Les Darcy’s training gloves are now on display at Maitland Regional Art Gallery, a century after the prized fighter wore them.
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The gloves arrived at the gallery two weeks ago, but have only just been opened to the public to see.
The gallery got their hands on the mitts from an auction, which happened to be held on the same day that memorabilia donated by Les Darcy’s sister-in-law Iris was unveiled at the gallery.
Maitland Regional Art Gallery collection management curator Cheryl Farrell said it was likely that Darcy used the gloves while training in Maitland in 1915-16.
Ms Farrell said it was great to see the gloves return to Maitland.
“We were really excited and really determined to bring them back,” she said.
“We didn’t want them to go anywhere else.”
Maitland Mayor Councillor Peter Blackmore said having the gloves in Maitland was an acknowledgement of the town’s history.
“Les Darcy is often referred to as Maitland’s favourite son,” he said.
“He was larger than life.
“[It’s great] to be able to see his gloves as part of our collection.”
The display is expected to be a draw card for many people, boxing fans or not.
“People out of curiosity will want to see it, I want to see it!” Cr Blackmore said.
The gloves have been set up next to Iris Darcy’s memorabilia, which includes postcards, a waistcoat, a watch, and other personal momentos.
Ms Farrell said the gallery is always on the lookout for more Les Darcy items.
