Doors open to historic hidden gem

SINCE 1978, the Sebastopol Historical Society has been based in the heritage-rich former Sebastopol Primary School building on Yarrowee Street.

But did you know they have their own two-room museum that’s open to the public on the first Sunday of every month?

Current secretary and past president Ben Wright said the Historical Society holds a large collection of artefacts that date back as far as the 1850s, and archival records, relating to Sebastopol, Magpie, and broader Ballarat.

“The object-based museum is incredibly valuable to the cultural life and history of Sebastopol, with lots of unique items relating to schooling, mining, and the Borough of Sebastopol prior to amalgamation with Ballarat, and household objects and technologies,” he said.

“We have our large archival collection of records, photos, maps, and family histories which people can use to find their own story.

“We hold the regular open day so those who may have a historical interest in Sebastopol, or a family, school or business connection to the area, can come and access our archives and museum.”

President Bruce Harris said the Society is custodians of a “precious” collection with pieces that otherwise may have been somewhere gathering dust, or lost all together.

“Our museum is making sure these items are protected, and not hidden away,” he said.

Through the museum, the Historical Society strives to keep the old school building’s legacy of gathering for learning alive.

“Importantly, it’s also a space for people to be social. Visitors will often come in to reminisce about their school days here,” Mr Wright said.

“Others just appreciate the fact that it’s an old building with old bones. Our museum really is one of those hidden gems in Ballarat, and people should really take the opportunity to come and see it.”

The museum accepts donations of old objects for their collection, within reason.

Sebastopol Historical Society is open to the public from 1pm to 4pm on the first Sunday of every month, except January. They hold their general meetings on the fourth Thursday of each month at 7.30pm.

The group is based at the Sebastopol Community Centre at 185-187 Yarrowee Street, Sebastopol. Contact 0408 054 021 for more information or to express interest in joining.