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.

 

David Jones - Retailer - First Store - George Street Cnr Barrack Street - Sydney - NSW

David Jones is one of Australia's oldest and most iconic department stores. Its history is closely tied to the growth and development of Sydney as a city. Here's an overview of the history of David Jones and its first store on the corner of George Street and Barrack Street in Sydney:

1. Founding of David Jones: The David Jones story begins with its founder, David Jones, who was born in Wales in 1793. He immigrated to Australia in 1835 and, with a background in retail, established a small shop called "Jones & Co." in Sydney's George Street in 1838. This shop would eventually become the first David Jones store.

2. The Early Years: In 1838, David Jones initially sold a range of goods, including fabric, haberdashery, and apparel. His commitment to providing quality products and exceptional customer service earned him a strong reputation.

3. Expansion and Growth: Over the years, the business prospered, and David Jones expanded the store's offerings. The store became known for selling high-quality goods imported from England, including clothing, fabrics, and homeware.

4. Fire and Rebuilding: In 1897, a devastating fire destroyed the original store on the corner of George Street and Barrack Street. Undeterred, David Jones quickly rebuilt the store, creating a grand and modern department store that became a landmark in Sydney.

5. Expansion Beyond Sydney: David Jones' success in Sydney led to the opening of additional stores in other Australian cities, including Melbourne and Brisbane. These stores became part of the David Jones chain, offering a wide range of products and services.

6. Continued Growth: Throughout the 20th century, David Jones continued to expand its presence and modernize its stores. The company established itself as a leading Australian department store, known for its commitment to quality and customer service.

7. Ownership Changes: Over the years, ownership of David Jones changed hands multiple times. In 1980, the company was acquired by South African retail group Woolworths Holdings Limited. Subsequent changes in ownership occurred, with the company being publicly traded and then acquired by foreign retail conglomerate the South African Retail Group (formerly known as Woolworths Holdings Limited).

8. Challenges in the 21st Century: Like many traditional department stores, David Jones faced challenges in adapting to changing consumer preferences and the rise of online shopping. The company underwent various strategies to modernize its operations and remain competitive.

David Jones remains one of Australia's most recognized and enduring department stores. While the company has evolved over the years, its history on the corner of George Street and Barrack Street in Sydney represents its origins as a small shop that grew into an iconic retail institution, shaping the retail landscape in Australia.

The Trocadero - George Street - Sydney

 

The Trocadero - George Street - Sydney 

The Trocadero on George Street in Sydney was a famous entertainment venue that operated during the mid-20th century. It was a grand Art Deco-style building that hosted a variety of events including dances, concerts, theatre performances, and more. The history of the Trocadero is as follows:

1. Opening and Early Years: The Trocadero was officially opened on August 3, 1936. It was designed by architects Bruce Dellit and William Kemp and was known for its striking Art Deco architecture. The building featured a large ballroom, a rooftop garden, and several bars and lounges. It quickly became a popular destination for entertainment and social gatherings.

2. Diverse Entertainment: The Trocadero was known for its diverse range of entertainment offerings. It hosted big bands, orchestras, and solo artists who performed for enthusiastic crowds. The ballroom was particularly renowned for its dance events, where people could enjoy swing, foxtrot, and other popular dance styles of the time.

3. War Years: During World War II, the Trocadero continued to operate, providing a source of entertainment and respite for both military personnel and civilians. It was a place where people could temporarily escape from the challenges of wartime life.

4. Decline and Closure: As the mid-20th century progressed, the popularity of ballroom dancing and large-scale entertainment venues began to wane. The Trocadero faced competition from other forms of entertainment, including television and changing cultural trends. Eventually, the venue struggled financially and was unable to maintain its earlier level of success.

5. Closure and Demolition: The Trocadero's decline led to its closure in the late 1960s. The building was subsequently demolished in 1971, making way for redevelopment in the area. The demolition of the Trocadero marked the end of an era for entertainment in Sydney, as it was one of the city's iconic venues during its prime.

The Trocadero on George Street holds a place in Sydney's cultural history as a significant entertainment hub of its time. While it is no longer standing, its legacy lives on through photographs, memories of those who attended events there, and its role in shaping the entertainment scene of mid-20th century Sydney.

The Historical Sydney Green Plaques - Located All Around Various Locations Of The City

The Sydney Historical Green Plaques 

1- Campbells Bank - Circular Quay West     
2 - History House - 133 Macquarie Street 
3 - The Lands Department - Bridge Street Between Gresham And Loftus
4 - Treasury And Audit Office - Bridge Street Cnr Macquarie Street 
5 - The First Execution - Cnr Essex And Harrington Streets
6 - St James Church - King Street Near Macquarie Street 
7 - The Tank Stream - Hunter Street 
8 - Mort & Co Wool Shed - Young Street Cnr Albert Street 
9 - Legislative Assembly Chamber - Parliament House - Macquarie Street 
10 - The Supreme Court - Elizabeth Street Cnr King Street
11 - General Post Office - Martin Place
12 - The Strand Arcade - Between George And Pitt Streets 
13 - St James Railway Station - 
14 - Sydney Garden Palace Gates - Entrance To The Botanic Gardens - Macquarie Street 
15 - Bridge Street Bridge - Bridge Street Cnr Pitt Street 
16 - The Observatory - Observatory Point - The Rocks
17 - Horbury Terrace - Macquarie Street Near Bent Street 
18 - Walsh Bay Warves - Hickson Road - the Rocks 
19 - Redfern Mortuary Terminal - Regent Street South Of Central
20 - Marcus Clarke Building - Railway Sqaure - George And Pitt Streets '
21 - Sydney Town Hall - George Street 
22 - Marble Bar - Hilton Hotel - Between George And Pitt Streets 
23 - Sydney Exchange - Bridge Street Between Pitt And Gresham Streets
24 -Mark Foys Department Store - Castelreagh Street near Liverpool Street 
25 - Sydney Mechanics School Of Arts - Pitt Street, South Of Hilton Hotel 
26 - Hydraulic Pumphouse - Pier Street - Darling Harbour 
27 - Liuetenant Govenrors House - George Street Cnr Grosvenor Street 
28 - National Trust Centre - Observatory Hill - The Rocks 
29 - Georgian School - Elizabeth Street 
30 - Sydney Trades Hall - Goulburn Street Near Dixon Street 
31 - Conservatoriuum Of Music - Between Macquarie Street And The Botanic Gardens 
32 - Judges House - kent Street 
33 - New South wales Club - Bligh Street 
34 - Old Sydney Burial Ground - George Street - The Town Hall Area
35 - York Street Synagogue - York Street 
36 - St Patricks Roman Catholic Church - Grosvenor Street 
37 - Young Mens Christain Association - Pitt Street Cnr Bathurst Street 
38 - Wyoning - Macquarie Street Cnr Hunter Street 
39 - Australia Hotel - Castlereagh Street 
40 - Bridge Street Tramway Depot - Bridge Street Cnr Phillip Street 
41 - Lord Nelson Hotel - Kent Street Cnr Argyle Street 
42 - Australian Subscription Library - Macqurie Street Cnr Bent Street 
43 - Customs House - Alfred Street 
44 - Australian Gas Light Company - jenkins Street 
45 - Francis Greenways House - George Street Cnr Argyle Street 
46 - The Nightingale Wing - Sydney Hospital 
47 - AWA Building - York Street 
48 - The Lumber Yard - Bridge Street 
49 - Readng The Riot Act - Macquarie Street 
50 - The Lawsons House - Phillip Street 
51 - The Mint - Macquarie Street 
52 - Banjo Pattersons Office  - Bond Street 
53 - Larry Foley's Hotel - George Street 
54 - Boston's Windmill - Royal Botanic Gardens 
55 - Governor's Bathing House - Botanic Gardens 
56 - Devonshire Street Cemetary - Elizabeth Street 
57 - The Carters Barracks - pitt Street Cnr Eddy Avenue 
58 - George Allen's House - Elizabeth Street 
59 - The Outbreak Of The Plague - Lower Fort Street, Cnr Ferry Lane
60 - Semi Circular Quay - Alfred Street 
61 - The Sydney Gazette Office - George Street Cnr Alffred Street 
62 - Simeon Lords Mansion - Macquarie Place
63 - Glover Cottages - Kent Street 
64 - Culwulla Chambers - Castlereagh Street Cnr King Street 
65 - Fort Phillip - Observatory Hill 
66 - Jack Langs Birthplace - George Street 
67 - St Brigid Church School - Kent Street Cnr Argyle Street 
68 - Underwoods Shipyard - Underwood Street 
69 - Hyde Park Barracks - Macquarie Street 
70 - Powerhouse Museum - Mary Ann Street 
71 - First Public Demonstration Of Wireless - Elizabaeth Street 
72 - Sydney Opera House - Bennelong Point 
73 - Site Of The Frist Gaol - George Street Cnr Essex Street 
74 - Theatre Royal - George Street 
75 - Queen vicrtoria Building - Druitt Street 
76 - Queen Victoria Building - Market Street 
77 - The First Traffic Lights - Kent Street  Cnr Market Street 
78 - D'arcy Wentworths House - Macquarie Streeet Cnr Queens Sqaure
79 -  Former Supreme Court & registry Office - Elizabeth Street & St James Road
80 - Former Sydney Morning Herald Building - Pitt Street Cnr O'Connell Street 
81 - F. Kaematsu's Japanese Warehouse - O;Connell Street 
82 - Mitchell Wing - State Library - Macquarie Street 
83 - David Jones First Shop - George Street - Cnr Jamieson 
84- The Macquarie Wall - Royal Botanic Gardens
85 -  The Domain - Next To The Royal Botanic Gardens
86 - Farm Cove - Royal Botanic Gardens 
87 - State Theatre - Market Street 
88 - Hnery Parkes Shop - Hunter Street 
89 - Military Barracks - Wynyard Park 
90 - Hyde Park - Elizabeth Street 
91 - Sydney Grammar School - College Street 
92 - Water Police Court - Cnr Phillip & Alfred Street 
93 - Phillip Street Police Station - Cnr Of Phillip & Alfred St 
94 - Police Court - Cnr Phillip And Alfred St 
95 - Tivoli Theatre - Castlreagh Street Cnr Hay Street 
96  - A Great Fire In The City - Martin Place
97 - Holy Trinity School - Argyle Street - The Rocks 
98 - The Trocadero - George Street - 
99 - Lyons Terrace - Liverpool Street 
100 - State Bank Building - Martin Place
101 - The Female Immigrants Home - Cnr Bent And Phillip Street  

The Sydney Theatre Royal - George Street Sydney - New South Wales

 

The Sydney Theatre Royal - George Street - Sydney 

The Theatre Royal in Sydney, Australia, holds a storied history as one of the country's oldest and most prominent theaters. It has played a vital role in Sydney's cultural and entertainment landscape for centuries. Here's an overview of its history:

Early Beginnings:

• The Theatre Royal was established in 1833 by Barnett Levey, an entrepreneur and actor.
• It was built on the site of a former butchery and became Sydney's first permanent theater.

Architectural Evolution:

• The original Theatre Royal was a two-story building with neoclassical architecture.
• Over the years, the theater underwent several renovations and reconstructions, adapting to changing tastes and demands.

Early Performances:

• The Theatre Royal hosted a wide range of performances, including plays, operas, musicals, ballets, and variety shows.
• Notable performers from around the world graced its stage, making it a hub of cultural and artistic expression.

Fire and Rebuild:

• The theater suffered multiple fires during its history. The most destructive fire occurred in 1882, leading to its complete destruction.
• It was promptly rebuilt and reopened in 1886 with a more ornate and elaborate design.

20th Century and Beyond:

• In the 20th century, the Theatre Royal continued to be a focal point for the performing arts, showcasing both local talent and international productions.
• The theater experienced periods of success as well as financial challenges.

Modern Era and Restoration:

• The 21st century saw efforts to restore and revitalize the Theatre Royal.
• In 2004, the theater closed for major refurbishments to update its facilities, modernize its infrastructure, and improve audience comfort.

Cultural Icon:

• The Theatre Royal has maintained its reputation as a cultural icon and a prestigious venue for performances.
• It has hosted a diverse array of productions, from classic plays to modern musicals, ballets, and operas.

Heritage and Legacy:

• The Theatre Royal's historical and architectural significance earned it a place on the New South Wales State Heritage Register.
• It is recognized as an important landmark that has contributed to Sydney's cultural heritage.

Today, the Theatre Royal continues to be a vital part of Sydney's performing arts scene, offering a stage for world-class performances and preserving its rich legacy as one of Australia's oldest and most respected theaters

Sydney's First Gaol - Cnr Of George Street And Essex Street - Sydney

 

Sydney's first gaol, also known as the Old Sydney Gaol, was a significant historical site located at the corner of George Street and Essex Street in Sydney, Australia. It played a pivotal role in the early colonial history of the city. Here's an overview of its history:

Early Colonial Settlement:

• As the British established the colony of New South Wales in 1788, there was an immediate need for a place to detain individuals accused of committing crimes.
• The first makeshift prison was a simple wooden structure used to hold those who were awaiting trial or punishment.

Construction of the Gaol:

• Recognizing the need for a proper prison facility, the construction of Sydney's first gaol began in the late 1780s.
• The gaol was built using convict labor and was constructed of sandstone.

Design and Purpose:

• The design of the gaol was basic and functional, consisting of cell blocks, exercise yards, and facilities for punishment.
• It was intended to house both male and female prisoners and to serve as a place of detention, punishment, and reform.

Harsh Conditions:

• The conditions within the gaol were often harsh and overcrowded, with prisoners subjected to poor hygiene, disease, and inadequate facilities.
• Corporal punishment, including floggings and other forms of physical discipline, was common during this time.

Role in Colonial Justice:

• The gaol played a pivotal role in the colonial justice system, serving as a place where prisoners awaited trial and where those sentenced to punishment carried out their sentences.

Closure and Demolition:

• Over time, the conditions and limitations of the gaol became increasingly problematic.
• The gaol was eventually closed and demolished in the mid-1800s to make way for urban development and improvements to the city's infrastructure.

Today, while the physical structure of Sydney's first gaol no longer exists, its historical significance is remembered through plaques and markers at the site. The history of the gaol provides insights into the early challenges of establishing a penal colony, the colonial justice system, and the evolving approaches to imprisonment and rehabilitation in Australia.