1856 Plan of Eastern Hill

A map of the Eastern Hill area of the City of Melbourne in 1856. Melbourne was well into its suburban growth, mainly from the benefits of the Gold Rush. In 1851, Victoria had been declared separate from New South Wales and was its own Colony, now able to make its own laws. A suitable site for the government was sought and it was decided in 1855 to locate the building on Eastern Hill. Just 10 months later the building was able to be occupied, though not complete as designed. By November 1856 the Parliament Building was occupied by the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council. Eastern Hill was also chosen to accommodate a number of houses of worship, including St Patrick's Church (later Cathedral). The National School (Model Training School) was also located near there. All text © HotPress This is a digitally retouched reproduction of the original held by the Public Records Office of Victoria. All prints are reproduced without the HOTPRESS watermarks. Our team of conservators have worked on a high resolution digital image in order to remove some age-related blemishes and damage caused by the handling and storage of the original. We strive to provide authentic representations of the original work that are suitable for enlargements that retain the tones and character of the original.