The eccentric Nicholas Walpole Raven spent years trying to get a licence for the hotel he built on Montague Road. Eventually he used a loophole and established the West End Club which soon fell foul of the law.
People
Beer, Books and a Bookie – the Story of a Highgate Hill House
An imposing house from stone at the peak of Highgate Hill, built in 1893, was home to just 3 families over a large part of its life. As a rental property, it's been the home to many.
Alexander Brown Wilson, Architect.
The Wilson family were early European settlers on Highgate Hill. Their son Alexander became a renowned Brisbane architect, contributing significantly to the development of the city's unique architectural style. Much of his work survives.
Ferdinand and Josephine Papi – an Edwardian Power Couple
Ferdinand Papi was an early Italian migrant who became a highly respected teacher. Josephine Papi was a philanthropist involved in countless community activities. Images from an old family album help bring their lives and this period of our history to life.
Alfred Hockings and his “Rosaville” Nursery
Albert Hockings spent decades acclimatising and breeding plants suitable for the Queenslands climate at his ""Rosaville Nursery" on Montague Road. Discover the fascinating story of Albert and his family.
“Dorra Tor” – Plywood, Politics and Punters
There's a quiet corner of Highgate Hill bordering South Brisbane where many surviving old houses boast spectacular views. One of these is the home "Dorra Tor" which has a fascinating history. Thomas Blacket Stephens Thomas Blacket Stephens arrived in Brisbane with his wife Anne nee Connah in around 1856. He established a fellmongery and tanning … Continue reading “Dorra Tor” – Plywood, Politics and Punters
Daphne Mayo – Brisbane Sculptor
Daphne Mayo is most famous for her work on Brisbane's City Hall. She was highly successful in both an artistic and commercial sense thriving as a women sculptor in the Depression years. She lived in Highgate Hill on and off for 40 years.
Sankey Street, Steeped in History
Sankey Street is one of the steepest in Brisbane and is named after a family who lived in the area well before the street was conceived. The family has connections with Queensland's early military history as well as optometry.
Ernie and Mabel Lane – Radical Activists
Ernie and Mabel Lane were both dedicated communists. After spending some time in an Australian socialist colony in Paraguay, they settled into a home in Dauphine Terrace, Highgate Hill. Both continued to be activists for social change.
Doctor A. Jefferis Turner – “Gentle Annie”
Doctor Jefferis Turner made great contributions to children’s health in Queensland. He was also an expert in moths.
