In the early days of Melbourne the city covered a much larger area than it now does. These rate books cover the areas now known as Carlton, North Melbourne, Flemington, Kensington, Fitzroy, St Kilda, South Melbourne and surrounding areas for the early period. As time went on the City was reduced to what it now is. The North Melbourne rate books are separate from 1855 and Flemington & Kensington from 1881. Other areas were separated in the late 1850s but are presently not available for purchase. These rate books are arranged by wards. Each building was rated (land in the early times was exempt) and the information about each building varies over time but usually includes the name and occupation of the occupier of the premises, the owner, the address, the rated value of the property as well as a description of the building. Shops, offices, private houses and tents are listed.
This set of microfiche only covers the Borough of Flemington and Kensington, in Melbourne.
The set is a photographic image from the originals, and is in handwritten writing. Details of information which is included on the microfiche is as follows (listed by column names):
- Date
- Number on Rate Book
- Surname of Person Rated
- Christian Name of Person Rated
- Trade or Occupation
- Name, Residence and Occupation of Owner
- Situation and Description of Rateable Property
