Remarkably unchanged the Old Hawthorn Fire Station stands proudly at 66-68 William Street. This isn’t just any building. It’s a piece of Melbourne’s history. Built in 1910 the Old Hawthorn Fire Station is an architectural marvel. Its Edwardian Freestyle design is unique. The Victorian Heritage Council recognized its importance. They called it architecturally and historically important to the state.
The Old Hawthorn Fire Station housed the country’s first fully motorized fire engine fleet. Can you imagine the excitement? Those early firefighters answering calls with state-of-the-art technology for the time. Multiple phone lines connected the station. A vital link in the emergency response chain. The building is remarkably intact. It retains all the features of a small suburban fire station. The arched vehicle openings with original timber doors are still there. You can see the Art Nouveau wrought iron detailing.
In 1997 the station was relocated a short distance away. The Old Hawthorn Fire Station was heritage listed that same year. The old station now houses Swinburne University’s Design Factory. However the spirit of the firefighters remains. The legacy lives on in the community. It continues to serve as a symbol of safety and community spirit.
The story of the Old Hawthorn Fire Station isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s about the people. The firefighters who served there. The community it protected. For years a young boy named Tom with Batten’s disease found comfort there. The firefighters welcomed him. They gave him tours. They let him wear a miniature uniform. They even let him ride in a firetruck. His visits were inclusive. It meant more than a ride in a truck. It was a symbol of community support. The firefighters weren’t just fighting fires. They were building connections.
The Old Hawthorn Fire Station is more than a building. It is a testament to community spirit. It is a symbol of protection and service. It’s a place where history and compassion meet. A landmark that stands as a reminder of the past while embracing the future. It’s a special place in Hawthorn. A place you’ll remember. A place I hope you’ll visit again.