Media Release
Eureka History Preserved
27 April 2007
In September 2006, the State Library of Victoria, through its Foundation, acquired the diary of Samuel Lazarus - a unique first-person account of the events of the 1854 Eureka Stockade uprising. This fascinating document is now available to all Victorians for the first time.
Samuel Lazarus emigrated to Victoria as a young man in the 1850s. His diary, written between 24 September 1853 and 21 January 1855, tells the story of the Eureka uprising in a very personal way. Passages detail key events such as the burning of James Bentley’s Eureka Hotel and the ‘monster’ meeting of miners who resolved to burn their gold licenses.
Morton Browne, Executive Director of the State Library of Victoria Foundation is happy the State Library was able to purchase the Lazarus Diary.
‘The diary had been offered at auction once before but the Library was not in a position to bid for it. We are delighted that given a second chance the Foundation was able to provide the funds to make the purchase possible. Now this national treasure is safe in the State Library of Victoria collection for everyone to enjoy.’
The Library has scanned the diary and anyone with access to the Internet can now view the document. To read the Lazarus Diary online, with transcripts go to the Treasures section of the website.
'The Lazarus Diary is just one of many treasures that the Foundation has been instrumental in acquiring for the State Library,' said Mr Browne.
‘The State Library of Victoria Foundation assists the Library in many ways to develop and preserve its collection. We provide funds to improve services, stage exhibitions and run cultural and educational programs for all Victorian citizens. I would encourage anyone wishing to support this work to contact the Foundation.’
State Library of Victoria Foundation membership costs $65 and includes many benefits. To find out more contact the Foundation on 03 8664 7017 or visit the Foundation web pages.
Media inquiries
Matthew van Hasselt
Media relations coordinator
State Library of Victoria
Tel 03 8664 7263
Email mvanhasselt@slv.vic.gov.au
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