While individual University fencing clubs were established at different earlier times (Victoria University College's, for example, began in June 1910), an organised national University group dates back to at least August 1945; further research is required to provide a more detailed historical note.
Only a few NZFC archives are held, and those only cover a short period in the 1960's. These archives were donated in 2009 from the NZUFC; it is understood that other records were distributed to regional fencing organisations. The series consists of: records to do with a 1961 tour, and a proposed 1964 tour, by the Australian Universities Fencing team, and c1961 publicity material and gear brochures.
This item concerns the Australian Universities' team tour from 4-29 May 1961, which included matches against Provincial fencing as well as University teams. The organisation of the Australian team of four men and four women was handled by David McKenzie; that of the New Zealand by R. G. Hall and R. D. Peterson 'for NZU Fencing Council'. This folder is named 'R.G. Hall'. The matches were arranged into men's foil and women's foil, epée, and sabre. The folder includes inwards and copies of outwards correspondence, planning and financial records, newsclippings, telegrams, a blank score sheet, and a commemorative wine list and menu from the Midland Hotel, Wellington. There are also reports by some University clubs on the visit. The folder also includes humorous correspondence between Hall and Peterson, and the draft and final versions of a humorous article titled 'The changing face of fencing' which relates to the Victoria University fencing club 1960-1961. Further names may be indexed as resources permit.
Two small advertising banners for matches in Wellington: one (in red ink) for 'New Zealand vs Australia, Badminton Hall, Ruahine Street, Wellington. Tuesday night, 4th April 1961, 7.30 p.m.' the other (in green ink) for 'New Zealand University vs Australian Universities. Victoria University Gymnasium, Kelburn Parade, Wellington. 1.30 p.m. Saturday 27th May 1961, official opening 7.30 p.m.' Copy of 'Sports Post' supplement to 'Evening Post' newspaper May 27th 1961 with full-page Neville Lodge cartoon, referring to Australian Universities v. N.Z. Universities [sic]. Caption reads 'I'm doing medical - and right now I'm interested in vivisection.'
Includes 1950's score sheet, large poster advertising match between Hawkes Bay and Auckland, two pencil sketches of young man, label for Tokyo Olympiad 1965, pencil diagram of correct lunge and hand positions, c1961 gear brochures, and several copies of notice from R.S. Clarke for the 'Twenty-First Birthday' of the Swords Club (n.d.).