The Municipality of Kew (1860-1863), the Borough of Kew (1863-1910), the Town of Kew (1910-1921) and the City of Kew (1921-1994) were local government instrumentalities in the State of Victoria. In 1994, the City of Kew was amalgamated, together with the former Cities of Camberwell and Hawthorn, into the new City of Boroondara (1994- ). Like other local government entities of the period, Kew was administered by town clerks. The two notable town clerks in Kew's history were H. H. (Henry Hirst) Harrison (1868-1955) and W. D. (William Dickie) Birrell (1899-1974). Harrison was appointed to the position in 1901 and retired in 1938 after 37 years. Birrell, appointed Acting Town Clerk in 1921, became Town Clerk in 1938, following Harrison's retirement. He continued in this role until his retirement in 1966.This card is part of an historically significant civic collection, containing hundreds of separate invitations, documents, greeting cards, programmes and tickets issued and/or collected by successive town clerks. Items in the collection illuminate the political, social and cultural history of the district. As a continuous record, ranging across most decades of the Twentieth Century, they reveal changing tastes in design, values and relationships in the history of local government in Victoria.OFFICIAL OPENING OF KEW MUNICIPAL OFFICES / BY / THE HONOURABLE R J HAMER, PREMIER OF VICTORIA / THE MAYOR AND COUNCILLORS OF THE CITY OF KEW / REQUEST THE PLEASURE OF THE COMPANY OF / ___________ / OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE NEW MUNICIPAL OFFICES & LIBRARY / KEW CIVIC CENTRE / THURSDAY, 22ND MARCH, 1973, 3 P.M./ RSVP TOWN CLERK , KEW 8TH MARCH, 1973 / ON RECEIPT OF ACCEPTANCE ENTREE CARDS WILL BE FORWARDEDcivic invitations -- kew (vic), kew town hall -- charles street -- kew (vic.), kew civic offices

Book - 12 pages with a fold out double page centre map, centre stapled, titled "The Merrilands Garden Suburb", a real estate marketing brochure for area to the west of the Reservoir rail line, known locally as Merrilands. Marketed on being a gardens suburb to the then Town Planning situation. Contains a suggested loop tram system. Has sales conditions, general information. Marketed by T. M. Burke of 340 Collin St Melbourne. Fold out surveyors map, by Saxil Tuxen, Licensed Surveyor date Oct. 1919. Shows suggested tram routes, reserves, and civic centre.trams, tramways, real estate, reservoir, proposals, new tramway, land

In 1965, the Diamond Valley Shire planning association recommended to Council that a large area of land north of Greensborough be acquired for Parkland. The idea of a Civic Centre was included with a map of the area from Grimshaw Street in the south to the MMBW pipeline reserve in the north. Includes a suggested new site for the local school, near Yando Street. This area is now part of the Plenty River Trail.An example of developments in the Greensborough area during the period of Shire of Diamond ValleyNews clipping, black and white text and map. Scanned in 3 parts.shire of diamond valley, civic drive greensborough, yando street greensborough, partingtons flat, plenty river trail

The Municipality of Kew was granted independence in 1860. It was declared a borough in 1863, a town in 1910 and a city in 1921. In 1994, Kew was amalgamated into the new City of Boroondara. In 1960, a new Town Hall in Cotham Road was opened. The Municipal Offices that had remained in the former Town Hall in Walpole Street until it was moved to the new Civic Centre on the corner of Cotham Road and Charles Street in 1972.This is a rare and important colour photograph of the Kew Municipal Offices (former Town Hall) taken on 11/2/1972 in the year that the building was demolished and replaced by a Safeway Supermarket.Colour photographic positive (polaroid) of the front of the (former) Kew Town Hall in Walpole Street between High Street and Malmsbury Street, on the west side where Woolworth's supermarket now stands. The photograph, taken in February 1972, shows the detailing of the Italianate rendered-brick facade, added in the 1880s when the hall was renovated. The earliest building on the site was the Kew Athenaeum Hall (built 1860) which was purchased by Kew Council in 1865. The Town Hall was sold to Woolworth's and subsequently demolished in 1972 when the civic offices were transferred to a new building on the corner of Charles Street and Cotham Road.kew town hall -- walpole street, local government -- kew, town halls -- melbourne (vic.)

Wodonga Shire was created in 1876 when the colonial government agreed to ratepayers' petitions to have their part of the local government district severed from the Yackandandah Shire to form a new municipality. After meeting for 14 years in rented remises, in the Prince of Wales Hall, Wodonga Council built its first Shire Hall on the corner of High and Elgin Streets in 1890. The date on the façade of the building, 1876, represents the date of the formation of the Shire. In 1957 the second Shire Office was built in Woodland Grove by A.B. and M. A. Chick. These offices were considered more than adequate for future needs. The façade featured floor to ceiling windows and several different meeting rooms in addition to the council chamber, which featured an impressive “horse shoe” table. It also included a kitchen equipped with modern fittings and a President’s room. In the late 1960s the area between Hovell and Havelock Streets as far as Jack Hore Place was zoned for civic purposes. In 1969 plans for a civic centre providing a library, theatre and senior citizens’ rooms. It was opened on 22 April 1971. In 1973, the Council engaged Bruce Marshall to design new offices beside the Civic Centre. Jennings Industries were contracted to complete the offices. The Governor, Sir Henry Winneke, laid the foundation stone of the new offices on 10 March 1976. The Civic Centre was demolished in 2011 to make may for a new $10 million community and entertainment centre which opened in August 2012.These photos are significant because they depict the different buildings which have housed the centre of local government in Wodonga since its inception as an independent shire in 1876.A series of photographs depicting the different buildings used to house the Wodonga Council and Civic buildings over time.wodonga civic buildings, wodonga council, shire of wodonga, rural city of wodonga

This Box Hill Town Hall was officially opened in April 1935 by the then governor of Victoria, Lord Huntingfield. An administrative wing was added in 1982. Following the proclamation of the City of Whitehorse in 1994, the administrative functions were transferred to the Civic Centre in Nunawading. The Box Hill Town Hall, which is a National Trust building now houses the Art Centre and community rooms for use by historical societies and volunteer groups.Coloured photograph of the front of Box Hill Town Hall taken in November 2006 on the re-opening after refurbishmentbox hill town hall, city of whitehorse

City of Ringwood community information annual report for 1968, including sections covering Finance, General Valuation and Rater Payments, Property Ownership Changes, Refuse, Sanitary Serviced, Sewerage Connections to MMBW, Dandenong Valley Authority, Residential Flat Control Planning Scheme, Immunisation, Home Help, Elderly Citizens' Clubrooms, Library, Civic Centre, Golf Course, Sale of Council Land, Swimming Centre, Holiday Play Centre, Civic Week, Lake Reserve Improvements, Rubbish Dumping, Street Trees, Vandalism, White Ants, Street Construction, Fire Hazards, Dog Nuisance, House Numbering, Citizens' Advisory Service, Infant Welfare Centres, and a list of departing and current Council Representatives. Also includes general reminders regarding rat extermination, free firewood for age pensioners, overhanging vegetation, and spouses voting rights.Obituary - Mr. F.P. Dwerryhouse, Town Clerk for the past 9-1/2 years passed away on 6th December after a short illness.rinx

City of Ringwood community information annual report for 1966, including sections covering Finance, Sanitary Service Charge, Municipal Library, Memorial Clock Tower, Reserves, Civic Centre, Maroondah Highway Reconstruction, Other Road Works, Building Activity and Development - Education, MacRobertsons Pty. Ltd. & Travellers' Facilities (Ringwood Station), Appreciation - Decimal Currency Conversion, Annual Special Clearance of Refuse, Garbage Removal, Fly Control, Immunisations, Infant Welfare Centres, Retention of Native Flora, Home Help Service, Dogs, Horse Riding, Fire Hazards and Burning Off, Secondary School Grants, and list of Council Representatives.rinx

The Nunawading Council produced commemorative First Day Covers showing First Day of issue stamp for Australia Day during the years 1981 - 1992Two First Day Covers, each with 39 cent stamp captioned 'Australia Day 1989 Federation speech Sir Henry Parkes Tenterfield 1889' and picture of Henry Parkes. Stamped 'First Day of Issue 25 Jan 1989 Nunawading Vic 3131'. At left, drawing of woodcutter and charcoal burners at work below logo and 'Nunawading Australia Day Family Festival 26 January 1989 Civic Centre Nunawading'. One envelope numbered 197; the other addressed to Mr & Mrs. D. & E. Sloan, 42 Ashwood Drive, Nunawading, Vic. At back, history and description of charcoal making .Municipal Offices Nunawading Vic 3131philately, date stamps, civic mementoes, souvenirs

Community information brochure issued in 1973 by Ringwood Council outlining local services, sporting, and cultural facilities. Includes names of Ward Councillors, and two City of Ringwood Free Tipping Vouchers valid until the end of 1974."Frontpiece: A quiet corner of the Fred Dwerryhouse Swimming Centre, Jubilee Park." "The staff at the Civic Centre are at your service. Ring 8704311 for guidance on - Town Planning applications, Road and footpath construction, Building matters, Garbage clearance, Connection to sewer by end of 1973, Immunisation times and places, Home help, Rate payments and valuations, Booking of meeting rooms, Clearance of fire hazards, Stray dogs and all nuisance complaints."rinx

Miss Olive Codling was a Foundation Member and a Life Member of the Wodonga Historical Society. Many of her prize-winning photos are held in the Society Collection. She also held a range of roles and committee positions in a wide range of Wodonga community organisations. These included the Horticultural Society, the Wodonga Arts Council, the Wodonga Camera Club and the Wodonga Lapidary Club. Elaine Mann was married to David Mann, a successful Wodonga businessman and community leader who passed away in Wodonga in June 2012. David was a member of the Mann family who began their business in Wodonga in 1920. Elaine was a teacher in Wodonga for many years.This photo collection is significant as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the 20th century.THE WATER TOWER is a major landmark of High Street, Wodonga. It began operation from January 1924 until it ceased operation in 1959. It stood unused for a decade until the lower section was modified and put to use as “ The Tower’s Cobbler’s Inn” in 1962. In 1972 Wodonga City Council proposed to demolish the Tower. Their suggestion received an unfavorable response from the city’s citizens, so the Tower still stands today. This image shows High Street and Hovell Street looking to the north The Civic Centre Theatre is on the right in Hovell Street. On the left in High Street is Tower Place on left. On the far left Repco which by 1998 became a Chinese restaurant and remains so in 2021.wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, water tower, hovell street wodonga, high street wodonga

Program Booklet and Invitation Card for the Conferring of Freedom of Entry to the City of Ringwood upon Royal Australian Engineers 7th Field Regiment, 1981. The Program booklet includes: - Image and Description of the Presentation Scroll - How the Ceremony Originated - Serving Officers of the regiment - Brief History of the Royal Australian Engineers, and of the 7th Field Engineer Regiment - Brief History of the Development of RingwoodThe Invitation card reads: His Worship the Mayor (Cr F. J. Corr J.P.) and Councillors of the City of Ringwood request the pleasure of the company of Mr and Mrs Rob Atkins at the Conferring of The Freedom of Entry to the City of Ringwood upon The Field Engineer Regiment, Royal Australian Engineers at Ringwood 2.30pm Saturday, 11th July, 1981 RSVP 1st July, 1981, Town Clerk, Civic Centre, Ringwood On Receipt of Acceptance, Entree Cards will be forwarded.

Hall designed by H G French erected by E Cowlishew, seated 350, lit with acetylene light, opened with a grand ball 26 September 1907. Later altered, bio-box added to show films. Hall was drastically altered in 1962, demolished 1998. New Civic Centre and library built on site.|This is the before paired photograph used in the 150 year Lakes Entrance 1858-2008 display.|The after paired photograph Number 02401.1|Also one 12 x 16 framed photograph used in room display.Black and white photograph of the timber Mechanics Hall. Building has gable roof, four ventilators and chimney, foyer at end of building has gable roof, steps leading to doors of foyer and main building. Many windows. Lakes Entrance VictoriaMechanics Hallhalls, township, room display

THE WATER TOWER is a major landmark of High Street, Wodonga. It began operation from 1924 until it ceased operation in 1959. It stood unused for a decade until the lower section was modified and put to use as “ The Tower’s Cobbler’s Inn” in 1962. In 1972 Wodonga City Council proposed to demolish the Tower. Their suggestion received an unfavorable response from the city’s citizens, so the Tower still stands today. This image shows High Street and Hovell Street looking to the north The Civic Centre Theatre is on the right in Hovell Street. On the left in High Street is Tower Place on left. On the far left Repco which by 1998 became a Chinese restaurant and remains so in 2022.This photo is significant as it depicts a major building which has been used to represent the city of Wodonga in many souvenirs and publications over time.One of many photos of the Wodonga Water Tower in our collection. It is a large black and white image which has been mounted in a metal frame.wodonga water tower, wodonga city

Programme and menu for Melbourne Legacy's 61st Annual Dinner on Saturday, 2nd March, 1985. Dinner was held at the Heidelberg Civic Centre. Event included President's Report and Installation of Legatee T. C. Bannister as Melbourne Legacy President for 1985. Each year Melbourne Legacy would have an Annual Dinner for the installation of the incoming President (Changeover dinner). It is one of the most important events of the year. Up until 2005 each President served for one year. Whilst the rules of the Club nominate one year terms, since 2005 Presidents have been renominated to serve for a second year. Melbourne Legacy is regarded as the mother Club and these functions drew Legatees from many clubs within the Legacy Family.Record of annual president's installation event including information on principal guests. It shows official meeting procedures for Melbourne Legacy and the importance of gathering together to install the new President.Card with blue printed type folded to DL size.legatee event, function, changeover dinner

1860: Kew's first library was the Kew Literary and Scientific Society, which opened on 6 August 1860. 1884: Kew Town Hall was extended and the library transferred to a room on the upper floor. This was not an ideal arrangement as the room was required for Council purposes. 1904: A cottage adjoining Kew Town Hall was purchased for use as a library. 1937: The library was closed for a major overhaul of stock and renovation of the building. It reopened in December 1937 and remained there for more than 35 years. 1973: When the Civic Centre opened in Charles Street, Kew, the library moved in. 1987: Kew Library moved to its current location in the converted city hall, overlooking the beautiful Alexandra Gardens. The library was officially opened at this site on Friday 23 October 1987 by the Mayor of Kew, Cr James Tutt. (Source: Boroondara Library Service)Early original photograph of a children's library service taken by a notable Melbourne photographerOriginal photograph, in original frame, of the Junior Section of the Kew Public Library in Walpole Street, Kew. The photograph was taken by Stuart Tompkins who was the photographer of choice by the City of Kew from the 1930s to the 1960s. The details of the photograph are inscribed on the water-damaged mount, with the photographers signature at lower right. . "Junior Section, Kew Public Library, May 15th 1945"kew public library, photographers - c. stuart tompkins - camberwell (vic), children's libraries

1860: Kew's first library was the Kew Literary and Scientific Society, which opened on 6 August 1860. 1884: Kew Town Hall was extended and the library transferred to a room on the upper floor. This was not an ideal arrangement as the room was required for Council purposes. 1904: A cottage adjoining Kew Town Hall was purchased for use as a library. 1937: The library was closed for a major overhaul of stock and renovation of the building. It reopened in December 1937 and remained there for more than 35 years. 1973: When the Civic Centre opened in Charles Street, Kew, the library moved in. 1987: Kew Library moved to its current location in the converted city hall, overlooking the beautiful Alexandra Gardens. The library was officially opened at this site on Friday 23 October 1987 by the Mayor of Kew, Cr James Tutt. (Source: Boroondara Library Services)Historically and socially significant set of regulations governing the use of the children's library in Kew in the early 1950sOriginal framed rules and regulations of the junior section of the Kew Library, dated 16.6.1953, authorised by the Mayor (W.E.R. Hope) and Town Clerk (W.D.Birrell). The document also lists opening hours of the Kew and East Kew branches.kew public library - kew (vic), kew public library - east kew (vic), city of kew - library guidelines

Kew Library history: 1860: Kew's first library was the Kew Literary and Scientific Society, which opened on 6 August 1860. 1884: Kew Town Hall was extended and the library transferred to a room on the upper floor. This was not an ideal arrangement as the room was required for Council purposes. 1904: A cottage adjoining Kew Town Hall was purchased for use as a library. 1937: The library was closed for a major overhaul of stock and renovation of the building. It reopened in December 1937 and remained there for more than 35 years. 1973: When the Civic Centre opened in Charles Street, Kew, the library moved in. 1987: Kew Library moved to its current location in the converted city hall, overlooking the beautiful Alexandra Gardens. The library was officially opened at this site on Friday 23 October 1987 by the Mayor of Kew, Cr James Tutt.An historically interesting photographic record of investment in public infrastructure and services by municipal councils during the 1950s. Framed photographic collage showing the opening of Extensions to the Kew Municipal Library by The Hon. L.W. Balvin M.L.A. Chief Secretary on 19 August 1954. The photos are in their original mount and frame.[Inscription] "Kew Municipal Library: Opening of Extentions by The Hon. L.W. Balvin M.L.A. Chief Secretary 19.8.1954, with Cr. A.S.C. Stevens J.P. Mayor and Cr. W.D. Vaughan J.P. Chairman Library Council". [Photographer] "Stuart Tompkins Studios."kew library, cr a.s.c. stevens, cr w.d. vaughan, australian photographers - stuart tompkins studio

The City Engineer's Department within the former City of Kew, was responsible for public works, including street beautification. This photograph was held in the archives of the Department and was subsequently gifted to the Kew Historical Society. Like other examples originally held by the Department, photographs of road works, street beautification, engineering works were often sourced from other municipalities, or countries, to use as references for engineering works and design in Kew.Colour photographic positive (faded) of street beautification in Port Melbourne, used as a model by the Engineer's Department of the City of Kew for how civic spaces, including shopping centre precincts, could be improved. street beautification, city of kew -- engineers department, public works -- kew (vic.), port melbourne

The City Engineer's Department within the former City of Kew, was responsible for public works, including street beautification. This photograph was held in the archives of the Department and was subsequently gifted to the Kew Historical Society. Like other examples originally held by the Department, photographs of road works, street beautification, engineering works were often sourced from other municipalities, or countries, to use as references for engineering works and design in Kew.Colour photographic positive (faded) of street beautification in Port Melbourne, used as a model by the Engineer's Department of the City of Kew for how civic spaces, including shopping centre precincts, could be improved. street beautification, city of kew -- engineers department, public works -- kew (vic.), port melbourne

The City Engineer's Department within the former City of Kew, was responsible for public works, including street beautification. This photograph was held in the archives of the Department and was subsequently gifted to the Kew Historical Society. Like other examples originally held by the Department, photographs of road works, street beautification, engineering works were often sourced from other municipalities, or countries, to use as references for engineering works and design in Kew.Colour photographic positive (faded) of street beautification in Port Melbourne, used as a model by the Engineer's Department of the City of Kew for how civic spaces, including shopping centre precincts, could be improved. street beautification, city of kew -- engineers department, public works -- kew (vic.), port melbourne

The City Engineer's Department within the former City of Kew, was responsible for public works, including street beautification. This photograph was held in the archives of the Department and was subsequently gifted to the Kew Historical Society. Like other examples originally held by the Department, photographs of road works, street beautification, engineering works were often sourced from other municipalities, or countries, to use as references for engineering works and design in Kew.Colour photographic positive (faded) of public parking in South Melbourne, perhaps used as a model by the Engineer's Department of the City of Kew for how civic spaces, including shopping centre precincts, could be improved. city of kew -- engineers department, public works -- kew (vic.), south melbourne, carparks, signs

These are souvenir medals of the Warrnambool Industrial and Art Exhibition of 1896-7. This exhibition organised by a local committee under the chairmanship of the Mayor, Walter Hickford was one of the most important events in Warrnambool's history. It ran for three months and was said to have attracted 70000 visitors. It was held in Liebig Street and utilised both the civic centre buildings and temporary buildings erected for the event. It had several exhibition courts featuring art worksand business exhibition stands, competitions,entertainments and visiting experts in various fields. These medals were made at the exhibition at the stand of Stokes and Son. Visitors to the exhibition were able to get a gold silver or bronze medal made while they watched and the medal was then perforated ready to put on a watch chain or pendant. Thomas Stokes came to Australia in the 1850's and established a successful business in Melbourne manufacturing buttons, medals and tokens. The business was called Stokes and Son following a fire in 1893.These medals are of great significance as a memento of an important event in Warrnambool -The Warrnambool Industrial and Art Exhibition of 1896-7. Medals such as these would have been in the homes of many residents of Warrnambool and district and beyond after 1896..1 This silver circular medal has text around the outer rim and an image of Queen Victoria on the reverse. On the obverse is text and an image of the Warrnambool Exhibition building erected for the occasion. The medal is secured by a red thread , button and clear tape to a piece of card. On the card is a hand drawn sketch the Warrnambool Exhibition building and a hand drawn sketch of a profile of Queen Victoria . .2This silver circular medal has text around the rim and an image Warrnambool Exhibition building on the reverse and on the obverse a stylised coat of arms topped by the rising sun . Inside the field is a sailing ship, a pick and shovel , a sheep and sheaf of wheat .1 on the Reverse : around the rim, Struck at the Exhibition mint. On the obverse : Industrial exhibition 1896 Warrnambool. .2 On the obverse : Industrial exhibition 1896 Warrnambool.warrnambool, great exhibition of warrnambool, 1896 exhibition warrnambool, warrnambool exhibition medal

Pen and ink sketches accompanied by appropriate text in double page spreads. Contents cover : Blue stone bridge, Introduction, House cnr Church and Hailes Street, House - 25 Hailes Street, Yandell Reserve, Greensborough Hotel, Lobb's Kiosk, House - 49 Grimshaw Street, View of Greensborough (from Delphin Crescent), Railway Station, Old Barn (near Greensborough Railway Station), Partington's Flat and River Valley, Rand Street Bridge, Lower Main Street, Greenbriar Nursery, Hitching rail, Ashmead - Dr Cordner's Home, Greensborough Primary School, House - cnr St Helena and Diamond Creek Raods, Sondermeyer's Hill, Methodist Church, Football Pavilion, Cemetery, St Katherine's Church, St. Helena, Civic Centre, Briar Hill Timber Mill, 24 River Street, Kelly's Garden Supplies, 158 Main Street, Old Swimming pool, 105 Main Street.Hardback; 62 p. : ill., map ; 19 x 25 cm.ISBN 0909807108 Signed by author and illustrator Two copiesgreenhills, greensborough

Mrs. E Pullin MBE was the President of The Ringwood Research Group for many years and was associated with many groups in the area hence she was well known by successive Mayors and Mayoresses.1. White bifold Invitation to Mrs. E. Pullin to attend luncheon at Civic Centre, Braeside Avenue, Ringwood on Wednesday 19th. March 1975, from the Mayoress Mrs. Lois Morris. 2. Bifold typed letter with City of Ringwood Crest inviting Mrs. E. Pullin to a "last supper" on Monday 28th August 1975 after the Council Meeting. 3. Inviation to Luncheon by the Mayoress Mrs. Shirley Martin to Mrs. Pullin at Braeside Avenue, Ringwood, 17th. March. 1976. 4. 24th June, 1987, letter from the Mayoress Mrs. Lillian Rosewarne to Mrs. Pullin thanking her for the photograph taken at the opening of the Poppet Head in the Ringwood Lake area. 5. Invitation to Mrs. Pullin from the Mayor, Councillor John Caffyn and the Councillors of the City of Ringwood to a "Thank you" for local community organisations at Mines Road on Thursday 19th. May 1988. 6. Invitation to Mrs. Pullin by the Mayoress Mrs. Verna Gardini to a Luncheon at the Ringwood Convention and Performing Arts Centre, Mines Road, Ringwood on Friday 17th. March 1989. 7. Inviation from The Mayor of Ringwood Councillor Margaret Cheevers to Mrs. Pullin MBE to Afternoon Tea at the Convention Centre, Mines Road, Ringwood East on 26th. October 1993.

The Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works (MMBW) plans were produced from the 1890s to the 1950s. They were crucial to the design and development of Melbourne's sewerage and drainage system. The plans, at a scale of 40 feet to 1 inch (1:480), provide a detailed historical record of Melbourne streetscapes and environmental features. Each plan covers one or two street blocks (roughly six streets), showing details of buildings, including garden layouts and ownership boundaries, and features such as laneways, drains, bridges, parks, municipal boundaries and other prominent landmarks as they existed at the time each plan was produced. (Source: State Library of Victoria)This plan forms part of a large group of MMBW plans and maps that was donated to the Society by the Mr Poulter, City Engineer of the City of Kew in 1989. Within this collection, thirty-five hand-coloured plans, backed with linen, are of statewide significance as they include annotations that provide details of construction materials used in buildings in the first decade of the 20th century as well as additional information about land ownership and usage. The copies in the Public Record Office Victoria and the State Library of Victoria are monochrome versions which do not denote building materials so that the maps in this collection are invaluable and unique tools for researchers and heritage consultants. A number of the plans are not held in the collection of the State Library of Victoria so they have the additional attribute of rarity.Original survey plan, issued by the MMBW to a contractor with responsibility for constructing sewers in the area identified on the plan within the Borough of Kew. The plan was at some stage hand-coloured, possibly by the contractor, but more likely by officers working in the Engineering Department of the Borough and later Town, then City of Kew. The hand-coloured sections of buildings on the plan were used to denote masonry or brick constructions (pink), weatherboard constructions (yellow), and public buildings (grey). Development in the 20th century has irreparably altered that part of Kew represented in this plan. In the block bounded by Cotham Road, Charles Street, Wellington Street and Gellibrand; just one house standing in 1903 remains. This block included two of the most historic houses in Kew: ‘Ordsall’ (later ‘Southesk’) and ‘Madford’ (previously ‘Elm Lodge’). Ordsall was the home of the second chairman of Kew, John Halfey. It contained some of the most significant interior murals in Kew, created for Halfey by artists working for Cullen & Co. It was demolished in 1960 to make way for the Kew Civic Centre. Elm Lodge had been built for William Siddeley in ca. 1864. Arthur Septimus King purchased it in 1874. The lower paddocks of Madford were sold in 1905 by his wife to the Borough of Kew and, after landscaping by George and Thomas Pockett, opened as the Alexandra Gardens in 1908. Elm Lodge/Madford was in 1922 to become St. Anthony’s Home for Little Children before its subsequent demolition in the 1980s.melbourne and metropolitan board of works, detail plans, maps - borough of kew, mmbw 1576, cartography

The Municipality of Kew was proclaimed on 19 December 1860, then upgraded to a Borough (1863), a Town (1910) and finally a City (1921). From 1865, its offices were based in the former Athenaeum Hall in Walpole Street, which, although extended in 1883, inevitably became inadequate. Plans for a new purpose-built Town Hall were first mooted in the late 1880s, but fell prey to six subsequent decades of debate. During that time, many sites were considered and rejected, and several schemes prepared. Finally, in 1945, it was resolved to build a new civic centre as a war memorial. The council acquired Southesk, a mansion on the south-west corner of Cotham Road and Charles Street – first mooted as a possible Town Hall site two decades earlier – and plans for a civic precinct were drawn up by John Scarborough. The project stalled until 1957, when a Town Hall Committee was formed and a new architect appointed: Harold Bartlett of Leith & Bartlett. He also proposed an entire civic precinct, of which a large public hall would constitute Stage One. Designed to accommodate almost any public or official function, the space had had a small stage at one end for intimate theatrical productions, a larger stage at the other (with operable sunken orchestra pit) for musical performances, plus the most up-to-date equipment for live TV transmission. The building, befitting its original intent as a war memorial, was also to include a sculpted monument, for which a separate design competition was held. First prize went to George H Allen (1900-1972), long-time head of the Sculpture Department at RMIT and a former war artist himself (the only one, in fact, to have worked in the medium of sculpture). At the time of the Kew project, Allen was best known for his Cenotaph at the Shrine of Remembrance (1955) and a controversial abstract sculpture at Hume House in William Street (1957). Tenders for the new hall were called and the contract (worth £104,986) was awarded to H F Yuncken. The foundation stone was laid by the Mayor, Cr F C O'Brien, on 1 June 1959. Completion (initially scheduled for October) was delayed by the unavailability of certain materials; it was barely finished in time for the official opening (by Premier Henry Bolte) on 23 April 1960. The war memorial was unveiled two days later (Anzac Day) by Bolte's deputy, the Hon A G Rylah. Fittingly, that year also marked Kew's municipal centenary, and many celebratory events were held in and around the new civic centre in December, including a special council meeting (attended by the Prime Minister), a tree planting ceremony and a youth ball. Source: Survey of Built Heritage in Victoria: Stage Two (Built Heritage Pty Ltd., 2010)Plaque commemorating the opening of a new town hall in KewMetal plaque recording the official opening of the Kew City Hall, 23rd April 1960. This plaque was given to the Kew Historical Society in 1991 by the former City of Kew.Kew City Hall / Opened by / The Hon. H.E. Bolte M.L.A. / Premier of Victoria / 23rd April 1960 / Cr. H.G. Ferguson J.P. - Mayor.kew city hall, foundation stones - kew (vic), sir henry bolte, local government -- kew (vic.)

The Municipality of Kew was proclaimed on 19 December 1860, then upgraded to a Borough (1863), a Town (1910) and finally a City (1921). From 1865, its offices were based in the former Athenaeum Hall in Walpole Street, which, although extended in 1883, inevitably became inadequate. Plans for a new purpose-built Town Hall were first mooted in the late 1880s, but fell prey to six subsequent decades of debate. During that time, many sites were considered and rejected, and several schemes prepared. Finally, in 1945, it was resolved to build a new civic centre as a war memorial. The council acquired Southesk, a mansion on the south-west corner of Cotham Road and Charles Street – first mooted as a possible Town Hall site two decades earlier – and plans for a civic precinct were drawn up by John Scarborough. The project stalled until 1957, when a Town Hall Committee was formed and a new architect appointed: Harold Bartlett of Leith & Bartlett. He also proposed an entire civic precinct, of which a large public hall would constitute Stage One. Designed to accommodate almost any public or official function, the space had had a small stage at one end for intimate theatrical productions, a larger stage at the other (with operable sunken orchestra pit) for musical performances, plus the most up-to-date equipment for live TV transmission. The building, befitting its original intent as a war memorial, was also to include a sculpted monument, for which a separate design competition was held. First prize went to George H Allen (1900-1972), long-time head of the Sculpture Department at RMIT and a former war artist himself (the only one, in fact, to have worked in the medium of sculpture). At the time of the Kew project, Allen was best known for his Cenotaph at the Shrine of Remembrance (1955) and a controversial abstract sculpture at Hume House in William Street (1957). Tenders for the new hall were called and the contract (worth £104,986) was awarded to H F Yuncken. The foundation stone was laid by the Mayor, Cr F C O'Brien, on 1 June 1959. Completion (initially scheduled for October) was delayed by the unavailability of certain materials; it was barely finished in time for the official opening (by Premier Henry Bolte) on 23 April 1960. The war memorial was unveiled two days later (Anzac Day) by Bolte's deputy, the Hon A G Rylah. Fittingly, that year also marked Kew's municipal centenary, and many celebratory events were held in and around the new civic centre in December, including a special council meeting (attended by the Prime Minister), a tree planting ceremony and a youth ball. Source: Survey of Built Heritage in Victoria: Stage Two (Built Heritage Pty Ltd., 2010)Historically significant commemorative plaqueMetal plaque relating to special Council meeting to mark centenary of Kew, 13th December 1960. This plaque was given to the Kew Historical Society in 1991 by the former City of Kew.A Special Meeting Of The / Kew City Council Was Held In / This Hall On 13th December 1960 / To Commemorate / The Centenary of Kew / Cr. W.H.S. Dickinson, M.B.E., J.P., / Mayorkew city hall, foundation stones - kew (vic), cr. w.h.s. dickinson, local government -- kew (vic.)

In September 1937, a group of ladies met to form a Ladies’ Committee to assist the General Committee in raising funds for a Public Hall. Those present were Mrs Allen, Mrs Bowman, Mrs Hickey, Mrs Rains, Mrs Boake and Mrs Lyon. As there were only six present, they elected to remain in the interim as a Social Committee to arrange catering, etc., for the two dances that had been arranged for September 29th and October 30th of that year. Both those dances proved a great success. Mrs McAdie joined the committee in October. The Ladies’ Committee was officially formed at a combined meeting of the General and Ladies’ committees held on April 6th, 1938. Mrs Boake agreed to be President, Mrs Lyon as Secretary and Mrs Rains as Assistant Secretary. Other members included Mrs Browne, Mrs Forde, Mrs Jarrold, Mrs Bradbury and Mrs Taylor. By 1941 their numbers had grown to include Matron Wilson, and Mesdames Andrew, Brinkkotter, Cloney, Walker, Parsons, Crick, Ballenger, Travena, Hurst, Shields and Le Brocq . A number of these ladies eventually became part of the Women’s Auxiliary of the Eltham War Memorial Trust. Councillor A. Brinkkotter, secretary of the Hall Committee, noted that Eltham had succeeded, after many long years of fighting, in erecting a new hall and civic centre which had been badly needed. “It took a long time to convince the Council of the necessity for a new hall and civic centre in Eltham.” “The councillors, in looking after the interests of all sections of the rate payers, could not see that such a move was necessary. But finally the Hall Committee proved that such a move was not only advisable, but would prove a financial asset to the Shire.” “This committee had to put down £1,500 in cash before the work on the hall began, and to enable the committee to do this, residents loaned them money free of interest for 12 months. In addition the committee has guaranteed to pay the Council £100 a year for the next ten years.” “The borrowed money has to be repaid to the lenders, and I hope that the public will realise this and support the functions which have been and will be arranged by the Hall Committee to enable them to return the money as soon, as possible.” At the opening gala for the Public Hall, Mr. G. L. Chandler, M.L.C. said “It speaks volumes for those people who have worked for many years for the hall. I know of no other place where the residents have handed over £1,500 for the erection of a hall and guaranteed the balance of the cost. You will always find the few who say ‘Time is not opportune.’ In these days you have to make your opportunities.” “Before any town can advance, a civic spirit must exist in the residents, and I hope the people will support the Hall Committee which has the interests of this district at heart.”Background workings for the funding of a Public Hall at Eltham. The funding was provided by public subscription and the money loaned to Council to build the hall. The hall was part of the new Eltham Shire offices located at the corner of Main Road and Arthur Street. A similar funding approach was used a few years later to provide for the Eltham War Memorial located on the opposite side of Main Road.The "Vana" Exercise Book, faint lined each page, approx. 70 pages; last approx 14 pages blank Minutes (incomplete) for 1947 meetings on loose pages torn out from a separate book and inserted loosely at endarthur street, eltham public hall, eltham public hall ladies committee, eltham public hall social committee, main road, minute book