Russell Place
Bourke St, Melbourne
In 1890, shopkeeper and resident of Russell Place, Charles Elliot penned a letter to the council requesting that they install street lighting as well as a greater police presence.
He complained of many men that would urinate in the laneway, sometimes even 20 at a time. Thankfully that doesn’t happen today (or at least not as much.)
Russell Place now houses several hidden bars and restaurants, including Gin Palace and the late-night Bar Ampere.