In central Camden is an empty bank building of understated significance at the intersection of John and Argyle Streets. This building was the premises of Westpac, formerly the Bank of New South Wales, and was the second banking chamber on that site. Constructed in the 1930s by a prominent firm of local builders and designed by one of Sydney’s top award-winning architects. It is a building of much architectural merit, and few know its history.
Category: Urban history
Ferguson’s Nursery, the post-war years
During the post-war years, Ferguson's Nurseries continued to be located on Sydney’s urban fringe as the metropolitan area expanded into the rural surrounds.
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Ferguson’s Australian Nurseries on the urban fringe
The 20th-century story of Ferguson’s Australian Nurseries is about their location within Sydney’s rural-urban fringe.
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Ferguson’s Australian Nurseries, a century of horticulture
Ferguson's Australian Nursery was part of the horticulture industry in the Camden area for over 100 years. Francis Ferguson established a nursery opposite Macquarie Grove on the Nepean River.
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The Cowpastures bridge at the Nepean River crossing
Access across the Nepean River has been an issue since European settlement. The problem was solved by building a bridge with the first in 1826, the next in 1860 followed by 1900 and 1976.
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The Roy Dowle collection and old photographs
Old photographs are a glimpse into the past and capture many memories of another time. The Roy Dowle Glass Plate collection at The Oaks Historical Society is a source of many local images.
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Campbelltown City Council office extension 1982 – an example of mid-century modernism
In 1982 Campbelltown City Council had the official opening for the brutalist administration building. Combined with the adjacent 1964 modernist office building they are an outstanding example of mid-century modernism in the Macarthur region
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Exploring Campbelltown’s Mid-Century Modern Administration Building
The Campbelltown Council office building, completed in 1964, serves as an unrecognized icon of mid-century modernism, symbolizing the town's optimistic vision as a satellite city. Despite its structural significance and initial hopes for community development, later planning challenges undermined this vision, leaving the building's legacy complex and often overlooked.
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The hidden dangers of Camden’s bathtub effect
The Nepean River's 'bathtub effect' refers to the unique flooding impact created by the river's landform. The Hawkesbury-Nepean River's four gorges result in localized floodplains, causing a 'bathtub effect' during periods of high rainfall. These characteristics make the area susceptible to significant flood risk, impacting local communities.
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Clintons Motors Car Showroom, motoring and modernism
In March 1948, Camden celebrated a new era in motoring with the opening of Clintons Motors' modern showroom. The introduction of the FX Holden marked a pivotal moment in Australian automotive history, showcasing innovation and capturing community excitement. This Art Deco building symbolized modern shopping and transformed Camden's motoring landscape.
