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About our archive
Our Archive
Edith Hooke founded Woodstock, the precursor to Wenona in 1886. For more than 130 years, Wenona has been led by visionary female leaders who recognised the value of women’s education. Denise Thomas as Head of the History Department and later interim Principal, began formally acquiring material for the archive in 1977. Her work has been continued under Michele Ginswick also of the History Department (archivist from 2006 until 2021) and Dr Elizabeth Hartnell (since 2022).
This digital database allows community members access to the School's historic collection. The archive consists of three primary collections: Woodstock Collection (1886-1913), Wenona Collection (1913-present) and the Independent Theatre Collection (c1911-present). The Woodstock Collection consists of approximately 5 linear metres of images, documents, and information on the earliest period in the School’s history. The Independent Theatre Collection is approximately 8 linear metres of memorabilia and programs that have come with the purchase of the building or have been donated to the School due to their association with the Theatre. The vast majority, approximately 125 linear metres are items relating to Wenona and include photographs, negatives, uniforms, audio and visual materials, student works, maps, publications, personal items, and oral histories.
The School has consistently offered a variety of subjects: English, mathematics, science, history, social science, languages, performing arts, and sport. The School’s motto, Ut Prosim, that I may serve continues to guide both staff and students in importance of service to others. Wenona has a long-standing tradition of reaching beyond its campus into the wider world. Student exchanges began in the 1970s and international trips continue into the present. The current and former student body as well as staff stem from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures, day girls and boarders. Although the education has primarily been focused on girls, boys were enrolled through the 1950s, especially in kindergarten classes.
Wenona is owned and operated by Wenona School Limited, a company limited by guarantee. Wenona School Limited is controlled by a Board of Governors who are the directors of the company.
Wenona's archive operates according to a group of policies and procedures. This database constitutes the primary means of identifying and locating items within our collection. If you require further assistance, please contact the archivist at archive@wenona.nsw.gov.au.