Vignette 121: Mitchell Gates

In 1934, Sir William Mitchell provided a set of iron gates for the main entrance to the University grounds on Frome Road. Mitchell was Vice-Chancellor of the University from 1916 until 1942 when he became Chancellor. He retired in 1948. These gates became known as the Mitchell Gates.

In 1963 the Gates were dismantled and stored until late 1965, when they were re-erected on Victoria Drive, opposite the Barr Smith Lawns. 

In 2002, the Gates were removed from the Victoria Drive location and renovated by local craftspeople. As part of a plan to reinvigorate the inner-city campus, the Gates were restored to their original setting in 2021, where they provide a stunning frame to the Barr Smith Library steps, as originally intended. 

The Gates are listed on the Australian Heritage Commission’s Register of the National Estate.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Providing a place. p.164