Gosnells Local History
The city of Gosnells is located in the south-eastern region of Perth, Western Australia. It has a rich history that dates back to the 1830s when the first European settlers arrived in the area. The city was named after John Kelvin Gosnell, who was a prominent figure in Western Australia during the 19th century. He was a Member of Parliament and also served as the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.
Before the arrival of European settlers, the land that is now Gosnells was inhabited by the Noongar people. The Noongar people have a deep and spiritual connection to the land, and their culture and history are woven into the fabric of the area. They lived a hunter-gatherer lifestyle and had a strong connection to the environment.
The first European settlers to arrive in the area were led by Captain James Stirling, who established a base in the Swan River Colony in 1829. The settlement was soon followed by an influx of settlers who were attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming and grazing. The land that is now Gosnells was predominantly used for grazing, with sheep and cattle farming being the primary industries.
The development of transport infrastructure in the area was instrumental in the growth of Gosnells. In the late 19th century, railways were constructed across Western Australia, which enabled farmers to transport their goods to markets more easily. The railway line that runs through Gosnells was constructed in 1893 and played a vital role in the growth of the area.
Throughout the 20th century, Gosnells experienced significant growth. The city's population grew rapidly, and many new industries and businesses emerged. In the 1960s and 1970s, there was a boom in the construction of public housing, which helped to accommodate the growing population.
Despite the growth and development of the city, Gosnells has remained committed to preserving its history and heritage. The city has a number of historic sites and buildings, which reflect its rich cultural and architectural history.
One of the most notable historic sites in Gosnells is the Mary Carroll Park Pioneer Cottage. The cottage was built in the 1890s and was the home of one of the area's earliest settlers. It has since been restored and is now open to the public as a museum.
Gosnells also has a strong connection to the railway heritage of Western Australia. The Railway Station Museum is located in Gosnells and is a popular attraction for visitors to the area. The museum features a collection of railway artefacts and memorabilia, and visitors can learn about the early days of rail transport in Western Australia.
Another important historical site in Gosnells is the Pioneer Cemetery. The cemetery was established in the 1870s and contains the graves of many of the area's earliest settlers. The cemetery is now a protected heritage site and is open to visitors.
Gosnells has a rich and varied history, and the city has remained committed to preserving its heritage while also embracing modern development. Today, Gosnells is a vibrant and dynamic city that is home to a diverse community.
From its early days as a grazing land to its role in the development of the railway network and the growth of public housing, Gosnells has played an important role in the history of Western Australia. Its commitment to preserving its heritage ensures that future generations will be able to learn about and appreciate the history of the area.