Family papers, 1877-1988 and papers re career as a broadcaster and war correspondent, 1937-42

Component identifier:

Series 1

Content Summary:

The papers in this series fall into two main categories. Folders 1-3 include correspondence, clippings, research notes and other papers relating to Chester Wilmot's early years and to his parents and grandparents. Much of this material has been assembled by Edith Wilmot in the years since Chester's death. Folders 6-51 cover the period 1937-February 1942 and document Wilmot's early career as a broadcaster and war correspondent. The papers in this group include scripts of speeches, broadcasts and articles; diaries; newscuttings; correspondence; and working notes. The files are arranged in rough chronological order and cover Wilmot's participation in the World Debating Tour, 1937-38; his European travels, 1938; the University of Melbourne and the National Union of Australian University Students, 1935-39; and his work for the ABC Field Unit with the AIF in the Middle East, 1940-42.

Immediate source of acquisition:

This collection was presented to the National Library by Edith Wilmot in 1991 and arrived in Canberra in January 1992. It consists primarily of Chester Wilmot's papers, but also includes material added by Edith Wilmot in the years since Chester's death. A further transfer was received from the Wilmot family in 2024.

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