Ben Strange: WWI Cartoon Exhibition

Step inside the City of Armadale’s History House Museum to catch the latest exhibition, Strange’s War: The World War One Cartoons of Ben Strange, which is currently on display.

For over 30 years Ben was the political cartoonist for the Western Mail newspaper and provided his unique commentary on what was happening around the world.

For the first time in Australia cartoons depicting conflict and political issues came together during World War One and across Australia cartoonist were walking a fine line between political commentaries on the war and supporting the war effort.

Armadale Mayor Henry Zelones OAM, JP said the series of cartoons with captions on display in the museum delve into the world of Ben Strange.

“From the battlefronts in Europe, to local stories that made the paper, Ben would use his pen to often look at the funnier side of life.

“Ben’s cartoons were much loved over the years by readers of the Western Mail.

“The cartoons provided an insight into how many fellow Western Australians felt about the war and other local issues during that time.

“This exhibition is bound to appeal to those historians with fond memories of Ben’s cartoons which depicted his political and often outspoken view on the war,” said Mayor Henry Zelones.

History House Museum is located in the Minnawarra Historic Precinct on Jull Street, Armadale. For information and opening times call 9394 5670 or visit library.armadale.wa.gov.au/ben-strange.

AK1999-86 (US President in a tutu)
The Great Peace Poser
The Western Mail February 2 1917

AK1999-68 (men playing in a band)
The “Waits” --- Christmas 1916
The Western Mail 22 December 1916