Historical information
Terry Kane and Richard Carter were the authors of the short history
Physical description
Type written notes and plans pertaining to the land titles and history of the Ringwood Secondary College site from 1905, prior to the land being sold by the Borough of Ringwood in 1954 to the Education Department.
Transcript of covering letter from Richard Carter to Mr T Kane dated 16 November 2012 -
"Re: Ringwood Secondary College
As we discussed recently, I have done some research into the history of the site. Going back to 1905, the site, then 26 acres one rood 37 perches, was in the name of Walter James Anderson of 61 William Street, Melbourne, Accountant - most likely a speculator. Title transferred to Theodosia Anderson of 167 Collins Street, Melbourne, Artist - possibly his son - In 1907. Theodosia Anderson was thus the owner when on abortive subdivision Into "110 Splendid Home Sites" as "Bedford Park Estate, Ringwood" took place In 1924, creating Anderson Street, Joyce Street, Adams Street and Graham Road, all of which sank without trace.
Theodosia Anderson died In 1933, leaving the property to John Blair, Solicitor of Melbourne and Annie Benson of Melbourne, widow, until title ultimately passed to The Mayor, Councillors and Burgesses of the Borough of Ringwood In 1946. Title was then spilt Into three with 14 acres 0 rood 11 perches being transferred to the Minister of Education on 1954 followed by a further 2 acres 1 rood 26 perches to the Minister In 1956. The balance of the land remains In the ownership of the now Maroondoh City Council as Bedford Park.
It Is Interesting that at no stage did any of the land belong to the Commonwealth of Australia, notwithstanding that I always understood It was the site of the P.M.G. Workers Camp after the War. Perhaps the P.M.G. utilized the site by arrangement with the borough of Ringwood; perhaps the camp was on the opposite site of Hill Street (Government Road). More research Is needed on this point.
Yours faithfully,
CE CARTER & SON PTY LTD
Richard Carter
Managing Director"
