211 Weston Street
The Caledonian Hotel was built in 1866/7 of bluestone from the nearby quarries which it served. It was rebuilt in brick in 1925.
The word “Caledonian” means “Scotsman” but if this is a clue to the origins of the hotel then the connection is now obscure. The establishment is in a quiet street of Brunswick, which is unusual, as many hotels are found on busy corners. The building is impressive and comfortable inside. Although the hotel was originally named the “Caledonia” it is now called the “Caledonian”.
Many changes have occurred since the 1920s. The grand staircase was removed in the 1970s to give more space for facilities such as the games room which looks onto the beer garden and the bocce court at the rear. Gone also is the huge fir tree which used to dominate the landscape.
Peter Ryan, son of the former proprietor James (Jimmy) Ryan, practiced cricket in the driveway of the hotel and later had a cricket field built inside the grounds. He went on to become opening batsman for Queensland.
This hotel abounded with stories of SP bookmakers and sly-grog sales. Now it is a most convivial establishment and we thank the staff and the locals such as George Gath and Roy Nicholson for their stories about the hotel.
First licensee: David Hetherington (1866)
Current licensee: Tony Dallemolle
From: Brunswick Community History Group 1999; Brunswick Hotels; self-published