Picton Local History
The Local History of Picton, New South Wales
Picton is a small town located in the Wollondilly Shire of New South Wales, Australia. The town has a rich history, dating back to the early 1800s when it was first settled by European settlers.
Before the arrival of Europeans, the area was inhabited by the Dharawal people, who were part of the wider Aboriginal culture. They lived off the land by hunting, fishing, and gathering food.
In 1805, Governor King granted land to John Macarthur, who was a prominent figure in the wool industry. Macarthur established the town of Camden in 1836, which is located near Picton.
Picton was officially proclaimed a town in 1839 and was named after Sir Thomas Picton, who was a hero of the Napoleonic Wars. The town quickly became a centre for farming and agriculture, with wheat, corn, and sheep being the main products.
During the mid-1800s, Picton became a stopover point for travellers and traders who were travelling from Sydney to the south coast of New South Wales. The town started to develop as a trade and transport centre. There was a regular horse-drawn coach service connecting Picton to Sydney, and a number of hotels and inns were built to cater for travellers.
Picton was also a major centre of commerce and industry during the 19th century. The town had a number of mills and factories, including a flour mill, a sawmill, and a tannery. These industries provided employment for the locals and helped to stimulate the local economy.
One of the most significant events in the history of Picton was the construction of the railway line. The line was built in the late 1860s and connected Picton to the main railway network in New South Wales. The railway line helped to open up the region and made it much easier to transport goods and people to and from the town.
Today, Picton is a thriving town with a rich history and a strong sense of community. It is home to a number of heritage buildings and landmarks, including the Picton Railway Station, which is one of the oldest surviving railway buildings in New South Wales. The town also has a number of parks and public spaces, which are popular with locals and visitors alike.
In Conclusion
Picton has a unique and fascinating history, which is still evident in the town today. The town has played an important role in the development of New South Wales, and its heritage and culture are valued by locals and visitors alike. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or just want to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, Picton is definitely worth a visit.