Christmas 1927
Christmas has always been a time of joy, particularly for our youngsters. Shops fill with toys and gifts and are decked out in Christmas decorations. It is meant to be a time of peace and happiness; a time to celebrate the birth of the baby Jesus.
And so it was back in 1927. The Great Southern Herald ran advertising features during December exalting the huge range of goods available in local businesses. Below is a sample of those features promoting many businesses that no longer exist:
Through the Shop Windows
Great Southern Herald
10 December 1927 – p6
The Xmas season is with us once more, and the shops are displaying their most tempting articles to attract the notice of the gift hunters! It is essentially the children’s time, and the toys each year grow more fascinating; and the grown-ups seem to derive as much enjoyment in selecting the gifts as the lucky recipients do in receiving them.
It is such a pity that the glamour fades as one grows older, childhood is such a thrilling time, and birthdays and Xmas days are such wonderful events when one is young. The mysterious letters that are written to Father Xmas, and the agony of apprehension suffered lest he might not be able to spare the most coveted toys!
There are so many little boys and girls to cater for, and there are not always enough toys to go round. One longs for Aladdin’s lamp that one could give to each what they most desire. However, one does one’s best and the shops of Katanning are eminently fitted to cater for all the children of the district.
There was a time, and not so many years ago either, when the shops of Katanning could be written up in a single column, now they have increased with the population of the town and so there must be more than one installment to do them all, which speaks well for the growing and prosperous district.
At this time of remembrance of our friends, keep in mind that it is not the value of the gift, but the kindly thought that prompts it that one treasures. Give something suitable and useful or ornamental as taste and purse dictates, and do not forget to “shop early” when one sees the suitable article, instead of waiting till next time, only to find that it is sold.
MRS. KABITZ.
Mrs. Kabitzs’ shop is full of useful articles, any of which would make most acceptable presents for the womenfolk. One is struck with the assortment of fancy afternoon tea cloths, some in various coloured embroideries, others with handsome drawn thread borders or with crocheted edge and inserted medallions.
Then there is the daintiest of underwear, both in artificial silk and fugi, so much to be desired. Fugi nighties, either embroidered or lace trimmed; dainty aprons in lace-trimmed muslin, rubber, or the good old overall. One noticed a rack of dresses and pretty coloured embroidered fugi kimonas, and various attractive dust-coats so useful for motoring.
The hosiery and glove section, too, is well catered for and all the accessories which go to add to the beauty of the feminine face and form. Little children, too, will love the display of fancy silk socks and garters to match, and dresses of fugi and voile, embroidered or plain to fit all ages. It should not be hard to make a selection from Mrs. Kabitzs’ stock for suitable gifts. All are most moderately priced.
MRS. HOPE GILBERT.
Mrs. Gilbert always has a goodly assortment of things to please the woman who likes an exclusive and yet a moderate-priced article. One notices such pretty ready-made frocks for those who are lucky enough to fit them, from the humble voile and fugi, which are so serviceable, to the good silk frock, any of which would make a very desirable present.
Hats to suit all tastes from the muslin poke bonnet so becoming to little faces, to the hats for the matron. Dainty silk undies in all pastel shades, singly or in sets; then the splendid assortment of accessories. Belts of all descriptions, from the much-worn reptile ones to the punched and plain suede’s in all wanted colourings.
Bows, ties, gloves and stockings in great variety. Hankies also. Ladies’ handbags, which would make a most acceptable gift, of many kinds. Powders and puffs, fancy and plain; toilet articles to say nothing of the dress lengths of materials so easily made up by clever fingers during the holidays. Beautiful black satin coats; and the fascinating rubber inflated animals so popular with the small folk. A visit to Mrs. Gilbert’s will repay you and one should make it before finalising the selection of gifts.
THE CO-OPERATIVE STORE.
The freshest of Xmas table delicacies are being shown for the festive season, in profusion. One can buy so many things ready cooked now that it means a lessening of work for mothers. Plum puddings just ready to heat up, canned goods of all descriptions. The Co-op is well-known for its good values in all lines.
The indispensable pots and pans form a large part of their stock and are many and varied, while glass and chinaware are very attractive. The famous Pyrex ware is in many forms, a nice casserole, which would make a very acceptable gift for the housewife.
Smokers, too, will view with interest the boxed, cigars and cigarettes shown in the window; they certainly look as though they would provide a good smoke. The manchester department is always well stocked; towels, pillowcases, table covers and d’oyleys in great variety, useful as well as ornamental.
Men’s wear also is to be depended upon. The younger generation is well catered for with regard to toys. Cricket sets for boys, fascinating little sewing machines for girls, are amongst the ones that caught one’s eye. Then any number of hankies, powders and fancy puffs, vanity cases and sachets, boxed soaps, any of which are choice, and the dress goods, which would now make up so well. A visit to the Co-op Store this Xmas time will repay you.
ROGERS LTD.
One looks at one of Rogers’ windows with a longing eye, surely there have never been so many boxes of different hankies to choose from before. Some of them are very lovely. There is nothing crude in any of the colouring nowadays, and a box of hankies would make a most acceptable gift. There are such lovely boxes of notepaper too, the paper and envelopes themselves are a delight, and when that is finished one still has the pretty bag in which to keep one’s small articles.
Bottles of Eau-de-Cologne of all sizes which would make most desirable gifts for one’s mother; pretty poker-work articles, serviette rings, powder boxes, etc. Books for the youngsters, and beautiful toys, some of the animals being rather hard to catalogue, for sorely they were never seen on land or sea.
Then the beautiful bicycles and scooters for the fortunate boys who will get them. What joy they will give! And the loveliest dolls for the girls. They are very lovely, and some of the composition ones marvellously life like. One wonders what dolls will be like in another fifty years, so great an advance has been made from the crude ones of Queen Victoria’s time. There are toys of all descriptions for all ages.
Then in the ladies’ department is a great display of silk stockings and socks and gloves, of which one cannot have too many pairs. One hardly ever sees a cotton stocking nowadays. Socks for the kiddies in fascinating array and colours; dress stuffs, aprons, fancy-work baskets which are so useful, and the powders and puffs are very attractive and just the things to attract the eyes of the flapper!
The men, too, are well catered for – blazers, shirts, pyjamas, socks of all descriptions, from the ‘hot’ socks for the young man to the sober plain ones. The men seem to be just as particular as the women, judging from the variety from which to choose. Silk handkerchiefs, such a finish to a suit; ties, braces, suspenders and sleeve garters all to match the socks!
A splendid assortment of curtains and rugs which would make such a useful gift; a new lino for the floor would be most practical. Then the various goodies in the window for the Xmas celebration – nuts, raisins, peel, etc., dried fruits – remind one that one has to eat as well as give presents at Xmas time. The hardware store is always attractive with its variety of China of all descriptions. Pyrex ware, too, is a splendid article for a useful gift – and for the men and boys’ tools of all descriptions.
Don’t forget to pay a visit to this firm this Xmas time. Buy your Kodak’s and films before setting off on your holidays, and Rogers Ltd. will have them developed for you, saving you all trouble. For those who desire a motorbike, they are also to be had, likewise the people contemplating matrimony would do well to look at the fine array of furniture.
RICHARDSON’S.
On entering Richardson’s store, one is instantly struck by the very large stock of goods, and the fact that Xmas is near is made obvious by the window display. Naturally, the most exciting window belongs to the children. How thrilling it is to glue one’s face to the window and wonder which of all the many things Father Christmas will bring you rubber-tyred bicycles and tricycles, scooters, waggons and mechanical toys that boys just love; and dolls, all kinds, sewing machines, tea-sets, pianos, etc., for little girls.
But we must move on to the next window, where such a miscellaneous assortment of goods greets the eye. Most noticeable, I think, are the toilet sets, which include brush, comb and tray, mirror and powder bowl. They are in Xylonite, white celluloid, pink alabaster, and an excellent imitation of mother-‘o-pearl.
For men there are Xylonite shaving sets and travelling toilet sets, fitted beautifully in leather cases, also boxes containing tie and handkerchief to match. Note-paper of all kinds is seen in various shaped boxes. The Old English Lavender boxes containing soap, face and talc powder, bath salts and scent, would be greatly welcomed as gifts. There are lovely cut glass bottles of scent, and the most unique powder-bowls fashioned in wood, glass and different compositions. Prettily papered boxes contain sets of dress-hangers and shoetrees. The ladies’ handbags are particularly interesting; in different shades, both plain and variegated, of suede and leather.
In the showroom the array of hankies, both loose and boxed, is lovely; but the table which most attracts the eye is dressed with all articles of lingerie in celanese in the most delicate shades.
The “Golden Fleece” brand of bathers is most reliable and the bathing caps are to be had to match any suit. The coloured towelling for bath wraps and for beach wear is woven in bright colourings and attractive designs; add to these things a pretty sunshade and one’s beach ensemble would be complete.
The stock of stockings and gloves is excellent. Have you seen the new Charleston sandal? Noticeable amongst the napery was the “Derryvale” Irish linen goods, which would make such useful gifts. Before passing on to the next window, we must, pause at the sweets counter. It is gaily decked with Xmas stockings, boxes of chocolates, bon-bons, and chocolate figures, without which no Xmas festivity would be complete.
On entering the hardware department, it is hard to say which first attracts the eye, the brass or cut glassware. The large beaten brass trays are really lovely, so also are the hot water jugs, ornaments, vases, etc. There are two handsome fireguards of brass and copper respectively.
Amongst the glassware is a choice water-set, beautifully cut, consisting of one jug and six tumblers. A cut glass salad bowl with servers to match would make a delightful present. There is a good selection of electro-plate ware – cake – dishes, teapots, vases, cake-stands, etc. The ever-useful Pyrex dishes are evident.
Those wishing to furnish must visit the first floor. Very pretty chintzes, the latest in coloured curtains, rugs and linos are to be had. Surely amongst such a variety of stock one would not have difficulty in choosing Xmas gifts?
Through the Shop Windows
Great Southern Herald
14 December 1927 – p4
ALF. TREE.
“Say it with boxes of chocolates” is the message conveyed by the display in the new shop of Mr. Tree’s next door to the Lyric Theatre, and there is no doubt that many people who shrink from the task of choosing gifts often find sanctuary in confectionery establishments.
Each year manufacturers of chocolates find some new device to attract the epicure, and this is generally obtained by appealing directly to the eye by means of elaborate boxes. This year’s’ range is exceptionally beautiful and the chocolates inside are quite in keeping with the exteriors.
Mr. Tree has a fine selection of confectionery both suitable for presents and the Xmas table, and in his shop in Clive Street caters for the needs of the table with herbs and vegetables which add to the flavour of the Christmas turkey. Fresh fruit, an item so necessary for the Australian Xmas table, is one of the specialties of the little shop in Clive Street.
GILBERT’S PHARMACY.
The casual observer glancing at Mr. Gilbert’s pharmacy window could not be mistaken from the array of articles displayed that Christmas was approaching. The position, usually occupied by patent medicines and items of a more technical nature, are taken by samples of perfumery, toilet soaps and a fine selection of fancy goods.
On entering the pharmacy one is immediately struck by the comprehensive selection of gift suggestions, comprising scent-sprays, vanity bags, brushes, combs, Xylonite ware, and a special line of products from the manufactory of the well-known English perfumers, Yardley’s Limited. Amongst these are boxes of complete requisites which must please the heart of any modern daughter of Eve. These contain all kinds of beautifiers as well as bath crystals, toilet soap, powder and lavender water, and should prove very acceptable presents. In a similar box the requirements of Adam have been catered for with a complete range of necessities for a good shave, and other items of the toilet.
So many beautiful and useful articles are displayed that one could not fail to be satisfied in some respect or other.
SMITH & MELDRUM.
Christmas, the season when youth must be served, when every father and mother Is making furtive purchases and stealthily hiding away the gifts for the little ones and the ones not so little, is the time when every shop blossoms forth into bowers of delight for the seekers of gifts and the eager anticipatory receivers of those marks of affection.
The Arcade, in Austral Terrace, is in no way behind its confreres in the display of seasonable gifts and the eyes of young and old are drawn to the windows so crowded with articles to please the taste and requirements of every age and sex.
In one Father Christmas reigns supreme, holding court over a galaxy of dolls of every size, apparently in the midst of a gorgeous distribution of wonderful toys. How those dolls must make the hearts of the little maids who stand with eyes glued to the window ache for possession! And her brother, what must his thoughts be when he sees the wonderful scooters and bicycles, air rifles and fascinating toy motor cars so lavish in their paint and glitter?
When one does tear one’s self away from these temptations, one steps into a world of amazing colour.
… in argosy transfer’d
From Fez. and spiced dainties, every one
From silken Samarcand to cedar’d Lebanon.”
Silks for My Lady, in coloured hose or soft draperies, wonderful boxes of handkerchiefs, soaps and scents, redolent of the spicy East, sweets to lure her taste, in artistic boxes, and all manner of gew-gaws with which to win her favour. Another wonderful collection of toys, with huge rubber balls vying for attention with cricket sets and tea-sets and dolls’ furniture in an amazing confusion.
A step further, and row upon row of most practical working tools, useful for every trade. Further again and one meets a collection of furniture which surely must tempt Benedict and bachelor alike. Another step, and the music lover has a choice of gramophones and records that bring all the best music and best voices in the world to serve one’s pleasure.
The Arcade is a large place, and era mined from wall to wall with articles in such variety that the Christmas shopper, old and young, must find something, or many things to suit the need of the season.
BARKLEY & GILBERT.
Bookshops are always a popular rendezvous for book-lovers, and Barkley & Gilbert have a number of shelves filled with a splendid lot of books from which to make a choice. There are books of all kinds. The latest fiction is always stocked. Books of travel that will take one all over the world in imagination; biographies of great men which fire impressionable youth with the desire to be likewise; romance, the most popular of all, for all the world loves a lover, and next best to having one one’s self, is to read of the joys of others; and the indispensable fairy tales, so dear to the hearts of children, the Wonder Books, so up-to date and instructive, and others too numerous to particularise.
One must not forget the papers, from the “Funny Folk” and the latest in cooking and needlework to the best illustrated papers, the gift of a year’s subscription to which would make someone happy. There one sees just the present for a man, amongst pipes, recommended for good smokes, note-cases, pocketbooks, razors, cigars and cigarettes galore.
Then for a woman why not choose a dainty piece of china or a tea-set? Stationery, too, forms a delightful gift, perfumes, thermos flasks, so indispensable at picnics, flower vases. Don’t forget to inspect.
A. G. HALL.
Mr. Hall has the distinction of being the only jeweller in the town, and his shop is always bright and sparkling with gold and silver articles. In the wind our are numerous toilet sets, which consist of tray, brush and comb, mirror, powder boxes, jewel cases, all to match in Xylonite, a pretty pink composition, tortoiseshell, all equally to be desired. Then quaint little bedroom clocks, cigarette eases in tortoise shell, silver and untarnishable metal, and a new patent cigarette box, all of which are very nice.
Handbags in great variety of colours to match your costume; strings of pearls, iridescent beads, and one noticed a string of white topaz so sparkling and good. Do not forget the splendid assortment of engagement rings.
Beautiful cut-glass ware is also to be desired – salad bowls, flower vases, rose bowls and a water set consisting of jug and tumblers. Then electroplate in great variety. It should be easy to choose something for a gift from such a selection. The boxes of stationery, too, are attractive, the boxes being as nice as the paper they contain. Mr. Hall has also a good selection of Chinese and Japanese brass. Ladies’ and gentle men’s fitted dressing cases, wallets and pocketbooks. Visit his shop and look round before purchasing. Mr. Hall will be delighted to show you anything.
Children’s Xmas Carnival
So large was the crowd that the grandstand was packed and the whole frontage of the Recreation Ground thronged with spectators on Thursday night, when the State School children’s annual Xmas Carnival was held. A grand maze opened the proceedings, followed by the maypole successfully performed by the younger girls’ scholars, the tiny tots very ably carrying out their parts.
The boys of the school gave a creditable display of “physical jerks” in well-timed movements, their efforts being heartily applauded. “Epping Forest,” “Minuet,” and Morris Dance, a series of graceful rhythmics, were executed by the senior girls, whose performance was keenly appreciated, following which the boys gave a sports demonstration, in which a garden wheelbarrow race and blind-fold boxing contests lent a humorous aspect to the evening.
Shouts of childish glee synchronised with the arrival of Father Christmas, who from his modern conveyance, a motor trade, made gifts to the school children in front of the grandstand, while his able colleagues on a second motor lorry did similar service to many non-school children in the outer enclosure.
WHAT OTHER BUSINESSES WERE ADVERTISING AT THIS TIME?
Katanning had a thriving business community in 1927 and many shops and business houses were also taking the opportunity to advertise in the Great Southern Herald.
Great Southern Herald
10 December 1927 – p6 & 7
14 December 1927 – p4 & 5
Christmas 1927
Christmas 1927. Christmas 1927. Christmas 1927. Christmas 1927. Christmas 1927. Christmas 1927. Christmas 1927. Christmas 1927. Christmas 1927. Christmas 1927. Christmas 1927. Christmas 1927. Christmas 1927.