Selby family - papers, 1885, 1923-1993

MLMSS 6288

fonds

1885, 1923-1993

Textual Records, Graphic Materials, Clippings, Photographs

79208

1 box - 0.13 Meters
Textual Records
Clippings
Textual Records - (printed)
Photographs
Textual Records - (typescript)

In 1903, H. B. Selby took over a Melbourne business importing glassware and other equipment for laboratory use. His third son, Esmond J. Selby, entered the business in 1929 and assumed control of the Sydney premises. The founder's youngest son, Benn A. Selby joined the Melbourne staff in 1936. The family business became a public company in 1949 known as H. B. Selby Australia Limited.
Esmond J. Selby was a Major in the 2nd Australian Tank Battalion, A.I.F. in World War II.

1885; Abstract of Title to Lands, Hereditaments, and Premises situate on the Camperdown Estate in New South Wales. The 240 acres of land, situated in the district of Petersham Hill, was originally granted to William Bligh by Sir Phillip Gidley King on 10th August 1806.
1923, 1937-1938, 1947, compiled 1991-1993; Folder of letters, newscuttings and photographs compiled by Esmond J. Selby relating to Germany pre- and post- World War II. A letter to H. B. Selby in 1923, when he made a business trip to Europe, reveals the rapidity of currency inflation in Germany at the time. Newscuttings and letters from German acquaintances to Esmond Selby, 1937-1938, describe life in Germany and Austria before war broke out. Whilst on a business trip to Germany in 1938, Esmond Selby met Hans Wagner and Erich Blockl. Their subsequent correspondence was terminated because Wagner and Blockl joined the Hitler Youth and were not allowed to correspond with foreigners without special permission. A letter from early 1938 (retyped in 1991) includes three photographs of the pair in the Hitler Youth. Correspondence resumed briefly in 1947 (typescript copies).
1944; 'Speed and vigilance: the story of the 2 Aust Tank Bn (A.I.F.) 1939-1944', being a printed book compiled by Major E. J. Selby and others.
1950; 'Jubilee souvenir from H. B. Selby Australia Limited 1900-1950', being a printed booklet outlining the history of the Company.
1971; 'Hell and high fever' by David Selby (Pacific Books, Australia at War Series).