From our Archives

 
 
On the 9th  May 1901, Melbourne played host to the opening of the first Australian Commonwealth Parliament by the Duke of Cornwall and York, later to be King George V.
The ceremony took place at the Exhibition Building and was witnessed by 12000 invited guests.
A week of celebrations and festivities in Melbourne accompanied the opening of Parliament and included firework displays, sporting events and dinners. Federation arches were built in city streets and key buildings such as the Exhibition Building, were illuminated at night.
The library has an original program detailing the events surrounding the opening along with invitations to various events celebrating the occasion.
 
 
 
These items are held in the archive collection and can be viewed by arrangement with library staff.

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