Whispers from the past. That’s what the Andrew Ross Museum in Kangaroo Ground offers. Nestled in the Yarra Valley this former schoolhouse holds a treasure trove of local history. The Andrew Ross Museum opened 25 years ago. Local residents wanted to preserve the building and the area’s rich past. They named it after Andrew Ross. He was Kangaroo Ground’s first schoolmaster. His diary provides a vivid account of early settler life.
The Andrew Ross Museum is more than just a collection of artifacts. It’s a window into the lives of the Wurundjeri Aboriginals. It also tells the story of Scottish farmers who arrived in the mid-nineteenth century. Think about it. The museum boasts a vast photographic collection and historical documents. These detail the lives of prominent families. This makes the Andrew Ross Museum a great place to trace your ancestors.
Andrew Ross himself was quite a character. He was not only the first schoolteacher but also a lay preacher the inaugural postmaster and hotel owner. He even started a successful newspaper. His school was so highly regarded students from outside Kangaroo Ground boarded there. His influence is still felt today. The local cemetery and shire council both owe their existence to him. But perhaps his greatest legacy is his diary. It offers invaluable insights into life in early Kangaroo Ground.
The Andrew Ross Museum is a place of quiet contemplation. You can browse books on the area. Many are written by local historian Mick Woiwod. The museum also publishes the Kangaroo Ground Chronicle twice a year. Visit the Andrew Ross Museum. Spend some time exploring the displays. Perhaps you’ll discover a connection to your own family history. It’s a journey through time and a celebration of the human spirit. The Andrew Ross Museum awaits. Open Thursdays from 10 am to 12 noon and the first Sunday of the month from 2 pm to 4 pm. Group bookings are also available. Don’t miss out on this captivating piece of Australian history. The Andrew Ross Museum is a must-see.