Document information

Physical location:

RB MSS M138, Library, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. 59.09.00e

Preferred Citation:

Ferdinand von Mueller to Circular, 1859-09 [59.09.00e]. R.W. Home, Thomas A. Darragh, A.M. Lucas, Sara Maroske, D.M. Sinkora, J.H. Voigt and Monika Wells (eds), Correspondence of Ferdinand von Mueller, <https://vmcp.rbg.vic.gov.au/id//letters/1850-9/1859/59-09-00e-final.odt>, accessed June 13, 2026

1
MS is a printed sheet (B59.13.09) found with a specimen of Eucalyptus nortonii (MEL 1613834). A second copy found with a specimen of Parinari nonda (MEL 2226009). It would appear that M was using the sheets as scrap paper, to make packets in which to store specimens.
The circular was initially prepared for distribution to captains of ships visiting the port of Melbourne. The text was passed for printing at a meeting of the Committee of Management of the Melbourne Zoological Garden on 6 September 1859 and an initial distribution was reported at the Committee's meeting on 1 December, the October and November meetings having been abandoned for want of a quorum (minute book, VPRS 2223 Acclimatisation Society of Victoria, Public Record Office, Victoria). The item is dated here to September 1859 as the earliest date it could have been produced.
Melbourne Zoological Gardens,
186
2
The remainder of the date has been left blank, to be filled in by hand as appropriate.
Sir,
The Committee of the Zoological Gardens of Melbourne, being aware of your facilities of communication with foreign countries, will feel thankful to you for exerting your influence in aiding them in introducing into Victoria rare animals from abroad, particularly as are calculated to become of value to Colony.
In solicting this favor the Committee feels that only through the co-operation of many patriotic gentlemen for the above purpose, their desired object can be attained
The Committee will always be happy to recommend to this Government the liquidation of any reasonable expenses incurred in the importation of animals, intended for the public menagerie of this garden.
I have the honor to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
FERD. MUELLER, M.D.
Director of the Zoological Gardens.