“Around 1860, John Kelly built their house.” That’s what I was told. This is John Kelly’s Former House. It whispers tales of early Australian life. The house sits on Kelly Street in Beveridge. It is a visible reminder of the Kelly family’s beginnings.
John “Red” Kelly and Ellen Kelly called this place home. They welcomed Ned Kelly into the world here. He was one of eight children. His birth occurred somewhere between December 1854 and June 1855.
John Kelly’s journey to Australia was not simple. In 1842, he faced a seven-year sentence. He was transported from Tipperary, Ireland, to Van Diemen’s Land for pig theft. After his release in 1848, he sought a fresh start. He met Ellen in Melbourne in 1850.
Together, John and Ellen moved to Beveridge. Here, John constructed their humble abode. He used locally sourced timber. The house featured a bluestone chimney. It had a packed earth floor. Imagine Ned Kelly spending his early years within these walls. He walked to the Beveridge Catholic School with his sisters Annie and Maggie.
The house may not be open to visitors now. It still stands proudly behind its fence. It offers a glimpse into the past. It connects us to the Kelly family’s history.
But there is more to Beveridge than just the Kelly House. The Hunters Tryst Tavern is also nearby. John Kelly frequented this pub. It was built in 1841 by Andrew Beveridge. Today, it remains a busy spot.
Beveridge is evolving. It has a new 18-hole Mandalay golf course. The course is surrounded by a walking trail.
The Ned Kelly Touring Route starts here. It leads to other places. Kilmore, Tooboorac, and Seymour are worth a visit. Each place tells stories of pioneering days.
Seymour honors Australia’s military history. The Heritage Railway Centre showcases old locomotives.
The Kelly House is a reminder of simpler times. It connects us to the past. It invites reflection on the lives of those who shaped Australia. It all started here at John Kelly’s Former House.