Function and purpose

This series consists of the main correspondence files of the Antarctic Division for the period 1951-1963. This series was originally registered as B1386 by the Victorian Regional Office of Australian Archives but was transferred to Tasmania.

 

The files cover such topics as: Polar Committee, expeditions (including those of other countries), conferences, the International Geophysical Year, medical matters, meteorology map revisions, ships, aircraft, research staffing, publications, exchange of observers, control of bases, whaling, appointments policy, press reports and public relations.

 

When the series was first created, a two number system was used but, with the growth of part files, a tertiary number was added. Four number references indicate file and folio number, e.g. 147/3/1/51 (folio 51). There were also a few confidential and secret correspondence files, the latter being kept separately in a special safe in the Logistic Officer's room.

 

Folders were of buff manilla type or of hard dark brown cardboard. This series was superseded by B1370, Correspondence files, multiple number series, 1963-1972, and many files were top-numbered into the new series. 

Related legislation

 

Using the series

 

Language of material

 

Physical characteristics

 

System of arrangement and control

 

Relationships with other records

 

Finding aids

 

Access conditions

 

Series history

 

Provenance

 

Immediate source of acquisition

 

Custodial history

 

Quantity in agency custody

 

Disposal history

 

Publication note

 

Additional information

 

End notes

 

Sources