Ascot Vale Local History
Ascot Vale is an inner suburb of Melbourne located in the state of Victoria, Australia. The name “Ascot Vale” was derived from the Royal Ascot Races, which were held in England during the mid-19th century. The suburb was officially named in 1863.
Aboriginal History
The land on which Ascot Vale now stands was originally occupied by the Wurundjeri people, who were part of the Kulin nation. The Wurundjeri people had lived in the area for tens of thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers.
The Wurundjeri people had a deep spiritual connection to the land and lived in harmony with it. They were skilled hunters and gatherers, and they used fire to manage the land and encourage the growth of certain plants. Unfortunately, the arrival of European settlers had a devastating impact on their way of life.
Early European Settlement
The first European settlers arrived in the area in the 1840s. They were primarily farmers and graziers who were attracted to the rich soils and abundant water sources. Many of these early settlers built large homesteads on the land, and some of these buildings still stand today.
One of the most important early buildings in Ascot Vale was the Flemington Hotel, which was built in 1849. The hotel became a popular meeting place for local farmers and graziers, and it played an important role in the development of the area.
The Railway Era
The railway arrived in Ascot Vale in 1860, and it played a major role in the growth of the suburb. The railway allowed farmers and graziers to transport their goods to Melbourne much more easily. As a result, many new businesses were established in Ascot Vale, including flour mills, wool stores, and tanneries.
During this period, many new houses were also built in Ascot Vale to accommodate the growing population. These houses were typically large and ornate, and many of them are still standing today.
The 20th Century
In the early 20th century, Ascot Vale became a hub of social and cultural activity. The suburb was home to numerous sports clubs, including the Ascot Vale Football Club (now known as the Essendon Football Club), the Ascot Vale Cricket Club, and the Ascot Vale Tennis Club.
Ascot Vale was also home to a number of important social and cultural institutions, including the Ascot Vale Public Library, the Ascot Vale Mechanics' Institute, and the Ascot Vale Progress Association. These institutions played an important role in the community, providing education, entertainment, and support to local residents.
Recent History
Today, Ascot Vale is a vibrant and bustling suburb of Melbourne. The area has undergone significant development in recent years, with many new apartment buildings and commercial developments popping up. Despite this growth, much of Ascot Vale’s historical charm has been preserved, and many of the suburb’s historic buildings and landmarks are still standing today.
Ascot Vale is still a hub of social and cultural activity, with numerous festivals, markets, and events taking place throughout the year. The suburb is home to a diverse range of people, and it continues to be a popular place to live and visit in Melbourne.