Archibald Cruikshank at work at the Postmaster Generals Department

Judy Cruikshank recalls Arch saying he worked in the Government offices in St Georges Terrace - corner of Barrack Street. Arch who was born on the 13 August 1884 joined the Postmaster General's Department in Coolgardie on 21 March 1896. He was 11 years old. His three brothers John, James and Andrew all joined the PMG in Coolgardie at the same time.

Arch became a cadet telegraphist. He was later sent to Mr Morgans (near Laverton) where he met his wife, Rose. He also worked as a telegraphist at Eucla on the WA-SA border. Rose (born in Newcastle NSW) and Arch (born in Semaphore SA) were married in Adelaide, came back to WA and settled in Joondanna, then Osborne Park.

As a telegraphist Arch held a reserved occupation status during the Second World War. Rose recounted how when Arch was on night shift she would pick him up in St George's Terrace in a horse and sulky. The horse knew the way home. Arch stayed with the Postmaster General's Department until he retired.