The Camden story encapsulates the rich tapestry of tales and histories that define the Camden community, including dreamtime legends and settler accounts. It offers insight into the community's values, identity, and resilience, serving as both a historical narrative and a tool for local businesses, fostering deeper connections among residents.
Tag: Infrastructure
Airds Shopping Mall demolition, the unmet expectations of mid-century modernism
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.
Mundane objects tell an interesting story
Utility covers are mundane objects that tell interesting stories about the past in an area. Others consider then to be a form of street art and street aesthetic.
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.
Macarthur Bridge
The Macarthur Bridge across the Nepean River at Camden NSW is an important engineering heritage item.
Understanding the Anzac Myth: Truths and Contradictions
The Anzac story is vital to Australian identity, yet its meaning remains contested. Historian Dr. Jen Roberts argues that the narrative, while centered on duty and sacrifice, encompasses contradictions surrounding nationalism, trauma, and the realities of war. Anzac's evolution reflects cultural transformations, highlighting diverse interpretations and ongoing relevance in society.
The mysteries of a photograph
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.
Aaron Bolot, a Sydney architect, and Camden’s Interwar heritage
Sydney architect Aaron Bolot designed the extension to the Camden agricultural hall. This building was one of many that were built in Camden during the Intewar period.
The Rotolactor, a Menangle milking marvel
The Rotolactor was Menangle's milking marvel. A rotating dairy that was a tourism attraction and an example of industrial modernism on the colonial property Camden Park estate.
Movie making Camden style
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.
