WHEN a local law firm discovered a box of old maps in their building, they knew they had found something memorable.
Despite some water damage, although fragile, the maps were still legible. Along with the maps, there were piles of outdated legal records to contend with.
“Lawyers are like hoarders,” the firm said.
“There have been lawyers [here] for 88 years. You only need to keep documents for seven years.”
The firm’s owners revealed that they were invited to discard the findings at a bonfire, but declined, reluctant to part with the treasures.
“We went through three big car loads of files,” they said.
“We were making sure there were no birth certificates, no death certificates and any personal effects, and things like that.
“We found wedding rings and lockets … [and] someone’s Order of Australia Medal (OAM).”
Shortly after the discovery, the firm’s owners ran into the Wandong History Group at a Bunnings sausage sizzle, creating the perfect opportunity to rehome the collection.
The volunteer historians soon held an exclusive viewing of the maps at their headquarters.
Several Mitchell Shire councillors also attended, along with members from the Seymour, Kilmore, Broadford, and Lancefield historical groups.
The collection contains 102 maps covering 46 different townships. Some highlight topographical features such as terrain, while others showcase changing title holders over time.
Some of the maps have a linen, hessian, or cardboard backing to maintain longevity. The five earliest maps are from the 19th century, and the most recent is dated 1977.
The cadastral map would have been used to form the basis of formal lot identification on any piece of land, as well as featuring major roads and waterways across large regional areas.
One map even shows the location of emergency telephones in the Mitchell Shire.
The Wandong History Group hopes the maps wills be valuable to various historical groups across the region, and will be preserving the maps for future use.
To join the Wandong History Group or find out more about the maps, call Lynne Dore on 0419 899 626 or email wandonghistorygroup4@gmail.com.
