Historical information

The Bendigo Benevolent Home was founded in 1857, with the main building inaugurated on March 15, 1860. The original site was chosen to avoid mining areas and was granted by the government.

Early temporary premises were used before the current site in Barnard Street was established. The original building was designed by architect Robert A. Love, with construction by contractor Crawford and Clerk of Works Rigley.

The structure features a basement (kitchen, storage, cellars, staff apartments), a first floor (large dining room, additional rooms), and upper floors (dormitories). The building uses the arch principle and includes hot air heating, lavatories, and good ventilation.

A significant memorial stone of Harcourt granite was laid in December 1872, forming part of the building's front elevation. Additions and modifications were made over time, including a west wing in 1868 to house 50 girls, and further expansions by architects Vahland & Getchmann. The central block has seen little external alteration since completion, except for a small glassed-in wind shield.The Porter's Lodge and Superintendent's Residence remain in good condition.Some ancillary buildings have been modified or are at risk of demolition due to new construction.

Physical description

Typed History of the hospital, and letters regarding classification status and two A4 sized photos of the front of the building.

This item contains the following documents:

3084.52a Black and White Photo of the Bendigo Benevolent Asylum Front Entrance

3084.52b Another Black and White Photo of the Bendigo Benevolent Asylum Front Entrance

3084.52c National Trust of Australia (Victoria) survey and data sheet

3084.52d Letters regarding the classification by the National Trust (Contact BHS for details)

3084.52e Handwritten Notes on the History of the Home and Hospital for the Aged (Contact BHS for details)