When you wander through Melba Park again, you will notice a quiet path cutting through from Market Street to Chapel Street threading its way under the trees — Perrin Walk.
It’s a lovely name, but behind it lies the story of one of Lilydale’s earliest families and their lasting mark on the town.
Many years ago, Clarke Street ran along the western edge of Melba Park.
On the other side were the Lilydale Market and the council depot.
In the 1970s, the road was closed off, joining the two reserves into one open space.
Later the new footpath was officially named Perrin Walk in December 1998, in honour of the Perrin family who once helped build the town’s foundations.
The story begins with Henry Perrin, born in England in 1825.
For twenty years, Henry worked as a ship’s pilot for the East India Company.
Seeking a new start, he and his wife Cecelia eventually came to Australia, settling in Lilydale around 1860 with their two sons and a daughter.
Henry started as a travelling draper, walking across Victoria selling goods.
But it was Lilydale that captured his heart.
There he built the town’s first house and opened its first Post Office from the front room of his home.
His salary was ten pounds a year, and in those days there was no mail delivery.
The Cobb and Co coaches brought the mail to Lilydale, and residents came to the Perrins’ home to collect it.
Cecelia, a gifted musician, opened a small school and gave music lessons, adding a cultural note to the growing community.
Henry later retired from postal work but stayed deeply involved in local life, running the news agency, serving as a councillor, and helping to build the Baptist Tabernacle in Castella Street.
His son, Frederick Walter Perrin took over as postmaster in about 1880.
Henry passed away in 1886 and was buried in the Lilydale Cemetery, but his influence lived on through his family.
So next time you stroll along Perrin Walk, pause for a moment.
It’s more than just a path through the park, it’s a tribute to Henry and Cecelia Perrin, whose dedication and community spirit helped shape Lilydale into the town we know today.
If you are interested in discovering more stories about the history of Lilydale visit our Website at lilydalehistorical.com.au or think about becoming a volunteer.
