Tangible and Intangible Legacies: Associations in Victoria's Country Towns, 1851-1901

In November 1852, Dr William Preshaw announced in the Melbourne Argus that he had established a general practice in a tent on the gold diggings at Moonlight Flat, Forest Creek.¹ From this unlikely beginning, Preshaw quickly became involved in most aspects of the district's early public life. His strong philanthropic bent and commitment to his fellow man was evident in his contribution to the foundation of the County and Castlemaine Hospital in early 1854, a Friendly Aid Society in mid-1854 and the Castlemaine Benevolent Asylum in 1860. He was always ready to share his knowledge to raise funds for worthy causes and to help the broad community, whether by offering free medical help or by encouraging local schools to work together for the good of their pupils. His commitment to education drove active participation in the Castlemaine Mechanics' Institute and its library, just as the democratic spirit he had shown on the diggings led him to take on the role of local electoral returning officer.