Historical information

Small sepia photograph, originally belonging to John Maughan, City of Kew Engineer from c.1934-1965, and in this role the designer of the Kew Baths (later Kew Swimming Pool). The Baths were officially opened on November 26, 1925, by the Mayor of Kew, Cr George Ramsay. The photograph, one of five (three of which were taken at the opening ceremony) was donated to the collection by John Maughan's daughter in 2026.

Significance

The Kew Baths was a major infrastructure project during the 1920s by a suburban council. This photographs is one of the earliest pieces of visual documentary evidence of the original format of the Baths in the collection and the renovations of 1928.

Physical description

The small black and white photograph shows the original buildings and viewing stands at the Kew Baths, which were opened in 1925. The Baths were entered from High Street. The photo shows elevated seating on the west side of the Baths and bench seating on the right. Before 1925, public bathing took place in locations on the Yarra River.

Inscriptions & markings

Nil