Jane Catharine Tost facts for kids

Jane Catharine Tost (1817-1889) was a pioneering Australian taxidermist. She was known for her skill in preserving animals and for being one of the first women to work in this field professionally.

Who Was Jane Catharine Tost?

Jane Catharine Tost was born in 1817. Her parents, John and Catherine Ward, were also involved in taxidermy. John Ward was a bird breeder and a naturalist, someone who studies nature. Jane and her brothers and sisters learned the art of taxidermy from their parents. This early training helped her become very skilled.

Working in Museums

In the 1840s and 1850s, Jane Tost worked at the famous British Museum in London. This was a big achievement for her. Later, she moved to Australia.

A Pioneer in Australia

After moving to Australia, Jane Tost continued her important work. From 1856 to 1860, she worked at the Hobart Town Museum in Tasmania. There, she prepared and mounted animal specimens for the Royal Society of Tasmania.

Then, from 1864 to 1869, she held the same job at the Australian Museum in Sydney. Her role was quite unusual for a woman at that time. She was a true pioneer, opening doors for other women in scientific and museum work.

Family Business and Exhibitions

Jane Tost also ran a successful business with her daughter, Ada Jane Rohu (1848-1928). From 1872 onwards, they managed the Tost & Coates Berlin Wool Depot and Taxidermists in Sydney.

Both mother and daughter were very talented. Starting in 1860, they took part in many international exhibitions. They won many prizes for their amazing taxidermy work, showing their skill to the world.

Sources

• Australian Dictionary of Biography