1934, English, Book, Illustrated edition:
Doncaster's history / compiled [i.e. written] by John Tully.
Physical Description. 19 p. : ill. ; 20 cm.
Published: Box Hill., Vic. : Reporter Print, 1934.
Subjects: Doncaster (Vic.) -- History.
Dewey Number. 994.51
Libraries Australia ID. 27892754
Trove Record: https://trove.nla.gov.au/version/15214127
Source: This text has been extracted from State Library of Victoria http://handle.slv.vic.gov.au/10381/182952
Full text images without OCR viewable at https://viewer.slv.vic.gov.au/?entity=IE2013590&file=FL17513545&mode=browse
Full text images without OCR viewable at https://viewer.slv.vic.gov.au/?entity=IE2013590&file=FL17513545&mode=browse
DTHS Archive Copy
DTHS has made every effort to contact the publisher and author. Considered out of copyright.
DTHS has made every effort to contact the publisher and author. Considered out of copyright.
Doncaster's History
Compiled by Mr. John Tully Senior - 2nd October, 1934Doncaster - Its History as a Municipality
The Name - Doncaster.
In the forties this district was unsettled bush, known chiefly as a good hiding place for stolen stock, placed there by cattle duffers. Early in the fifties there were three large estates comprised in the Doncaster area, namely: -
(1) Unwin's Special Survey, west of Church Road and north of Main Road, right to River Yarra Yarra;
(2) Burnley's Estate, south of Main Road and extending east to Deep Creek;
(3) Highland Estate, south of Main Road and east of Church Road.
The first name given to the district was Vermont, but about 1852 William B. Burnley (who lived in Burnley, Richmond, which took its name from that family) suggested Doncaster, after Doncaster, England, where his family came from. The suggestion was accepted, and it has been called that ever since.
Its Boundary.
It is surprising how few residents of Doncaster know where the boundary is. Starting at Koonung Creek Bridge on Main Road, up High Street to Ayr Street, thence north to Manningham Road, east along that road to Williamson Road, north along that road to dividing fence between S. Crouch and Thos. Williamson, east along that fence to Church Road, thence north along that road to Serpell's Road; east along that road to dividing fence between P. Cashen and W. Jenkins, north along that fence to Reynolds Road, east along that road to Anderson Creek Road, thence northerly along that road to Deep Creek, then up that creek to southerly boundary of Allotment 138A, along that boundary to Mitcham Road, along that road northerly to dividing fence between F. Thiele and F. Corbett; south along that fence to Corbett's south boundary, thence westerly to Koonung Creek, along that creek westerly to starting point at bridge.Until 1926, Doncaster extended east of Deep Creek, when that part was included in Warrandyte Riding. The area is now about nine square miles, population 1500, number of houses 325, number of ratepayers 380. Compare these figures with sixty years ago. From data available, I would say that then the population was about 600, number of houses 120, number of ratepayers 130 within the above area.
Pioneers and Personalities.
In the early fifties, Doncaster comprised three large estates, viz., Carlton Estate (whose owner lived in England), Highland Estate and Burnley Estate. In 1851, Pickerings lived just over the boundary in East Doncaster, and were among the fortunate ones who escaped when fires ravaged the district on Black Thursday. Pickerings soon after came right into Doncaster, and were some of the earliest settlers. W. B. Burnley selected 5,200 acres in 1853, but did not live here, employing others to work the estate. In May 1853, Serpells bought 20 acres at the corner of what is now known as King Street and Tuckers Road, and in the same year J. G. Thiele settled in Victoria Street and Church Road. Between 1854 and 1860 there was quite a "land boom", and population increased rapidly. A number of Germans settled about the locality of Church Road, Blackburn Road, George Street and King Street, this part of Doncaster being called Waldau, or German Town. Carlton Estate was also cut up and offered for sale in blocks averaging 20 acres, while the Highland Estate was also becoming settled.At about this time, I find the names of the following pioneers amongst the records:-Pickering, Thiele, Serpell, Mays, Hislop, Cummings, Ireland, Clay, Petty, Smedley, Wilson, Tully, Pentland, Evans, Whitten, Fisher, Corbett, Phillips, Griffin, Collins, Hoare, Bogle, Canole, Lyons, Aumann, Hanke, Straube, Finger, Hardidge, Fithie, Zander, Bloom, Siemens, Jones, Schuchkraft, Zerbe, Knee, Holden, Kent, White, Evans, Buck, Hogg, Tatham, Robinson, Mackinlay, Anderson, Humel, Schramm, Lyons, Leber, Berger, Aberdorf, Tuckerband, Wittig, Cronin, Williams, Mansfield, Toogood, Porter, Lawford, Crouch, Taylor, Bullen, Beanland, Dehnert, Lisle, Smith, Mitchell, Bowers, Mathews, Braillie, Looney, Bethrens, Witchell, Weston, Tindal, Cleghorn, Laurence, D'Arcy, Uebergang, Furkman, Gould, Hood, Franklin, Pump, Stacker, Paullen, Sweeney, Harbour, Fromhold, Wright, Lenkerstof, Walters, Clancy, Hienecshie, Colas, Groux.
Many of these names may be met with in the district to-day. When we remember Doncaster in the early fifties without a road, a fence or a house, just a dense forest, beautifully undulating, but with no running streams and rather poor soil, and, compare it now with its comfortable, commodious, well-kept homes, fine orchards, flower gardens, etc., we feel we must admire and always honour the foregoing list of men and women who by their energy, industry and thrift made this district such a striking example of independent effort.
It has been suggested to me lately to have a Back to Doncaster Celebration, and I am hoping we may soon have it. Such a gathering would remind us vividly that those whose names I have recorded as Doncaster pioneers have left us a glorious heritage.
Prices Paid for Land.
During the fifties the settlers paid £6 to £14 an acre for their land, the general run of it being sold at £8 to £10. These prices remained substantially the same in the 60's and 70's. Many of the settlers paid cash, but most bought on terms, generally one-third cash and the balance over five years, at interest of 5, 6 and 7 per cent. In 1883 some improved blocks were sold at £45 and £50, and £140 per acre was paid for a young orchard, with house. In 1887 young orchards sold at £100 and £110 per acre. In the land boom years-1888 and 1889 - many blocks were sold at £200, £300 and £400 per acre, and one small block of 2 1/2 acres was sold at £500 per acre. A few sub-divisions took place and building blocks were sold up to £6 per foot on Main Road.Doncaster as a Municipality.
Prior to 1856 Doncaster was in the Boroondara Road Board District. In that year it was included in the Templestowe Road Board District, its first representative on that body being W. Mackinlay. Others who represented Doncaster on that Board were: A. Pickering, Straube, G. J. Thiele, Evans, Cummings, White, M. Hoare, E. Tatham, J. Clay. In May 1875, Doncaster became a Riding of the Shire of Bulleen at its formation, the first councillors for the riding being H. Finger, J. Smedley and A. Hummel. Other representatives of Doncaster in this Council were T. Petty, W. S. Williams, C. Schmidt, H. Firth, W. Sell, W. Meader and E. Lawford, several of these gentlemen having been president of the Shire.In May, 1890, Doncaster was proclaimed a Shire. The first councillors elected were: A. Zerbe, J. Tully, J. Smedley, Wm. Sell, E. Lawford, F. Winter. Later councillors were H. G. Reynolds, T. Petty, F. Finger, W. Stutt, E. M. Thiele, R. G. Cameron, H. Thiele, H. Crouch, J. Cronin, J. Robinson, P. Clay, H. J. Clay, W. J. May, F. Pickering, J. Kent, A. E. Ireland and J. A. Smith.
Templestowe and Warrandyte were again united with Doncaster in 1915, forming the Shire of Doncaster and Templestowe, with two ridings each returning three representatives. Doncaster's first representatives were J. Tully, A. Zerbe and H. J. Clay. Others who were elected later were W. Sell, J. A. Smith and A. E. Ireland. In 1926, the Shire was divided into three ridings, the Warrandyte riding being added to the other two. A portion of the Doncaster riding east of Deep Creek was cut off to form part of the Warrandyte riding. The representatives of Doncaster were then J. J. Tully, J. A. Smith and E. I. Lawford. Mr. Smith has since resigned, and Cr. A. E. Ireland has succeeded him in the representation.
Since 1890, the following gentlemen have filled the office of Shire Secretary: F. Thomas, W. J. Thomas, R. Simmons and C. G. Williams (the present secretary).
Parliamentary Representation.
In the State Parliament, Doncaster has at various times been represented by Captain Paisley, L. L. Smith, O. Grady, H. Newton, S. Ricardo, J. P. Smith, J. B. Crews, J. Ferguson, E. H. Cameron, J. Rouget and W. H. Everard. The present representative, Mr. Everard, has recently been elevated to the office of Speaker of the House.The Industries of Doncaster.
When the early pioneers first came to Doncaster, their initial activity was to carve a space out of the timber on which to erect their humble homes. Practically the whole of the district was heavily timbered with stringybark, messmate, appletree, yellow, grey and red box, peppermint, wattle, white gum and a few sheoaks. Naturally, wood carting soon became a general industry, and as many as eighty loads of wood a day left the district, drawn by one, two and three-horse teams, and carrying up to three tons in weight. Some of it was sold privately, but the great bulk found its way to the Fitzroy wood market. Prices obtained varied from 4d. to 1/1 per cwt. Kew was then a half-way resting place for man and beast. The evenings were enlivened by the rattle of returning drays and the singing voices of the drivers, for they were a happy band, such favourites as "Annie Laurie," "Ben Bolt," "Kathleen Mavourneen," "Little Brown Jug" and "Bonnie Moon" being popular songs of the period. Among the noted songsters were Edwin Wilson, H. Crouch, F. Smedley and L. Holden. After a few years, wood carters were forced out further as land became cleared, and attention was given to cultivation of peas, beans, turnips, etc., and later berry fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, and so on. By 1870 this district was supplying fairly large quantities of these fruits to the Melbourne market, then held at the old Paddy's market in Bourke Street. About 1855, some fruit trees were planted, Thiele and Serpell being amongst the earliest growers. During the next fifteen years most of the residents began planting fruit trees. Cherries, plums, table peaches and pears were early grown, but the residents soon found that to get good results water and manure were needed. A remark made by Bishop Moorhouse, who, when asked to pray for rain, said, "Dam the water," probably influenced the growers, for soon Doncaster became noted for the number and extent of its dams, some of which were like miniature lakes. Only those who worked in digging these dams know the amount of hard work that was put into them.Mr. Tom Petty was one of the leaders in fruitgrowing, and Doncaster soon became known as the leading fruitgrowing district of the State. I do not know of any area where so many fruit trees have been planted.
Almost every grower had a patch of gooseberries about 1880-1-2, and these were sold to the factories at about 1d. per lb. Plums were also grown in large quantities, and many cases of cherries were sent to Sydney, Brisbane and New Zealand. Large quantities of plums were sent to factories, for which as high as £16 a ton was paid, but £6 to £10 was the general price. Peaches, pears, apples, apricots, lemons and a few grapes were also grown. Of late years, gooseberries, cherries and plums have become less and Doncaster has become noted for the quantity and quality of peaches, apples, pears and lemons It produces.
In all this work of transforming the countryside into a happy, prosperous district, no appeal was ever made for Government help in any way.
Poultry farming has made headway of recent years, but Doncaster's prosperity is due to fruit.
The Public Utilities of Doncaster.
The first post office at Doncaster was established in the early fifties at the Doncaster Hotel, and shortly after was shifted to the site it at present occupies.Many years later a post office was opened at East Doncaster on Mr. F. Zerbe's property, and some years ago another office was opened at Donvale. About forty years ago, application was made for a letter delivery, and this was granted to a limited area on a guarantee being signed by the residents. Later, when telephone services were granted, the residents had again to guarantee the cost of its operation. East Doncaster obtained telephone services on the same terms. In 1914 a move was made for Electric Supply, and this was obtained through the generosity of five residents in guaranteeing the Shire Council against loss for five years. The scheme was a paying proposition from the start, and the guarantees were never called upon.
The light was turned on on March 15th, 1915, and has since been extended until practically every house in the riding has been supplied, and it has been extended outside.
Water Supply.
Water has always been one of the main requirements of the district, and In the early days dams supplied the orchards, and every house had a well for domestic supply.The first connection with the State water supply was by a 2-inch pipe, and later a 6-inch main was brought in from Mitcham on the Shire Council entering into a guarantee to return to the Metropolitan Board 6 per cent per annum on its outlay, and a rate was struck on all property abutting the main. As the water became reticulated over a wider area, a bigger main became necessary, and since it has been provided practically the whole of Doncaster and parts of Templestowe were supplied with it. The council still provides the guarantee to the Board, interest being less.
Cool Stores.
Amongst Doncaster utilities none has conferred greater benefit upon the district than the cool stores. In the matter of providing cool storage for fruit, Doncaster has led the rest of the Commonwealth, and the example set by the enterprise of local fruitgrowers has been followed by all States and New Zealand, with benefit to the industry as a whole. About 1906 and 1907, a few Doncaster fruitgrowers stored fruit in Sennitt's cool chambers at the Glaciarium and at other city stores.At a meeting of the local growers, the late Mr. Tom Petty suggested the building of a store at Doncaster. The then Premier of the State, Sir Thomas Bent, offered to build a store, and this was erected in 1908; the late Mr. E. Lawford also built a store on his property, with 1000-case capacity. About three years later, a suggestion by Mr. John Petty and Mr. Lawford that the growers united and build their own store was adopted, and the first co-operative cool store in Victoria was erected at West Doncaster, holding 18,000 cases. Three years later its capacity was increased to 40,000 cases. It was opened free of debt, and is free of debt to-day. So well satisfied were the growers, that in 1914 the Orchardists' Cool Stores was opened, it now having a capacity of 120,000 cases, and is the largest cool store in Victoria outside Melbourne.
In addition to the 183,000 case space provided by the growers' stores in Doncaster, four private stores have capacity for about 45,000 cases. Only one store In Doncaster has been built with Government assistance.
Other Utilities.
Hislop made bricks in the fifties, where Lauer's bakery now stands, the Doncaster Hotel being built from bricks made on the property.About 1877 Mr. A. Hummel built a wooden tower about 100 feet high in order to take advantage of the fine view to be obtained, but it was soon demolished by the wind. He then built another, higher and stronger, where Dr. Commons' house now stands, but it shared the same fate. Mr. Hummel then crossed the road, and where Mr. J. Whitten's house stands, he built the famous Doncaster Tower, over 200ft. high, which stood for over thirty years. From it a wonderful view was obtained, and it was a great attraction to people from the city. Its popularity induced Mr. Hummel to build a hall and later the Tower Hotel at the spot. The hotel was closed, and the hall removed about 1917, the hotel now being occupied by Thomas' general store.
c1910. Main Road Doncaster looking west along showing the Doncaster Primary School, the Church of Christ, and the Doncaster Tower. Photographer: Thiele DP0173
Another interesting utility was the electric tram that ran from Box Hill to Doncaster, and was opened on October 14, 1889.
In the boom of 1888, Mr. R. Serpell formed a company (first directors, R. Serpell, W. Mader, W. Sell; driver, H. J. Hilton), which secured one of the only two electric trams with overhead gear then in Australia. The tram ran until the 1892 depression, when
the lines were taken up. Its presence caused Tram Road to become the main route to Box Hill, and it remains so to-day. The road (Tram Road) became Main Road to Box Hill.
The Churches of Doncaster.
No one could attempt to write the history of Doncaster without referring to the work of the churches. The early pioneers had learned the lesson in the Old Land - "Man shall not live on bread alone" - and they soon began to meet together for worship, preachers then coming all the way from the city on foot. Sometimes in the shade of a tree and often in the settlers' humble homes, these meetings were held.The German settlers were the first to erect a building as a place of worship. In 1858 they erected their first building at a cost of £48. A cemetery was established around this chapel, and remained in use for many years, many of Doncaster's pioneers and some of their young children being buried there. Some of them were conveyed there in a dray, which was the only hearse available in those days.
In 1891 the Lutherans erected their present fine church building on land given by Mr. Fromhold. Since then they have erected a parsonage and a fine school hall. They have had as preachers Pastors Herlitz, Goethe, Schramm, Held, Hagalean, Felberg and Simpfendorfer (the present preacher).
About 1860 the Baptists erected a meeting house on the hill opposite the present post office. It was known as Grant's Church, Mr. Grant being the first preacher, and was used by others as a place of worship for many years.
The first Church of England services were held in Pickering's home about 1854, and Mr. Pickering and his daughter held a Sunday School. The services were also held in Grant's chapel and continued until, in 1868, the present building was erected on land given by Mr. A. Hummel. The building has been added to on several occasions since then, and is to-day a very fine building. A parsonage has also been erected on church property adjoining the church.
The following have served the church as preachers:- Revs. Armstrong, Hayward, Matthews, Eager, Parker, Hollow senior, Hollow Junior, Wade, Raymond, Hennell, Peate, Peterson, Gardner, Durance, Fowler, Martin and Pay (the present Incumbent).
The Methodists (formerly Primitive Methodists) erected a building on land given by Mr. Jas. Kent about 1860, and in 1868 enlarged it, since adding a fine school hall. They have had as preachers: - Jas. Kent, White, Robinson, Pepperell, Blanksby, Holtham, Warren, Lovell, Davey, Cremean, Benjafleld, Haynes and Clarke.
Adherents of the Church of Christ first met at Porter's house on August 31st, 1863. In 1864 they built a small church on land given by R. Williamson on Main Road, where the church stands now.
In 1869 they erected the present brick building, using the old building for a school hall, class rooms and a kindergarten hall having been added. The parsonage is opposite the post office.
The Church has had the following as resident preachers:- Messrs. Bates, Fullwood, Cameron, Ewers, Mahon, Greenwood, Smith, Verco, Oram, Gordon, Allan, Lang, Hargreaves and Connor (the present preacher).
The Church of England have a church meeting house at East Doncaster, also at St. John's Church and hall at Donvale, East Doncaster.
The Church of Christ also has a meeting house at East Doncaster.
The spirit of independence, which I have already referred to, shown by Doncaster people in bearing their own financial burdens, has also been exhibited In the churches. To-day Doncaster has seven churches with school halls and classrooms and three parsonages, all practically free of debt.
Schools, Halls, etc.
The first school, as far as I can learn, was taught by the Misses Finch in a private' house in High street. Soon after, about 1860, the Misses Wilson taught in their home in Wilson's Road. Then the Misses Faulkner taught a night school in the Methodist Church, East Doncaster.About 1860, the first public school was started in the Lutheran Church, Pastor Schramm being the preacher and teacher. About 1864 an appeal was made for the Government to assist in the matter, the result being the erection of a school building on the hill, Pastor Schramm being head teacher. This continued until about 1876, when the State School system was introduced in Victoria and our school became a State School, A. O. Thiele being head teacher. Mr. Schramm still continued to teach the Lutheran children in his new home close to the old school. This continued until 1884, when all children attended the State School.
About 1886, the present school was erected on land given by Mr. R. Serpell. Mr. A. O. Thiele continued as head teacher. Others who have been head teachers are Messrs. Jack Goodson, Hobbs, Chisholm and now Mr. Sheridan.
The present state school
Doncaster has been fortunate in having such a fine body of men (head teachers) in these schools.
For many years these schools were visited by singing masters, also drawing masters. In many homes in Doncaster there is to be seen some very fine work, the result of the late L. H. Smith's teaching as drawing master.
In the sixties the need of a hall was felt.
A very live Band of Hope meeting in the Methodist Church decided to make a move to build a hall.
A meeting was called about 1869. The Athenaeum Hall was built and opened in 1871, a library being started in connection with same. Mr. A. Hummel gave the land (one acre).
About 1877 Mr. A. O. Thiele got a committee formed to work with the trustees, and the hall was improved, and the library greatly so, being noted for its fine collection of books, especially reference books.
In 1914, the Athenaeum Committee made another improvement. The main hall was enlarged and included a fine platform, ante-room, lodge room, commodious library cloakrooms, large supper rooms, with kitchen, copper and all necessary fittings.
The large hall at the rear used for the library is now occupied by the returned soldiers, and has been greatly improved.
The Athenaeum is a very fine Hall and Library.
The main entrance to the large hall has been used for the war memorial for returned soldiers and sailors who served and those who fell In the Great War. Massive granite pillars on each side of the entrance have about 100 names of Doncaster and district residents who served. Over the door is a very interesting coping, being suitably worded, with coat of arms and other suitable decorations, the whole forming a very interesting and striking memorial. Some two years ago, a very fine hall with ante-rooms and other improvements, was erected on land given by Mr. A. Zerbe, and is being used continually, supplying a longfelt wants for the people of East Doncaster.
In 1892, Mr. R. Serpell gave a block of land on Main Road to be used for municipal purposes. The Shire Hall was at once erected, and has been used ever since for all municipal purposes.
Business and Transport Facilities.
HotelsDoncaster very early (probably before I860) had a drink shop, and about that time the Doncaster Hotel was built, and has been open ever since. Other hotels have been licensed, and after years of business have closed.
There were the Morning Star on Koonung Creek (extreme West Doncaster), the Empress of India (extreme east on Mitcham Road), the Tower Hotel (in the centre), and several other smaller places selling intoxicants.
Blacksmiths
Then there were blacksmiths and wheelwrights - Smedley and Sons (on Smedley's Hill), Spencer (at Lauer's corner), Hillman, Lowe, Townsend, Waters (now Sleath), Sell (corner Main and Blackburn Roads), and Tolley. Of these, only Sell's, Sleath's and Tolley's are open to-day.
General Stores
Amongst early storekeepers were Hislop, Pickering-Bayley (now the Post Office Store), Tuckerzand (now Lauer's), Thiele (now Mitchell's), Zerbe and Sykes and Whites.
Bakers
About 1878, C. Griffen erected an oven and began baking at the Post Office Store, and about 1880 Mr. A. Lauer started, and the business has continued ever since, being carried on now by his son on Main Road.
Transport
In the early days the mail was brought from Kew, once a day, in a cab or coach.
Since 1881, when the Box Hill railway was opened, there has been a good deal of travelling to the City via Box Hill, and in 1890 the electric tram from Doncaster to Box Hill was running.
About 1916 a company was formed, and a motor bus was run from Doncaster to the City.
Various companies have been running between the City and Doncaster since, and now the district has a fine bus service.
The Ventura Motors (Box Hill) carry passengers and the Doncaster mails from Box Hill to Doncaster East, running hourly from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Another efficient service (Parlor Cars) runs from East Doncaster direct to Flinders Street.
The service rendered by these companies is proving very satisfactory, and should encourage settlement in this beautiful suburb.
Banks
The E.S. & A. Bank was opened about 1885, and still continues, also having an agency at East Doncaster. The Commercial Bank also has a branch here.
Sporting Clubs and Friendly Societies.
The pioneers, while industrious, hard workers, very early exhibited the sporting spirit. In the early sixties, horse races were held, the course being the Main Road, starting at Blackburn Road and finishing at the Doncaster Hotel. Later, race meetings were held in the Doncaster Hotel paddock, but racing never really took on in Doncaster.As early as 1866, a cricket club was formed, and played on the north side of the road, near where the tower stood. Three members of that club still live to tell of early matches, viz., Wm. Lawford, A. O. Thiele and John Petty.
About 1874 the Doncaster Club was formed, with Geo. Holden captain. This club, with a few interruptions, has played ever since. The club played in the Doncaster Hotel paddock, but for many years has played on the Doncaster Recreation Ground. This ground was secured by the Shire Council with money obtained by the sale of a Government reserve in Church Road, and money raised in the district.
About 1878, another Cricket Club was formed, and played at the corner of Main and Blackburn Roads, where Mr. P. Clay's house now stands. Mr. J. Mathews was their captain, and they adopted the name of "The Miserables."
In 1881, Doncaster Heights Club was formed, and played on land where Mr. Goodson's house stands.
After moving about on various pitches, and a short break during the war, the club finally helped to buy land in Council Street, now Federal Park, where it still plays.
Tennis was introduced by Mr. Goodson, and later Mr. H. Hughes gave both cricket and tennis a big lift. There are now two public tennis courts, besides several church clubs and a number of private courts.
For many years, Doncaster Football Club has competed in different competitions, and has always been well to the front, several times gaining premiership honours. Mr. Herb Clay is now the secretary. The club has a good membership and a strong team.
In 1870, when there were eight drinking places between East Doncaster and Kew, the Independent Order of Rechabites was started. No. 1 on it books was Thomas Robinson, a converted negro, who lived to pass the three score and ten years, and kept his pledge and his interest in the church. The I.O.R. has made good progress, and now has a membership of 120. Mr. A. F. Miller is the present secretary. There are also two Junior I.O.R. Tents.
In 1889 a branch of the M.U.I.O.O.F. was formed, and has always been a strong branch. The present membership is about 120, Mr. E. Bienvenu being secretary.
Final
In concluding this brief history of Doncaster (my birthplace and where I have spent practically all my life) I desire to state that I always feel proud of this place, and also a deep admiration for the pioneers who came and settled here, in a dense bush, and have, by hard work, left us such a glorious heritage.No-one can see Doncaster to-day, with its beautiful homes, fine orchards, rows of pines, good orchards, etc., but agree that we have a great future as a suburb. We have to-day a splendid bus service. The Ventura buses hourly to Box Hill railway station and the Parlor bus direct to Melbourne.
Come and see' Doncaster, and then see Mr. G. S. Grover or John Tully, Local Land Agents, who will be pleased to fix you up with a part of this lovely district.
Addendum to History of Doncaster, 30/6/40.
Since writing this History of Doncaster, over 5 years ago, I have been reminded that I omitted several names, etc.
Butchers. -One the first business places was Pickering's butcher shop, next the Post Office, followed by Copley, Ellingworth, Marden, Smiths, Noakes, Holmes, Campbell, Whitfield.
Bakers.-Lawson, Griffiths, Lester, A. M. Richardson.
East Doncaster -Butcher: W. Spetts. General Store: Mr. Sprott.
Garages - Doncaster Garage, opened by O. H. Smith, now Ken Read; East Doncaster Garage, owned by Mr. Clarkson.
Butchers. -One the first business places was Pickering's butcher shop, next the Post Office, followed by Copley, Ellingworth, Marden, Smiths, Noakes, Holmes, Campbell, Whitfield.
Bakers.-Lawson, Griffiths, Lester, A. M. Richardson.
East Doncaster -Butcher: W. Spetts. General Store: Mr. Sprott.
Garages - Doncaster Garage, opened by O. H. Smith, now Ken Read; East Doncaster Garage, owned by Mr. Clarkson.
During 1937, Mr. E. I. Lawford retired from the Shire Council, and Mr. Geo. Knee was elected to fill the vacancy. Cr. E. Miles is now President of the Shire of Doncaster and Templestowe.
The suggested "Back to School" was held during 1935, and proved a memorable gathering. After an enjoyable afternoon around the school, where many old teachers and scholars met and enjoyed a cup of tea together and rehearsed many many memories of the old school days, Mr, Everard, M.L.A., addressed the crowd. The present scholars, during the afternoon, had an enjoyable sports meeting in Federal Park. The Athenaeum was crowded out, about 700 having tea together, followed by a public meeting. Mr. Sheridan (present head teacher) presided. Mr. P. Evans and Mr. W. Goodson spoke for old teachers, making special mention of Max Schramm and A. O. Thiele. Cr. A. E. Ireland (Shire President) welcomed all to Doncaster. Messrs. J. Aspinall, C. Gill, John Tully and others, all old scholars, spoke of the old school days and doings. Special references were made to Mr. L. H. Smith (drawing master). Mr. Herb. Petty (Chairman of the Committee) referred to the fine work done by Mr. T. Tully and Mrs. A. B. Serpell, making a presentation to the latter. "Auld Lang Syne" sung by all closed a day fraught with memories of days that are gone, thoughts of the present, and hopes for the future. Thanks were expressed to all workers, and finally the National Anthem was heartily sung by all.
Good Friday, 1935, a very hot day with strong north winds, was a dark day for Doncaster. About 5 o'clock in the morning, a fire started in the engine room of the Orchardists' Cool Stores, and soon the whole of the building, filled with over 50,000 cases of fruit, was ablaze. Hearing loud explosions, crowds soon gathered. Firemen from Box Hill and Kew were soon present and saved the other store. The fire smouldered on for 24 hours, destroying all the machinery and almost all the fruit. A great deal of the latter was uninsured; heavy losses were suffered by many growers and all shareholders, besides being inconvenienced for the remainder of the season. The Directors soon arranged for another temporary engine to provide cool air for the other store for the rest of the season. A new store was built, new machinery for the whole store was ready for 1936, and is all going well.
Doncaster has now 12 private cool stores, holding about 120,000 cases, making, with the three Co-operative Stores, room for about 300,000 cases In all. Practically all were built without Government help.
Doncaster now has two heating stores for ripening tomatoes, pears, etc., and one large hot house for raising tomatoes, flowers, etc.
Just recently, two properties, both high, beautiful sites, have been subdivided into building blocks. A few blocks have been sold and more enquiries for same are being made. Many new houses are being erected.
No one travelling to Melbourne during the last few years can fail to notice the advance towards this beautiful district from the City. This is shown by the Tramway extension, buildings erected and other signs. Recently the Roman Catholics erected a very large monastery in East Doncaster; the Church of England has also built a beautiful S.S. building in Church Road. If you could remember Main Road, Doncaster, about 1883, from Blackburn Road to Koonung Creek, there was about 40 dwellings on property abutting the same. Now, on the same property, about 140 dwellings are erected, and all are occupied.
No one can travel through Doncaster without noticing its beauty, its prosperous appearance, and its future possibilities as a suburb of our capital city-Melbourne.
We have now splendid bus services, about 26 buses every day. Some (Parlor Cars, now run by J. Simpson, Elizabeth Street, Richmond) go direct to the City; others via Box Hill to the City.
Doncaster's future is assured.
I'd like to be with you to-day, to praise our Blessed Lord,
And share with you His blessings sweet, around your festive board,
I'd like to be with you to-day, to hear the children sing
Their praises to the God of Love, their Saviour and their King.
But though I cannot be with you, at this important time,
I'll ask the Lord to bless your work and cause your lights to shine.
And may He ever be your guide, as in the days of yore,
Until we all may meet again with those who've gone before.
Sixty-four years have passed since first I saw this spot,
The memory of those good old days will never be forgot;
Of course we were not idle then, we'd plenty of work to do-
To fell the trees and clear the roads and make things nice for you.
There were no churches in those days, no buildings to be seen.
No, not a house along the road from Richmond to Bulleen,
Except Bill Thompson's old bark hut, two rooms and very small,
That stood upon that piece of land where stands your Shire Hall.
We had no buggies in those days, no motor cars, or bikes;
We worked from sunrise to sunset, we had no time for strikes.
And when our daily toil was o'er and we had done our best,
We'd have some damper and corn junk and, then retire to rest.
Pianos, they were scarce in those bright happy days,
We never went to Picture Shows, we never went to Plays,
The only music we enjoyed was at the cool of e'ens,
Just listening to the bullock bells belonging to the teams.
We were a bright and happy band, and seldom went astray,
The only thing we wanted was a House-to meet and pray.
Our Heavenly Father saw our need, and 'ere a year was spent
He sent House and preacher, too, whose name was James Kent.
He was the first to lead the way and battle for the truth,
He taught the children how to pray and tried to guide our youth.
But he has gone to be at rest, and here just let me say-
Thank him for the bright Christian Home that you enjoy to-day.
But others, too, have played a part, whose names I have not forgot,
The Band of Hope was started first upon this very spot.
And many were the happy nights, together we have spent
And from those meetings there arose the present Rechabite Tent.
I've got the first Certificate, framed, hanging on my wall,
Reminding me of days gone by, when I was with you all.
But though we are too far away, your faces now to see,
Please, don't forget the pioneers in your glad Jubilee.
I hope you'll enjoy yourselves, your children and your wives,
And may this be the happiest day you've spent in all your lives,
And when departing for your homes, I think you might all say
God bless the grand old Pioneers for this bright happy day.
(Copied from outside of Menu)
BOX HILL AND DONCASTER TRAMWAY CO. LTD.
Good Friday, 1935, a very hot day with strong north winds, was a dark day for Doncaster. About 5 o'clock in the morning, a fire started in the engine room of the Orchardists' Cool Stores, and soon the whole of the building, filled with over 50,000 cases of fruit, was ablaze. Hearing loud explosions, crowds soon gathered. Firemen from Box Hill and Kew were soon present and saved the other store. The fire smouldered on for 24 hours, destroying all the machinery and almost all the fruit. A great deal of the latter was uninsured; heavy losses were suffered by many growers and all shareholders, besides being inconvenienced for the remainder of the season. The Directors soon arranged for another temporary engine to provide cool air for the other store for the rest of the season. A new store was built, new machinery for the whole store was ready for 1936, and is all going well.
Doncaster has now 12 private cool stores, holding about 120,000 cases, making, with the three Co-operative Stores, room for about 300,000 cases In all. Practically all were built without Government help.
Doncaster now has two heating stores for ripening tomatoes, pears, etc., and one large hot house for raising tomatoes, flowers, etc.
Just recently, two properties, both high, beautiful sites, have been subdivided into building blocks. A few blocks have been sold and more enquiries for same are being made. Many new houses are being erected.
No one travelling to Melbourne during the last few years can fail to notice the advance towards this beautiful district from the City. This is shown by the Tramway extension, buildings erected and other signs. Recently the Roman Catholics erected a very large monastery in East Doncaster; the Church of England has also built a beautiful S.S. building in Church Road. If you could remember Main Road, Doncaster, about 1883, from Blackburn Road to Koonung Creek, there was about 40 dwellings on property abutting the same. Now, on the same property, about 140 dwellings are erected, and all are occupied.
No one can travel through Doncaster without noticing its beauty, its prosperous appearance, and its future possibilities as a suburb of our capital city-Melbourne.
We have now splendid bus services, about 26 buses every day. Some (Parlor Cars, now run by J. Simpson, Elizabeth Street, Richmond) go direct to the City; others via Box Hill to the City.
Doncaster's future is assured.
Lines Written by Thos. Robinson (Converted Negro), 25/4/1916.
East Doncaster - Jubilee Methodist ChurchI'd like to be with you to-day, to praise our Blessed Lord,
And share with you His blessings sweet, around your festive board,
I'd like to be with you to-day, to hear the children sing
Their praises to the God of Love, their Saviour and their King.
But though I cannot be with you, at this important time,
I'll ask the Lord to bless your work and cause your lights to shine.
And may He ever be your guide, as in the days of yore,
Until we all may meet again with those who've gone before.
Sixty-four years have passed since first I saw this spot,
The memory of those good old days will never be forgot;
Of course we were not idle then, we'd plenty of work to do-
To fell the trees and clear the roads and make things nice for you.
There were no churches in those days, no buildings to be seen.
No, not a house along the road from Richmond to Bulleen,
Except Bill Thompson's old bark hut, two rooms and very small,
That stood upon that piece of land where stands your Shire Hall.
We had no buggies in those days, no motor cars, or bikes;
We worked from sunrise to sunset, we had no time for strikes.
And when our daily toil was o'er and we had done our best,
We'd have some damper and corn junk and, then retire to rest.
Pianos, they were scarce in those bright happy days,
We never went to Picture Shows, we never went to Plays,
The only music we enjoyed was at the cool of e'ens,
Just listening to the bullock bells belonging to the teams.
We were a bright and happy band, and seldom went astray,
The only thing we wanted was a House-to meet and pray.
Our Heavenly Father saw our need, and 'ere a year was spent
He sent House and preacher, too, whose name was James Kent.
He was the first to lead the way and battle for the truth,
He taught the children how to pray and tried to guide our youth.
But he has gone to be at rest, and here just let me say-
Thank him for the bright Christian Home that you enjoy to-day.
But others, too, have played a part, whose names I have not forgot,
The Band of Hope was started first upon this very spot.
And many were the happy nights, together we have spent
And from those meetings there arose the present Rechabite Tent.
I've got the first Certificate, framed, hanging on my wall,
Reminding me of days gone by, when I was with you all.
But though we are too far away, your faces now to see,
Please, don't forget the pioneers in your glad Jubilee.
I hope you'll enjoy yourselves, your children and your wives,
And may this be the happiest day you've spent in all your lives,
And when departing for your homes, I think you might all say
God bless the grand old Pioneers for this bright happy day.
(Copied from outside of Menu)
BOX HILL AND DONCASTER TRAMWAY CO. LTD.
BANQUET at TOWER HOTEL, DONCASTER
On the Opening of the
On the Opening of the
Box Hill and Doncaster Electric Tramway
MONDAY, 14th of OCTOBER; 1889.
WILLIAM MEADER, Chairman. F. GOW, Secretary.
J. Passmore, Caterer, Tower Hotel, Doncaster.
MONDAY, 14th of OCTOBER; 1889.
WILLIAM MEADER, Chairman. F. GOW, Secretary.
J. Passmore, Caterer, Tower Hotel, Doncaster.
Photos of graves in disused Lutheran Cemetery, Doncaster Vic
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