James Oddie (1824-1911)

Ballarat Fine Art Gallery founder and philanthropist, known as the "Father of Ballarat". Played a significant role in the early gold discoveries in Ballarat

"The Chronicling of Ballarat's History"

The first significant chronicling of Ballarat's history was the publication of William Bramwell Withers "History of Ballarat" in 1870. A facsimile reprint has recently become available.

Eugene von Guerard (1811-1901)

Sketched Ballarat goldfields and painted landscapes.

Lola Montez (1818-61)

"When Montez met Seekamp"

The dancer who not only scandalised several continents, but horsewhipped the editor of the Ballarat Times for publicly criticising her.


Captain Moonlite (Andrew Scott) (1845-1880)

One of Australia's most notorious outlaws, he led an incredible double life as a clergyman by day and a bushranger by night. His escape from Ballarat Gaol not only made headlines, but made him famous.