Hidden in History is a new weekly column that unearths the quirky, curious and sometimes eyebrow-raising tales from Shepparton’s past. Provided by the Shepparton Heritage Centre, these articles are rooted in fact — but told with a wink and a sense of humour.
In 1888, the council and its workers appeared confused about the town’s population numbers.
Estimates varied widely, from 1300 to 2000, and councillors argued there must be a population “boom”, given the difficulty in finding houses for new settlers — there were about 400 houses in the town by this stage.
Despite the rapid development happening across the world, Shepparton, like most growing Australian towns, remained focused on local activities, news of which, in various curious forms, occasionally reached the outside world.
Even New Zealand newspapers found merit in reporting Australian news — perhaps viewing it as a somewhat untamed place — noting in April 1888 that: Four Chinamen stuck up and murderously assaulted another on the high road near Shepparton today. Sticks and tomahawks were freely used by the assailants.
The Shepparton Heritage Centre is always looking for volunteers. If you are interested, contact the centre on 4831 8659.
