The Government Domain - Next To The Royal Botanical Gardens - Macquarie Street - Sydney - NSW

The Domain is a large public park located in Sydney, New South Wales, situated to the east of the Sydney Central Business District (CBD) and adjacent to the Royal Botanic Garden. It has a rich history and has played various roles over the years. Here's an overview of the history of the Domain:

1. Early Land Use: The land on which the Domain now stands was originally part of the traditional lands of the Gadigal people, the indigenous inhabitants of the Sydney area. After European colonization, the land was initially used for farming and as a source of food for the early settlers.

2. Colonial Government Farm: In the early 19th century, the Domain was designated as a government farm by Governor Lachlan Macquarie. It was used for growing crops, including corn and vegetables, to help feed the growing colony. However, its proximity to the Governor's Residence (now Government House) and its scenic location soon led to its development as a public space.

3. Transformation into a Public Park: In 1816, Governor Macquarie decided to transform the Domain into a public park, making it one of the earliest public parks in Australia. This decision was part of Macquarie's vision for Sydney as a civilized and attractive city. The park was laid out with tree-lined avenues and open spaces for recreation.

4. Historical Landmarks: Over the years, several historical landmarks were established within the Domain, including the Obelisk (built in 1857), which served as a timekeeping device, and the Captain Cook statue (erected in 1879), which commemorates the explorer James Cook's discovery of the eastern coast of Australia.

5. Protest and Rally Site: The Domain has been a site for political protests and rallies throughout its history. It has been a place where Australians have gathered to advocate for various causes and express their views on important issues. One of the most significant gatherings was the 1970 Vietnam Moratorium Campaign, which drew large crowds to protest against the Vietnam War.

6. Cultural Events: The Domain has also been a venue for cultural events and entertainment, including outdoor concerts and performances. Its central location and large open spaces make it an ideal venue for hosting such events.

7. Contemporary Use: Today, the Domain is a popular recreational area for residents and visitors alike. It features expansive lawns, walking paths, and stunning views of Sydney Harbor and the city skyline. It continues to be used for cultural events, including the annual Symphony in The Domain concert, which is a highlight of the Sydney Festival.

8. Conservation and Preservation: Efforts have been made to preserve and maintain the natural beauty and historical significance of the Domain. Conservation initiatives aim to protect the park's flora and fauna, as well as its cultural heritage.

The Domain is not only a green oasis in the heart of Sydney but also a place with a rich history that reflects the city's growth and development over the centuries. It remains an essential part of Sydney's public life and culture

 

The Macquarie Wall - The Royal Botanical Gardens - 

The Macquarie Wall, also known as the Macquarie Street Wall, is a historic sandstone retaining wall located in the Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney, New South Wales. It has a rich history that is closely tied to the development of the garden and the city itself. Here is an overview of the history of the Macquarie Wall:

1. Early Colonial Sydney: The history of the Macquarie Wall dates back to the early 19th century when Sydney was still a fledgling colony. The Royal Botanic Garden was established in 1816 by Governor Lachlan Macquarie, who was a significant figure in the early history of New South Wales.

2. Construction: The Macquarie Wall was built between 1812 and 1816 as part of Governor Macquarie's ambitious project to create a garden that would serve both scientific and aesthetic purposes. The wall was constructed using locally quarried sandstone, and it played a crucial role in terracing the garden's slopes.

3. Terracing and Landscape Design: The wall was designed to create level terraces, allowing for the cultivation of plants from around the world. It provided structural support to the garden's layout, which included plantings of various species, some of which were brought to Australia by early European explorers.

4. Historical Significance: The Macquarie Wall is not only significant for its role in the garden's design but also for its historical importance. It is considered one of the earliest surviving examples of stonemasonry in Sydney and a testament to the craftsmanship of the period.

5. Conservation Efforts: Over the years, the Macquarie Wall has required ongoing maintenance and restoration work to preserve its structural integrity and historical significance. Conservation efforts have aimed to ensure that the wall continues to serve its original purpose while being accessible to the public.

6. Public Access: Today, the Macquarie Wall is a prominent feature of the Royal Botanic Garden and is easily accessible to visitors. It provides an excellent vantage point for viewing the garden's plantings and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.

7. Heritage Status: The Macquarie Wall, along with the Royal Botanic Garden as a whole, is recognized as a heritage site. It is an important part of Sydney's historical and cultural landscape, reflecting both the city's colonial past and its ongoing commitment to horticulture and botanical science.

The Macquarie Wall stands as a testament to the vision of Governor Lachlan Macquarie, who played a crucial role in the development of early Sydney and its public institutions. It continues to be an integral part of the Royal Botanic Garden, serving as a link between the city's past and its vibrant botanical present.

 

The Governor's Bathing House - Royal Botanical Gardens - Sydney - New South Wales 

The Governor's Bathing House, also known as the Government Bathing House, is a historic structure located in the Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney, Australia. It played a significant role in the city's history and the leisure activities of early governors. Here's an overview of its history:

Construction and Purpose:

• The Governor's Bathing House was constructed in the early 1830s during the tenure of Governor Sir Richard Bourke.
• The purpose of the structure was to provide a private and convenient place for the colonial governors and their families to bathe in Sydney Harbour.

Location:

• The Bathing House is situated along the waterfront of the Royal Botanic Garden, offering direct access to the harbor.

Design and Features:

• The Bathing House was a simple yet elegant structure, designed in the Georgian architectural style.
• It had two floors, with the upper level serving as a changing room and a space for relaxation.

Governor's Domain:

• The Bathing House was part of the larger area known as the Governor's Domain, which encompassed the government house, gardens, and other facilities used by the colonial governors.

Private Retreat:

• The Bathing House provided a secluded and private retreat for the governors and their families, away from the public eye.
• The governors could enjoy leisurely baths in the harbor waters and then relax in the upper-level room.

Usage and Changes:

• Over the years, the Bathing House saw changes in ownership and usage. It ceased to be exclusively reserved for governors and their families.
• In the mid-20th century, it was briefly used as a storage space for garden equipment.

Restoration and Preservation:

• In the 1980s, the Bathing House underwent a restoration project to preserve its historical significance and architectural features.
• It now stands as a heritage-listed structure within the Royal Botanic Garden.

Historical Significance:

• The Governor's Bathing House is a testament to the lifestyle and leisure activities of early colonial governors and their connection to the waterfront.
• It provides a glimpse into the social history of Sydney during the 19th century.

Today, the Governor's Bathing House stands as a reminder of Sydney's colonial past and the recreational pursuits of its early governors. It offers visitors a glimpse into the city's history and the significance of the Royal Botanic Garden as a hub of both natural beauty and cultural heritage.

 

Sydney Garden Palace - Macquarie Street - Sydney - New South Wales - Part 7 

Sydney Garden Palace In Pictures - Macquarie Street - Royal Botanic Gardens & Sydney Domain

The Sydney Garden Palace In Pictures 

The thing I find Most intriguing..... Yet Disturbing... Is that The Grandeur Of This Building & It's Significance Has Fallen Out Of The Consciousness Of SydneySiders So Quickly. Ask Any School Student Today - What Was The Garden Palace???? And They'd Look At You Blankly

Some More Facts You'll Probably Find Tedious... 

It Used 325km Of Sash Bars To Support The Glass Which Weighed More Than 406 Tons

There 3230 Hollow Cast Iron Columns Which Were Primary Supports.... Also Served As Water Pipes To Carry The Rainwater Off The Roof... 

From The 54.7km Of Guttering... ((The Desalination Plant Would Never Have Been Built! That Would Collect A Hell Of A Lot Of Water!!!!))

The Central Dome Or Transept Was 22 Metres Wide And Rose 32.9 Metres From The Ground...... Specially Designed To House A Grove Of Elm Trees That Public Opinion. of The Time Would Not Allow To Be Cut Down ((WOW!!!!))

Just A Reminder That The Building Was 

800 Feet Long

500 Feet Broad

Covered 5 1/4 Acres 

Had 8 & 1/2 Acres Floorspace 

Was Built In 8 Months 24/7

Used 2 & 1/2 Million Bricks

Used 4 & 1/2 Million Feet Of Timber

And 250 Ton of Corrugated Galvonized Iron. 

THAT IS SO HUGE ITS INCOMPREHNSIBLE IN THIS DAY AND AGE. NO BUILDING WILL EVER BE BUILT LIKE THAT IN THIS COUNTRY AGAIN

I can't Even Comprehend The Sheer Size Of This Building Even Though I Have Studied Many Old Photos Intently.

It Far Outweighs The Queen Victoria Building And Other Significant Buildings Of That Era In Sheer Size, Grandeur And Victorian Extravagance

Some More Facts You'll Probably Find Tedious... 

It Used 325km Of Sash Bars To Support The Glass Which Weighed More Than 406 Tons

There 3230 Hollow Cast Iron Columns Which Were Primary Supports.... Also Served As Water Pipes To Carry The Rainwater Off The Roof... 

From The 54.7km Of Guttering... ((The Desalination Plant Would Never Have Been Built! That Would Collect A Hell Of A Lot Of Water!!!!))

The Central Dome Or Transept Was 22 Metres Wide And Rose 32.9 Metres From The Ground...... Specially Designed To House A Grove Of Elm Trees That Public Opinion. of The Time Would Not Allow To Be Cut Down ((WOW!!!!))

6 Million People Went Through The Exhibition In 141 Days.... Which Again Is Unimaginable When You Think There a Were No Planes... No Coach Tours.... No Motor Vehicles..... & The Population Was SomMuch Lower Than Today....

Just About Every Man... Woman. And Child Came To See The Exhibition

Over 3,000 Labourers Were Employed To Build The Palace In 8 Months. 

It Was The Morning Of September 22nd, 1882..... That it Burnt To The Ground. The Heat Was So Intense.... The Windows In Macquarie Street Cracked

 

The First Line For A Steam Tram Was Built.... And The Rest Was History Until It Was All Dismantled In The 1960's 

The Palace Was Offically Finished A Week Before The Start Of The International Exhibition. If the Palace Was There Today Sydney Soukd Be. A Very Different International City. 

There would Be No Toasters..... 

Fort Macquarie Would Have Probably Been The Foundation To Be the Opera House. 

The Royal Sydney Exchange And Other  Elaborate orate Buildings Of That Era Would Be Pride Of Place In This City. There Would Be More Open Spaces As Governors Arthur Phillip And Governor Macquarie Would've Liked. So Many Things Would Be Different. The Coastline And Foreshore Would More Than Likely Be Kept As Public Land Right The Way To South Head I would Say... Apart From Grand Places Like Elizabeth Bay House, Lindesay And Vaucluse House. That's Only. A Guess Though