Historical information

The Ure family played a pivotal role as early pioneers in the development of Gembrook. In 1874, John Ure made a significant decision to secure 213 acres of land in this burgeoning region. Accompanied by his wife, Jane (also known as Jean), and their two sons, Alexander (born in 1872) and John (born in 1873), all hailing from Scotland, they embarked on their journey to Gembrook.

During their time in Gembrook, two more sons, Robert (born in 1875) and James Buchanan (born in 1881), were born. It was here that the Ure family established their homestead, which they aptly named Silver Wells, inspired by the remarkably pure water source they uncovered when digging their initial well.

Silver Wells became a hub of activity, featuring a collection of essential buildings, including multiple houses, machinery sheds, barns, a cheese room, dairy, and a boiler room. Notably, it also housed a post office and a store, complete with a butchers' room, catering to the needs of the local mining community that had flocked to the area in search of precious gold and silver deposits in nearby rivers.

The Ures remained deeply involved in the operation of the store, situated in what was known as North Gembrook, until the year 1901. At that point, the commercial centre of the town shifted toward the area surrounding the Railway Station, coinciding with the rise of the Puffing Billy line.

Significance

The photograph holds strong historic significance for it depicts Silver Wells.

The estate holds a special place on the Victorian Heritage Register. The register highlights its uniqueness, particularly in the diverse vernacular construction methods employed in the various buildings, most of which were erected during the 1870s.

For instance, the stables showcase the drop slab method, a distinctive construction technique. The original house and post office, on the other hand, exhibit the use of notched logs, a rare form of building in Colonial Victoria. The dairy extension is skillfully crafted with split weatherboards, adding to the architectural diversity of the site.

The roofing materials also reflect the era's construction practices, with a blend of bark or shingles originally in use, although these have since been replaced with corrugated iron.

Physical description

A rectangular black and white photograph printed on photographic paper.

Depicted is a photograph of a sign directing patrons to "Silver Wells." There are pieces of equipment in the foreground and background, including bowls, canisters and tins, among others.

Inscriptions & markings

Obverse:

"Silver Wells" /
( OLD GEMBROOK ) /
OPEN TODAY 10-5/