History at the Crossroads: The Four Corners of Ross

At the heart of Ross, nestled among its charming Georgian architecture and cobbled streets, lies one of the town’s most famous landmarks – the Four Corners of Ross. This historic crossroads at Church and Bridge Streets is more than just an intersection; it tells a story of colonial life through four buildings, each representing a different aspect of society: Temptation, Recreation, Salvation, and Damnation. These cornerstones of early Tasmanian life provide a glimpse into the struggles, pleasures, and moral fabric of the town’s past, making them a significant part of Ross’s heritage and an enduring attraction for visitors.

Temptation: The Ross Hotel

Established in 1835 by William Sadler, the Man O’ Ross Hotel (now The Ross Hotel) has long been a place of temptation – tempting weary travelers with a warm meal, a stiff drink, and a lively atmosphere. In the early days, it was a welcome escape for convicts, soldiers, and settlers alike, offering a break from the hardships of colonial life. With its inviting hearth and flowing ale, it became a well-patronised stopover, embodying the kind of indulgence that earned it its place as one of Ross’s Four Corners.

Recreation: The Town Hall

Adjacent to the hotel, the Ross Town Hall has long been a hub of recreation, bringing the community together through entertainment and social gatherings. With its sandstone façade and rich history, this building has hosted countless dances, performances, and town meetings, making it a place where the people of Ross could momentarily escape the rigours of daily life.

Salvation: The Roman Catholic Church

On the diagonal corner stands the Roman Catholic Church, representing “Salvation.” Originally a store owned by the Bacon family, this building once served as a residence, store, and bakery before being transformed into a place of worship in 1920. Its raised walls, new roof, and the addition of a tower marked a shift in the town’s spiritual landscape, reflecting Ross’s enduring commitment to faith and community.

Damnation: The Old Watchhouse

The final corner, known as “Damnation,” is the site of Ross’s former watchhouse and holding facility for convicts. Unlike a full-fledged gaol, this building served as a temporary place of confinement, where convicts and wrongdoers awaited transportation or sentencing. Today, the site has been transformed into a private residence, but traces of its austere past remain.

The Four Corners of Ross not only offer a window into the town’s rich history but also invite reflection on the societal roles these institutions played. From the indulgences of the hotel to the social vibrancy of the town hall, the faith upheld in the church, and the severity of the watchhouse, these four buildings encapsulate the complexity of life in early colonial Tasmania. Each corner and cobblestone in Ross tells a story, waiting to be discovered by the discerning traveller.