MELBOURNE NEWS

Shaping our city

Metro Tunnel archaeology evokes memories of a headmistress

26 November 2018

A jaw harp, a doll’s head and part of a comb unearthed at the site of the future Town Hall Station are among the archaeological finds bringing to life the story of our city’s first school for girls.

Irishwoman Nichola Cooke established Roxburgh Ladies’ Seminary in 1838 in a cottage at the corner of Swanston and Flinders streets, built by John Batman.

Nichola battled personal tragedies – including the loss of her family at sea – to earn her living as a single woman. She was also one of the first women to own land in the district.

After Batman passed away, Nichola fought several attempts to close the school, providing stability for his three youngest daughters, who boarded there. It remained open until 1851.

Victoria’s largest archaeological digs are taking place at several sites in the central city as work continues to build the Metro Tunnel and its five new underground stations. This is a rare opportunity to look back to stories of Melbourne’s past.

Visit Metro Tunnel HQ at 125-133 Swanston Street, opposite Melbourne Town Hall, to find out more.

Share this story

You may also like
Epic events bring back the buzz

Epic events bring back the buzz

Meet your City of Melbourne councillorsCouncillor Roshena Campbell https://youtu.be/hC8khQ_tYH8?si=ihMdH70vWoWkHioM Councillor Roshena Campbell, like so many Melburnians, is looking forward to our city coming to life with Christmas and New Year’s Eve...

Subscribe to our newsletter

Keep up with what's happening in the City of Melbourne by subscribing to the Melbourne newsletter.

You have successfully subscribed!