Springthorpe Gardens
This small and very attractive park with lush shady trees, drinking fountain and benches is worth visiting in early spring when the trees are blossoming. The park was developed with the purchase of land in 1934 and named after Dr J.W. Springthorpe. On one corner of Springthorpe Gardens are a pair of old stone gates. These were the original lodge gates of The Royal Melbourne Hospital prior to 1860. In 1910 they were presented to Dr Springthorpe, a doctor at the hospital, who had them erected at his Murrumbeena home. In the thirties they were presented by Mrs Springthorpe to the local city council who moved them to their current location.
The plaque attached to the gates states;
"These gates were the original lodge gates erected at the Melbourne hospital prior to 1860, and in 1910 were presented to Dr. J.W.Springthorpe, a physician at the hospital, who had them erected at his home `Joyous Garge' in Murrumbeena. They were later donated by Mrs. Springthorpe to the Caulfield city council and installed at this location on the suggestion of Cr.S.W.Tyers in 1934."
If you have any interest in another Springthorpe family related cache, check out "Boroondara Mahal" in Kew
There is something visceral about these stone gates which appeals to me. I expect to see some form of manor house or stately home up the crushed rock drive, but alas, it is just the gates.
The cache is a camouflaged micro containing a log, b.y.o. writing implement.
NOTE: There is no need to enter the garden area, all cache activity can be performed from the paved area.
FTF honours goes to Spladem
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