Exhibitions
Liverpool: a tale of two cities
These pages celebrate an exhibition between the two cities of Liverpool, one in England and the other in Australia. The exhibition is currently showing in Liverpool, New South Wales, Australia.
The exhibition celebrates the 800 years anniversary, since King John, granted the charter to Liverpool, UK, on 26 August 1207.
It is also in acknowledgement of Liverpool, UK, winning the coveted prize as European Capital of Culture, when they will showcase the spectacular Cultural facilities and talents of the City.
The good relationship between our two cities over the years is illustrated in an encounter with the Beatles when they toured Australia in 1964. The good will message the Beatles were to bring from the people of Liverpool, UK to the people of Liverpool, AU can be seen in the attachments below. These letters and more are available to view on request at Liverpool Record Office, Liverpool Central Library, England.
Liverpool England Mayor![(PDF [39.6Kb] opens in new window)](/images/PDF.gif)
Liverpool Australia Mayor
During the 1930's, Liverpool Historical Society President (AU), Lesley James Ashcroft and his daughter Betty visited what has affectionately been referred to as Sister City. The scroll they took on behalf of the Historical Society said "...warmest greetings on behalf of all members and citizens of this sister city across the seas..."
In 1961 a "guiding light" lamp was donated to Liverpool (AU) by Liverpool City Council (UK). It now stands outside the Council's Hoxton Park Administration Centre.
Also, during the 800 year anniversary 2007, at the invitation of Liverpool City (UK), Administrator Gabrielle Kibble AO, represented Liverpool City (AU) at the special celebrations.
Copies of these letters and many original items can be seen at the exhibition held in City of Liverpool Library, Australia http://ebranch.liverpool.nsw.gov.au.
Examples of images and text from the exhibition can be seen on the Liverpool Australia and Liverpool England web pages on this website.
The exhibition has been co- ordinated by Liverpool City Libraries Australia In collaboration with Liverpool City Libraries England.
May our good relationship continue for years to come, let's celebrate!
Where does the name Liverpool come from?
In the UK, debate has ranged from meanings coming from the large pool, or natural harbour, which sat beside the town.
The earliest recording of the spelling was Leverpol in a deed to Richard 1. In King John's Charter (1207) the spelling is Liverpul while in a Charter of Henry 111 (1229) it is Litherpol. A variety of other spellings, including Lyverpol and Liverpull, may be found in other early official documents. (extract from www.mersey-gateway.org)
Liverpool, Australia - how it got its name
On November 7, 1810 Governor Lachlan Macquarie founded Liverpool and named it in honour of the Earl of Liverpool, then secretary of State for the Colonies.
Some things we have in common
- Waterways, the reason for settlement importance
- Both have military connections
- Diverse populations. Migrants - looking for a new life and opportunity
- Dealing with issues of population increase and demands
- Deep issues of slave trade in Liverpool, UK and deep issues of indigenous people in Liverpool, AU
- Positive resilience and grittiness of people in their struggles
- Sport loving
