The Waverley Council Archives collection contains various items pertaining to the Municipality of Waverley, which was officially established on June 13, 1859. This proclamation solidified Waverley as the second suburb of Sydney to be recognized as a Municipality.

On July 14, 1859, the first Waverley Municipal Election took place, resulting in the election of nine councillors, led by John Birrell as the chairman. The inaugural meeting of the Waverley Municipal Council occurred on July 23, 1859. Initially, since there was no dedicated office for council proceedings, early meetings were held at the Charing Cross Hotel and the old School of Arts building on Bronte Road.

By 1861, the Council Chambers, situated on Bondi Rd (then known as Waverley St), had been constructed. This location served as the venue for council activities until 1913 when the council relocated to its current position in Waverley Park.

Among the valuable holdings within the collection are Waverley Council Minute books, Rate books, and Plans, offering insight into the historical records and operations of the council.

Please note. Not all of these items are digitised, but can be requested. Contact the Local History Office at local.history@waverley.nsw.gov.au