The Hills Local History
The region of Hills, located in New South Wales, Australia, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by the Darug people, who were hunter-gatherers that had a deep connection to the land.
The first recorded European exploration of the region occurred in 1788, when a group of British colonists led by Captain Arthur Phillip arrived in Sydney. Despite the influx of European settlers, the Darug people continued to live in the region and maintain their culture and traditions.
In the early 1800s, the development of the wool industry led to an increase in demand for grazing land. This resulted in the establishment of large estates in the Hills region, which were used for livestock grazing and farming.
The first settlement in the Hills region was established in 1794, when a land grant was given to James Ruse. This grant was located on the banks of the Parramatta River and was called "Experiment Farm". Over the next few years, other settlers moved into the region and established their own farms and homesteads.
One of the most notable figures in the history of the Hills region was John Macarthur, who is often credited with establishing the wool industry in Australia. Macarthur was granted land in the region in 1793 and went on to build a number of successful sheep stations, including Camden Park.
The Hills region played an important role in the development of transportation in Australia. In the mid-1800s, a number of railway lines were built in the region, which allowed for easier transport of goods and people.
During the early 1900s, the Hills region saw the establishment of a number of small towns and suburbs. These communities were built around the railway lines and provided a range of services for local residents.
The Second World War had a significant impact on the Hills region, with a number of military installations being built in the area. This included the "Kingsdene" airfield, which was used as a training base for Australian airmen.
Today, the Hills region is a thriving community that is home to a number of businesses, parks, and cultural institutions. Despite the changes that have occurred over time, the region has managed to maintain a strong connection to its history and heritage.