Nedlands Local History
Nedlands is a leafy, riverside suburb located just 7 kilometers from the heart of Perth, Western Australia's capital city. The name 'Nedlands' is derived from two words: 'Ned', the nickname of an early settler named Edmund (aka Ned) Manning, and 'Lands', referring to the fertile farmland that once spanned the area. Today, Nedlands is known for its beautiful parks, architecture, and cultural offerings, but its history is just as rich as its present.
The Beginnings
The land on which Nedlands now sits was originally inhabited by the Noongar people for thousands of years before European colonization. In the early 1800s, the area was explored by British naval captain James Stirling, who deemed it suitable for settlement. However, it wasn't until the mid-1800s that farming and residential development began in the region.
The Founding of Nedlands
Nedlands officially became a suburb in 1901, when a group of local residents petitioned to have their area recognized. Prior to that, it was considered part of the larger Perth metropolitan area. The primary reason for the push for recognition was to separate from the nearby town of Claremont, which was seen as imposing high taxes without providing proper services to residents of the Nedlands area.
Growth and Change
In the early 1900s, Nedlands experienced a boom in residential development. Many of the homes built during this time still stand today, showcasing the distinctive architecture of the era. The area also gained several prestigious institutions, such as the University of Western Australia, which was founded in Nedlands in 1913. The suburb continued to grow and change throughout the 20th century, with the construction of new homes, parks, and community facilities.
Notable Residents
Over the years, Nedlands has been home to many notable figures in Australian history. One of the most famous is Sir Charles Gairdner, who served as Governor of Western Australia from 1951 to 1963. The suburb is also known for being the birthplace of Olympic gold medalist Herb Elliott, as well as former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke, who attended school in the area.
Nedlands Today
Today, Nedlands is a thriving suburb that retains much of its historical charm while also embracing modern amenities and cultural offerings. Visitors can take a stroll along the picturesque Swan River, enjoy a picnic in one of the area's many parks, or explore the numerous galleries and shops that line the streets. For those interested in history, the suburb offers several walking tours that highlight its rich past.
History of in Nedlands
From its humble beginnings as a farming community to its emergence as a cultural hub, Nedlands has undergone many changes over the years. But no matter how much it evolves, the suburb will always be rooted in its unique history and sense of community.