The letters of John Hawdon and others from 1828 to 1837, preserved in the State Library of NSW, provide insights into colonial life in New South Wales. They highlight themes of isolation, communication challenges, economic struggles, and attitudes toward gender and Indigenous populations, alongside Hawdon's farming experiences and family connections.
Category: Colonial Camden
Insights from the Hawdon Letters: Colonial Life in NSW, Part 2, 1831-1833
John Hawdon's letters from New South Wales (1831-1833) reveal colonial life, highlighting farming challenges, isolation from England, and the high costs of communication. These letters provide insights into market conditions, crop successes, and family updates, showcasing the Hawdons' experiences and adaptations in a new land, while retaining original spelling and structure.
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Exploring Caroline’s Diary: A Women’s Perspective on Colonial Australia
Anne Philp's "Caroline’s Diary" narrates the life of Caroline Husband, an Englishwoman who migrated to colonial Australia in the mid-19th century. Through her personal diaries, readers explore her adventures, social life, and experiences from England to New South Wales, providing insights into women's roles and societal dynamics during this period.
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Explore History with Friends of Belgenny Farm Events
On a cloudy day in late May 2025, the Friends of Belgenny Farm held an open day attracting over 285 visitors interested in early Australian history. The event featured various stalls, historical displays, and guided tours of the historic site, which holds national significance and showcases Australia's earliest colonial farm buildings.
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Exploring Hilsyde: A Look at Elderslie’s Historic Home
Hilsyde, originally known as Pammenter, is a Victorian single-storey brick residence built in 1888 by WC Furner in Elderslie. The property features a galvanised iron roof, bay windows, and retains good integrity. It served as Hilsyde Lodge from 1978 to 2003, catering to Christian women workers, and is heritage-listed.
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Understanding the Camden Story: History, Community, and Identity
The Camden story encapsulates the rich tapestry of tales and histories that define the Camden community, including dreamtime legends and settler accounts. It offers insight into the community's values, identity, and resilience, serving as both a historical narrative and a tool for local businesses, fostering deeper connections among residents.
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Explore Belgenny Farm: A Journey Through Time 2024
The 2024 Back to Belgenny festival showcased living history at Belgenny Farm, featuring reenactments, traditional trades, and various activities such as sheepdog trials and guided tours. The event included a demonstration by Governor Macquarie’s regiment and highlighted the farm's historical significance, providing visitors with an immersive glimpse into colonial agricultural life.
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Unveiling Hardy Wilson’s architectural legacy and his influence on Camden’s aesthetics
William Hardy Wilson, a largely unrecognized architect and artist, authored The Cow Pasture Road in 1920, impacting Camden's cultural narrative. His work celebrates colonial architecture and aesthetics, leading to a recent exhibition at the University of Sydney Library, which explores his dual legacy as both a visionary artist and controversial figure in Australian history.
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Cultural and Heritage Tourism in Camden: Unveiling a $6.4 Million Per Year Industry
Cultural and heritage tourism adds $6.4 million a year to the local economy. The Camden Museum and the Alan Baker Art Gallery add over $1.7 million annually.
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Explore Unlock Camden 2024: Uncover Camden’s Rich History
Unlock Camden is back in 2024, offering a celebration of the town's history and culture. The event, scheduled for September 28th, will feature a variety of activities, including historical re-enactments, art demonstrations, musical performances, and guided walking tours. The event aims to promote the area's historic locations and heritage.
