Past and Present of Ballarat

James McKain Meek
Rider & Mercer, Ballarat (printer)
Past and Present of Ballarat 1893
photolithograph
120.5 x 95cm (sight)
Gold Museum, Ballarat

“Labor omnia vincit” (work conquers all) is Meek’s motto in this work. It captures the indefatigable work ethic that he demonstrated throughout his life. While his efforts brought him a degree of fame, his many enterprises suffered from boom and bust times and, unhappily, did not bring him financial security.