Photos from the railways

State Rail photographic reference print collection

This series (NRS-17420) is an extensive collection of more than 27,000 reference prints from State Rail and its predecessor organisations, documenting a wide range of topics related to railways and transportation infrastructure.

The variety and depth of this series reflect the comprehensive nature of State Rail's documentation and historical recordkeeping.

Photo prints displayed in NSW trains

This collection (NRS-12932) features a fascinating array of images that were used to decorate the interiors of country trains in New South Wales between the late 1930s and the late 1960s. This collection highlights various tourism themes and aims to showcase the beauty and attractions of the region. Here’s a detailed overview of what the collection covers:

• Scenic Country Views: Images showcasing the natural landscapes and picturesque countryside of New South Wales.
• Historic Buildings: Photographs of notable historical architecture and landmarks.
• Coastal Scenes: Pictures of the stunning coastlines and beaches of New South Wales.
• Sydney Metropolitan Beaches: Images featuring well-known beaches within the Sydney metropolitan area.
• Dams: Photographs of important water reservoirs and dams.
• Snowfields: Images of snowy landscapes, likely showcasing the region’s winter attractions.
• Taronga Park Zoological Gardens: Photos of animals and exhibits from the well-known zoo in Sydney.
• Koala Park: Pictures from the Koala Park Sanctuary, highlighting native wildlife.

These images were not only meant to enhance the travel experience but also to promote tourism and showcase the diverse attractions of New South Wales to passengers on country trains. The collection reflects a period when rail travel was a primary means of exploring and appreciating the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

State Rail Authority glass plate negatives

The collection (NRS-18526), featuring glass plate negatives from around 1908, provides a valuable historical record of various subjects related to Sydney and beyond. Here’s a more detailed look at what this collection encompasses:

Key subjects covered:

• North Shore and Sydney Harbour
  • Landmarks and streetscapes: Includes early photographs of significant locations on the North Shore of Sydney, such as Beecroft, Eastwood, Newport, Turramurra, Chatswood, Milsons Point, Hunters Hill, and parts of Lane Cove National Park.
  • Sydney Harbour: Captures various views and possibly landmarks associated with Sydney Harbour.
• United States Navy Fleet – The Great White Fleet
  • Arrival: Shows the arrival of the Great White Fleet in Sydney Harbour on 20 August 1908.
  • Celebrations: Includes images of the festivities and public events held in honor of the fleet’s visit.
  • Departure: Records the fleet’s departure from Sydney Harbour on 27 August 1908.
• Portraits:
  • People: Features portraits of women, men, and children in diverse settings, including backyards, bush environments, and on verandas, offering a glimpse into daily life and personal attire of the period.

Additional details

• Physical Condition: The collection includes glass plate negatives that are in various states of preservation. Some have deteriorated over time, which is reflected in the quality of the digital reproductions.
• Order and identification: The images were originally unordered, but identification numbers have been imposed for cataloging purposes. This may mean that some of the subjects or contexts are less clear without additional historical context.

This collection serves as an important visual archive, capturing significant historical events, everyday life, and scenic views from the early 20th century. It’s a rich resource for understanding the historical and cultural landscape of Sydney and its surroundings during that era.