Historical information

Article from The Illustrated London News, 17 April 17 1858, subheading, The Yan Yean Waterworks near Melbourne. Article accompanied by sketch of the Yan Yean Reservoir.

Significance

The Yan Yean Reservoir was constructed in the 1850's to supply Melbourne with water. The first sod was turned by Lieutenant Governor, Charles La Trobe, on 20 December 1853. The water supply to Melbourne was officially turned on 31 December 1857, and was the largest artificial reservoir in the world at the time of its completion.

Physical description

piece of paper

Inscriptions & markings

The Illustrated London News, April 17, 1858