Back to search results »

Back to search page »

Mechanics' Institute - Williamstown

Location 15 Electra Street, WILLIAMSTOWN VIC 3016 - Property No B1017 File Number B1017 Level File only

[1/3] B1017 Mechanics' Institute [2/3] B1017 Mechanics' Institute [3/3] B1017 Mechanics Institute

Statement of Significance

The gold rush and trade helped make Williamstown a busy and expanding seaport during the mid-19th century. The Mechanics Institute was begun in 1859, and was added to once in 1869 and again in 1874 to meet the demands of the town's growing population. The Williamstown Mechanics Institute is the oldest and most substantial in Victoria, having a two storey front section, side wings and rear hall. It is also an unusual example of a Mechanics Institute being on such a large block of land. The Institutue serves as an important reminder of a type of education facility, common from the mid 19th to early 20th centuries, now long since superseded by government run institutions.