Why is this Area Named Haig Hexagon?
Haig Hexagon is named after General Douglas Haig who later became Field Marshall and 1st Earl Haig. He commanded the British Army during World War 1. It is a garden area located at the crossroad of 6 roads, subsequently forming a hexagon (a six-sided figure).
Haig Hexagon is one of a number of garden areas in Tanilba Bay that owe their names to patriotism to honour the sacrifices made during World War 1. It was a gesture to commemorate the bravery and dedication of those who served and lead their countries.
Henry Halloran, a surveyor and real estate agent, bought the land in 1920 and planned a subdivision that would repeat elements of Walter Burley Griffin’s plan for Canberra based on a central Avenue of the Allies. Part of Henry Halloran’s enduring legacy are his Garden City subdivisions with radial patterns and contour-controlled layouts with huge amounts of public space, parks, squares and reserves.
Use of Alliteration for Street Names
A feature of Henry Halloran’s developments and subdivisions was that street names were chosen to capture attention through their alliteration (the repetition of the beginning consonant sounds of nearby words) and to remind buyers of the heroes of World War 1, like Navy Nook, Army Avenue and Diggers Drive.