Three-masted ship, possibly LOCH LONG, anchored in Circular Quay

Photographer William Hall Photographic Studio

Datec 1900

Object numberANMS1092[107]

NameGlass plate negative

MediumEmulsion on glass

ClassificationsPhotographs

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Mr and Mrs Glassford

Terms

negatives

HistoryConstruction began on Sydney Cove in 1837 in response to increased shipping activity after the commencement of European settlement in the late 1700s. It was originally known as Semi-Circular Quay due to the shape of the stoneworks built with convict labour to stabilise the shoreline from reclaimed mudflats. During an industry boom of the mid 1860s, East Circular Quay began to develop as a major centre for the distribution and processing of wool. Many wool stores and warehouses were constructed along Circular Quay including the famous Morts & Co warehouse in 1869 as well as Pitt, Son & Badgery, Dalgety & Co and Hill, Clark & Co. The wool boom continued into the late 1800s and commerical focus began to shift from East Circular Quay to the Pyrmont-Ultimo peninsula. The demolition of the wool and bond stores in the East Circular Quay area began in the 1950s when many of these buildings were replaced with new structures such as ICI House, Unilever House and the AMP Building. Transport services such as trains, ferries and trams were all established at Circular Quay throughout its history and the area is now a busy business district and centre for culture and tourism in Sydney.SignificanceThe Hall photographic collection provides an important pictorial record of recreational boating in Sydney Harbour from the 1890s to the 1930s. The collection documents the lively sailing scene in Sydney during this period and features images of vessels ranging from large racing and cruising yachts to the great array of skiffs and the emerging technologies of motorboats. Images of many iconic vessels are also included in this visual record.