Sir David Mitchell Gates - University of Adelaide
Sir David Mitchell Gates is a historical landmark located at the University of Adelaide1. The gates were donated by Sir William Mitchell, the then Vice-Chancellor of the university, in 1934 and were originally constructed facing Frome Road as the start of a boulevard leading to the grand entrance of the Barr Smith Library1. The gates were moved to their present location opposite the Uni footbridge on Victoria Drive in the early 1960s1. The gates are listed on the Australian Heritage Commission’s Register of the National Estate1.
The restoration process of the Mitchell Gates began in July 2002 and was completed in February 20031. The University of Adelaide received a cheque for $28,000 from Lord Mayor Michael Harbison, generously allocated from the Adelaide City Council Heritage Incentive Scheme, to assist with the restoration of the Mitchell Gates1. The restoration process included repairing all metal work, including repainting; repairing existing plaster columns and granite bases; and restoring the University crest to its original state1.
Sir David Mitchell Gates is an important part of Adelaide’s architectural heritage. It is a slice of history at the University of Adelaide that has undergone an intricate and painstaking restoration2. The gates are a testament to Sir William Mitchell’s vision for the university and his contribution to its development.
The University of Adelaide was established on November 6, 1874, after a £20,000 donation by grazier and copper miner Walter Watson Hughes, along with support and donations from Thomas Elder 1. The Mitchell Building, which accommodated the entire university when it opened in 1882, was renamed in 1961 in recognition of the centenary of the birth of Sir William Mitchell and to commemorate his services as Professor of Philosophy 1894-1922, Vice-Chancellor 1916-42, Chancellor 1942-48, and benefactor 2. The Mitchell Gates were donated by Sir William Mitchell’s son, Sir William Mitchell, the then Vice-Chancellor of the university, in 1934 and were originally constructed facing Frome Road as the start of a boulevard leading to the grand entrance of the Barr Smith Library 2. The gates were moved to their present location opposite the Uni footbridge on Victoria Drive in the early 1960s 2. The restoration process of the Mitchell Gates began in July 2002 and was completed in February 2003. The University of Adelaide received a cheque for $28,000 from Lord Mayor Michael Harbison, generously allocated from the Adelaide City Council Heritage Incentive Scheme, to assist with the restoration of the Mitchell Gates. The restoration process included repairing all metal work, including repainting; repairing existing plaster columns and granite bases; and restoring the University crest to its original state 2.
Sir David Mitchell Gates is an important part of Adelaide’s architectural heritage. It is a slice of history at the University of Adelaide that has undergone an intricate and painstaking restoration . The gates are a testament to Sir William Mitchell’s vision for the university and his contribution to its development. An essay on Sir David Mitchell Gates could focus on its history, architecture, or cultural significance.