Establishment of Bathurst, Australia
Bathurst, located in central New South Wales, Australia, was founded on November 7, 1815.
Exploration and Discovery:
- In 1813, explorer William Cox discovered fertile land west of the Blue Mountains.
- In 1814, Governor Lachlan Macquarie sent another expedition led by Lieutenant-Colonel William Lawson, Gregory Blaxland, and William Wentworth, which successfully crossed the Blue Mountains.
Selection and Founding:
- In 1815, Governor Macquarie decided to establish a settlement in the new territory.
- He named it Bathurst after Lord Bathurst, the British Secretary of State for the Colonies.
- The specific site was chosen due to its strategic location, abundance of water, and fertile soil for farming.
Initial Settlement:
- On November 7, 1815, a group of 30 convicts under the leadership of Lieutenant William Cox established a camp at Bathurst.
- They erected tents, built a hut, and began clearing the land.
- The camp grew rapidly with the arrival of more convicts, soldiers, and free settlers.
Development and Growth:
- In 1821, the first courthouse and gaol were built in Bathurst.
- By the 1830s, Bathurst had become a thriving regional center, serving as a hub for farming, trade, and transportation.
- In 1841, Bathurst was officially proclaimed a municipality.
Historical Significance:
- Bathurst played a crucial role in the early settlement and exploration of Australia.
- It was the first settlement established west of the Blue Mountains, opening up the vast interior for further expansion.
- Bathurst is also known for its rich history, including the gold rush of the 1850s, which brought thousands of people to the area.