The Tasmanian Mail - A Photographic Index

Volume 3 1909 - 1912

Publication No. 233   Size: A4   Weight: 490 grams

INTRODUCTION and ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Tasmanian Mail, known more commonly as The Mail, was printed weekly for the Proprietors of the Hobart Mercury and began on Saturday 7th July 1877. The first issue, edited by Mr James Patterson, consisted of twenty four pages without pictures of any kind. The ornate masthead read "A Weekly Journal for Tasmania of Politics, Literature, Science, Agriculture, News and Notes".

Within the first twelve months the Tasmanian Mail had established itself as an indispensable

newspaper for its readers. From time to time supplements were also included, e.g. Royal visits, Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria, Christmas, and the Tasmanian Centenary, just to name a few.

Small classified advertisements began to appear on the front page in 1887 and a children's column was added.

In 1888 the first illustrations, two plate engravings, appeared on the 11th anniversary of the paper. Early in the following year, spasmodic illustrations were included and then in October the same year, a group of pictures appeared in the form of a supplement.

In July 1895 the words "With lllustrations" began to appear on the top right hand side of the front cover. The photographs were normally printed on pages 17-24 however sometimes this range was increased.

This second volume of the index of photographs, spans the years 1905 to 1908, and has been compiled as an aid to researchers seeking additional information, preferably in pictorial form. Sketches and advertisements have not been included.

From the 7 July 1910, the day of publication was changed from Saturday to Thursday and on 31 March 1921 the name of the Tasmanian Mail "With Illustrations" was replaced with the Illustrated Tasmanian Mail. This name continued until 27 June 1935 when the paper ceased to exist.

The microfilms of the Tasmanian Mail Newspapers can be accessed at, or by contacting any branch of the State Library of Tasmania.

I wish to acknowledge the assistance of the Staff at the Launceston Reference Library, the Publications Committee of the Launceston Branch of the Tasmanian Family History Society Inc and my husband Russell.

Sandra Duck
Compiler