1931-  Sidney Edwards is 2nd on right. Elsie Hogan is 3rd on right. Doris Edwards (McGeary) is 4th on right. Joseph John Potts is 4th on left.

Rosewood History

Memories of Ruhno’s

So many memories…..

I’ve read so many memories recounted by people who shopped weekly at Ruhno’s and whose relatives worked there.

I read..
How the store offered good old fashioned service with a smile, where you received one on one service by a member of staff. You asked for items on your list and they would get them for you!

How you could get almost anything at the ’emporium’.

How there were still hitching rings on the posts (like those outside of the Royal George Hotel and the Rosewood Newsagency) from the era when people needed a place to tie up their horses in the days of horses and carts.

How there were big bags of flour and grain with scoops in each bag sitting near the front entrance.

How the lolly counter was the absolute favourite of the children, as were “Aunty Rose” and Leila Ruhno, who would make a cone out of paper to put your lollies in.

How everyone loved to chat to “Aunty Rose” Imrie and how she and other staff members were remembered with such fondness.

How Mrs Ellen Innes had the most beautiful handwriting and people would get her to write out their wedding invitations.

I read about how fascinating it was to watch Mrs Rhuno as she measured a piece of material by using her arm, rather than using the measure that was attached to the counter top in the haberdashery section. The fabric would stretch across her body as she extended her arm to one side (while holding one end of it), and in the process she appeared to ‘smell’ the length of the material as it passed under her nose. How she would take a huge pair of scissors and just “zip” through the cloth without working the scissors at all.

How young women purchased items for their “glory boxes” from the store or how a boy or girl received a Cyclops tricycle, purchased at Ruhno’s, as a gift.

How Mrs Rackley used to sew in the back room with Doris McGeary.

How so many folk held vivid memories of watching the Cash and Carry system of money canisters being propelled on wires back and forth to the cashier in the office. How this was set in motion by pulling on a rope and sometimes a delighted child would be allowed to stand on the counter and pull that rope. 

How enticing and attractive the window displays were at Christmas time, displaying giant stockings, and at Easter time with amazing sugar Easter eggs (originating from a German tradition).

How the store carried large round blocks of cheese encased in rind and how Ruhno’s were “cream cheque to cream cheque” financiers for a lot of the dairy farmers.

How chocolate frogs cost a halfpenny each and butter was 1s 11d a pound.

How George Harding began working at Ruhno’s Store when he was 14 years old and stayed there until October 1942 when he was conscripted into the Army as a transport driver. He returned to Rhunos in 1945 and in total he was an employee of Ruhno’s for 43 years.

How the last person to ride a horse to school was Lloyd Strong, who pastured his horse behind Ruhno’s.

And how Lloyd Ruhno drove to work in his large grey Chevy Bel Air.

Father Bill O’Shea grew up in Rosewood. At the the centenary celebrations of St Brigid’s Church in February 2010, he spoke of Ruhnos – It was in February, 1948. I was doing the family shopping at the old Ruhno’s store, opposite the railway station. I was chatting with Rose Imrie, a great old Rosewood identity, when someone burst in and said, “The Catholic presbytery is on fire.” With a number of others, I raced around to Matthew Street, and stood across the road to watch the sad sight of part of Rosewood’s Catholic heritage go up in flames.

Betty Boughen nee Downing (born 1923), wife of Mervyn Boughen, recorded these memories in 2014.
The thing that sticks in my mind are the Christmases in Rosewood and how they changed the street. They’d go out in the days prior to Christmas and cut a lot of trees and bushes and tie them to the posts. Christmas Eve was like a great big picnic. Everybody would go down to Rosewood and from John Street and all up to Ruhno’s–a big grocers shop and haberdashery and things opposite the station–it would start there. They’d have all it on these posts and these scrubby trees used to intrigue us as children. We would race around like silly things and throw them down on the ground. You’d race into another shop and you’d meet Santa Claus. Oh it was fun. That was when we were very young.

Starting at the bottom end, opposite the railway station, there was Ruhnos, a big grocery store on the corner that sold everything. They used to have the pulleys you know the chains going up and change given and receipts and they would pull this thing and it would come along the wire again. Mrs Joopie, who was one of the ladies I told you about, her father worked in the grocery section and everyone grocery order would get a cone made out of newspaper with boiled lollies in it. That was on top of the groceries. Ruhnos sold everything in their shop. The shop went from the corner right up to the slipper factory. I remember Mum saying that Mr Ruhno, old Mr Ruhno, was very good to farmers in the drought.

Amongst all of the memories of Ruhnos held in the minds of local residents would have been the store’s decorated lorry participating in many local street processions on special occasions, such as those depicted below.

At the St Patrick’s Day Celebrations in 1929 Mr. W. Ruhno’s lorry, driven by George Harding, was decorated by Mrs. H. Tighe, Miss Lexie Forbes, and Mr. AIf. Blake. It represented Faith, Hope, and Charity, with Misses Eileen Forbes as “Faith”, Athens Morton as “Charity”, and Mary O’Reilly as “Hope”. S. Morton, J. Nation, P. Morton, Marie Gough, and Nina O’Reilly represented angels.

In 1930, second prize was awarded to Mr W. Ruhno’s “Australia” lorry. First prize went to W. G. Boughen’s lorry “Faith, Hope and Charity”.

A Patriotic Carnival was held on Sunday 23rd June 1940, at the Rosewood Showgrounds. Typical of events in the war zone was “The Evacuation of Dunkirk,” a display by Mr. Norman Ruhno’s staff. George Harding is standing in front of the truck and was the driver.

The lorry appeared again in the in May Day procession in Rosewood about 1950.

Boy Scouts and Cubs marshalled outside Ruhno’s store for an Anzac Day Parade in the 1940’s.

Some of the Presentations to Employees at Ruhno’s (From the Queensland Times)

On 19th February 1910, at closing time at the establishment of Mr. W. Ruhnuo, occasion was taken to make presentations to two employees who then severed their connection there. Mr. W. Dolling, who has been in charge of the grocery department for the last seven and a half years, was going to Brisbane to the employ of Messrs. Barry and Roberts and Miss Sarah Evans, who for the past three years had occupied the post of junior clerk, was leaving for Ipswich. Mr. W. Ruhno made eulogistic reference to the departing employees and to the regret felt at their departure, then, on behalf of Mrs. Ruhno, himself, and the remaining employees, presented Mr. Dolling with a handsome travelling-bag, and Miss Evans with a beautifully-fitted lady’s companion. Mr. Ruhno’s complimentrary remarks were supported by Mr. F. Dutney, chief clerk. General regret was expressed at these departures. Mr. Dolling was secretary to the school committee (and in that capacity will he much missed), and a member of St. Luke’s partchial council. At Sunday-school referenece was made to the departure of little Misses Ivy and Mabel Dolling, who had always been most exemplary scholars. Mr. Dolling’s successor at Mr. Ruhno’s establishment was Mr. H. Clark, of Bribane and Miss Evan’s place would be filled by Miss Hannah Lane.

On 23rd August 1911,  Mr. James Rogers, who had been in the employ of Mr. Wm. Ruhno, general storekeeper for more than three years, resigned his position to engage in business in Sydney. Before taking leave of the heads of the firm and assistants on Saturday (19th), Mr. Rogers was presented with a handsome travelling bag. In making the presentation, on behalf of himself and the members of the staff, Mr Ruhno referred in kindly terms to Mr. Rogers as an employee. Mr. Ruhno was always pleased with his work, and was sorry to lose his services. He hoped that he was leaving to better his position and he wished him success. Mr W. Dolling, an, old employee, spoke of the good feeling that existed between Mr. Rogers and the other members of the staff. Mr. Dolling had worked with Mr. Rogers for three years, and had found him a good industrious fellow-worker. Mr. Rogers suitalby responded, thanking the firm and the employees for their present and their kind expression of feeling towards him. He regretted taking his departure from Rosewood, but he hoped he was bettering his position by so doing. 

On Saturday 22nd February 1913, the employees of Ruhno and Maher made a presentation to Miss H. Lane, who had held the position as typiste and was taking up an appointment in Brisbane. Mr. W. Dolling presented her with a beautiful silver-backed brush and lamp and expressed regret at the departure of Miss Lane, who, he said, had always been attentive to her duties, and was courteous and obliging, both to fellow employees and customers.

On 17th August 1915, the employees presented Mr. J. B. Farrell (who was severing his connection with the firm to tale up another position) with a dressing case. The presentation was made by Mr. W. Ruhno. 

On Wednesday afternoon, the 18th August 1915, the firm farewelled another employee. Mr. Jack Hogan was presented with a gold wristlet watch, on account of him leaving for Enoggera to join the Expeditionary force. Mr. Ruhno referred to the many years Mr. Hogan bad been connected with the firm, and the capable manner in which he had carried out his duties. They were all proud of him for having volunteered to defend his country, and hoped that when at the Dardanelles, or wherever he might be sent, the little gift would remind him of the many true friends he find at Rosewood.

As was the custom in those days when a female employee married they left their employment.

1st November 1916 – After closing time on Saturday the employees of Ruhno and Maher assembled to make a presentation to Miss Vera Crowther, who has severed her connection with the firm. Mr. E. A. Maher, in presenting Miss Crowther with a handbag, referred to the manner in which she had always carried out her duties, and expressed regret that she was leaving.

On Saturday 10 April 1920, a presentation was made to Miss Rose Smith, who had been a member of the staff for many years, in honour of her approaching marriage. The presentation consisted of a dinner set from the firm, and a biscuit barrel from the employees. She was married to Mr. Andrew Crawford McLaughlin Imrie in the Congregational Church on the 17th and was given away by William Ruhno, who also supplied his car for the bridal car.

On Saturday 20th May 1922, Mr. M. J. O’Reilly, who, for a number of years had been attached to the firm, was farewelled and presented with a pair of gold sleeve links. The presentation was made by Mr. W. Ruhno. It was Mr. O’Reilly’s intention to enter business on his own account. 

Miss Elise May McLaughlin, whose marriage to Hector Percival Parcell took place on 8th December 1923, received several valuable presentations prior to her departure from Rosewood. The staff of W. Ruhno  presented her with a silver cake basket, members of the Rosewood cricket club presented a silver-mounted oak tray, and the Congregational tennis club, a silver biscuit barrel.

In January 1924,  Mr. A. J. Loveday, who had held the position of accountant at Ruhnos for many years, left that position to enter into partnership with Mr. J M. Bruce, colliery owner. He was given an inscribed gold watch by the firm and other presents from the employees.

On 24th April 1924, the employees assembled for a presentation of pyrex ware to (William) Norman Ruhno in honour of his approaching marriage to Leila Florence Coogan. Mr William Dolling spoke and was supported by Mr. Edward John Hogan.

Then on Monday evening 1st September, at the business premises of W. Ruhno, the staff assembled to make a presentation to Mr. E. J. Hogan in honour of his intended marriage. Mr. W. Ruhno, in making a presentation of a handsome case of stainless carvers, expressed the good wishes and congratulations of those present. His remarks were supported by Mr. N. Ruhno and Mr. W. Dolling. Mr. Hogan appropriately responded. 

Misses E. Sellars and M. Thomas were the guests of honour at a pre-wedding evening, in the Farmers’ Hall. They were each presented with a silver cake basket and oak tray. Mr. R. J. Walsh made the presentations on behalf of those assembled.

On 14th April 1927, Miss Daisy Henrietta Allen married Thomas Stanley Haley in the Ipswich Central Congregational church.

Miss Daisy Allen was the recipient of several presentations recently. At Mr. W. Ruhno’s establishment, where she has been accountant for some years, she received a case of stainless carvers from her fellow employees and a dinner service from the firm. On Monday night Miss Allen was the guest of honour at a social evening in the Farmers’ Hall. Mesdames Imrie, C. Akes, H. Capern, E. J. Hogan, and Miss M’Laren being hostesses. On behalf of her friends, Mr. W. E. Thomas presented Miss Allen with a Doulton tea set and sweets dish. A musical programme was rendered by Mrs. E. J. Hogan, Misses Jean Loveday, D. Edwards, G. Roache, and Mr. Edwards. Music for dancing was supplied by Mrs. Fraser (piano). Miss M. O’Shea (violin), and Mr. S. Edwards (mandolin), Miss Rose Allen, who has left for Tweed Heads, was also presented with a manicure set, with the good wishes of her Rosewood friends.

28th May 1929 – Prior to severing his connection with the firm of Mr. W. Ruhno, Mr. James Harding was presented with a travelling rug by members of the staff. Mr. S. Edwards, the senior employee, made the presentation and in expressing regret at Mr. Harding’s severance with his fellow employees, wished him every success in the future. Messrs. A. Blake. J. Sillman, and J. T. Wyatt supported the remarks. Mr. Harding suitably responded.

On 30th May 1929, Jack Sillman, who had been associated with the firm for almost 14 years, was farewelled and presented with a gift from members of the staff before leaving for Innisfail. Mr. Ruhno said he had carried out his duties in a commendable manner and presented Jack Sillman with a gold Eversharp pencil. Staff members voiced their regret at his departure, and wished him every success. Mr. Sillman feelingly returned thanks and said he would never forget the good time spent amongst them.

At the close of business on Saturday 28 January 1933, the employees of Ruhnos assembled at the office to farewell one of their comrades. Miss Ellie Hogan, who had held the position of cashier and typist for nine years and had resigned, prior to visiting Rockhampton and the coast. Mr Ruhno presented her with an initialled Moroccan handbag and autograph on behalf of her fellow employees and wished her a happy future. Mr and Mrs Ruhno and Norman gave her a monogrammed travelling case. Messrs. E. Edwards, J. T. Wyatt, and A. R. Blake spoke in appreciative terms of Miss Hogan’s efficiency, adding their regret at losing her from the staff. Miss Hogan thanked those present for their gift and kind expressions. The gathering comprised Mrs. W. Ruhno. Mrs. E. S. Innes. Mrs. A. M. Imrie, Misses D. Edwards and J. Bowles, Messrs. N. Ruhno. S. Edwards, J. T. Wyatt, C. Harding. J. Potts. A. R. Blake. C. Dutney and R. Yarrow.

Then on the 13th May, Miss Doris Edwards who was leaving so she could marry Gordon Alexander McGeary, was presented with a handsome silver sugar bowl and spoon. Mr. W. Ruhno referred to Miss Edwards’s excellent qualities and made the presentation on behalf of the firm and employees. Miss Edwards feelingly responded. Mr. S. Edwards also returned thanks on behalf of his daughter.

On Friday evening the 19th April 1940, at the business premises of W. Ruhno, a presentation from the staff was made to Mr. Jos. Potts on the eve of his marriage to Miss Miva Alice Quinn. On behalf of the employees, Mr. N. W. Ruhno presented Mr. Potts with a handsome rose-bowl on an ebony stand, and expressed to him the best wishes of his fellow employees. Messrs. S. Edwards, J. T. Wyatt, and G. Harding, of the grocery department supported Mr. Ruhno. Mr. Potts returned thanks for the good wishes and gift. 

On Saturday18th October 1941, Miss Joyce Bowles, who had accepted a clerical position with a leading oil company in Brisbane, was presented with a solid silver pencil by the staff at Ruhno’s general store when, after nine years’ service, she severed her connection with the firm. At the invitation of Mr. Norman Ruhno, Mrs. E. S. Innes (accountant) made the presentation. Mrs. Innes paid a tribute to Miss Bowles for her conscientious and efficient service as a member of the office staff. All fellow employees supported her. Miss Bowles suitably responded.

On 19th January1942, after closing time at W. Ruhno’s, a presentation was made to Sydney Edwards was leaving for Brisbane to take up military duty as a member of the Home Guard. On behalf of the staff, Mr. Ruhno presented an auto razor shaving outfit in leather case to Sydney, who said he regretted leaving, but considered it his duty to take the step he had.

On Friday night, the 9th October 1942, in the office at Mr. W. N. Ruhno’s store, a money belt was presented to Mr. George Harding, third member of the grocery department to leave for military duty. Mr. Ruhno expressed regret that conditions necessitated Mr. Harding’s departure, and wished him a safe return. Mr. J. T. Wyatt, on behalf of the employees, supported Mr. Ruhno, and presented to Mr. Harding a token from those present. Mr. Harding responded. 

On Saturday, 6th January 1946, a presentation was made by the employees at Ruhno’s store to Mr Gus Reinke, who, as the firm’s truck driver, was retiring. On behalf of the employees Mr. Norman Ruhno presented Mr. Reinke with a brush and comb in case, to which was attached an artistically inscribed card as a token of the  happy days spent with the firm. Mr. Ruhno’s remarks were supported by Mr. J. T. Wyatt. Mr. Reinke responded. It was also announced that Mr. Geo. Harding, formerly with the military forces, had rejoined the firm.

On 17th March 1948, a silver cigarette case was presented to Reg Dutney when he left for the R.A.A.F. He had been an employee for five years.

On 4th April 1950, on the eve of her retirement from duty on the office staff of W. Ruhno, the employees assembled to wish Miss Imrie every happiness in her approaching marriage to Thomas Price. Mr. N. W. Ruhno presented Miss Imrie with a crystal salad bowl from her fellow employees. Mr. Ruhno spoke favourably of Miss Imrie’s work. Mr. J. T. Wyatt endorsed his remarks, and Mrs. E. L. Innes congratulated Miss Imrie on the high standard of her work. Miss Imrie responded.

9th November 1950 – On the eve of her departure from the store, Miss Doreen Bassett, a shop assistant, received a crystal perfume bottle presented by Mr. W. N. Ruhno, who spoke of the high standard of Miss Bassett’s work, and the high esteem in which she was held.

© Jane Schy, 2024