collection story – POWERHOUSE VOLUNTEERS

Unraveling the Ingenious Manufacturing of the ‘Supreme’ Mouse Trap Making Machine

This week Collection Story volunteer Therese tells us more about the ‘Supreme’ Mouse Trap Making Machine.

In a world governed by the principles of supply and demand, the Standfield firm defied conventional wisdom with their unique approach to manufacturing. At the heart of their operation was the ‘supreme’ mouse trap making machine, a marvel of engineering capable of producing over one thousand traps an hour, all within a mere one and a half seconds.

Unlike their counterparts swept up in the tide of rapid industrialisation, the Standfield firm embraced a ‘making do’ philosophy, repurposing second-hand parts salvaged from scrapyards across Sydney to construct their remarkable machine. Led by AW Standfield, a man with no formal training in machinery, the firm epitomised the Australian spirit of resourcefulness and ingenuity.

Despite the prevailing economic principles of the time, the Standfield firm eschewed traditional market dynamics, relying instead on the natural fluctuations of the rodent population to drive their sales. With only one machine at their disposal, meticulously maintained and adorned with a picture of AW Standfield himself, the firm’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and simplicity paved the way for their enduring success.

The ‘supreme’ mouse trap making machine stands as a testament to the resilience and innovation of Australian manufacturing in the mid-twentieth century, reminding us that true success often lies in daring to forge your own path, regardless of conventional norms.

Collection Story: Double Helix Staircase

Join our volunteer Therese as we learn more about the Double Helix Stair Case model we have in our collection.

Education has changed a lot over the years and, in 1888, a good education was all about observation or ‘learning by looking’. That was the year instructor John Lyon Gardiner built his double helix staircase model and took that idea to the next level.

It’s probably a bit difficult to see the size of the object on screen, so it should be emphasised that Gardiner’s double helix staircase is not your average small-scale model. It is actually a full-size staircase – 2.73 metres in height to be exact, although the way the two sets of stairs wrap tightly around the central column means there’s no head room to be able to climb up.

Instead, the purpose of the model was to demonstrate the principles of stair construction to Gardiner’s evening classes in carpentry and joinery at the Sydney Technical College. This also explains a couple aesthetic differences between the two sets of stairs. For example, the underside of one has a smooth surface constructed from a series of planks whereas the underside of the other has panelling. You can see this in the photos on the left and right.

As well as being an impressive feat of engineering, the double helix staircase model also has some pretty significant connections to place. The Sydney Technical College was located right next door to the Sydney Technological Museum, which was home to the Powerhouse Museum between 1893 and 1988. The Sydney Technological Museum was where objects like this staircase model were displayed to teach lessons at the Technical College that ranged from veterinary science and geology to more mundane things like house painting and sign writing. In addition to sitting in the Sydney Technological Museum, the staircase featured in the Centennial International Exhibition Melbourne in 1888.

The staircase model is also one example of the role the Sydney Technological Museum played in showcasing the use of local timber in commercial applications. Specifically, this object is constructed from cedar, a sample of which is visible among other local timbers in a photograph of a room at the museum on the right.

More than a structure, the double helix staircase model tells a narrative of innovation, education, and heritage. It stands as a symbol of the methods of learning of a past era and the elevation of trade skills to an art form, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire to this day.

Unraveling the Mysteries of the Coronet Stereo Camera: A Journey into 3D Photography

This week’s blogpost is by Collection Stories Volunteer Thao My. Join Thao My as we learn more about the Coronet Stereo Camera.

In the realm of photography, innovation knows no bounds, with each advancement marking a new chapter in the evolution of the art form. Among the many treasures housed within the Powerhouse Museum’s collection, the Coronet stereo camera stands as a testament to this spirit of innovation and exploration.

Developed and launched in 1954 by the Coronet Camera Company in Birmingham, United Kingdom, the Coronet stereo camera was designed with hobbyist stereo photographers in mind, offering a user-friendly yet sophisticated tool for capturing stunning 3D images. Despite its simplicity in design and operation, this camera delivers remarkably high-quality results, thanks to its dual lenses and focus wheel, housed within a sleek black plastic case.

The magic of the Coronet stereo camera lies in its ability to transport viewers into a world of depth and dimensionality, immersing them in a visual experience unlike any other. By allowing users to capture simultaneous shots in stereo mode, this camera offers a glimpse into the captivating world of stereoscopic photography, a field that traces its roots back to the pioneering research of Charles Wheatstone in 1838.

As Wheatstone’s groundbreaking work on stereoscopic vision sparked a revolution in visual perception, inventors like David Brewster and Jules Dubosq seized the opportunity to create devices that could bring this illusion of depth to life. Thus, the invention of the stereo camera in the 1840s paved the way for a new era of photography, one marked by the mass production of stereo slide sets, handheld viewers, and other devices that captivated audiences worldwide.

Today, as we reflect on the legacy of the Coronet stereo camera and its role in the advancement of stereoscopic imaging, we are reminded of the endless possibilities that lie at the intersection of technology and creativity. From its humble beginnings in Birmingham to its enduring impact on the world of photography, the Coronet stereo camera continues to inspire and captivate enthusiasts of all ages, offering a timeless window into the wonders of 3D photography.

Unveiling the ‘Astro Boy by Ohya’ Soft Toy: A Tribute to Iconic Japanese Anime

This week’s blogpost is by Collection Stories Volunteer Thao My. Join Thao My as we learn more about the Astro Boy by Hiroaki Ohya.

In the realm of Japanese pop culture, few characters are as beloved and iconic as Astro Boy, the robotic superhero created by manga artist Osamu Tezuka. Now, fans can bring this legendary character to life with the limited edition ‘Astro Boy by Ohya’ soft toy, designed by the esteemed fashion designer Hiroaki Ohya.

Inspired by the original image of Astro from the groundbreaking anime ‘Tetsuwan Atom’, also known as ‘Astro Boy’ worldwide, this soft toy pays homage to the enduring legacy of Tezuka’s creation. Crafted as part of Ohya’s fashion collection, the ‘Astro Boy by Ohya’ soft toy captures the essence of the beloved character, infusing it with Ohya’s distinctive design flair.

Standing at an impressive 525mm tall and adorned with a striking camouflage print, the doll’s exterior mirrors Astro Boy’s iconic appearance. Movable arms and legs, along with meticulous attention to detail in the facial features, ensure an authentic representation of the beloved superhero.

Officially produced and launched by Tezuka Productions between 2000 and 2002, this limited edition soft toy stands as a testament to the enduring influence of ‘Astro Boy’ on Japanese culture. From its origins in manga and anime to its transcendent impact on design and fashion, Astro Boy continues to captivate audiences worldwide, with the ‘Astro Boy by Ohya’ soft toy serving as a cherished symbol of this cultural phenomenon.

Unveiling the Past: The Detroit Electric Brougham Car

This week’s blogpost is by Collection Stories Volunteer Therese. Join Therese as we learn more about the Detroit Electric Brougham Car.

In today’s push towards a cleaner, more sustainable future, the shift towards hybrid or electric vehicles is gaining momentum. Beyond their environmental benefits, electric cars are increasingly seen as symbols of luxury, especially in countries like Australia, where they come adorned with hefty price tags and promises of futuristic technology.

However, what many may not realise is that electric cars are far from a modern invention. Take, for instance, the Detroit Electric Brougham Car, a relic from over a century ago, crafted in 1917. Despite its antiquated appearance, resembling a horse-drawn carriage, this vehicle was once at the forefront of automotive innovation, representing the pinnacle of luxury and convenience in its time.

Back then, electric cars like the Detroit Electric were not merely a passing fad; they were the norm. It was the petrol car that stood as the outlier on the roads. The interior of the Detroit Electric Brougham Car, impeccably preserved over the years, further echoes its equestrian origins, draped in cream-colored patterned fabric and adorned with a single armchair at the front and a bench seat at the back. Designed as a luxury vehicle primarily for women, it offered a hassle-free driving experience without the need for a starter handle, making it ideal for shopping trips and social visits around town.

Despite their initial promise, electric cars faced their own set of challenges, many of which still resonate today. Expensive and cumbersome batteries, limited range, and slower speeds compared to petrol counterparts hindered their widespread adoption. The onset of World War I, coupled with skyrocketing petrol prices, initially seemed to herald the demise of petrol cars in favor of their electric counterparts. Yet, technological constraints and logistical hurdles ultimately paved the way for petrol cars to dominate the market.

As we navigate the resurgence of interest in electric vehicles, it’s crucial to heed the lessons of history. Understanding the obstacles that led to the decline of electric cars in the past can inform our efforts to overcome similar challenges today. By addressing key technological advancements and infrastructure needs, we can ensure that electric cars remain a viable and sustainable mode of transportation for generations to come.

Keeping it cool in Coolgardie – Australian Coolgardie safe

This week’s blogpost is by Collection Stories Volunteer William. Join William as we learn more about the Australian Coolgardie Safe.

These days, we’re surrounded by modern technologies that are easy to take for granted. Consider refrigerators, and compare that with this: the Australian Coolgardie safe widely used just about 100 years ago. The key difference is this old cool box cooled food before electricity was widely available.

How? What if I told you the answer involved this cool box design, trees, and humans? Does it use timber keep food cold? Not quite. Rather, this invention cools its interior through evaporation, and it’s this principle that makes it similar to trees and us humans!

Capillary Action

Why does evaporation work, though? The answer depends on capillary action and the Australian outback climate. Fabrics like hessian and flannel would be draped down and kept wet by a tray or tank of water dripping down from the top of the safe. The porousness of the fabric encourages the water to spread throughout and surround the mesh metal walls of the safe. Like moisture-wicking clothes, the roots and branches of trees, and our skin, the Coolgardie safe works on capillary action and evaporation.

Australian Outback Climate

The second part of the equation is air flow, and hot, dry winds are best. That’s because heat helps the water to evaporate. Also, the air being dry usually means it has some “free space” to hold more humidity from water molecules. The stronger the wind, the lower the humidity tends to be. Water vapour, being a gas, needs heat energy to keep its molecules spread out in the air. As the molecules absorb heat, the air inside the safe cools, and so too does the food.

A Resourceful Implementation of Evaporative Cooling

While food safety regulations today require much colder temperatures, the Coolgardie safe was useful for at least slowing down food spoilage and keeping it away from pests and wild animals. And even though ice chests were gaining popularity in some cities, the Coolgardie safe remained a mainstay for much of the early 1900s before refrigerators became affordable enough in the 1950s. “Necessity is the mother of invention”, as they say, and invent they surely did!

William Hartono
Collection Stories Volunteer

Unveiling ‘The Transparent Woman’: A Fascinating Dive into Anatomical Education

This week’s blogpost is by Collection Stories Volunteer Kim. Join Kim as we learn more about The Transparent Woman.

In the dimly lit halls of the Powerhouse Museum, among the myriad of objects and exhibits, stands a figure that both captivates and intrigues visitors—the enigmatic ‘Transparent Woman.’ This life-sized model, hailing from The German Health Museum in Cologne, Germany, is not your ordinary anatomical display. Crafted from a meticulous blend of perspex, plastic, metal, and wood, she offers a transparent view into the inner workings of the human body, transcending the traditional methods of anatomical education.

As visitors approach, they are greeted by the ghostly silhouette of ‘The Transparent Woman,’ her see-through skin revealing not only her skeletal structure but also the intricate network of veins, arteries, and organs beneath. It’s a sight that both fascinates and unnerves, offering a unique opportunity to explore the complexities of human anatomy without the need for dissection.

From her finely detailed cast aluminum skeleton to the delicate plastic organs that lie within, every aspect of ‘The Transparent Woman’ is a testament to craftsmanship and innovation. But what truly sets her apart is the subtle glow emanating from within. With the press of a button, her organs come to life, illuminated in a mesmerizing display of anatomical accuracy. It’s a feature that not only enhances the educational experience but also adds a sense of wonder and awe to the viewing process.

Accompanying ‘The Transparent Woman’ is a trained nurse, ready to provide an introductory speech that sets the stage for the exploration to come. As visitors listen intently, they are transported into a world of discovery, where science meets art and education transcends the boundaries of the classroom.

But while ‘The Transparent Woman’ may be a marvel of anatomical education, she is not without her critics. Some have questioned her aesthetic appeal, likening her to Frankenstein’s Bride or describing her exposed organs as “eerie and unpleasant.” Yet, despite these criticisms, she remains a popular attraction, drawing curious visitors from far and wide.

In fact, ‘The Transparent Woman’ is not alone in her transparency. Similar models can be found in museums across the globe, from Juno at the Cleveland Health Museum in Ohio to Hygeia at the Saint Louis Science Center. Their widespread presence serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of anatomical education and the timeless fascination with the inner workings of the human body.

As we reflect on the significance of ‘The Transparent Woman’ and her counterparts, one thing becomes clear: beneath the surface, there lies a world of wonder and discovery waiting to be explored. So the next time you find yourself face to face with this eerie yet captivating figure, remember that beauty is not just skin deep—it’s what lies beneath that truly counts.

Kim Dinh
Collections Stories Volunteer