This article discusses the concept of a "country town idyll" in Camden, an idealised version of a country town from an imagined past that uses history to construct imagery based on Camden's heritage buildings and other material fabrics. The paper delves into the origins of the idyll, examines its development, and investigates its validity in its contemporary context. It shows how its supporters have used history as a community asset to remake Camden's identity and explore how the 'country town idyll' has been used variously as a political weapon, a marketing tool, and a tourist promotion.
Tag: Country town idyll
Camden, the best preserved country town on the Cumberland Plain
The historic town of Camden is hailed by architect Hector Abrahams as the best-preserved country town on the Cumberland Plain. Established in 1840, it offers a glimpse of Victorian and early 20th-century charm. Visitors can explore its heritage precinct, rural landscapes, historic villages, and even relive the town's aviation history.
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The Camden district in 1939
The 1939 Camden district concept was developed in the 1990s by UOW historian Dr Ian Willis as part of his research on the effect of the Second World War on Camden township.
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Camden needs a residential heritage-style guide
Camden Needs A Residential Heritage Style Guide to provide assistance to home owners to conserve and restore their historic cottages.
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Interwar Camden, the heritage of a country town
During the interwar period, Camden experienced economic growth driven by dairy and coal industries. The town's population grew by over 35%, making it a vital commercial and administrative center. The Hume Highway and railway brought modern influences, leading to developments such as motor industry, cinemas, and the airfield. Camden has maintained its bucolic charm, but has also experienced urbanization pressure. The town centre has many buildings from the interwar period.
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175th Anniversary of Camden’s foundation, 1840-2015
A Photographic Essay Source: Camden Images
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The Camden decked carpark that will not die
Camden decked carpark proposal Camden Council recently resolved to investigate and design a decked carpark in Oxley Street as part of the Camden Town Centre Enhancement Strategy (2014). This is not the first time that the council has considered a decked carpark. The first investigation of a decked carpark dates from 1996. A later proposal in… Continue reading The Camden decked carpark that will not die
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Camden Showgirl, an enduring pageant
Miss Showgirl, an enduring anachronism at a rural festival that brings the community together and celebrates the areas rural heritage and agriculture
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Camden dreamtime
Sydney’s urban expansion into the local area has challenged the community’s identity and threatened to suffocate Camden’s sense of place. In the face of this onslaught many in Camden yearn for a lost past when Sydney was further away, times were simpler, and life was slower. A type of rural arcadia, which I have called ‘a… Continue reading Camden dreamtime
