Picture this A grand old building stands before you. This is the Old Shire Hall in Doncaster. It’s more than just bricks and mortar. It whispers tales of a bygone era. It’s a time capsule revealing the heart of Doncaster’s history.
Built in 1892 the Old Shire Hall served as the municipal offices and council chambers. For decades it witnessed heated debates and crucial decisions shaping the community. Imagine the Shire President Councillor Smedley taking his seat in the grand Council Chamber. He presided over a space furnished with five splendid lamps. Visitors filled out forms while journalists scribbled at their press table. The Shire Secretary and rate collector worked diligently in their modest offices. This wasn’t just a building it was the beating heart of local government.
The Old Shire Hall’s story begins long before its construction. The land itself holds history. Thomas Robinson a lay preacher recounted that in 1852 only one house stood between Richmond and Bulleen. It was Bill Thompson’s bark hut. This same site later hosted Grant’s Chapel a small weatherboard church used by various denominations. This humble structure was moved after four years leaving the land vacant for almost three decades.
The Doncaster Riding’s separation from the Shire of Bulleen in 1890 spurred the need for a Shire Hall. Initially the council met in the Athenaeum Hall. But disagreements arose between Doncaster and East Doncaster residents regarding the location of the new building. Negotiations were long and complex. Richard Serpell generously offered land leading to more negotiations and ultimately the construction of the Old Shire Hall.
The building’s construction wasn’t without drama. The lowest tender of £498 10s came from W D Herbert of Williamstown. He was able to secure the work even while simultaneously building the grand Upton House in Box Hill. The hall’s opening was delayed due to accounting errors. A formal opening was planned but the builder refused to hand over the key until the issue was resolved. The first council meeting in the new building occurred on June 6 1892.
The Old Shire Hall continued to serve the community even after the council moved out in 1956. It hosted various community activities including Girl Guide meetings. In 1987 it underwent renovations. It reopened in 1988 as an art gallery showcasing the work of local artists. The Old Shire Hall stands as a testament to the spirit of Doncaster. Its story is one of community growth perseverance and artistic expression. It’s a structure that has served its community for over a century. It is a symbol of the town’s proud and enduring legacy.