Prepare a Statement of Significance (2000 words) for this historical archaeological object,
(EU 072) Pistol, Eureka Precinct
http://artefacts.heritage.vic.gov.au/imu.php?request=search
‘Percussion six barrel pepperbox pistol, Eureka Historic Precinct.’
‘The Eureka Historic Precinct is arguably one of the most culturally meaningful sites in the nation. The Eureka rebellion holds an unparalleled position in the nation’s history and is ingrained in Australia’s cultural fabric. The legend of Eureka has also been immortalised in poetry, prose, film and painting. The ‘Eureka spirit” is commonly invoked as a synonym for democracy, Australian style, with the Eureka (or Southern Cross) flag as the symbol of that spirit.’
A Statement of Significance (SoS):
o summarizes the description, heritage value and character-defining elements of a place or object
o reflects modern values concerning history and historic places or objects
o identifies what part of history a historic place or object represents, and how and why that is of value and importance today
Article 1.2 of the Burra Charter (1999) defines cultural heritage significance as
follows: aesthetic, historic, scientific, social or spiritual value for past, present or
future generations. Cultural significance is embodied in the place or object itself, its
fabric, setting, use, associations, meanings, records, related places and related items.
Places or objects may have a range of values for different individuals or groups.
Briefly describe the cultural heritage significance of the object using the four
categories of significance defined in the Australia ICOMOS Burra Charter (see
below).Indicate the degree of significance you consider the object
to have under each category and supporting evidence must be provided. Sites or
objects often have significance in more than one of these categories:
• aesthetic significance
• historic significance
• scientific significance
• social or spiritual significance
