Berwick Local History
The Local History of Berwick, Victoria
Berwick is a suburb located in the southeast of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. The suburb is approximately 43 kilometers from Melbourne's central business district, and it is adjacent to the City of Casey. Berwick is believed to be one of the oldest settlements in Victoria, with evidence of prehistoric inhabitants and an Aboriginal community.
Aboriginal History
The original inhabitants of the area were the Bunurong people of the Kulin Nation, who lived in the region for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers. The Bunurong people depended on hunting, fishing, and gathering for subsistence. They were skilled at using spears, boomerangs, and digging sticks to hunt their prey and used the abundant resources in the area to make tools, weapons, and clothing. Evidence of their presence in the area can be seen in the presence of shell middens, stone tools, and rock art throughout the region.
European Settlement
The first Europeans arrived in the area during the 1830s and 1840s. They were attracted by the fertile land and water resources, which made agriculture possible. The first recorded land grant was given to Captain Joseph Hawdon, who established a sheep run in the area in 1837. The Berwick area was officially surveyed in 1850, and the first land sales were held in 1854.
The town of Berwick was founded in 1854 when land was set aside for public use. The post office opened in 1857 and the first school was established in 1858. The town began to grow rapidly in the 1860s and 1870s, with the establishment of churches, hotels, and businesses.
The Berwick Inn
The Berwick Inn is one of the town's most significant historical buildings. The original hotel was established in 1857, and it has been in continuous operation since that time. The hotel has played an important role in the town's social and cultural life, and it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The Railway
The arrival of the railway in Berwick in 1877 had a significant impact on the town's growth and development. The railway allowed for easier transportation of goods and people, which led to the establishment of new industries and businesses in the area. The railway also made it easier for people to commute to Melbourne for work, which led to an influx of new residents to the area.
The Berwick Cemetery
The Berwick Cemetery is the final resting place for many of the town's early settlers and prominent citizens. The cemetery was established in 1865, and it contains a number of historical graves and monuments. The cemetery is considered to be of significant historical and cultural importance and is maintained by the Berwick Cemetery Trust.
History of in Berwick
Berwick has a rich and diverse history that is shaped by its Aboriginal heritage, early European settlement, and growth and development as a regional center. The town has many significant historical landmarks and attractions that are an important part of its cultural heritage. Berwick's history is a fascinating and complex story that continues to be interpreted and celebrated by the local community.