Ayr St , Jamestown , Then
Jamestown
THEN & NOW
Jamestown , originally inhabited by the Ngadjuri people , was first explored by Edward John Eyre and his party in 1839 .
European pastoralists settled the area around Jamestown a few years later , running sheep on large pastoral stations .
Following the passing of the Wastelands Amendment Act ( Strangways Act ) in 1869 , the stations were opened up for agricultural settlement , with the prime aim being to increase wheat production .
The land was surveyed into 100 square mile areas , known as Hundreds , and the district ’ s first farmers ( purchasing up to 640 acres each ) arrived in time to sow their first crop in the autumn of 1871 .
Surveyed in the Hundred of Belalie , the township of Jamestown was named after Governor of the day , Sir James Fergusson ( whose Scottish background is reflected in many of Jamestown ’ s street names ).
Agriculture in the district developed rapidly , and with Bundaleer Forest established during this time as well , a myriad of opportunities opened up for enterprising business men and women .
Rapid Early Growth
As a result , Jamestown ’ s initial growth was extraordinary . In 1877 at the height of activity , there were more than 100 stonemasons employed in the town , and their quality workmanship has stood the test of time , with many buildings from that time still standing today .
By 1881 , only 10 years after initial settlement , Jamestown boasted a population of 995 , making it the largest of the new towns in the north . It was seen as one of the most progressive towns thanks to tree planting and road improvements instigated by the town ’ s first mayor , Dr John Cockburn , in 1878 .
By the turn of the century , Jamestown ’ s facilities included a hospital , primary school and secondary agriculture school , a flour mill and stock selling yards .
It ’ s no surprise that the founding fathers thought Jamestown would quickly establish itself as the capital city of the north .
While that was not to be , throughout the 20th century Jamestown continued to progress , highlights being the hospital extensions and upgrades including a theatre wing , building of the medical centre and Belalie Lodge aged care facility .
Construction of many of Jamestown ’ s sporting facilities , including the swimming pool , football & cricket oval , tennis courts , bowling green and golf course occured during this time .
Through to Today
In the 21st century , progress in Jamestown has been substantial , with upgrades to the medical centre and sheep saleyards , building of a hydrotherapy pool and gymnasium , as well as a multi-million-dollar renovation to Belalie Lodge and restoration of North Bundaleer Homestead .
Jamestown ’ s sporting community has also benefited from improved facilities , most notably the building of the town ’ s massive indoor sports facility , affectionately known as the ‘ Big Shed ’, and a new world-class bowling green .
Today , Jamestown has a town population of 1700 and a district population of around 3000 .
A Progressive Community
Throughout its history , Jamestown has been fortunate to be the home of many progressive communityminded citizens .
These people , backed by a community willing to support initiatives with donations and hard work , have ensured the town remains at the forefront of rural living
Come see for yourself why Jamestown is a great place to live , work and play .
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