An exhibition of Gifford Henry Eardley’s sketches of Campbelltown’s historic sites and buildings is one of the highlights of Campbelltown Council’s History Week celebrations.
The sketches on display at the HJ Daley Library were done by Eardley during his many visits to Campbelltown over the years and now serves as a pictorial representation of some of the city’s most iconic historical locations, some of which no longer exist.
The library will also host a talk by Australian folklore author and historian, Warren Fahey on Wednesday 7 September, from 11am to 1pm. Fahey will discuss his new book, Dead & Buried, about three historic cemeteries and their transformation over time.
This year History Week celebrations from 3 – 11 September will focus on the theme “hands-on history”, an acknowledgement of those who’ve approached history directly through their practical fieldwork and research.
“Our unique history has always been a point of pride for Campbelltown. From historic early buildings to urban legends, there’s so much to explore right across our city,” Mayor George Greiss said.
“This week is the perfect time for people to experience these places and learn about places of significance to deepen their connection to the city’s past.”
Images, stories and videos featuring prominent people and locations from the city’s past and the events that shaped modern Campbelltown can be readily accessed via the library’s vast local studies section.
For those looking to get out and about, people can book a guided walk of the Dharawal National Park with local Aboriginal Discovery Rangers through the Campbelltown Visitor Information Centre.
Or even book a guided heritage tour around the early colonial buildings in the Campbelltown CBD that have helped form the city’s character over the past 200 years.