Inside the AJHS Archives - Anne Harris
Rayne Morales, Post-Graduate Diploma of Archives and Record Mgmt, Curtin University
The personal items of Annie Harris (née Symon) are a valuable addition to the AJHS archive and ultimately reflect a fascinating individual who devoted much of her time and care to Jewish and non-Jewish causes. The vibrant collection features many pieces of ephemera, including postcards, photographs, telegrams and a Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (M.B.E.) medal – which Harris received in 1941 for her fundraising efforts. The Harris collection was a delight to immerse myself across the weeks of August, and on the overall, indicate how greatly appreciated she was by her family and wider community.
Annie Harris was born in Whitechapel, London, in 1876. The eldest of six siblings, she participated in fundraising activities during her childhood, performing concerts for poorer communities in her hometown at the age of twelve. In 1888, the Harris family boarded the Nuremberg ship bound for Perth, Australia; they relocated to Melbourne shortly after.
She contributed to many organisations throughout her life, including the Austin Hospital for Incurables and Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind. Harris was appointed Life Governor of every public hospital in Melbourne, though she was particularly associated with the Alfred Hospital, even establishing the Alfred Hospital Auxiliaries. From 1928-1957, Harris was the President of the Melbourne Hebrew Ladies Benevolent Society. Through the Society, Harris hosted numerous charitable events, including card parties, raffles, button day collections and concerts.
A prominent feature of Harris’ collection is the ephemera relating to the Hebrew Ladies and Bachelors Hosts Ball, which was formerly regarded as the most popular event on the Jewish social calendar in Melbourne. Not only were Harris’ efforts appreciated by the less-fortunate community, but also recognised by politicians, as indicated by the many telegrams sent by the office of former Prime Minister of Australia, Sir Robert Menzies. Harris married in 1904; together Annie and Abe had two sons: Lylie and Jack. She passed away in 1973.
Related Provenance: B57/ Hebrew Ladies Benevolent Society
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