THE WOMEN OF LITTLE LON

Barbara Minchinton LA TROBE UNIVERSITY PRESS, RRP $32.99

With the Victorian government planning to decriminalise prostitution to ensure sex workers are treated the same as other workers, this book could not be more timely. Minchinton takes us on a journey around the lanes of 19th century Melbourne to places not often spoken of in polite society, a society where hypocrisy knew no bounds but where women could be in charge of their own destinies. Much of the book is based on finds from recent archaeological digs in the area that reveals lives often glossed over in most history books. We visit “flash madams” such as Madame Brussels and the squalid rooming houses that were owned by women but whose lives were still at the mercy of the patriarchy and wanton needs of male politicians, moralisers by day and pleasure seekers throughout the night. Minchinton does not hide her sympathies, but we can only hope the debate over the new legislation is as wellresearched and entertaining as this book.

BARRY REYNOLDS VERDICT: Six in the city