More than 150 years of history means more than 150 years of stories to tell.
Since its establishment in 1872, Cottage Homes has provided affordable accommodation for older South Australians.
Across the generations, our organisation has accumulated a remarkable collection of records, photographs, documents and other historical materials that capture the people, places and events that have shaped Cottage Homes.
Now, thanks to the dedication of a group of volunteers led by Barbara Ogden and the support of several organisations, work is underway to ensure this valuable history is carefully documented, preserved and accessible to future generations.
Bringing 150 years of history together
Our archiving project began in the lead-up to our 150th anniversary celebrations in 2023, when Cottage Homes received a $10,000 grant from the History Trust of South Australia.
The funding supported research and the development of historical displays celebrating our organisation’s long history, which were showcased during a South Australian History Month event and subsequently displayed at libraries in council areas where Cottage Homes operates.
As part of the preparations, historical materials were gathered from a variety of sources. Records and memorabilia were discovered at our Prospect and Mitcham community halls, while residents, families and members of the wider community also generously contributed items.
Volunteers Mrs Barbara Ogden and Dr Valerie Liddle dedicated many hours to researching historical records dating from 1883 to 1985, which are held within four metres of dedicated collection space at the State Library of South Australia.
But as the anniversary celebrations concluded, an important question remained: how could Cottage Homes ensure the growing collection of historical materials was appropriately organised and preserved?
A remarkable volunteer effort
Barbara Ogden stepped forward to help answer that question.
Initially offering to temporarily store the collected materials in her own home, Barbara has since undertaken the enormous task of compiling, reviewing and auditing hundreds of additional historical items.
It is painstaking work, requiring considerable time, patience and attention to detail.
Each document, photograph and record contributes another piece to the story of Cottage Homes, helping build a clearer picture of the organisation’s development and the communities it has supported.
The ultimate aim is to establish a comprehensive, properly organised archive, with the hope of expanding the historical collection already held by the State Library of South Australia.
This important work has received further support through another History Trust grant awarded in 2025. The funding is helping Cottage Homes establish an archival database and purchase appropriate archival packaging and secure storage materials to better protect the collection.
Sharing knowledge and expertise
Barbara’s efforts have also benefited from the generous assistance of people with specialist archival knowledge.
Dr Sarah Black, Archivist for the Anglican Diocese of Adelaide, has provided valuable advice, including insights into Cottage Homes’ Anglican history and the appropriate management of historical materials.
Janette Lange, Archivist from the Mary MacKillop Museum, has also generously shared her expertise in archival systems, storage and preservation.
Their guidance has been invaluable in helping establish the processes needed to care for the collection appropriately.
Preserving the stories behind the homes
For Cottage Homes, this project is about much more than organising old documents.
Our history reflects generations of South Australians who have contributed to the organisation, from its early founders and benefactors to the volunteers, staff and residents who have helped shape our communities.
Preserving these records allows us to better understand where we have come from, recognise the people who made our work possible and share that history with those who will carry our mission forward.
We are enormously grateful to Barbara for the extraordinary time, care and commitment she continues to dedicate to this project, and to Dr Valerie Liddle, Dr Sarah Black, Janette Lange and everyone who has supported the work.
Thanks to their efforts, an important part of South Australia’s community housing history is being carefully preserved, ensuring the story of Cottage Homes can continue to be told for generations to come.
Pictured below: Janette Lange with Barbara Ogden, and Dr Sarah Black with Barbara Ogden.
