The Courthouse and police residence next door were built in 1859/60 after concerns were raised that with a population of 1000, 2 pubs and many passing through to the goldmines, the fledgling township was in need of a lawful presence. After many years of helping uphold the law, it ceased operation in 1984 and has since been used by many groups for varied purposes. One of these groups is The Courthouse Poetry Readings who celebrate 10 years in the Court House.
Eltham District Historical Society manages the Eltham Local History Centre in the former police residence next door.
Part of this article was part of a series for the Nillumbik Cultural Bus Tour program at Eltham Library November 2013
Image: Gavel. Pixabay.
