Thursday 1 May 2014

Theme Day - "Squares"

Wynyard Square is but a wisp of its former self, existing as it does as a transport gateway to the bustling central business district of Sydney.

It started life as the parade grounds for the military barracks of the young colony in the fading years of the 18th century. As the city grew, the land became too valuable to "waste" on solders, so they were shunted out to Victoria Barracks in 1848, and and Sydney's most rapacious occupational group - land developers - started nibbling away.

What used to be bounded by George, Margaret, Clarence and Barrack (each an existing street) is no more than a sliver of green around which to direct a fleet of buses, and under which to direct a fleet of trains.

Here are images of the square throughout its 200 years:
Wynyard Square, 1800 and 1810
Wynyard Square, 1830 and 1845
Wynyard Square, 1858 and 1890
Wynyard Square, 1906 and 1928
Wynyard Square, 1930s and 1940s
Take this link to see more participants in the CDP Theme Day for May 2014

14 comments:

Kate said...

Thought I'd tell you that your photo does not show up on the portal.

A nice peaceful take of the squares theme.

Julie said...

Yes, I know, Kate, but often myt hands are not steady enough to crop images. There is nothing IU can do about it now, save add a second entry whic I am loathe to do.

Kay L. Davies said...

Fabulous collection of photos, Julie. It is a shame to see places shrink, especially green spaces.
So nice to see Sydney Eye again, I've missed it, and you.
Luv, K

Jim said...

Great post Julie. Thanks for the history.

hamilton said...

It is so interesting to see the transformation over the years, although sad to see the glory has shrunk and faded.

William Kendall said...

Quite a contrast as you go through time. Excellent shots of the place as it is.

Joe said...

Fabulous pictorial chronology Julie. Your research is amazing.

EG CameraGirl said...

I enjoyed the history of this square!

Daryl said...

Happy May 1st .. what a good photo for today's theme

LOLfromPasa said...

I feel that I have been there when we visited Sydney. Love how you have presented this.

PerthDailyPhoto said...

1858 looked like a good year for Wynyard Square Julie :)
Was sorry I didn't get to see you a few weeks ago, new bubs was centre stage :) really hoping we can catch up next time Julie.

RedPat said...

Perfect for the theme!

Jack said...

An educational post for the Squares theme. Thanks!

Hope you are well, Julie.

diane b said...

Some city developers in the past didn't have much forethought. It is a shame so little is left.