Yan Yean Reservoir
The Yan Yean Reservoir is the oldest water supply for the city of Melbourne. Work began in 1853 at the height of the gold rush, and it took four years to construct at a cost of £750,000.
At the time of its completion in 1857 it was the largest artificial reservoir in the world.
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History of Whittlesea
Before European settlement, the Aboriginal people of the Wurundjeri Wilam clan lived on the land that now forms the City of Whittlesea and the northern suburbs of Melbourne.
Many of the names in the City of Whittlesea were inspired by the Wurundjeri culture and traditions. Place names that remain today include, Bundoora, Yan Yean, Mernda, Merri, Wallan and Wollert.
George Sherwin (pictured right) is recorded as the first European settler taking up land in 1837.
About the Society
The Whittlesea Historical Society had its beginnings over 35 years ago and seeks to promote and preserve the history of the municipality and region through a program of social activities, talks, tours, research projects, displays and archiving.
Research and Assistance.
Whittlesea Historical Society can assist you in searching the records of early settlers and pioneers of the Whittlesea district.
To provide assistance a nominal fee is charged and a request application needs to be downloaded and completed and sent by Post or e-mail with payment included. The fee includes up to four (4) hours of research, five pages of photocopy and postage within Australia. >>Request Research (PDF)
Books
There are a number of relevant books available for purchase the details of which can be found on the book order form
Existing Research
To aid in your request for information, a list of surnames previously researched and some local landmarks can be accessed by clicking the link. The listing includes a list of images that have been digitized.
We can reply in a number of formats depending on requirements, such as photocopy, email or word document.
Research Request | List of Surnames - Historical Images | Online Gallery | Historical Image Request