After Nina Kolodziejczyk moved into Cooinda Village, her son Euey was clearing out her shed when he stumbled across the chest the family brought over from Europe when it fled Poland during World War II.
Exhibition curator Sabine Smyth said she was excited when he arrived with the chest, which is in remarkably good condition.
“When I first started collecting historical material, I was looking for photos mainly and the stories behind them,” Ms Smyth said.
“Over time, a number of these chests have come to light and they form a most amazing part of the story.
"Migrants were handed paintbrushes and paint to write their name and destination on those chests as many of the names were so complicated.
“I think it was a good idea (as it) made sure they arrived at their destination and (were) registered in the right name. I think there would have been a lot of errors otherwise.
“As a result, every chest has different handwriting styles and it makes for a very personal and moving collection of items.”
Ms Smyth said Nina’s other son John, who passed away some years ago, had told her he would find the chest and bring it to Hut 11 one day.
“So for me, it is wonderful to finally receive the chest,” she said.
“As Euey dropped it off he said ‘here you are, back at home’, (which) made me a bit tearful.
“Our project is very timely, as a lot of the old migrants are now passing on, and people like Euey are the last to know the stories (behind them).
“If we were not there to collect items, they might be thrown away without their story being fully recognised.”
Ms Smyth said if anyone knew of or had any items they would like to donate to the camp, the best way was to fill out a contact form at www.benallamigrantcamp.com.au
13°C