Melbournians are often keen to point out that the city only has a very short history in the grand scheme of things. Westerners only arrived in Victoria around 1835 so the city is not yet 200 years old. Of course, many would point out that Koorie people lived in Australia for many thousands of years before ‘modern Melbourne’ was started by Batman (sadly not the super hero) exchanging blankets and supplies for the land. This somewhat unfair exchange was only the start of an interesting history for Melbourne. My main regret is that they opted to name Melbourne after the current British prime minister rather than ‘Batmania’ after one of the founders. Big mistake.
The interesting history that I refer to is linked to the gold that was found in Victoria. Suspiciously, only one month after becoming a separate state from NSW. This transformed Melbourne from a place for survivors to one of the richest cities in the world. Thus, much of the architecture in the city is Victorian and bears the marks of wealth. Local enthusiasts are keen to keep the historical aspects of Melbourne going, along with the tourist boards no doubt. So for today’s theme I am adding some photo evidence of historical Melbourne. The restaurant tram I have mentioned before. To this I add Luna Park, the second oldest theme park in the world and built by the makers of Coney Island. Also the State Library reading room; Puffing Billy train; and part of Melbourne University on White Night. This only scratches the surface, the history of modern Melbourne might be short but there’s plenty to see.
H and P's Adventure 