A new exhibition revealing the history behind the streets of one of Perth’s oldest suburbs will open this month.
Claremont Museum’s Streets of Claremont exhibit will dig into the town’s archives and unravel the stories of local street names, from the Australian WWI victory behind St Quentin Avenue to the sweeping Swan River views behind Bay View Terrace.
Historian Sue Hobson will present a special talk about the history of the streets and provide insight into the similarities between the neighbouring suburbs.
Camera IconClaremont Museum’s upcoming Streets of Claremont exhibition will discuss the history behind local street names. Credit: Claremont Museum
Claremont was originally formed in the 1800s as a midpoint between Fremantle and the current Perth business district.
Its street names commemorate former mayors, councillors and Roads Board members who first introduced bore water and electric lighting to the area.
Some recognise people who helped build major infrastructure such as the aquatic centre and local schools, or reflect Claremont’s geography and businesses.
“We pass these street signs every day, but rarely stop to ask whose story they carry,” mayor Peter Telford said.
“This exhibition is a chance to see familiar places differently and recognise the people who helped shape Claremont. I encourage residents to come along, find their own street and discover the stories of the neighbourhood around them.”
The exhibit opens on Thursday, October 29, with a morning tea from 10am to 11am and an opportunity to meet the museum’s curatorial team.
It will run for a few months, and free tickets can be booked online.