These are the ‘Ladies Only’ seats outside St Paul’s Cathedral on Swanston Street — a small relic of old Melbourne. Once a designated resting spot for women in the early 1900s, they now quietly remind us of how public spaces have evolved. To be honest, I’d never really noticed the signage myself until we were showing a visitor around the city.
Only women need apply? Were they much in use while you were nearby?
It is used by everyone now, most times for Homeless people. It was just a part of Melbourne’s history.
That’s interesting. 😉
Something different but glad for the change in people’s outlook.
How odd- were they not allowed inside, Teresa? Or are there ‘gents’ benches further along? xx
As I’ve mentioned in my comment to Arlene, this started with inequality of the sexes a long time ago. But no, I don’t think there’s Men Only benches.
Haha, why ladies only?😘
It dates back in the 1930s when men have the priority in seats. The council thought that it was good to also have some seats for women so they had this in the 1950s. Not sure about the exact dates.
I knew exactly where they were, seen them many times.
I don’t know why but it is the first time I noticed it, I usually am more observant. Thanks for commenting Leanne.
In Japan they have train cars for women because of harassment.
Oh yes I think I saw that in one of the trains. Fair enough, maybe some people will take peak hour as a chance to do something bad.