The publication of a well researched local history is always an event of considerable important. A history of George Town is of special importance inasmuch as the area now named George Town was the site of the landing of the original colonising expedition in the north.
Mr Branagan who lived near George Town for a considerable period has spent years in assembling this history. Its an account which includes photographs, maps, list of sources of information, index of ships, and general index.
What has happened in the interval to the areas found to be infertile in the earliest days? In particular what has become of Cimitiere Plains names by Macquarie and declared by him to be fertile? What did Commissioner Bigge have to say about this matter? What was the development of a light at Low Head to guide shipping? What was the method of local government until a municipality was formed? What was the size of the area thus 'governed'? The answers to these questions are all found in this publication. It's a must for all with an interest in the area.
Contents:
Introduction: A history of George Town and its surroundings
Preface and Acknowledgements
List of Maps
Chapter 1.
- Discovery, exploration, settlement 1798-1804
- Earliest days 1805-1812
Chapter 2. 1811-1824
- George Town declared a town
- Governor Macquarie's second visit
- 'Capital' of northern Van Diemen's Land
- Mr Commissioner Bigge's report
- Headquarters moved back to Launceston
Chapter 3. 1825-1845
- Town declines
- Beginning of local government
- Decline halted by settlement of Victoria
- Across the river
Chapter 4.
- Aborigines
- Bushrangers
Chapter 5.
- Pioneers
- People and families
Chapter 6.
- Local government
- The post office
- Manual and electric telegraph
- Bass Strait cable
- Schools
Chapter 7. 1840-1900
Chapter 8.
- Pipers River
- Lefroy and further east
Chapter 9.
- Ships
- Launceston Marine Board
- Pilot station
- Sail and steam
- Wrecks and mishaps
Chapter 10.
- The Churches
Chapter 11.
- Low Head
Chapter 12.
- Industries
- Freemasonry
- Conclusion
Key to Map
Sources of Information
Index of Ships
General Index
