Books
The Banolians
A two volume, lavishly illustrated history of the Yencken family, following their story from nineteenth century Estonia, to London, Calcutta, Sydney, Mainz and Melbourne.
The grand old Melbourne home Banole has long gone, and with it the way of life of a prosperous colonial Anglo-Australian dynasty.
I have read many family histories and sagas. The Banolians is unlike any, except War And Peace perhaps. This is a story on a grand scale, by a witty yet scrupulous historian who has immersed herself in the secrets, successes and travails of an exceptionally talented family spanning two centuries. Their lives and adventures transport us from the Tsar’s Russia to every corner of the world.
—Andrew Lemon, AM, FRHSV
“ I am constantly enthralled by what you have produced. It is an incredible story and a wonderful everlasting gift to the Family. The book has been beautifully written, the design is very well done
and perfectly suited to the context of the book. The photos and other illustrations that have been
included are well chosen and really bring the narrative to life.
I do think back over the life of the project to the early days, when we didn't necessarily have a clear vision of what would emerge. At that time you did a wonderful job assembling an extended team of archivists, restorers, photographers, historians and others, and you successfully engaged family members who were the custodians (sometimes somewhat unknowing) of the family records. Those records and photographs ended up telling us the story of The Banolians with your skill as a writer capturing it all into an engaging and well written narration.
Your work with the broader family was exceptional in that you succeeded in building enthusiasm and participation. We all appreciated your regular monthly updates, your work on Basecamp and your communications to various family members in person, and your key participation in, and help with, the organisation of family reunion dinners during the project.”
I do think back over the life of the project to the early days, when we didn't necessarily have a clear vision of what would emerge. At that time you did a wonderful job assembling an extended team of archivists, restorers, photographers, historians and others, and you successfully engaged family members who were the custodians (sometimes somewhat unknowing) of the family records. Those records and photographs ended up telling us the story of The Banolians with your skill as a writer capturing it all into an engaging and well written narration.
Your work with the broader family was exceptional in that you succeeded in building enthusiasm and participation. We all appreciated your regular monthly updates, your work on Basecamp and your communications to various family members in person, and your key participation in, and help with, the organisation of family reunion dinners during the project.”
Simon Yencken