John Frederick Mulder
Dr Paul Michael Donovan is preparing to publish an article in the Victorian Historical Journal on the life and legacy of John Frederick Mulder (1840–1921) — an interesting figure in Geelong’s 19th-century history.
Mulder was a respected authority on Australian flora and fauna, particularly in Victoria. He was a founding member of the Geelong Field Naturalists Club and contributed numerous articles on ornithology and geology. He also served as curator of the Geelong Free Library and Museum and was a close associate of Baron von Mueller, the Victorian Government botanist. In addition to his scientific and curatorial work, Mulder was well known as the bandmaster of several early Geelong bands.
Dr Donovan is currently seeking a photograph of Mulder, or any other relevant information that might shed light on his life and work. If you know of a photograph, have seen one in a collection, or possess any details that may assist, please get in touch.
Peter Fogarty, member of our Committee, has sourced a photograph from 1911 that depicts members of the Geelong Naturalists on an excursion at the Dog Rocks. Could Mulder be in this image?
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated as we work to preserve and share the stories of Geelong’s historical figures.
You can read John Frederick Mulder’s obituary on our website.
Please contact me at web@geelonghistoricalsociety.org.au if you think you can help.
