The Kew Historical Society was founded in 1958, and is one of the oldest continuing historical societies in Melbourne. For over 65 years, the Society has worked with local government and other organisations within Kew to stimulate interest in our history and heritage. The Society is affiliated with the Royal Historical Society of Victoria (RHSV), the Australian Museums and Galleries Association (AMaGA), the Boroondara Historical Societies Association (BHSA) and the Association of Eastern Historical Societies (AEHS).
The Society acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the ancestral homelands upon which our premises are situated. We respect their Elders, past, present and future and recognise their continuous connection to Country.
EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS
High Street and Cotham Road intersection, c.1985
KEW JUNCTION LOCAL HISTORY WALKING TOUR
The Kew Junction Business Association is taking bookings for two walking tours on 8 October – maximum 15 participants per tour – of the commercial and civic heart of Kew. Members of the Kew Historical Society will lead the tours. Registrations can be made on the Kew Junction Business Association website. By attending you can understand Kew’s rich history through its notable buildings, as well as others which have unfortunately been lost.
ANNUAL DICKINSON LECTURE
RECENT PROJECTS FOR MATERIALS CONSERVATION
The 2026 Dickinson lecture, honouring Cr Bill Dickinson, founder of the Society, wlll be presented by Vanessa Kowalski, Head of Conservation of the Robert Cripps Institute for Cultural Conservation. Vanessa will describe the practical work Grimwade Conservation Services undertakes to care for the wide range of cultural heritage items that are owned by individuals, institutions and organisations. Using case studies, she will describe treatments and decisions made for a range of local‑interest objects. The presentation will include before‑and‑after images, an explanation of non‑invasive examination techniques, and discussion of challenges experienced.
Wednesday 14 October, 7.30 for 8.00pm
Just Theatre, Kew Court House, 188 High Street, Kew, 3101
Tickets $20 through EventBrite or at the door.
NOTABLE WOMEN OF KEW
Alice Anderson near Glen Wills and Lightning Creek, c.1925
Our new exhibition at the Kew Court House profiles eleven women, who in large and small ways, contributed to Kew’s cultural and social life. This small and rare photograph of Alice Anderson and her Hupmobile is included in the exhibition. Alice, and others, such as Cr Marie Dalley, made nationally significant contributions. Others like the artist Alma Figuerola are now less known. You are invited to find out who they are. The exhibition runs till December.
Kew Court House, 188 High Street, Kew
Times: Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10.30-2.30; Saturday 10.15-11.45
SHORTLINKS
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