Kings Cross History

A colourful history

If you are interested in colourful history, you can't go past Kings Cross. Previously known as Queens Cross, Kings Cross Sydney was renamed in 1905.; A similar square in the city called Queens Square was often mistaken because of its similar title.

Arts and theatres sprung up everywhere in the 1920s creating a very artsy scene full of Bohemian culture, writers, artists and the like. Studios, art galleries, live theatre and strip shows became the new way of life, giving Kings Cross a similar image to that of the Moulin Rouge.

The post war years attracted many overseas immigrants to Australia. Sydney became a large cosmopolitan mix of Europeans and Asians resulting in its diverse, multicultural society of today. Soldiers and troops flocked to Kings Cross for relaxation and partying giving the area its sleazy image after the Vietnam War years.

In the early 1800s, Kings Cross was an exclusive address in Sydney. Potts Point and Elizabeth Bay were known for Victorian era terraces and grand homes, some of which can still be seen today.

Flats, boarding houses and accommodation sprang up over the years to cater for the increasing population of Kings Cross. The original settlers made this part of Sydney their home.

After the war, through the 1950s and 1970s, the Cross became a popular eating and theatre spot.