Union Building (1916)

Figure 9. Courtesy of the University of Sydney Archives, 1916 [G3_224_MF374_0195]. Union Building. Photograph, https://www.sydney.edu.au/arms/archives/media/me_objects/701.[1]

The site depicted in this 1916 photograph (Fig. 9) is the Union building. The building combined Federation Arts and Crafts architecture with Gothic Revival style detailing.[2] As you can see, there is a carved panel on the main entrance to the building with the words ‘The Union’ paired with the date of its completion, 1911.[3]

The original purpose of this structure was to house a common room, a tearoom, a billiards room, and reading room for male students in the early twentieth century.[4] This building was a popular hangout for students of the past and still is in the current day.

Today at this site, you will find the University of Sydney store where you can purchase a USYD hoodie, a snack, coffee, or emergency stationary. And if you haven’t had breakfast, make sure you visit the Cereal Lab which is located on the footbridge side of the building.

     [1] “University Archives Mediabank.”

     [2] Kerr, Attenbrow, Stanborough, Ellsmore, and Marshall,  Appendix A, A42.

     [3] Kerr, Attenbrow, Stanborough, Ellsmore, and Marshall,  Appendix A, A42.

     [4] Kerr, Attenbrow, Stanborough, Ellsmore, and Marshall,  Appendix A, A42.