What goes up must come down | State Library of New South Wales

What goes up must come down

The Queen Victoria Building (affectionately known as the QVB) was designed by George McRae and completed in 1898. A magnificent shopping complex, built in a grand Victorian style, it was saved from demolition in 1982 - unlike many Sydney buildings.

These photographs record Sydney as she appeared to earlier generations, her important landmarks, simple dwellings and small businesses, all sacrificed to meet the changing tastes and needs of an emerging and modern metropolis.

Demolition of Norwich Chambers

Detail from Demolition of Norwich Chambers, c. 1923, by A. Foster
Glass negative    ON 30/21/233

Along with city buildings, Sydney streets have also come and gone. Sydney's oldest street, George Street, is one that has survived. Originally named the 'High' Street, even earlier this major thoroughfare was known as 'Sergeant-Major's Row'. In 1810 it was renamed 'George' Street in honour of the ruling monarch, King George the Third.

> View a selection of photographs of Sydney's landmarks prior to demolition

Volunteer Hotel, Pitt Street, Sydney

 

Look at these images of Sydney building from 1872 in the Library's catalogue. How many are still with us? external link

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Sydney Exposed
Made possible through a partnership with Moran Health Care Group