Stonleigh is one of Wodonga’s earliest buildings and stands on land granted to Daniel Rhodes in 1854, in one of the first land sales conducted in Wodonga. The building commenced soon after with the stone walls being 18 inches (46cm) thick. It was a four-room granite rubble stone building with central door and a window on either side, with a separate kitchen, as was typical of the worker's cottage of the day. The original roof would have been shingles but it was replaced with corrugated iron. It passed through several owners including Paul Huon in 1858. Peter Tenner, a farmer and vigneron took over in 1866 when it was described as “built of stone and having a cellar and a detached kitchen plus outside toilet, and a shed or two.” In the late 1880’s it was owned by William Smith who had come to Wodonga as a missionary for the Presbyterian Church and who, together with John Whan, storekeeper, was instrumental in building the Presbyterian Church nearby. Between 1890 and 1910 further buildings were added, consisting of double brick walls, two bedrooms, kitchen, laundry with brick and copper, bathroom and side verandah. William Smith established Wodonga Cordage Works in the Stonleigh buildings. The front room of the house was the display room for the business which manufactured and sold fishing lines, various types of cordage and water bags, the latter being of hand-sewn canvas. After 1954 Stonleigh became a bottle depot and bottle museum under ownership of Ramon Porta. At one stage he had over 50,000 bottles on display. In 1991 it was purchased by Mark Fraser, a cabinet maker, who made extensive renovations at the rear of the premises and internally, but left the façade untouched. Over recent times, Stonleigh was the home of several business including a florist, a patchwork maker and a café. Stonleigh was sold in 2021 and is now a private residence.These images capture one of Wodonga's oldest buildings.A series of photos, both colour and black and white, showing the building "Stonleigh' at different periodsstonleigh wodonga, old buildings wodonga, wodonga businesses, wodonga pioneers

The Wodonga Pharmacy was opened on 8 September 1952 at 166 High Street, Wodonga by Albury chemist Mr. Arthur Fussell. The building had previously been Charlie Edmonson's white goods store. A year later it was acquired by Mr. Ken Moir who had moved from Shepparton, Victoria to manage the business. The original premises were sold so the business moved to 176 High Street in 1954. Ken Moir sold the business to Graham Crapp, Harold Dennis and Robert Wood 30 years later.This item represents a local business and contributes to documentation of the development of businesses in Wodonga.Black and white photo of old pharmacy building in Wodonga mounted on cardboard.fiction Along front of upper facade: "KODAK FILM / The WODONGA PHARMACY"wodonga pharmacy, arthur fussell, businesses wodonga

In the early stages of the Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme the State Electricity Commission took over the financial and construction responsibility of the Tawonga District General Hospital building at a cost of 27,000 pounds. This included the removal and re-erection of the ex-military Bonegilla ward from Wodonga while in addition they carried out all the necessary building works that allowed the hospital to operate as a functional unit. The work was completed and handed over to the Hospital Committee of Management on September 1, 1949. Local residents raised 3,400 pounds through fund raising. The balance was met by the SEC and the Hospital and Charities Commission. The initial project was to provide for a basic temporary hospital which was later to include an Operating Theatre, Offices, Store, Mortuary and a Nurse’s Home, until the establishment of a permanent medical premises. Following the opening, 455 patients were admitted to the Tawonga District General Hospital and 254 operations were performed in the first year. The hospital relocated to Mount Beauty in the former SEC administration offices located in the town centre. Official opening of the 18 bed Tawonga District General Hospital on April 29 in 1961. Kiewa Valley House nursing home was officially opened on March 6th, 1985, with a new lounge extension opening in May, 1993. Prior to this, residents had to travel to Beechworth, Wangaratta or Wodonga for care. The old weatherboard building was demolished around the late 1900’s to early 2000’s and replaced with a new modern brick building. Alpine Health CEO Mr Lyndon Seys oversaw the opening of the new Mount Beauty Hospital in November 2001 alongside Board of Management President Mr Andrew Randell, other board members and politicians.The Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme the State Electricity Commission played a pivotal part in the planning and initial funding of the Tawonga District General Hospital, with a view to providing medical support for its many workers on the Hydro scheme. Later, spouse and family members of workers were also able to access medical assistance. Many SEC workers and their families have received high medical care at Tawonga District General Hospital and Alpine Health and/or as residents of Kiewa Valley House over the years. A number of family members of SECV workers as well as other dedicated staff have provided high quality medical attention and support in all three facilities as nursing staff, support staff and volunteers. Many past staff members and their families still remain living in the Kiewa Valley area Set of 13 colour photographs of past nursing staff and support staff from Tawonga District General Hospital, Kiewa Valley House & Alpine Health 1. Marg Hickey, Barbara Clark & Margaret Ranton 2. Cheryl Clutterbuck & Rosemary Forrest 3. Margaret Ranton 4. Margaret Ranton holding unknown infant 5. Gwen Goss 6. Barbara Clark & Margaret Ranton 7. Margaret Ranton, Sue Zeinert & Jenny Piera 8. Margaret Ranton, Gloria Ryder & Jenny Piera 9. Sue Wesley, Ruth Barton, Margaret Ranton, Rosemary Forrest & Nola Henry 10. F Bogaski & H Sigmund 11. Maintenance Supervisor H Sigmund 12. Gardener Fred Keat & Handyman Joe Trezise (1977) 13. Nursing staff in new hospital 1-9 No markings 10 F Bogaski & H Sigmund 11. Maintenance Supervisor H Sigmund 12. Gardener Fred Keat & Handyman Joe Trezise (1977) 13. Nursing staff in new hospital tawonga district general hospital, kiewa valley house, alpine health

Customs duties were a means of raising revenue between the 1850s and Federation. They were first introduced by NSW in November 1854 after it was separated from the colony of Victoria three years earlier. J P Hanify was appointed as sub-collector at Belvoir, the official name present day Wodonga at that time. Wodonga Customs House was built near the end of Union Bridge over the Murray River in 1859 Tariffs or customs duties greatly angered residents and it was little wonder the customs officer of the day was always an unpopular man. Tariffs had to be paid on articles such as tobacco, many food items and new clothing that were carried across the Border. The range of items was extended over time, leading to some farmers even swimming their livestock across the river to avoid duties at the Customs house. The levying of duties ended with Federation in 1901. Francis Cobham depicted in this photograph, took up the position of Customs officer in 1867 and remained there until his retirement in 1890. The building was originally a 2 roomed custom house in 1856 but was extended to provide living quarters for the Cobham family while a nearby cottage became the Customs house. The building was moved to a position south of the lagoon in the mid 1980s and is now a restaurant.This image represents an important stage in the development of colonial relationships and rivalries in Australia.Black and white photograph of Customs officer Francis Cobham in Wodonga c 1860customs house wodonga, albury wodonga border, colonial rivalry victoria /nsw, tariffs

The Wodonga Brewery was established in Hume Street (now Church Street) Although relatively short lived the brewery had many changes of ownership. D. Hallahan commenced brewing in 1888. On the Friday 4 January 1889 the Wodonga and Towong Sentinel announced that the Wodonga Brewery had been taken over by D. Clark of Melbourne. By Friday 27 Sep 1889 the proprietor was advertised as W. D. Busch. However, the Wodonga Brewery was sold at auction on Busch’s behalf on 25 January 1890. The entire property was knocked down to Mr Louis Wenkelmann, of Jindera, for £500. The brewery was again sold to Patrick Flanagan in 1891. In 1895 Flanagan rented the brewery to the partnership of J. R. Martin and A. Wilcox. When the partnership was dissolved in January 1896, Patrick Flanagan continued to operate the brewery. In September 1905 the Fresh Food and Frozen Storage Company of Melbourne announced that they had secured the old Brewery Buildings in Hume Street, Wodonga to establish a cream receiving depot. In November 1922 tenders were called for the removal of the Old Brewery buildings.This poster is of local significance because it advertises an early business in Wodonga.A coloured poster advertising Wodonga Brewery printed in black, red and white. It has a wood print background and has been mounted on board to protect it.Around the central name: "WODONGA BREWERY/ WODONGA" In the red section: "PALE / W.D. BUSCH/ALE" On either side inside circle: "WDB"wodonga brewery, w. d. busch, manufacturing industries wodonga

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. WODONGA'S SECOND COURTHOUSE The Court House was situated in the Customs or Bond Store building alongside the Wodonga Police Station in 93 High Street. This was on the west side of High Street at its intersection with Bond Street. The building was converted to the courthouse in 1920. In early 1964, the courthouse building was burnt beyond repair and furniture and other property destroyed. The cause of the fire was never found. The Police Station was lucky to survive but only because of the efforts of the local Fire Brigade. After the fire, the court was held first at the old Fire Station premises near where the present Wodonga Post Office, then it moved to a vacant building in Mitchell Street which was later turned into a Child Care Centre. Foundations for the new courthouse in Elgin Street were laid in October 1965.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.2 black and white photos of the Court House, formerly used as a Bond Store for collection of customs.high st wodonga, wodonga court house

The barrel was used in the Wodonga Court House as part of the selection process for jurors. It was a standard issue barrel used throughout Victoria. It was retrieved from the ruins of the court house which was destroyed by fire. It was then donated to the Wodonga Historical Society. The timber display stand was made and donated by Jake Tooley, a Wodonga Historical Society member, The Court House was situated in the Customs Store building alongside the Wodonga Police Station in 93 High Street. (The house where the Police Station was had originally been the home of the Customs Officer). In early 1964, the court house building was burnt beyond repair and furniture and other property destroyed. The cause of the fire was never found. The Police Station was lucky to survive but only because of the efforts of the local Fire Brigade. After the fire, the court was held first at the old Fire Station premises near where the Wodonga Post Office is near Woodland Grove, then it moved to a vacant building in Mitchell Street which was later turned into a Child Care Centre. Foundations for the new court house in Elgin Street were laid in October 1965 Local significance due to its use in the Wodonga Court House and its survival of a major fire. State significance as it documents a procedure used in the Victorian Court and Legal system Cylindrical metal-iron barrel painted black with writing stenciled on the front in white The timber mount was made for storage and display is not part of the original object,Inscription on Barrel "WODONGA./ Jurors in use./ Special"wodonga court, jurors, selection, legal system, fire

These town photos are part of a collection donated by Elaine Mann and Olive Codling. 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.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.Wodonga Home Furnishers located beside the old railway crossing in High Street, Wodonga. Wodonga Home Furnishers was owned by Les Cheesely who was also a Councillor on Wodonga City Council from 1981 to 1994. The building was demolished in November 1998 to make way for the realignment of Elgin Street to join what was then Jack Hore Place. The railway crossing has since been removed as the railway line now bypasses the city centre.wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, wodonga home furnishers, les cheesely

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 and an active member of the community.This photo collection is of significance as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the late 20th century.Wodonga, High Street West Businesses including W. Hicks & Son (Wine and Spirit Merchants), T. B. Erlandsen & Son. Thorald Erlandsen purchased these premises in the 1950s. The building was previously owned by John Whan. It started out as a general store but was later extended to include a drapers. The building sold in 1966 to Manns. Verandahs with posts were banned in 1960 but had 10 years to comply. W. Hicks & Son was an old style emporium and sold everything from hardware to haberdashery, wine and spirits, and grocery lines. McHarg's Solicitors was established in 1932 when John Charles (Jack) McKenzie-McHarg opened his legal practice in High Street, Wodonga in the Belvoir Chambers. There was also a dentist Mr. N. McDonough who had rooms upstairs in the 1950s.wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, t. b. erlandsen & son, belvoir chambers

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. 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.Wodonga, High Street West Businesses including Terminus Hotel, Tandy Electronics Drummond Real Estate, Pet Shop and old National / CBA Bank on corner. The Terminus Hotel was built in 1873. It was purchased by Annie and George Allen in 1879. In 1888 they added extensions including a billiard room, a dining room and 18 other rooms. After the death of her husband, Annie Allen continued to run the Terminus Hotel. She later married John Haldon and was licensee of the hotel until 1893 when the license was transferred to William Carkeek. Carkeeks owned the hotel from 1900 - 1903 and again from 1906 - 1909. It was destroyed by fire in 1998 and the building demolished in 1999. Cliff & Peter Drummond opened their first office in Wodonga in 1977.wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, terminus hotel, drummond real estate

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 and an active member of the community.This photo collection is of significance as it documents how the businesses and buildings in Wodonga have evolved and contributed to community throughout the late 20th century.Melba Hall/old Shire Offices and Dr. Grant’s Surgery located on the corner of High Street and Melbourne Road. The building was constructed in 1890. Dr. Grant Sr.'s Surgery was in the house on the left. These were Wodonga’s second shire offices. The Wodonga Council operated from these chambers from 1890 until 1957 when they moved to Woodland Grove building. The Gas Company then took over the old Shire Hall. The entrance to the Melba Theatre is on the far right. The Melba Theatre screened its last film in 1968. The building was demolished in 1971 to make way for a Safeway supermarket and car park.On front of the building above door "GAS SUPPLY/ CO."wodonga businesses, high st wodonga, dr. grant, melba hall

The Wodonga Historical Society Haeusler Collection provides invaluable insight into life in late nineteenth and early twentieth century north east Victoria. The collection comprises manuscripts, personal artefacts used by the Haeusler family on their farm in Wodonga, and a set of glass negatives which offer a unique visual snapshot of the domestic and social lives of the Haeusler family and local Wodonga community. The Haeusler family migrated from Prussia (Germany) to South Australia in the 1840s and 1850s, before purchasing 100 acres of Crown Land made available under the Victorian Lands Act 1862 (also known as ‘Duffy’s Land Act’) in 1866 in what is now Wodonga West. The Haeusler family were one of several German families to migrate from South Australia to Wodonga in the 1860s. This digital image was produced from one of the glass negatives that form part of the collection, probably taken by Louis Haeusler (b.1887) with the photographic equipment in the Wodonga Historical Society Haeusler Collection. This item is unique and has well documented provenance and a known owner. It forms part of a significant and representative historical collection which reflects the local history of Wodonga. It contributes to our understanding of domestic and family life in early twentieth century Wodonga, as well as providing interpretative capacity for themes including local history and social history.Digital image created from the Haeusler Glass negative collection. A group of students with their teacher standing outside their school building at Wodonga West, Victoria No. 1058. The school was located near the current intersection of McKoy Street and the Hume Freeway in West Wodonga on land donated by J.W. Klinge, replacing an older school north of the railway line. It operated from January 1870 to May 1950 when the nine remaining students transferred to Wodonga Primary School.wodonga pioneers, haeusler family, glass negatives, dry plate photography, wodonga west primary school

A photograph of the old Wodonga post office building taken in 1976. The building was constructed in 1874.This photographs documents the local history of Wodonga.Black and white photographic print of a white brick post office building in Wodonga taken c. 1976In proper left corner: "Built in 1874/Corner South & High Streets/1976"post office, australia post, post, mail, wodonga, local history

A photograph of the old Wodonga post office building taken in 1976. The building was constructed in 1874.This photographs documents the local history of Wodonga.Black and white photographic print of a white brick post office building in Wodonga taken c. 1976In proper left corner: "Built in 1874/Corner South & High Streets/1976"post office, australia post, post, mail, wodonga, local history

A commemorative plaque from the old Wodonga Golf House, built in 1946. The club house and the golf course were extended in 1956 to the area of Belvoir Park. It was demolished in 1987 to make room for the new Hume Highway. This plaque was salvaged from the club house building before demolition. This item has a strong link to the local and sporting history of Wodonga.A wooden plaque with engraved metal plate depicting a male golfer attached. gold, sport, leisure, entertainment, wodonga, wodonga golf club

non-fictionA history of Albury historical buildingsalbury, historic buildings, lost buildings

An A4 size spiral bound publication detailing the work of John Gordon and his sons William and Charles. It includes a speech transcript as well as articles and images.John Gordon was born in Chelsea, London in 1826. He and his wife Eliza migrated to Australia in mid-1853. They settled originally in Sydney where John practiced his profession of carpenter. By 1868 John was advertising himself as an architect. In May 1876 he and George Sheppard of Wagga announced they had entered into partnership, adopting the name "Gordon and Sheppard". John drowned in the Murrumbidgee River at Wagga on the 19 December 1880 when aged 54, leaving a wife Eliza, two sons William Joseph and Charles Goodwin and a daughter, Ada Martin. In 1881 William and Charles established the firm Gordon & Gordon. Gordon & Gordon's practice initially covered southern Riverina, however by 1890 it was very Victorian orientated having offices in Melbourne, Corowa, Rutherglen, Mansfield, Benalla, Euroa, Wangaratta, Albury, Seymour and Wodonga. This publication documents many of the buildings designed by William and Charles Gordon, including images of many of them. Some of the more well-known ones were St. Patrick's Church in Albury, Fairfield villa at Brown’s Plains for G F Morris, the Wodonga Shire Hall of 1890, A. Schlink's Store in High Street, Wodonga, Old Tallangatta Shire Offices and Butter Factory, St. Joseph's Convent, Wodonga, "Cambourne" and the de Kerilleau Homestead.gordon and gordon architects, building albury & wodonga

\When the railway reached Wodonga from Melbourne on 19th November 1873 the first station building, which included a refreshment room and dining room, was a temporary structure. It was 300 ft. long and was removed and taken to Beechworth when the new station was built in 1874 by contractor J. Richardson. The Goods shed was 100 feet long and was built by Frew & Hill in 1873. One year later it was extended an additional 150 feet by James Nation. The date of the construction of the Locomotive shed is not known but predates 1883. It was a galvanised iron clad building which housed 4 engines on 2 tracks; in 1910 it was extended to 250 feet in length to house six more engines. The location of the railway tracks and station were a constant cause of congestion in the centre of Wodonga as the tracks crossed over Sydney Road (later named High Street). Lines of traffic were frequently banked up as the gates were closed to allow trains to cross. The Wodonga Rail Bypass project moved Wodonga station from the original central location to a position on a new line on the northern edge of the town. Not only did this release land in the middle of the city for commercial and public use, but also eliminated 10 level crossings. The project actually commenced in 2008 with the last passenger train passing through Wodonga on 8 November 2008. On 23 July 2010, the new rail bypass was opened, the original line through Wodonga closed and the station fell quiet. The area has now been redeveloped as Junction Place and the old buildings now house a restaurant, cafe and the Goods Shed Craft Beer Cafe.These images are of local, state and national significance as the Wodonga Railway complex formed a vital link in the Victorian state, interstate and national railway system.A collection of colour photos of the buildings at the former Wodonga Railway Stationwodonga railways, railway station wodonga, junction place wodonga

George Smith came to Wodonga c.1885 and carried on a business as a blacksmith and wheelwright in Hume Street. He subsequently erected the very substantial Federal Coach Factory in High Street. In 1901 the Coach Factory was sold to Mr C. E. Jones, but within three or four years George Smith again found himself in the establishment he had built. In 1907/8 Marcus Buntz partnered by a G. F. Simpson took possession of the Federal Coach Factory. In 1912 Buntz bought out the interest of Simpson and engaged a first-class wheelwright to do the woodwork. In 1912 a buggy could be had from £40 and a sulky £18. The business over many years developed from a shoeing forge and wheelwright business to a more modern day garage, keeping abreast with mechanisation. Marcus Buntz was joined in the business by his three sons, George, an A grade mechanic, Edward an auto-electrician and Henry, a blacksmith’s striker. The sons eventually took over the garage and handled both coach building and general service work. The firm also maintained the Wodonga Water Pump for many years, ensuring the town’s water supply. In 1948 the old established motor garage was purchased by Mr Jack Mylon. In July 1960 the building became Wodonga Market, housing a butcher, snack bar, milk bar, fruit and veg, Bill Dunstan’s Boat Centre and an Auction Mart. These images have local significance as they document a long-standing business in central Wodonga.2 black and white photos depicting Buntz Federal Coach Factory at different stages during its period of operation,Photo 1: Above building: FEDERAL COACH FACTORY/ M.H. BUNTZ/ GEORGE SMITH/ COACH BUILDER & BLACKSMITH On side of coach: DRAPERY/ FANCY GOODS Photo 2: BUNTZ BROS" MOTOR GARAGE / ATLANTIC MOTOR OIL On the window: BUNTZ'S COACH FACTORY/ Rubber Tyres Fitted Below image on mounting: BUNTZ BROS. MOTOR GARAGE L to R. Pop Buntz, George Buntz, Les Easto, D. Zeinert, H. Buntz, Ted Buntz. Doug Zeinert buntz federal coaches, wodonga businesses, wodonga pioneers

When Mrs Julia Ronan nee Arundel lost her husband John to tuberculosis in 1906, she quickly decided to move from their small farm into Wodonga with her 3 children. She was granted the lease of the ground she needed to establish her eating house at one shilling per year in a shed on the Dalgety's saleyard block. Two established merchants Albert Schlink and John Whan and butcher Jack Garrett agreed to allow her credit which enabled her to open Ronan's Dining Rooms at the Saleyards. It was often a challenging environment, with drovers, and horse- breakers, auctioneers and bushmen bringing huge mobs of cattle and horses to the saleyards. Stories of the premises include the unexpected arrival in the passage of a lively bullock which finished up on the girls' bed. Mrs Ronan persevered and beat all obstacles to finally move from the saleyards to the Wodonga Coffee Palace in High Street, beside the railway gates in 1921. The construction of the Hume Weir had begun and some construction workers boarded at the Coffee Palace. Her 3 children achieved success due to their mother’s hard work to ensure their futures. Bill trained for the priesthood and was a parish priest, but died from tuberculosis 1n 1939 aged of 41. Katie became a highly accomplished music teacher, including 32 years at Albury Public School. In the 1930s she was able to buy a house at 49 High Street, Wodonga where she lived with her mother and sister Mary. Mary trained in office work at Edmondson’s solicitors and then worked on the Albury Council. After living with her daughters in the High Street house, Julia passed away on her 90th birthday in 1958. Mary died on 6 January 1983. Katie passed away in Wodonga at the age of 97 on the 16 September 1996. All members of the family are buried at Yackandandah, Victoria.A black and white image of Miss Mary Ronan, Mrs Julia Ronan and Miss Teresa Trudewind at the Old Saleyards Dining Room, Wodonga.On front of building: DINING ROOMS/ MRS. J. RONANmrs. ronan, dining rooms wodonga sale yards, wodonga businesses, wodonga pioneers

Stan and Mary Parker commenced the Plant Farm in Smythe Street Wodonga in February 1949. The nursery consisted of two blocks, on one of which their house was built. They started off with approximately £70 and a 1939 Singer mini-Ute. In the early days most customers came from the farming community. In late 1951 the Parkers purchased to a new site on the corner of High and Osburne Streets. Business went well and in 1957 they purchased the adjoining block. They later demolished the old house on the corner of High Street and Osburne Street, building a new home lower on the same block. As the nursery prospered Stan and Mary built a shop and showrooms with glassed-in portion for the indoor plants and a large shaded area for the display of shrubs. In 1978 they sold the nursery to Mr. & Mrs. John Gale. In 1981 the Wodonga Plant farm was purchased Geoff and Kay Pollard and they moved to its current location at the corner of Beechworth Road and Huon Creek Road. Initially they brought it as an investment but it soon got into their blood and chose to not only continue but expand the nursery and its offerings. This included a large showroom, a water shop which specialises in pool equipment, chemicals and water testing, a children's playground and an outdoor blind centre. Further expansions led to the addition of a Tuscan-style cafe on the site which has become a meeting place. The business was nominated the Yates Victorian Best Garden Centre in Australia for many years and won the award in 1997. In 2024, the Wodonga Plant Farm is still a vibrant and popular business being operated by the Pollard Family.These items are significant because they document the story of respected Wodonga Business which has served the community for over 60 years.A selection of photographs and article documenting the story of the Wodonga Plant Farmearly wodonga businesses, wodonga plant farm, pollard family, geoff and kay pollard

Henry Richardson came from England in 1852 and this was his home from 1871 to 1888. His son Henry, better known as Harry, managed the property from 1888 until his death in 1926. The property was sold in 1932 and has been known as Old Barnawartha for over 140 years. The homestead exhibited no particular style, it looked like a Cornish Miner’s cottage, and appeared as if pieces were added on as the need arose. The property is well known for topping both sheep and cattle sales at Newmarket.This item is significant because it depicts the home of an early Wodonga District pioneerA black and white image of an old homestead. There is a white picket fence across the front of the building.old barnawartha, early settlement, wodonga and district

From 1870 onwards discussions took place in Wodonga concerning the best location for a building to house and reorganise the holdings of the Wodonga Literary Institute and Free Library. The Literary Institute, originally the Belvoir Literary Group, had been formed prior to 1861 and changed its name with the renaming of the town in 1869. In 1873 a meeting was held to consider the re-organising of the Wodonga Literary Institute and Free Library as “there were a goodly number of valuable books and other property belonging to the Institution but they were not used, and it was a pity to see such valuable works and sketches shut up in a back store getting spoiled”. In October 1885 the Wodonga and Towong Sentinel reported that the Wodonga Athenaeum and Free Library committee were seeking a grant of £200 to add to the £200 already paid to purchase Hellerman’s buildings. In October 1886 the Wodonga Athenaeum in Hume Street was officially opened. It was designed by Gordon and Gordon, architects, and built by Stewart Bros. This building continued to house the Atheneum and its collection until 1915 when the new library in High Street was built. In 1916 the Athenaeum building was moved on drays drawn by Clydesdale horses, to 153 Lawrence Street and used as a private home since. The building is heritage listed. This image is one of a collection of glass negatives taken by Robert Prentice. The negatives are clearly identified as he inscribed in the glass a back-to-front capital R (Я) on to which was joined a capital P creating his mark ЯР. On the glass he would also scratch the name Prentice where he could, in this case along the bottom of the picket fence.This image is significant because it housed the Wodonga Literary Group and Free Library, the first library building in Wodonga.Black and white image of old wooden house with tin roof. Trees and a picket fence are at the front of the house.Written below picket fence: Atheneum Wodonga, Prenticewodonga literary institute and free library, atheneum wodonga, belvoir literary group, robert prentice

From the mid-1860s families of German ancestry arrived in the Wodonga district, travelling in groups from South Australia. The majority of these people were of the Lutheran religion. At first there was no Lutheran pastor or church in the area and they held services under the gum trees or in their homes once they had been built. The early arrivals included the Haeusler, Klinge, Bartel, Rothe and Paech families. They were later joined by members of the Muller, Lange, Pumpa, Lobbe, Heckendorf, Zeinert, Schubert, Schuster, Schubert and Terlich families amongst others. The first Lutheran Church was built in Havelock Street, Wodonga and was dedicated in 1875. This building was used for approximately 90 years until it was demolished and replaced by a temporary building and then a second church which was dedicated in 1978. The Ovens and Murray Advertiser on 4th August 1874 reported "The Rev. Goessling pastor of the German Lutheran Church, Gerogery has laid the foundation stone of the new church for the members of his denomination residing at Wodonga, in accordance with the rights of the church. The building was to be 30 feet by 20 feet and 14 feet high, of brick with white facings and Gothic windows. There was to be a porch and vestry, one at either end, measuring 8 feet by 10 feet". Plans were initiated to build a new church from the late 1990s. After many years of planning and hard work, the last service in the Saint John’s Lutheran Church in Havelock Street was held on Sunday 7th May 2023 and a new Church was constructed. From 14th May 2023 the Parish held its worship services in Luther Hall at Victory Lutheran College in Drage Road, West Wodonga. The new Saint John’s Church was consecrated on 18 August 2024.This photo is significant because it depicts the original Lutheran Church in Wodonga. It is the work of a recognised photographer Thomas Bonsema who was born in Wodonga in 1876.A black and white photograph of an old stone church building.Lutheran Church Wodongawodonga churches, lutheran church wodonga, thomas peter john bonsema

George Pollard was born in Corfe, Dorsetshire England in 1824. Being dissatisfied as a clay miner, he decided to migrate to Australia. He migrated in 1851 and after a short unsuccessful time on the goldfields in Bendigo, followed by a period in Dederang and farming in Oxley, he selected land on Little River, now know as the Kiewa River in 1868. His property was know as Rosebank and George continued to live there until his death in 1915. In the early 1880s, George Pollard constructed a creamery on his property at Bonegilla Flat. The creamery stood until the late 1970s although in a state of ruin and used neaas a scratching post by the cattle which grazed in the surrounding paddock. The creamery included a chimney and fireplace. This generated warmth so that when large pans of milk were placed near the fire the cram would rise to the top and could easily be separated to produce butter for the growing family. In 1982 Fred Hillier was visiting from Queensland and offered to make the replica of the creamery featured Wodonga & District Historical Society Collection.This item is significant because it represents a creamery owned by an important family in the Bonegilla district.A small model of an old building made from clay. It includes a roof resembling corrugated iron and empty spaces for windows.Underneath Model Bonegilla Creamery 1886 By Fred Hillier 1982pollard family, agricultural buildings

The Bank of Victoria was established in Wodonga during 1873. This two storey bank was constructed on the site in 1876. It later became the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney. In 1876 the Albury Banner and Wodonga Express reported that Mr. Nation had gained the contract for the erection of a new building for the Bank of Victoria, at Wodonga. The site secured for the bank was at the corner of South and Sydney streets, and immediately opposite the new Post and Telegraph Offices. The original bank was demolished in the 1950s and a new bank was built on the site. The new building was constructed with innovative foundations designed to prevent damage from vibrations caused by heavy transport vehicles along High Street which was then part of the Hume Highway. A contemporary newspaper article provides detail of the new bank. The well-lit building with open banking offices was designed by Melbourne architects, Turner and Stephenson, and combined a bright and attractive appearance with a stream-lined working layout. Alderson Swythyn Blackett-Smith, the manager of bank at time of move to new premises stated that the growth of the district and the bank’s business had made the old premises unsatisfactory due to insufficient space. The Commercial Banking Company of Sydney (CBC) merged with the National Bank of Australasia in 1982 to form the National Australia Bank and the second bank was closed. The building has since operated as several retail (including video hire and framing shop), commercial and community functions. It is currently (2025) used by the Wodonga Indie School.These images are significant because they document the development of an important financial institution established in Wodonga in the late 19th century.A series of images showing the evolution of the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney building in Wodonga from its construction in 1876 to the development of the site in 2025.commercial banking company of sydney, banking wodonga, wodonga financial institutions

Henrika (Henny) Kuljurgies was born in Lithuania on 20th May 1929 and came to Australia in 1948 on the USAT General Stewart, the third transport carrying displaced people from the Baltic countries. Like many thousands of migrants she spent a short time at Bonegilla Migrant Reception Centre. . Henrika was raised by Margarita Vrubliauskiene who was her aunt although always referred to as her mother. Her family was torn apart by World War II and the invasion of her homeland. Under new immigration policies implemented by Arthur Caldwell, Australia offered a home to refugees from the Baltic States. It was initially easier to be accepted into Australia as a single person as you could be placed more easily for work. On 30 October 1947, Margarita Vrubliauskiene departed on the first transport to arrive in Australia, the USAT General Stuart Heintzelman. Henrika who was 18 years old at that time, remained in Germany until her passage could also be arranged. Also aboard this first transport was a young man Alfredas Kuljurgies who Henrika was to later marry. After a short time at Bonegilla, Henrika was transferred to Mulwala House in Canberra where Margarita had already been relocated. Mulwala House provided accommodation for the growing number of public servants in Canberra and Margarita was working there as a house maid. Whilst at Bonegilla Henrika had met Alfredas Kuljurgies and although she was not initially attracted to Alfred his persistence in courting her finally paid off. They married in Canberra on 14th September 1948. They had two sons, Fred and Charlie and settled into a new life at Little River (Killara). As well as acquiring some land in the area, Alfred established his business, Bandiana Motors in 1950. Alfred and Henrika were both granted Australian Citizenship on 28th June 1956. As her sons grew older, Henrika (Henny) became more involved in her passion of painting. She painted landscapes which captured the area around her new home. Henrika became affectionately know as the “bird Lady” as her paintings always included a magpie. Her work is held in many galleries, homes and public buildings including the hospital where she passed away on 27th October 2010. In 2018 a small park in Killara not far from her former home, studio and Bandiana Motors, was named in her honour.These items are significant because they help to document the story of a Lithuanian migrant in Wodonga.A collection of black and white images and articles about Henrika Kuljurgies, her mother Margarita and husband Alfred.henrika kuljurgies, bonegilla migrants

The Barnawartha Soldiers Memorial Hall was erected by voluntary subscription and community volunteer labour to commemorate those from the district who served in World War One. It was opened on the 21st December 1921. Our Collection includes several photographs signed BONSEMA WODONGA or sometimes simply TBW. Thomas Peter John Bonsema was born in Wodonga in 1876 to Peter John Bonsema and Mary Ann nee Nash. His name first appears on the Electoral Roll for Wodonga in 1909 and on the Electoral Roll in 1912 he is listed as a photographer. His photographs capture many scenes and events around Wodonga and surrounding areas. Thomas Bonsema married Minna Louisa Jones in 1912. By 1914 he had moved to Chiltern, Victoria where he established Bonsema’s Photographic Studio. From this time onward many of his works bore the signature “BONSEMA CHILTERN”. As well as continuing to photograph landscapes and important buildings, Mr Bonsema was often the official photographer at school and community celebrations. He also sold many framed photographs and postcards from his premises at 68 -70 Conness Street, Chiltern. By 1943 Thomas John Bonsema had relocated to New South Wales and died in Beecroft, NSW on 14th July 1944. Some of his photographs are held in the Victorian State Library and Mitchell Library Sydney Collections.These images are significant because they are the work of a recognised photographer Thomas Bonsema who was born in Wodonga in 1876. The Soldiers Memorial Hall was an important building in Barnawartha.A black and white image showing a large group of people, horses and wagons carting gravel for the construction of the Barnawartha Hall."Carting Gravel" for Soldiers Memorial Hall Barnawarthabonsema photography, thomas peter john bonsema, old barnawartha

The first European settlement of the area around Barnawartha was in 1836 when Joseph Slack established a pastoral run, primarily for sheep. At the time, Barnawartha was known as the crossing place where horse-drawn passenger coaches and mail run would cross the Indigo River. Although no major amounts of gold were found there, Barnawartha grew as a provider of food and services to the goldfields. Our Collection includes several photographs signed BONSEMA WODONGA or sometimes simply TBW. Thomas Peter John Bonsema was born in Wodonga in 1876 to Peter John Bonsema and Mary Ann nee Nash. His name first appears on the Electoral Roll for Wodonga in 1909 and on the Electoral Roll in 1912 he is listed as a photographer. His photographs capture many scenes and events around Wodonga and surrounding areas. Thomas Bonsema married Minna Louisa Jones in 1912. By 1914 he had moved to Chiltern, Victoria where he established Bonsema’s Photographic Studio. From this time onward many of his works bore the signature “BONSEMA CHILTERN”. As well as continuing to photograph landscapes and important buildings, Mr Bonsema was often the official photographer at school and community celebrations. He also sold many framed photographs and postcards from his premises at 68 -70 Conness Street, Chiltern. By 1943 Thomas John Bonsema had relocated to New South Wales and died in Beecroft, NSW on 14th July 1944. Some of his photographs are held in the Victorian State Library and Mitchell Library Sydney Collections.These images are significant because they are the work of a recognised photographer Thomas Bonsema who was born in Wodonga in 1876. The Soldiers Memorial Hall was an important building in Barnawartha.A black and white image of High Street, Barnawartha looking west.Barnawartha TBbonsema photography, thomas peter john bonsema, old barnawartha

The first European settlement of the area around Barnawartha was in 1836 when Joseph Slack established a pastoral run, primarily for sheep. At the time, Barnawartha was known as the crossing place where horse-drawn passenger coaches and mail run would cross the Indigo River. Although no major amounts of gold were found there, Barnawartha grew as a provider of food and services to the goldfields. The Barnawartha Post Office opened on August 1, 1860. Our Collection includes several photographs signed BONSEMA WODONGA or sometimes simply TBW. Thomas Peter John Bonsema was born in Wodonga in 1876 to Peter John Bonsema and Mary Ann nee Nash. His name first appears on the Electoral Roll for Wodonga in 1909 and on the Electoral Roll in 1912 he is listed as a photographer. His photographs capture many scenes and events around Wodonga and surrounding areas. Thomas Bonsema married Minna Louisa Jones in 1912. By 1914 he had moved to Chiltern, Victoria where he established Bonsema’s Photographic Studio. From this time onward many of his works bore the signature “BONSEMA CHILTERN”. As well as continuing to photograph landscapes and important buildings, Mr Bonsema was often the official photographer at school and community celebrations. He also sold many framed photographs and postcards from his premises at 68 -70 Conness Street, Chiltern. By 1943 Thomas John Bonsema had relocated to New South Wales and died in Beecroft, NSW on 14th July 1944. Some of his photographs are held in the Victorian State Library and Mitchell Library Sydney Collections.These images are significant because they are the work of a recognised photographer Thomas Bonsema who was born in Wodonga in 1876. The Soldiers Memorial Hall was an important building in Barnawartha.A black and white image of the original Post Office in Barnawartha.TB Post office Barnawarthabonsema photography, thomas peter john bonsema, old barnawartha