If you’ve ever wondered what life was like in the early days of the Mornington Peninsula, there’s a special place that can help bring that history to life—the Dromana and District Historical Society. This small but passionate community-run museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing the stories of the people and places that helped shape Dromana and its surrounding towns, including Red Hill, Red Hill South, McCrae, Rosebud, Boneo, Safety Beach, Main Ridge, and Arthurs Seat.
A Museum with Heart
Unlike big, government-funded institutions, the Dromana and District Historical Society is entirely run by volunteers. These are local people who love their community and are deeply interested in preserving its past for future generations. Their goal is simple: to protect and display objects and stories that reflect the area’s rich cultural heritage. Whether it’s an old photo of Dromana beach in the 1950s, a handwritten letter from a World War I soldier, or a collection of household tools used by early settlers, the museum works hard to care for every item it receives.
What’s in the Collection?
The museum’s collection is a real treasure trove for history lovers. It includes a wide range of historical artefacts, photographs, documents, and recordings that tell the story of life on the central Mornington Peninsula over the years. Here are just some of the types of items you might find:
- Photographs of old buildings, streetscapes, families, and community events that show how the area has changed over time.
- Oral history recordings, where older residents share personal stories about growing up in the area or living through important events like World War II.
- Historical records, including local school reports, newspaper clippings, maps, and letters that provide insight into everyday life in the region.
- Household items and tools used by families in the past, offering a glimpse into how people cooked, cleaned, and lived in earlier times.
- Memorabilia from local events such as festivals, community fairs, sports matches, and school celebrations.
Each piece in the collection plays an important role in telling the story of the people who lived, worked, and built their lives in Dromana and nearby towns.
A Place to Learn and Explore
The museum is more than just a collection of old objects. It’s a place where people of all ages can come to learn more about the area’s history. Regular displays and exhibitions help visitors dive deeper into specific topics—like the history of farming in Red Hill, the development of the holiday homes in McCrae, or the changing face of Rosebud over the decades.
There are also opportunities for students, researchers, and curious locals to explore the museum’s archives. If you’re researching your family history or working on a school project, the museum team can help you find old photos, maps, or newspaper articles that might be useful. They even offer photocopying and document printing services for those who need copies of historical materials.
Community Involvement
The Dromana and District Historical Society isn’t just about preserving the past—it’s also about bringing the community together. They regularly hold meetings, guest speaker events, and even workshops where people can learn more about history, genealogy, or how to care for their own old photographs and documents.
If you’re interested in volunteering, the museum is always looking for people to help with various tasks. Whether it’s cataloguing new donations, helping to develop new exhibitions, or greeting visitors, there’s a role for anyone who wants to get involved.
They also welcome donations from the public. If you have any old photographs, postcards, letters, or even family heirlooms that are related to the local area, the museum would love to hear from you. These contributions help keep the collection growing and ensure that the stories of local families and communities are preserved for the future.
Local History for Sale
The museum also supports itself by selling a range of local history books, prints, and photographs. These publications are perfect for anyone interested in learning more about the Mornington Peninsula’s past or looking for a unique gift for someone who grew up in the area.
Why This Work Matters
Preserving local history might seem like a small thing, but it plays a huge role in helping communities understand where they’ve come from. Knowing the struggles, successes, and everyday stories of the people who lived before us gives us a deeper connection to the places we call home.
The work of the Dromana and District Historical Society ensures that the rich history of towns like Boneo, Arthurs Seat, and Safety Beach doesn’t get lost or forgotten. It also creates a space where everyone—from school kids to retirees—can come together to celebrate the unique identity of the central Mornington Peninsula.
So, next time you’re in the area, why not pay the museum a visit? Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, you’re sure to learn something new and leave with a greater appreciation of this beautiful part of Victoria.