Prahran Market facts for kids
Prahran Market is a super cool food market in South Yarra, a suburb right inside Melbourne, Australia. It's on Commercial Road, close to Chapel Street. This market started way back in the 1860s in a nearby area called Prahran. Then, in 1881, it moved to where it is today.
At the market, you'll find lots of different stalls and special shops. They sell fresh fruits and veggies, meats, fish, and yummy deli foods. There are also cafes where you can grab a bite to eat. The market is open most days, but it's closed on Mondays and Wednesdays. Some shops are even open on Sundays!
Contents
Market History: From Past to Present
How Prahran Market Began
The first Prahran Market started in 1864. The local council bought land near Greville and Grattan Street. Today, this spot is a garden with a fountain. The council saw that many people were moving to the area in the 1850s. They needed a central place for farmers to sell their fresh produce. So, the first Prahran Market opened its doors in June 1867.
Moving to a New Home
By 1881, the first market was too small and crowded. So, the market moved to its current spot on Commercial Road. New market buildings and more stalls were built in 1890. The new Prahran Market officially opened in 1891. The front of the market on Commercial Road looks much like it did in 1891. It has a special roof called a mansard roof.
The market grew even more in 1923. In the late 1920s, they added refrigerators. This helped keep foods like meat and fish fresh. The balcony above the shops on Commercial Road was a fun place. The The Salvation Army used to hold Friday night concerts there.
Market Life During Tough Times
In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, the market helped many people. It became a place where groceries, clothes, and boots were given out. These items went to people who didn't have jobs.
During World War II, many men from the market joined the army. Their wives and children stepped up to help. They bought, carried, and sold the produce. In 1950, a fire on Boxing Day destroyed the fruit and vegetable section. A temporary building was put up. But it wasn't until 1972 that the council planned to rebuild the market. The big redevelopment finished in 1976. It cost about A$6.5 million.
Modern Changes and Updates
In the 1990s, a new group was chosen to manage the market. They made big repairs and updated the market buildings. A multi-level car park was also added. This made it easier for people to visit the market.
Getting to Prahran Market
It's easy to get to Prahran Market using public transport.
- Trains: The Sandringham train service stops nearby. You can get off at South Yarra or Prahran railway stations.
- Trams:
- The 72 tram goes along Commercial Road. It stops right outside the market.
- The 78 tram runs along Chapel Street.
- Buses: Transdev Melbourne bus routes 216, 219, and 220 also travel along Commercial Road.
