Historical information

The first hotel built in Orbost was the Club in 1885 an old wooden place on the corner built for J. A. Petersen of the Mitchell Hotel Bairnsdale, with the licence in the name of Mr Thomas Maguire (stepson of Petersen).
William Archer was the proprietor at the time of the photograph. The coach driver was Sam Dyer and the coach is leaving for the goldfields at Combienbar.
In June 1889 there was a rush to Mackenzie River, about 28 miles from Orbost, on Twelve Mile Creek. An estimated 80 men rushed the ground, but yields were patchy and large numbers eventually left. They were coming and going almost daily.

Significance

The Club Hotel was the first hotel built in Orbost and remains a significant building in the town. It was an important hub for the township with many whole town meetings held there.

Physical description

A faded black / white photograph (with two copies) with a horse-drawn carriage loaded with men and the Orbost Club Hotel behind them. The photo is on a grey buff card.

Inscriptions & markings

on back - " H. Adams. Driven by Sam Dyer - Leaving for the Combienbar Goldfields"