Boroondara Local History
Boroondara is a local government area located in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It is named after the Indigenous Australian phrase meaning "where the ground is thickly shaded", which is fitting considering the area's dense vegetation and lush greenery.
The region of Boroondara has a rich local history that dates back thousands of years. The area was home to the Wurundjeri people, who were part of the Kulin nation, before Europeans arrived in the late 1700s. The Wurundjeri were known for their hunting and fishing skills, as well as their use of fire to manage the landscape.
It wasn't until the mid-1800s that Europeans began to settle in the area. One of the first European settlers was George Coppin, an actor and entrepreneur who purchased a large portion of land in what is now the suburb of Kew. Coppin built a grand mansion on his property, which he named "Belle Vue". He also established a theatre and a hotel nearby, which helped to attract other settlers to the area.
As more settlers arrived in Boroondara, the area began to grow and develop. The Melbourne to Warrnambool railway line was completed in 1857, which made travel and transportation easier for the region's residents. The suburbs of Hawthorn and Camberwell were established in the 1860s, and by the 1880s, Kew had become one of the most fashionable suburbs in Melbourne.
The early 1900s saw the construction of some of Boroondara's most iconic buildings. The Hawthorn Town Hall was completed in 1905, and the Camberwell Town Hall was built in 1920. The Como House in South Yarra, which is now a popular tourist attraction, was completed in 1847 but was extensively renovated and expanded in the early 1900s.
Throughout the 20th century, Boroondara continued to grow and evolve. The suburbs of Balwyn and Mitcham were established in the 1920s, and the tram network was extended to the area's outer suburbs. World War II brought significant changes to the area, with many homes and businesses being converted into war-related industries.
In the post-war years, Boroondara continued to flourish. The population increased, and new suburbs, such as Burwood and Ashburton, were established. The construction of the Eastern Freeway in the 1970s made travel to and from the area even easier, and today, Boroondara is a thriving and vibrant part of Melbourne.
Boroondara is now home to some of Melbourne's most prestigious schools, including Scotch College, Xavier College, and Camberwell Grammar School. It is also known for its beautiful parks and gardens, including the Royal Botanic Gardens in South Yarra and the Maranoa Gardens in Balwyn.
Overall, the history of Boroondara is one of growth, development, and change. From its Indigenous Australian roots to its status as one of Melbourne's most desirable suburbs, Boroondara has come a long way over the years, and its future looks just as bright.