Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Batmania

Hi V ... a television commercial airing at the moment drew my attention to the fact that one of the early names considered for Melbourne when it was first founded back in 1837 was "Batmania". Wouldn't that have been a hoot! Obviously it was a long time before Gotham City and the Caped Crusader.  The name originated from John Batman a farmer in northern Tasmania who sailed through Port Phillip Bay on 29 May 1835 on a quest for more grazing land.  Other early names which were considered were Bareport, Bareheep, Barehurp and Bareberp.  I have no idea of the origins of these suggestions but I thought the above photo of Batman in Melbourne's Federation Square on Australia Day just opposite the land which John Batman once owned was all too much of a coincidene.  Cheers J.     

7 comments:

  1. That's so funny Joe .... I'm so pleased it ended up as Melbourne.

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  2. That is a little piece of history. Thank you Joe.

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  3. Hi J,
    Love the portrait and that interesting info today!.
    Cheers,
    V

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  4. Now THAT would have been an interesting name! Very nice photo - I've never met Batman.

    Bises,
    Genie

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  5. What an unusual coincidence with the history of Mr. John Batman and Batmania. Fine portrait of the caped crusader.

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  6. Interesting info there Joe, 'Batman Snaps' just doesn't sound the same oui! Batman in the city would have caused a stir!!

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  7. Fantastic shot Joe! You sure are great at covering events in your city! Interesting background info :^)

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