Marion Heritage Research Centre, Sturt

The Marion Historic Village is the historic heart of the city and locals are proud of its friendly community and unique history.

‘The Marion’ as it was known to locals, was once a bustling rural community producing almonds, grapes and vegetables and supporting an important brick-making industry. The Marion Historic Village walk brings the past to life and provides a fascinating insight into the area’s heritage.

At the Wesleyan Chapel, keen-eyed visitors can identify early parishioners from initials carved into locally produced bricks.

Early Australian innovation is evident behind the Catholic Church on Township Road where the bell tower is supported on one side by an old gum tree.

Nearby is Annie Doolan’s Cottage, built-in 1876 as a convent and school for Mary Mackillop’s sisters of St Joseph.

In late winter, blossoming almond trees in Oliphant Avenue Reserve remind visitors of agricultural days now long gone.

Local stories of life in days past are celebrated through five ‘Little Marion’ sculptures by Gerry McMahon and the mosaic Hopscotch by Beach Road Art-works. Places of historic interest are highlighted by mosaic footpath signs by artist Irene Dougan.

The Marion Historic Village Walk has been created as a partnership between the City of Marion and local residents.