Singleton

Local History of Singleton, New South Wales, Australia

Singleton is a town in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, Australia. It is located approximately 197 km north-north-west of Sydney. The town was established in the early 1820s and has a rich history of agriculture, mining, and industry.

Early Settlement

The Indigenous people of the area are the Wanaruah people. They lived in the area for thousands of years before European settlement. In 1820, a party led by John Howe found good farming land in the area and he convinced the government to grant land for the establishment of a town. The town was established in 1821 and named after Benjamin Singleton, the Secretary of the Governor of New South Wales.

Agriculture

The fertile land around Singleton has been used for agriculture since the town's inception. Early crops included wheat, maize, and tobacco. In the late 1800s, viticulture became popular in the area with several vineyards established. The wine industry continues to be an important part of Singleton's economy today.

Mining

The discovery of coal in the nearby Hunter Valley in the mid-1800s led to the establishment of coal mining in Singleton. Several mines were opened in the area, and by the early 1900s, coal was the town's main industry. Coal mining continues to be an important part of Singleton's economy today.

Industry

In addition to agriculture and mining, Singleton has a history of other industries. In the late 1800s, a brewery was established in the town. The brewery operated until the early 1960s and is now the site of a shopping centre. Other industries that have operated in Singleton include a dairy, a flour mill, and a timber mill.

Heritage Sites

Singleton has several heritage sites that are open to the public. One of the most popular is the Singleton Museum, which has displays on the town's history, including its Indigenous heritage, agriculture, mining, and industry. Other heritage sites include the Burdekin Park and the Royal Hotel.

History of in Singleton

Singleton has a rich history and has played an important role in the development of the Hunter Region of New South Wales. Its fertile land has been used for agriculture for nearly 200 years and its coal mines have been an important source of energy for the state. The town also has a proud history of industry and is home to several important heritage sites.