Historical information

The foundation stone of the Victorian Seamen's Institute, which is to be erected in Beach street, Port Melbourne, was laid on Wednesday afternoon by His Excellency the Governor, in the presence of Lady Loch, the Post master-General (Mr. F. T. Derham), Sir James MacBain, Colonel Sargood, and Mr. S. Fraser, M's.L.C., the Dean of Melbourne, the members of the local council, Mr. John Blyth, and a large concourse, of spectators.
Captain Pasco then presented His Excellency with a silver trowel and a silver-mounted ivory mallet, whereupon the stone was lowered into position.

The stone was placed in the 1937 building then given into the care of the Port Melbourne Historical and Preservation Society during the demolition in 1995. Then it was placed in the bluestone wall in front of the building with the other building stones.

Significance

The 1888 Mission was sold in the 1930s when the new building, designed by Harry Norris was open in 1937. The 1888 building is still standing but is now for commercial use (restaurant).

Physical description

Colour photograph depicting the foundation stone of the Port Melbourne Mission to Seamen 1888.

Inscriptions & markings

THIS MEMORIAL STONE
WAS LAID BY
HIS EXCELLENCY
SIR HENRY B. LOCH C.C.M.C. K.C.B.
GOVERNOR OF VICTORIA
ON WEDNESDAY
THE 5TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER
A.D. 1888.