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Wilson Hall [I] (1882-25 January 1952), [UMA-PL-000000020]. University of Melbourne Archives, accessed 25/04/2025, https://archives.library.unimelb.edu.au/nodes/view/505135
In December 1874 the University received a bequest of £30,000 from the pastoralist and former politician, (Sir) Samuel Wilson to erect a ceremonial hall 'of suitable dignity in which the examinations of an annually augmented body of students may be held and in which degrees may be conferred with the solemnity usual in other kindred seats of learning'.In late 1875 Joseph Reed submitted plans for a lofty hall in English Perpendicular Gothic/Tudor Perpendicular style but work did not commence until mid 1878. It was first used for examinations and conferring of degrees in 1882.
In the midst of restoration work in preparation for the University’s centenary celebrations, the roof timbers of Wilson Hall caught fire on a hot, gusty mid-summer afternoon on 25 January 1952. As thousands gathered to watch, the University’s dominant landmark, together with some of its records and artworks stored in the basement, and the recently-installed memorial window to honour Melbourne women graduates, burned beyond repair.