Stonnington Local History Collection - Prahran

The Stonnington Local History Collection is a collection of archival material held at two separate locations, Malvern and Prahran. Each archive houses historical photographs, plans, correspondence and ephemera. The collection also includes historical civic items held at the Prahran Town Hall and Malvern Town Hall. The archives can be accessed by contacting the local history officer. The officers also offer a research service. The local history officers work in partnership with the local historical societies. Prahran is a demographically diverse area with both grand architecture and humble workers' cottages. The local library was established in 1861 - their bound newspapers from 1866 have been deposited in the archives. Wealthy people in the area often commissioned photographers to document their mansions. By contrast, the Salvation Army set up one of their first Australian bases here to minister to the poor. In the past, drainage was a critical municipal theme, with the Yarra River regularly flooding the low areas. Many rich and influential industrialists and politicians lived here.

Address: 
Prahran District Archives, 301 High Street, Prahran, VIC
Tel: 
0382907160
Hours: 
Each archive is open to the public 3 days per week
Website: 
http://www.stonnington.vic.gov.au/library
Email: 
arasmuss@stonnington.vic.gov.au
Admission: 
Nil
Facilities: 
Special membership, subscription newsletter, open days, research and referral service, local publications, database of holdings, brochures, phone enquiries.
Collection: 
Combined with Malvern Archive: 2,600 photographs; 60,000 pieces of archival correspondence, invitations and ephemera plus 20 paintings of mayors and 60 framed photographs of mayors and views of Prahran. Mainly paper-based archival material, including books, essays, notes, photos, newspapers, plans, correspondence, ephemera etc. Many municipal records and material collected by the local historical society.

Subject:

Items

Illuminated address

Description:
Illuminated address presented to Councillor
Date:
1890s

Plans

Building Plan Collection

Creator:
Various
Description:
Plans of buildings erected in the City of Malvern (Domestic, commercial, industry, schools etc.), which are of national significance.
Date:
1916-1931
Item Id Number:
800-11,000

Plans

Subdivisional plans of Malvern and Surrounding Area

Description:
600 subdivisions, all originals, some colour in various conditions.
Date:
1910-1940s
Item Id Number:
Book 1-5

Theatre program

Impulse

Description:
A4 blue silk program for a theatrical performance of Impulse at the Malvern Shire Hall.
Date:
1887