Kilmore Local History
Kilmore is a small town located approximately 60km north of Melbourne in Victoria, Australia. It was founded in 1837 and was the first inland town in Victoria. The town is rich in history and has many significant landmarks and buildings that still stand today.
The Early Years
The town was originally founded by Scottish immigrant, Major Thomas Mitchell, who, in 1836, was commissioned to survey land in the Port Phillip district of Victoria. In 1837, he established a site for the town, which was named Kilmore after his birthplace in Scotland. The town quickly grew as people flocked to the area for farming opportunities.
The Gold Rush Era
In the 1850s, the discovery of gold in the nearby region of Bendigo brought a sudden influx of people to Kilmore. The town became a bustling hub for gold miners and prospectors, and many businesses opened, including hotels, banks, and shops. The Kilmore courthouse was built in 1859 to deal with the increased number of legal cases resulting from the gold rush.
The Railway Era
In 1872, a railway line was built connecting Kilmore to Melbourne, leading to a significant increase in commerce and population growth. The railway line also facilitated the development of a large dairy industry in Kilmore, with butter and cheese factories being established in the town and surrounding areas.
The Twentieth Century
Throughout the twentieth century, Kilmore continued to grow and develop. The Kilmore hospital was built in 1928, and new schools were established to accommodate the growing population. Kilmore also became a popular tourist destination, with many visitors coming to see the historic buildings and landmarks that still stand today.
Landmarks and Buildings
Kilmore has many significant landmarks and buildings that are worth visiting. The Kilmore courthouse, built in 1859, is a beautiful example of colonial architecture and is still in use today. St. Patrick's Catholic Church, built in 1856, is another historic building that is worth seeing. The Kilmore Gaol, built in 1859, is also a significant landmark and is now a museum that offers tours to visitors.
History of in Kilmore
Kilmore may be a small town, but it has a rich and fascinating history that is well worth exploring. From its early years as a farming community to its bustling gold rush era and beyond, Kilmore has played an important role in the history of Victoria, Australia. Visitors to the town can still see many of the historic buildings and landmarks that have been preserved and enjoy learning about the town's past.