Chancellor Robe

Gown made from heavy black damask silk with gold lace trim on the collar and hem. Each sleeve is adorned with four matching gold ornaments.

Purchased by Sir George Murray (Chancellor 1916-1942) from tailoring firm Ede & Ravenscroft in 1935.

Correspondence [1], shows that Murray, who was visiting London at the time, received a telegram on 8 November 1935, from then Vice-Chancellor Sir William Mitchell, requesting that he "select new robes appropriate for Chancellor." On 14 November 1935, Murray responded by letter confirming that, with the aid of Mr. Ravenscroft, he had "arranged a design which will, I think, be entirely worthy of the office." All expenses associated with the purchasing of the gown were covered by Murray himself. This Chancellor gown remained in use, inherited by each successive chancellor (and altered as required), until it was retired in 2004.

Footnote

[1] Murray, Sir George (1935) Chancellor's Robes [docket]. Held at Adelaide: University of Adelaide. University Archives, Series 200, Item 1935/234.