The Water's Edge
The waterways in this district played an important role in the establishment and development of the Hawkesbury. The main waterways in this area include the Hawkesbury, Colo, Macdonald and Grose Rivers. The area was originally settled some time in 1794 along the banks of South Creek a tributary of the Hawkesbury so that the settlers could cultivate food supplies. The river system was also a major water supply.
The rivers in this area were the major mode of transport throughout most of the 19th century, particularly the delivery of agriculture from the farms to the markets in Sydney. Even after the establishment of the railway in the 1860s, many farmers still used riverboats to transport goods.
The waterways were also used in recreation and water sports. Aquatic sports were operating by the 1840s and included rowing, sculls and canoes and regattas were a regular event. In the early days drownings were a recurring disaster but by the late 1800s families swam in the river for recreation and swimming featured as a sport from about the 1890s.
In the late 19th century excursions for enjoyment began to take place. Day trips and holidays were becoming more popular and attainable. As the Hawkesbury was accessible by river and train it became a popular destination. Visitors often took the steamer from Sydney to Windsor via the Hawkesbury River and then caught the train home. Generations of families have experienced picnics along our picturesque natural waterways.
The Hawkesbury district has remained a popular destination, even now in the 21st century. The images are a sample from our Photograph Collection. If you would like more information contact the Local Studies Librarian on michelle.nichols@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au or phone 02 4560-4460