke, a 1925 Speedwell Cycles cycling race medallion, and an iron bassinet purchased second-hand in 1907.
The collection will be on display at the museum for the public to enjoy from Wednesday 11 October 2017.
Image: Catherine Fogarty, Cultural Development, Gallery and History Services Coordinator with brothers Ian, Fred and Doug Hoschke.
