The Melbourne Market Replaced by a Hotel (1960)
The Melbourne Market Replaced by a Hotel (1960)
Melbourne’s Eastern Market was demolished in 1960 for the Southern Cross Hotel. The site has since changed again, leaving little trace of the old market.
The story behind the scene
A market opened at Bourke and Exhibition streets in 1847. Reed and Barnes designed the larger building that opened in 1879.
As its wholesale produce trade declined, the market became known for secondhand goods and entertainment. Saturday nights drew people to stalls, sideshows and other attractions.
Demolition began in May 1960. The Southern Cross Hotel replaced the market, and the hotel was itself replaced by later development.
What you’re seeing
The older photograph shows the market frontage along Bourke Street, with a horse drawn vehicle nearby. The modern photograph shows a later redevelopment of the site, rather than the Southern Cross Hotel that first replaced the market.
Why this photo matters
The corner has gone through more than one major change. The two photographs show the market and a much later streetscape, with the hotel’s entire history occurring between them.
Historical photograph: J. W. Lindt, c.1876 to 1894, State Library Victoria, H2008.594. Modern photograph: Julian Varricchio.
Sources: University of Melbourne, eMelbourne; City of Melbourne collection