150 years: Union Steam Sawmills State School

Learn about the history of Union Steam Sawmills State School, one of Victoria’s oldest public schools.

Key information

Address:
Trentham, 3458
Opened:
27 June 1870
Closed:
31 December 1899
School type:
Primary
School number:
1010
Other names:
Union Steam Sawmills School, Union Steam Sawmills Common School

The history of Union Steam Sawmills State School

  • 1869

    The Government promised to pay a teacher's salary if a school was built near the Enders' Union sawmills. The school was built at Coliban, about 3 km from Trentham.

    Timber mill workers and local residents built the school using timber they cleared from the site.

  • 1870

    The Union Steam Sawmills School opened in 1870.

    The first head teacher was Mr Thompson who was assisted by his wife.

  • 1890s

    The school closed in the 1890s when the sawmill closed.

Can you help us find records for this school?

The Public Record Office Victoria (PROV) doesn't have any historical records for this closed school. If you have any, or if you know of any, please let us know by emailing 150years@education.vic.gov.au

Updated