Potato Peeler #2001-1687

Hobart potato peeler; round barrel with open top supported on stand that ends in four branching out legs; from left side of barrel is an attached metal bucket on three legs, from the right of the barrel is a sloping chute.

History

This potato peeler, manufactured by the Hobart Company Pty. Ltd., was used in the kitchens at the Provisional Parliament House. The dining and kitchen facilities were an important aspect of the building, as it was designed to be fully self-contained. The facilities and equipment were responsible for providing meals and refreshments to the Members’ Dining Room, private dining rooms, offices (on request), and, after 1949, to the dining room built for staff and the press. As well as day to day meals, the kitchen staff were also called upon to cater for large functions associated with special occasions such as royal or overseas visits and important events, including the 1954 State Banquet for Queen Elizabeth II. This potato peeler would have been used to help prepare countless meals each day.

This machine was one of the original items purchased for the kitchens when the building was first opened in 1927. It was used in the vegetable preparation and store room (LF510). Potatoes were placed into the top opening before being mechanically peeled inside the body of the machine. Peeled potatoes would drop into the bucket pictured on the left and peelings fell through the chute on the right into the sink.

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Statement of values

This potato peeler is significant as it is an original item and has the potential to reflect changing technologies from 1924 to 1988.

This potato peeler is significant through its association with the kitchens and the dining and recreation block in the South Wing. The wing was an integral part of the early design and development of the Provisional Parliament House. The facilities were an important part of the intention for the building to be fully self-contained. These facilities also played an important role in the Commonwealth Parliament and Government hosting Royal visits, official State receptions and formal dinners for important guests.

This potato peeler is significant as a component of the Heritage Collection, which comprises those objects which were used in the Provisional Parliament House between 1924 and 1988. The collection has associations with the process of government, the ceremonial, administrative, promotional and recreational functions conducted within the building, and with the individuals who governed Australia between 1927 and 1988. The Old Parliament House building has a richness of internal fabric and collections, which include the purpose designed furniture and furnishings, that convey the way in which parliamentary functions were conducted, the everyday use of the building, and the hierarchical nature of parliamentary staffing practices.

Details

Width 1100mm
Height 1300mm
Depth 750mm
Medium Metal; electrical components
Creator’s name The Hobart Company Pty. Ltd.
Date created Circa 1927