logologo-optometry

Small snap spectacle case

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Catalogue Number: 1162
Small snap spectacle case
Category: Spectacles and lenses
Sub-Category: Spectacle case
Year Of Publication/Manufacture: Early 20th C
Time Period: 1900 to 1939
Description Of Item: Two small wallet style snap cases in fine black leather on metal with velvet lining probably for pince nez. Gold embossed with WT Kett practice trademark. 107 x 45 mm
Historical Significance: W T Kett (1851-1906) was the father of William G Kett (1887-1962) and Cyril Woodforde Kett (1890-1971), both optometrists and both prominent in professional affairs in the 20th C. WG Kett was a professional leader in NSW and CW Kett was a foundation councillor of the Australian College of Optometry. WT Kett is described by Cole (Clin Exp Optom 2000; 83:283) as variously a grazier, a photographic supplies retailer and an optician.William George Kett's birth certificate, No. 21727, shows his father's occupation as grazier. WT Kett's death certificate, No. 2555, 1906 gives his occupation as optician. Sands and McDougall's Melbourne Directories list him as a photographic materials supplier at 263 Little Collins St Melbourne from 1898. Wise's Victorian Post Office Directory 1888-1894 show that WT Kett was also a postmaster, a commission agent and a gold broker in Warburton, Victoria, between 1888 and 1897.
How Acquired: Donated by C W Kett, First half 20th C Melbourne optometrist and honorary life member of the College
Date Acquired: 1970
Condition: Good
Location: Archive room. West wall. Unit 4 Drawer 5

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