Williamstown

historical society
Williamstown, Newport & Spotswood (Victoria, Australia)

Our goal is to celebrate, remember, and preserve the unique and diverse history of Williamstown, Newport, and Spotswood for generations to come. We aim to make our collections accessible to the broader community for research and interest purposes.


Our volunteer organisation, established in 1956 by local history enthusiasts, has been operating for almost 70 years as a non-profit.

Williamstown

Williamstown, situated on a narrow peninsula on Port Phillip Bay, was known by the local indigenous inhabitants as 'Koort - Boork - Boork', meaning a clump of she-oak trees.


Originally considered as a potential location for a new town in the colony of New South Wales, due to its safe harbour and anchorage at the mouth of a river, the lack of fresh water and building materials led John Batman to select the site of Melbourne as a more suitable location.


Situated just 11 kilometres from Melbourne CBD, this former seaport still retains its historic charm and exudes a country town atmosphere amidst the surrounding suburbs. This small peninsula has witnessed numerous significant events throughout history.



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Newport

The Yalukit-Willam, meaning 'river camp' or 'river dwellers', were the first peoples of Hobsons Bay and Newport, hunting, fishing, and thriving off the land.


Newport (originally named Greenwich and also Williamstown Junction) was established by European settlers in the 1860s at the location of the divide between the railway lines to Williamstown and Geelong. By 1869, the suburb had a telegraph office and post office with most of the commercial activity being centred around Hall St and Mason Streets.


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Spotswood

Spotswood is named after the first resident, John Stewart Spotswood, who purchased a 119-acre plot for dairy farming and quarrying in 1847.


In the late 19th century, the arrival of the railways transformed Spotswood into a thriving industrial hub. The wide, open basalt plains were quarried for their high-quality local bluestone, due to their proximity for transport via rail to the Port of Williamstown.


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Whats on?

Do you have a story to tell?

Do you or a family member have a fascinating story to tell about a significant person, family, event, or location related to the communities of Williamstown, Newport, or Spotswood?


Make this year the year you share your history.


Get in touch and share your story with our community.


>> Contact us

Preserving the past for the future

Blogs

By Nicole Harris 04 Aug, 2024
In 1867 Steedman published the ‘Manual of Swimming’, drawing on his extensive personal swimming experience to provide a practical manual. This comprehensive manual provided early descriptions of racing strokes, and training methods, and contributed significantly to the development of 'speed swimming', diving, water safety, and the health benefits of bathing.
By Maureen Gibb 09 May, 2024
Her true legacy lies in the countless animals whose lives were saved or improved thanks to her tireless advocacy.
By Jennie Moloney 08 Apr, 2024
Courtney's Post and Australia's First Victoria Cross recipient - Albert Jacka
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