Heritage Highway Local History
Heritage Highway is a beautiful tourist attraction in Tasmania, Australia. It stretches from Launceston to Hobart and covers a distance of approximately 200 km. The highway passes through some of Tasmania's most stunning countryside, landscape, historic towns, and attractions. This area has a rich cultural and natural history that has contributed significantly to Tasmania's heritage.
The First Inhabitants of Heritage Highway Region
The first inhabitants of Heritage Highway were the aboriginal people of Tasmanian island. They lived and hunted in the area for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers. The aboriginal people lived off the land, gathering native plants, hunting, and fishing from the rivers and nearby sea.
The Arrival of European Settlement
The arrival of European settlements in 1803 brought significant changes to the Heritage Highway region. The first European settlement was established in Hobart by Governor David Collins. The region was surveyed, and convicts were sent to settle in the area, opening up farms and developing infrastructure. The highway played a vital role in the transportation of goods and services between the north and south of Tasmania during this period.
The Convict Era
The Heritage Highway region played a significant role in the convict era of Tasmanian history. Many of the towns along the highway served as outposts for the British penal system. The convict-based settlements saw an influx of convicts, and harsh living conditions were the norm. The convicts worked on the farms and in various industries, such as wool production, brick making, and road building.
The Gold Rush Era
The discovery of gold in the Heritage Highway region in 1852 saw a mass influx of immigrants and gold diggers. The gold mining industry was short-lived, but it brought people and an economic boost to the area. Some of the towns along the highway, such as Oatlands, Swansea, and Ross, were established during this period.
The Twentieth Century
The twentieth century witnessed further development of the Heritage Highway region, with the establishment of a railway and improvements to roads. The railway was built in 1876, and it ran along the route of the highway, connecting towns and industries throughout the area. The development of better transport and communication links meant that the rural towns could connect to the larger cities of Tasmania easily. This boosted the growth of the tourism industry and the economy of the area.
Modern Times
Today, the towns along the Heritage Highway still retain much of their historic character, architecture, and buildings. The highway is now a popular tourist destination, offering visitors an insight into the history, culture, and natural beauty of the region. The area is known for its wineries, fresh produce, antique stores, and local crafts. The region also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, cycling, and wildlife watching.
History of in Heritage Highway
The Heritage Highway region in Tasmania, Australia, is an area steeped in history and culture. Its combination of natural beauty, unique culture, historic sites, and rural lifestyle is an attraction for both locals and tourists alike. It has played a significant role in Tasmania's history and development and continues to contribute to the state's economy and cultural heritage.