Airds Shopping Mall demolition, the unmet expectations of mid-century modernism

June 21, 2024February 14, 2025 camdenhistorynotes1 Comment

The Airds shopping mall's future encapsulates the decline of mid-century modernism in the midst of urban neglect. Once a symbol of optimism, the area's decay reflects broader global trends in retail. From failed Radburn principles to public housing challenges, the mall's history mirrors the clash of modernism and neoliberalism in Campbelltown. Despite the despair former residents report that they recall happy memories and stories of hope growing up in the area.

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The Camden News affronted by Sydney ‘flappers’ and the appearance of the modern girl.

December 11, 2020December 20, 2020 camdenhistorynotes1 Comment

The modern girl appeared in Camden in the 1920s as she did elsewhere in the world. One representation of the modern girl was the 'flapper' who had a variety of responses in the town.

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The mysteries of a photograph

April 3, 2020May 11, 2021 camdenhistorynotes1 Comment

How the mysteries of a pretty picture from yesteryear allows you to peel back the layers of the past. Each layer has a meaning and a story that is told by the historian. The stories provide context for the photograph and give it greater meaning.

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Movie making Camden style

June 19, 2019June 4, 2024 camdenhistorynotes1 Comment

Filmmakers have long been drawn to Camden's English countryside setting for movie backdrops. The area has hosted various films, including silent movie Silks and Saddles (1921), wartime drama The Rats of Tobruk (1944), series like A Place to Call Home (2012), and modern productions like Peter Rabbit (2018, 2020). It continues to attract filmmakers seeking a classic English aesthetic for their productions.