NORTH MELBOURNE POTTERY

107 LAURENS AND 109 LAURENS AND 131 LAURENS AND 103 LAURENS NORTH MELBOURNE, MELBOURNE CITY

 The North Melbourne Pottery Complex Archaeological Site (VHI H7822-2357) is significant as a rare example of an early industrial pottery site in Melbourne, dating back to the mid-19th century. The site encompasses the remains of the North Melbourne Pottery, which operated between c.1854 and c.1870, as well as evidence of subsequent land use, including its transformation into a railway siding (c.1870-c.1945) and later industrial and commercial activities (c.1945-present).

 The North Melbourne Pottery Complex Archaeological Site is significant at a local level for its historical, archaeological, and scientific values. The site's archaeological remains have the potential to provide valuable insights into the early industrial development of Melbourne, the evolution of pottery production techniques, and the adaptation of land use in response to changing urban needs. 

 The North Melbourne Pottery Complex Archaeological Site is significant for the following reasons: Historical Significance: The site is associated with the early industrial development of Melbourne and the establishment of one of the city's earliest pottery works. The North Melbourne Pottery played a role in supplying the growing city with essential ceramic products during the mid-19th century. The site's subsequent transformation into a railway siding and its later industrial and commercial uses reflect the evolving nature of Melbourne's urban landscape and the city's economic development over time. Archaeological Significance: Despite the absence of definitive remains of the pottery complex during the archaeological monitoring program, the site has the potential to contain significant archaeological deposits related to the pottery works, as well as the subsequent railway siding and industrial activities. The presence of extensive levelling fills suggests that earlier archaeological remains may be preserved beneath these layers. The site's archaeological record has the potential to yield information about the layout, operation, and technologies employed at the pottery works, as well as the living and working conditions of the people associated with the site. Scientific Significance: The archaeological remains at the North Melbourne Pottery Complex Site have the potential to contribute to our understanding of the production techniques, technological advancements, and artistic styles employed in the early pottery industry in Melbourne. The study of ceramic artefacts, kiln remains, and other pottery-related features can provide valuable insights into the materials, methods, and innovations used during this period. Furthermore, the site's stratigraphy and archaeological deposits can offer information about the environmental conditions and adaptations made to mitigate the challenges posed by the site's swampy location. The North Melbourne Pottery Complex Archaeological Site is significant at a local level for its ability to contribute to our understanding of Melbourne's early industrial development, the evolution of pottery production, and the changing nature of land use in response to urban growth. The site's potential to contain significant archaeological remains related to the pottery works, railway siding, and later industrial activities, as well as its rarity as a surviving example of an early pottery site in Melbourne, make it a valuable resource for further research and interpretation. 

2017 Statement of Significance: 

The North Melbourne Pottery Complex was identified during a gap analysis of previously unidentified archaeological sites within the Melbourne Metro Tunnel Early Works area. The complex is extensive in size occupying an area of approximatley 8000-12000m2. The North Melbourne Pottery was in operation from c. 1854-1870. Land use prior to this period is unknown however the site is situated within the former Hotham town common. Following the closure and demolition of the complex, the site and the former town common became a railway goods sidings facility. 

Given the early demolition date and transition of the site to railway purposes, there is a good probability that archaeological remains of the North Melbourne Pottery are still present. There is also the possibility that clay extraction pits in the vicinity of the complex may have been back filled with urban waste. As the location of these pits is unknown, it is recommended that in the first instance, the registered area of the site be limited to the enclosed area of the complex marked on the plans below. Additional historical research will further refine the site extent.