A Step Back in Time – The Victoria Hotel’s Thorburn Legacy
A Step Back in Time – The Victoria Hotel’s Thorburn Legacy
This weekend, we had the absolute pleasure of welcoming John Thorburn to the Victoria Hotel – the great-grandson of our original owner, Robert Hogg Thorburn.
John not only shared his family’s fascinating history but also brought along beautiful old photographs that connect us directly to the roots of this historic hotel.
Robert Hogg Thorburn – The Founder
Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, on 30 January 1827, Robert was a skilled glass cutter before emigrating to Australia in 1852 with his wife, Sarah Anne Baldwin. After arriving in Melbourne aboard the Fortitude, they settled in Woodend where Robert worked as a blacksmith and soon became a successful property owner.
Robert built what was then known as Thorburn’s Victoria Hotel, along with a draper’s shop and grocery store in the main street of Woodend. Over time, his business ventures grew to include significant parcels of land, including acreage near Hanging Rock and the Woodend Racecourse.
He passed away in 1912 at the age of 85, right here at the Victoria Hotel, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.
The Colourful Characters of the Thorburn Family
The Thorburn family history is filled with hardworking settlers, but also with some unforgettable personalities — none more famous (or infamous) than ‘Wild George’ Thorburn, Robert’s nephew.
George, a top horseman and bullocky, was known for his fearless riding, quick temper, and legendary escapades — including friendships (and perhaps a few dodgy dealings) with members of the Ned Kelly Gang. His life was a mix of adventure, brushes with the law, and tales that locals still swap to this day.
A Ghostly Connection
On our paranormal nights, we often make contact with Wild George and Robert Thorburns wife Sarah – their spirits are known to linger, sharing snippets of their lively past.
But next weekend, we’re attempting something extra special — we’ll be trying to connect with Robert Hogg Thorburn himself, the man who built the very foundations of this hotel.
Why This History Matters
Hearing these stories from John Thorburn himself was a reminder that the Victoria Hotel is more than just bricks and mortar – it’s a living piece of Woodend’s history. Every guest who walks through our doors becomes part of a story that began over 170 years ago.
If you’re joining us for our next paranormal night, you might just find yourself in conversation with one of the Thorburns – past or present. Book your ticket