On 17 May 1919, His Excellency the State Governor of Victoria, the Hon. Sir Arthur Stanley, officially proclaimed Williamstown a city.
One hundred years later, Hobsons Bay will celebrate that milestone with a program of events that coincide with the National Trust’s Australian Heritage Festival.
Councillor, Angela Altair, said Williamstown began as a municipal boundary in 1856, incorporating Newport and Spotswood, before becoming a town in 1886 and a city 34 years later.
The Williamstown Town Hall was also officially opened at the time of the city declaration.
“It is hard to match the rich history of Williamstown, Melbourne’s first seaport. It is really interesting to see how it has evolved over the last 100 years.
“From the lovingly restored historic Town Hall, to the Mechanics Institute and waterfront with its original buildings, Williamstown is such a unique gem and we are excited to celebrate it.
“As a Council, we are proud of our efforts to maintain, restore and preserve our heritage, including the Wilkinson Drinking Fountain on Nelson Place, the capstan on The Strand and the historic Bill’s horse troughs that are dotted throughout Williamstown.”
Councillor Gates said to celebrate the 100th year anniversary of the City of Williamstown, this year’s Heritage Hobsons Bay program offers a range of activities and events within the Williamstown area.
Memories of Williamstown Town Hall is a thoughtful exhibition where members of the community share their fondest memories of the historic Williamstown Town Hall.
Celebrations will also include picnics in the heritage-listed Williamston Botanic Gardens, a Paint the Gardens exhibition and free walking tours run by local historians that will unlock the secrets of the historic waterfront or have you walking a mile in the shoes of famous author, Ada Cambridge, who resided in Williamstown during the early 1900s.
