Sunday, May 21, 2006

Heritage month in Castlemaine

May is Heritage Month in Castlemaine and there are always interesting walks and talks on local history. We try to get to at least one weekend's worth. This weekend we went for a 90 minute walk around the railway precinct of Castlemaine, led by a very knowledgeable local historian. It's great that there are people who are prepared to do the research, give up their free time, and be able to talk on their topic without ever having to refer to their notes.

Here's a photo of it maybe 100 years ago (buildings still standing):

8 comments:

Kerri said...

Sounds like an interesting time Val. I love learning local history. It's fun to listen to history buffs, isn't it? I have a close friend who is one. She can spout facts so easily. I think she has a photographic memory...or at least an excellent one. She's always doing research and collecting old photos.

Stuart said...

How times change. I remember visiting Castlemaine when I was about 10 (a few years ago now) and it looked much different to that back then.

What a great time to reminisce.

Val said...

Kerri, those history buffs are worth their weight in gold, especially the ones who share with others.

Stu, Castlemaine is our dreaming place: more than 30 years ago when we first visited it (took the steam train from Maldon to Castlemaine and back) it hit a chord with both of us, and we’ve been going back to it ever since. We may one day live there too. It is not a touristy town but has heaps of interesting places to visit.

lindsaylobe said...

Val,
Ages since we last visited Castlemaine.

I am interested in its history and gold mining past, so will visit some time.
Best wishes

Meow (aka Connie) said...

Gosh, I haven't been to Castlemaine for years. I know I loved it when I was there last (particularly the Castlemaine Rock candy, although you can buy that everywhere now). It is such a historic place. Thank you for sharing. Take care, Meow

WendyAs said...

You Aussies sure build buildings to last. Even the ones here in Tassie are old.

Susie said...

My husband loves anything railroad and he is a history buff to boot! He would love this place!

John Cowart said...

What fun!

Every once in a while I get to give a local history (Jacksonville, Florida) talk at a library or special event and I just love to brag on my home town -- warts and all.

Your post makes me think somebody is paying attention.