Born into a genteel family of pastoralists and investors in colonial Victoria, Mabel Louise Kelly (1887–1973), or ‘Mab’ to those who knew her, would grow up to make an enormous contribution to Victoria and Australia. Most evidently, it was made through bequests to the University of Melbourne and through the donation to the university of
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After our success last year, we again have market stalls joining us for our bi-annual big book sale! We have 10+ stalls joining us, so you know it will be lively. Stall owners have jewellery, knitted toys, scrapbooking materials, soaps and more to offer you. Make sure to stop by and pick up a treasure
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Join us for a not-to-be-missed discussion on recording and sharing the truths of a colonial past. Aunty Fay Stewart-Muir and Marguerita Stephens will share their experience of collaborating across cultures to create their ground-breaking work “Years of Terror: Banbu-deen: Kulin & Colonists at Port Phillip 1835-1851.” Why did Billibellary and other Wurundjeri and Boonwurrung clansmen
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Meet at the PMI Victorian History Library then step into a charming adventure. Discover the tales of yesteryear's department stores on Chapel Street, Prahran. An all-inclusive experience, perfect for everyone – families, individuals, and even your beloved pets!

Starting at the iconic clock tower of the Malvern Town Hall, you’ll embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Malvern. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll uncover fascinating stories behind the Town Hall, the nearby Police Station, and the former Court House. Marvel at St George’s Anglican Parish, explore Stonnington’s only bluestone
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Step back in time and immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds of the 19th century with the Four Seasons String Quartet at the PMI Victorian History Library. Led by internationally acclaimed cellist Nora Brownrigg, this talented ensemble will bring history to life through a captivating program of period music. Experience the elegance and charm of
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Have you visited the Abbotsford Convent before? It is a beautiful place, its history, architecture, artistry, and food make it a must visit.  The Abbotsford Convent was a haunted place, left to languish for years after the last of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd had gone. In its prime it had been a school, a refuge, a retreat, a workhouse and a prison - the single largest charitable institution
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Hidden within a suburban Melbourne cemetery lies a remarkable piece of Egyptian-inspired architecture: the tomb of David Syme, one of the world’s first media tycoons and the influential proprietor of The Age newspaper. Built in 1910—12 years before the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb—this heritage-listed mausoleum is a miniature replica of Trajan’s Kiosk on Philae Island in
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In this talk, historian Dr Fiona Gatt presents a history of old North Melbourne while reflecting on the process of ‘making’ that history. Fiona will reflect on why she turned her attention to this small but much-loved suburb, the development of the research process and the key findings of her research. In her book Old
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The PMI Victorian History Library will soon be hosting another book sale! Continuing our well-received book sale, we have invited even more stall operators featuring jewellery, knitted toys, scrapbooking materials, soaps, and more. Our book sale regularly features an extensive range of Australian non-fiction as well as collections of vinyl records, magazines, and even play
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