Ian Willis, University of Wollongong Local history is one of the most popular forms of history in Australia. Yet there is a yawning gap between the enthusiastic amateur and the academic historian. While some academic historians engage with local history, sadly there is an entrenched snobbery from the academy. From the other side, the enthusiastic… Continue reading Academic snobbery: local historians need more support
Tag: History
Beulah and Sydney’s Urban Sprawl
Beulah estate, Sydney's urban sprawl and the Appin Road
Lost Campbelltown heritage
The lost built heritage of a country town on Sydney's urban fringe at Campbelltown
Menangle ‘Little England’ says Duchess of York
In 1927, the Duke and Duchess of York visited Menangle and Camden Park as part of their Australian royal tour. They were guests at the Camden Park house and enjoyed activities such as horse riding and attending the Camden Show. The visit received extensive coverage in newspapers across Australia, highlighting the English countryside-like environment.
History is nice, but…
The value of history is more important now than almost at any other time in the past.
Westies, Bogans and Yobbos. What’s in a name?
The article explores regional identity in Sydney's Macarthur district, focusing on the communities of Campbelltown, Camden, and Picton. It discusses the strong local attachment to identity, which is challenged by perceptions of western Sydney as a cultural wasteland. Jeff McGill’s criticism of regional labeling sparked significant community response, revealing a conflict over identification and stereotypes. While Macarthur's regionalism reflects urban expansion, it struggles for acceptance amidst historical, cultural, and emotional ties that residents hold with their distinct localities.
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.
Discover Camden’s Iconic Milk Bars and Cafes
Camden's milk bars, established by Australian-Greek immigrants in the Interwar period, significantly influenced local food culture. With Art Deco designs, these cafes blended American food trends with Australian cuisine, offering various refreshments and meals. They served as social hubs, fostering community connections and breaking down social barriers, with lasting cultural nostalgia today.
The army in camp at Narellan in WW2
The Narellan Military Camp was an important part of the story of wartime Camden during the Second World War.
Being a Historical Detective
There are a number of steps involved in being a historical detective and conducting an investigation (historical research).
