December Collection (page 94)

Pilgrim Fathers Visited
The pilgrims are visited by Massasoit, chief of the Pokanokets

D D home out of Window
In the presence of three witnesses, D D Home floats out of one window and floats in again at another, at Ashley House, London

Valhalla Serpent
Marine creature observed by naturalist M J Nicoll from the Valhalla off Pava

Site of the Eureka Stockade
BALLARAT Site of the Eureka Stockade, shortly after the fight

Mary Celeste /
The cabin of the abandoned vessel as it was allegedly found by the boarding party from the Dei Gratia

SHIPS / MARY CELESTE
Brigantine built in Nova Scotia in 1861; found abandoned by the Dei Gratia in December 1872

Events / War / Anglo-French
French admiral Lamothe-Piquet, to protect a convoy at Martinique, engages six English ships so bravely that the English congratulate him

North Sea Air Fight 1940
Aerial battle over the North Sea : highly imaginative Italian depiction showing a massive confrontation over Heligoland

Comet seen from Nuremberg, Germany
Depiction of a comet seen from Nuremberg, Germany, every night from 14 to 24 December 1664

Ancient Romans celebrating the Saturnalia
An Ancient Roman noble and his friends celebrate the Saturnalia, 17-19 December

European leaders at the Berlin Congress
The German chancellor Bismarck presides over a diplomatic conference of European leaders in Berlin to discuss the question of the Congo

Trial of King Charles I
The trial of King Charles I

Bannbulle at Wittenberg
Martin Luther burns the papal bull ( Bannbulle ) at Wittenberg

Luther burns the Papal Bull 1520
Martin Luther burns the Papal bull in front of the East gate of Wittenberg

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"December: A Kaleidoscope of Moments and Memories" As the year draws to a close, December unveils its vibrant colors like a mesmerizing rainbow illustration by Arthur Ferrier. It paints the world with hues of hope and reflection, reminding us of the beauty that exists even in the darkest times. In this month of festivities, our hearts find solace within "A House Full" by Cecil Aldin. Warmth fills every corner as loved ones gather, creating cherished memories that will forever be etched in our souls. Like an Earthrise photograph turned artwork, December brings moments of awe-inspiring unity. We remember the Christmas Truce of 1914 during WW1 when enemies laid down their weapons to celebrate peace together. It serves as a reminder that humanity's capacity for compassion can transcend even the harshest conflicts. Yet amidst such harmony, there are reminders of struggle and sacrifice. The sight of a German Panzer tank from 1944 or British guns dashing through French towns reminds us of those who fought bravely for freedom and justice. It also marks new beginnings and aspirations for higher education. As students embark on their academic journeys, they carry dreams that will shape their futures like Don Bradman going out to bat for the last time in Melbourne Cricket Ground – determination radiating from his every step. Just as Apollo 17 astronauts ventured into space with curiosity and courage, we too embrace December's spirit of exploration. It encourages us to reach beyond our limits and discover new frontiers within ourselves. However, history is not without its scars; it bears witness to human suffering like "The Bombardment of Hartlepools" captured by James Clark. These somber events remind us never to forget past atrocities so we may strive towards a future free from violence and injustice. On HMS Albion (R07), once used as a Commando Carrier, bravery permeates every deck – a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who protect and serve.