Neerim Junction Hall (originally the Neerim Mechanics' Institute and Free Library. Built on this site in 1873. The Mechanics' Institute movement began in British urban industrial centres in the early 1800s. A "mechanic" was a person applying skills and technology. During the 19th century, most towns in Victoria established a Mechanics' Institute or Athenaeum with a library and meeting hall. Common objects were the "spread of useful knowledge" and provision for "rational recreation" in the community. In 1873 the original building was built for the Neerim Mechanics' Institute and Free Library. It was burned down in the fires of Black Friday in 1898, but built again in the same year. The name Neerim Junction began to be used about 1911. In December 1972 the hall burned down again. It was rebuilt, with community support, and officially opened in November 1978 as the Neerim Junction Hall. This plaque, No.63 in the MIV series, was placed here on 11 November 2018 to celebrate the 40 Year Anniversary. "By the Community for the Community"