The Camden Museum showcases the Golden Fleece Globe Light, a plastic ram, symbolizing Australia's wool industry and its historical significance. Donated by Milton Ray in 2002, it highlights the Golden Fleece brand's marketing legacy. The ram, based on a prized merino, represents both local history and broader national heritage.
Category: Local History
Camden’s Treadle Sewing Machine: A Revolution in Women’s Agency
The Camden Museum's treadle sewing machine symbolizes the significant role of sewing in women's lives from the 19th century onwards. Sewing machines democratized work, enhancing women’s agency by saving time and allowing for business opportunities. Women contributed immensely to the war efforts through Red Cross circles, producing thousands of items during both World Wars.
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Exploring Belgenny Farm: Australia’s Oldest Farm Complex
Belgenny Farm, located in Camden, NSW, is Australia’s oldest surviving group of farm buildings, dating back to the 1820s. This historical site includes significant structures like stables, a coach house, and a community hall. It holds cultural importance through its association with the Macarthur family and continues to serve educational purposes.
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Narellan Town Centre Revitalization: a community-centric approach through placemaking
The redevelopment of Narellan Town Centre in 2017 enhanced its community space through placemaking, incorporating public art and amenities. Valued at $200 million, the extension nearly doubled its size, accommodating 100+ retailers and encouraging social interactions. The design reflects local history, fostering cultural identity and community engagement, achieving successful early usage by families.
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Privacy, piety and power at Camden Park: 1905 Vickery-Ellis marriage
In mid-1905, a private wedding took place at Camden Park between 82-year-old Ebenezer Vickery and 52-year-old Deborah Louise Ellis, a teacher and charity worker. Despite gossip in The Bulletin magazine, which wrongfully described Ellis's age and referred to her as Vickery's 'typewriter,' the wedding was attended by notable figureheads. Vickery, known for his wealth and philanthropy, held positions in various corporations and was involved in mining ventures. Ellis, active in philanthropic circles, played a role in social issues. Their marriage highlighted a complex interplay of privacy, power, and community, reflecting societal attitudes of the era.
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Top Walking Trails in Camden: Experience Walking the Cowpastures
Camden township, located in the historical Cow Pastures, features walking and cycling paths that reflect its Indigenous and colonial history. The Nepean River Trail, integrating various public artworks, enhances the area's historic character, while memorial walkways pay tribute to Australian service members. It's a site for both recreation and cultural immersion.
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Exploring Community History: Benefits and Applications
Community history focuses on the stories and experiences of specific groups, emphasizing local and social history often overlooked in traditional research. It fosters empowerment, engages community members, preserves unique cultural heritage, and creates a deeper connection to place, ultimately enhancing social cohesion and supporting informed decision-making for future generations.
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Community Recognition Morning Tea for Camden Recipients at NSW Parliament
The NSW Parliament allows Members to submit Community Recognition Statements acknowledging community achievements, charity work, and other contributions since 2017. On May 28, 2025, Mrs. Sally Quinnell MP hosted a morning tea to honor Camden recipients, including Dr. Ian Willis, joint-author of 'A History of Camden Chinese Market Gardeners 1899-1993' published by the Camden Historical Society.
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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.
