The Heart of Columba: Archives
The Heart of Columba is the College’s archival home; a living record of the people, places and moments that have shaped St Columba’s since its foundation in 1897.
From our first days in Essendon, on the very site where the College still stands today, generations of young women have been formed in faith, learning and community. The archives ensure that this story, rich in legacy and tradition, continues to be remembered and shared. We acquire, catalogue and care for material created by, or relating to, St Columba’s College. This includes the collation and preservation of records of our current students, ensuring that today’s experiences become part of tomorrow’s history.
Our aim is to safeguard historically significant records and artefacts; to illuminate the lives of students, staff, alumnae and families; and to celebrate the College’s traditions alongside its ongoing evolution
What we collect
Our holdings span a wide range of formats, including:
- Student records and administrative documents
- Photographs and albums
- Programs, publications and magazines
- Textiles and uniforms
- Trophies, honour boards and badges
- Recorded media and multimedia
- Classroom objects, artwork and other memorabilia
- Ephemera and artefacts connected to College life
Heart of Columba Display
Heart of Columba is a dedicated display space on campus, situated at the geographical heart of our original Essendon site, where St Columba’s College has stood since 1897. The location was chosen with purpose and care, reflecting both its physical position and its symbolic role at the centre of our story. This space offers a carefully curated snapshot of the vast collections held in our College Archives. Throughout the year, displays showcase uniforms, photographs, reports, programs and treasured artefacts, providing students, staff and visitors with an accessible window into our heritage. By drawing from more than a century of material, the Heart of Columba highlights key moments and traditions while honouring the continuity of community, faith and learning that has defined the college across generations.
1968 Chapel Alteration Plans
Access and research
Researchers, alumnae and community members are welcome to enquire about consulting the collection. Access depends on the type, age and condition of records; privacy considerations and permissions may apply. General reference assistance can be provided, and where appropriate, research services may be arranged. Visits are by appointment to ensure materials are prepared and handled with care.
1950 College Straw Hat
Donating to the collection
The Heart of Columba is strengthened by the generosity of our community. We are grateful for offers of historically relevant items such as photographs, uniforms, publications, awards and personal memorabilia connected to College life. All prospective donations are assessed for significance, condition and alignment with our collection policy. If you are unsure whether something is suitable, please contact us; even small items can hold great meaning.
Caring for the past, informing the future
Materials are stored and managed using professional archival practices to protect them for the long term. Wherever possible, items are documented and digitised to support preservation and access. Through curated collections, publications and collaborations with current and past students, the Heart of Columba helps bring College history to life.
1988 College Crest on Jumper
Visiting the College
We are always delighted to welcome members of our community back to St Columba’s. A visit offers the chance not only to reconnect with the College but also to experience the Heart of Columba, our dedicated archival display. Here, memories are brought to life through carefully curated exhibition of uniforms, photographs, programs and artefacts. Together they illustrate how St Columba’s has grown and evolved since 1897, while remaining true to its mission and spirit. Whether you are a past student, parent, staff member or friend of the College, a visit to the Heart of Columba provides a tangible link between yesterday and today, feel free to get in contact to arrange a time to visit.
We also host alumnae reunions at the College, which include a guided tour and the opportunity to reminisce with old friends. To learn more, please visit our Alumnae page; we would be honoured to share the stories, traditions and milestones that continue to shape our community.
1964 Convent, now known as Bruton Building
Contact
If you hold St Columba’s stories at home, we would love to hear from you. Together, we can ensure that the spirit and legacy of our College continue to be preserved for generations to come. For donations, enquiries or to arrange an appointment, please contact:
- Mrs Therese Chapman, Archival Collections Coordinator
- Email: archives@columba.vic.edu.au