Violet Hunter, 1854

After reviewing many old survey maps of the district from as early as 1843, I have only been able to locate one female landowner, Violet Hunter, on a subdivision map of Pentland Hills dated 9 August 1854 (map from State Library Victoria). There were very few other lots labelled at this time, however, within a short time, all of the lots were purchased with many tradesmen from Bacchus Marsh seeing the opportunity that the friable and choice lots offered.

How did Violet’s land ownership come about?

Here is a postulated scenario that you might enjoy.

After the death of her husband George Hunter which occurred at sea, towards the end of their voyage to Port Phillip Bay in Victoria, Violet Hunter and her four children arrived in Melbourne as Assisted Immigrant passengers on the ship “Blonde” in 1848. It is likely that Violet faced significant challenges as a widow with young children, but she persevered and eventually acquired land, possibly after receiving funds from her husband’s will.

Five years after arriving in Victoria, Violet purchased 53 acres of land near Pentland Hills for 165 pounds (located at the end of Sunny Hollow Lane). The exact circumstances of this purchase are not specified, but it can be assumed that Violet either saved money or received financial assistance from various sources over the years. This land acquisition would have provided Violet with a means of stability and potential income in the rapidly developing region.

Violet resided in Melbourne, specifically on Franklin Street, until her death in 1874. It is possible that she leased her land for agricultural purposes or even sold a portion of it, considering the increasing interest in land in the area.

Overall, the scenario suggests that Violet Hunter, as a female landowner in the mid-19th century, was able to acquire and retain land, possibly through a combination of personal savings, financial assistance, and strategic decisions regarding her property.

If anyone knows anything further about Violet Hunter, we would love to hear from you.

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