On Saturday 13 July 1908, the West Moreton Scientific and Literary Club was formed. Initiated by Dr J. A. Cameron, the club provided a forum for the presentation and discussion of both scientific and literary papers. It would go on to meet once a month in the Ipswich Technical College lecture room for the next thirteen years.
On that first night there were almost 50 inaugural members present. The opening lecture was presented by Dr Flynn on “Queensland Snakes”. The lecture covered local poisonous and non-poisonous snakes, and how to tell the difference if treating someone for a bite.
A selection of other lecture topics covered over the years:
- Volcanic action in West Moreton, by Mr R. A. Wearne, B.A.
- Heredity and environment, by Mr A. Grieg
- History of education, by Miss Helen White, M.A.
- Shakespeare as a moral teacher, by Principal R. Glaister, D.D. of Emmanuel College, Brisbane
- Electric lighting in railway trains, by Mr S. H. Hancox
Members of the club mentioned in news articles:
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Richard A Kerr, Helen White, and Alderman Oliver Perry. All were members of the West Moreton Scientific and Literary Club. Images courtesy of Picture Ipswich.
At a special meeting on Friday 27th May, 1921 a motion was moved by Mr Hodgson and seconded by Miss Helen White, that the society be wound up.
Information taken from: The Queensland Times, Tues 16 June 1908, page 4, “Literary and Scientific Club”; The Queensland Times, Thurs 2 June 1921, page 4, “Scientific and Literary Club”; The Queensland Times, Mon 13 May 1912, page 4, “Scientific and Literary Club”;