OBJECT TITLE / NAME

The Hygeia at the Pier Mornington

DATE1890 to 1910

MEDIAImage

COLLECTIONMornington and District Historical Society

REG NO.1242.23

HISTORY

Construction of the Mornington Pier commenced in 1857 and is significant as one of a small group of piers build in the 1850’s by the new Colonial Government to open up the movement of produce to and from the more remote settlements. It remained the major point of entry into the district for many years and aided in the development of fishing and other local industries. The pier has been much altered and improved over the years. An extension to the pier known as the North Arm was added c 1900 to improve access for the paddle steamers which brought large numbers of day-trippers and tourists. Badly damaged by storms, the North arm was dismantled in 1948. The Hygeia was similar in design to the Ozone, but slightly larger. It could carry 1500 passengers. Both vessels were used for the Post Office Picnic on February 8th 1894 when 2400 trippers came to Mornington for their annual day out.

DESCRIPTION

This photograph shows lots of people making their way off the Pier having just arrived on the steam boat Hygea. The Hygea is a paddle steamer with two funnels. The people are wearing Victorian dress and some are carrying large bags suggesting they may be on holiday. There are two motor vehicles shown in the centre of the picture, and s couple of fishing boats at the waters edge.

SUBJECTS

Holidays, Paddlesteamers, Piers

KEYWORDS

Holidays, Mornington, Mornington Pier, Paddlesteamers, Piers