Ruby Ethel Yon

Ruby Ethel Yon

Image Courtesy of: Lyn Wrobel

Ruby Ethel Yon (1885–1937), was the daughter of Chinese-born farmer William Ah Yon and Victorian-born Margaret Ah Ket. A skilled dressmaker and designer, she commenced her business in 1914 and opened a modern costumier and clothing factory at this site in 1923. The business continued trading as “Miss R. E. Yon” even after her marriage to grocer William Hoyling and raising two children. Supported by family and Chinese community connections (her uncle was William Ah Ket), she established a lasting presence in Brunswick.

Source: Women of Merri-bek

Ruby Ethel Yon with her daughter Mavis c.1919

Image Courtesy of: Lyn Wrobel

Sliver tea pot - gift from Ruby Ethel Yon to her Aunt Alberta (Ah Ket) Tim Young. Alberta was a sister of William Ah Ket.

Image Courtesy of: Lyn Wrobel

R.E.Y - initials of Ruby Ethel Yon

Image Courtesy of: Lyn Wrobel