Sassafras 3787 Sassafras 3787

Sassafras, in the Dandenong Ranges between Olinda and Ferny Creek, is 35 km. east of Melbourne. It was originally called Sassafras Gully, descriptive of the damp, hilly terrain in which trees described as Sassafras were found.

The area was opened for selection in 1893, mainly consisting of about 500 ten-acre farms, shortly before a period when tourists and excursionists were attracted to that part of the Dandenong Ranges.

Little in the way of a township was established, being confined to a post office (1894), store, school (1894) and mechanics' hall. However, weekenders, larger residences and guest houses were built in considerable numbers. In 1918 thirteen guest houses were available, making Sassafras one of the leading resorts in the Dandenong Ranges. Two churches and additional shops were built in the township at about that time.

Tourists reached Sassafras by railway (Upper Ferntree Gully) or by improved road, but extension of road improvement in the 1920s caused tourists to travel further afield. Nevertheless, affluent Melburnians built residences in Sassafras and some organised the building of a Presbyterian church in 1937. A bowling green was also built. Families on ordinary incomes settled in Sassafras, making it more residential. Infant welfare and pre-school play facilities were opened in the 1950s.

Sassafras maintains several attractions for day-trippers, one of the churches now housing a gallery. The Nicholas Gardens and Nicholas Research Laboratories are on land formerly owned by Alfred Nicholas (1881-1937), Aspro manufacturer and philanthropist. The gardens were laid out between 1929 and 1937.

The census populations of Sassafras were 274 (1911) and 392 (1947).

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❊ Web Links ❊

➼ Sassafras 3787 

➼ www.wikipedia.org/Sassafras,_Victoria

➼ Sassafras-Ferny Creek Fire Brigade






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