Rolf Boldrewood
Old Melbourne Memories
Second Edition, Revised
"Old Melbourne Memories" by Rolf Boldrewood is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book reflects on the early days of Melbourne, detailing the experiences of the author’s family as they migrate from Sydney to help establish the burgeoning settlement in Port Phillip during the 1840s. The narrative provides a glimpse into the challenges and adventures faced by the early colonists, highlighting the social dynamics, landscapes, and the optimistic spirit of the time. The opening of the work sets the stage for a vivid recollection of the migration journey to Melbourne. It describes the sights and sounds of the city as it starts to emerge from its infancy, focusing on the intricate details of life during that era, including the tribulations of relocating a large family and a bustling household. As the author reflects upon his childhood experiences and the process of building a new life in a promising yet untamed land, the text evokes a sense of nostalgia for the pastoral purity and potential of early colonial life in Australia.