For Self and Community: The Influence of Selected Voluntary Associations in Victorian Country Towns, 1851-1900

Abstract

<p>The voluntary associations established in nineteenth-century country towns in Victoria were based on British models but took on new roles and characteristics in a very different context which positioned them as major agents of change, playing a little-recognised role in shaping the colony. The structure and adaptability of the voluntary association as an organisational form made this a particularly suitable mechanism for building new townships and communities, while strengthening shared values. In this thesis, I have sought to understand the influence of a selected set of voluntary associations on the development of country towns in colonial Victoria, based primarily on the evidence of contemporary newspapers and archival records. </p> <p>The selected associations ¾ temperance, friendly and benevolent societies, as well as mechanics' institutes ¾ were founded by country-town residents to provide social connections, mutual support and local services, within the framework of a moral and respectable lifestyle. In practice, the associations' objectives and activities gave them a broad role in emerging country towns. Although the colonial government provided a degree of support, it was the self-help philosophy, volunteer effort and active engagement of association members themselves which set directions, managed and largely funded services which became models for future government delivery.</p> <p>In operating these services, the associations helped to build social capital, mutual support, civic identity and individual opportunity, as well as offering entertainment, education and connections to the wider world. Their activities shaped emerging class and gender roles while encouraging egalitarian attitudes, democratic processes, active citizenship and political engagement in their country towns. At the same time, reliance on independent local associations demonstrated the limitations of voluntary effort, which led to inequities and a lack of coordination. By their actions and activities, but not always in ways they intended, the associations laid a foundation for the emergence of a civil society based on trust and collective action, as well as contributing to changing public attitudes towards individual rights, women's suffrage and the role of government. </p>