Searching for Tweed Shire's souvenirs

01 November 2016

Community contributions sought for major exhibition

Residents are urged to purge their sideboards and mantle pieces of historic souvenir ware originating from the shire for a major exhibition at Tweed Regional Museum.

Community items donated or loaned to the Museum will supplement an exciting new acquisition of local souvenir ware to form a major exhibition.

Tweed Regional Museum recently acquired a wonderful collection of historic souvenir ware from collector Allen Callaghan. Raised in Coolangatta/Tweed Heads, Allen has collected souvenir ware since the 1970s. The first item he acquired was a ‘Coolangatta’ cup and saucer, from a second-hand shop in Adelaide.

The collection recently donated by Allen is unique and includes pieces that date from as early as the 1910s. It is a rare regional collection. Allen’s collection is valued for the stories individual pieces tell, as well as the economic and social history these items collectively reveal about our community.

From the early 20th century, souvenir ware gained popularity throughout the British Empire, including in Australia. Across these decades the rising demand for souvenir ware coincided with the growth of tourism. Souvenirs were purchased by tourists as a token, or memory, of their travels.

The appeal of these items led to a flourishing of the souvenir industry between about 1900 and the 1960s. Murwillumbah and Tweed Heads were among the many regional towns that featured on souvenir ware in the 20th century. Local souvenirs were sold in places such as newsagents, jewellers and hardware stores.

Tweed Regional Museum Acting Director Kate Gahan said: “We’re interested in hearing from anyone in the community who has souvenir items they would like to donate or loan for future display.

“Whether items are the typical souvenir teacup, spoon or ashtray, or are much more unusual pieces, we would be delighted to hear more about them.

“We’re seeking items from all eras, including recent decades – the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s – and from all towns and villages across the shire.”

Allen Callaghan will talk about ‘Teacup Tourists’ at the Museum on Wednesday 9 November at 6 pm. Allen’s talk will reflect on his experience collecting and researching souvenirs from Coolangatta, Tweed Heads and the Gold Coast.

To enquire about the souvenir search, please contact the Museum on (02) 6670 2493.

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Caption: One of the Tweed Heads souvenir ware items to feature in the display.