Greater South Hobart Local History
Greater South Hobart is a suburb located approximately 3 kilometres south of Hobart, Tasmania. The suburb is known for its rich history and beautiful scenery, with Mount Wellington towering over the surrounding landscape.
The first inhabitants of what is now Greater South Hobart were the Mouheneener people. They were a tribe of Indigenous Australians who had lived in the area for thousands of years before European settlement. Unfortunately, little is known about their culture due to the lack of documentation and their eventual displacement.
After the establishment of Hobart in 1804, European settlers quickly began to move into the area. The land was primarily used for farming and lumber, with timber being one of the region's most valuable resources. By the 1850s, the population of South Hobart had grown, and the area was officially declared a township.
One of the most notable buildings in Greater South Hobart is the Cascades Female Factory. The factory was built in 1828 and served as a prison for female convicts sent to Tasmania from Britain. The women housed there were forced to work and were subjected to brutal treatment. Today, the factory is a museum and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.
Another historic structure in Greater South Hobart is the Hobart Rivulet, which runs through the suburb and was once used to power a number of mills and factories. The rivulet was also a source of water for the growing population of Hobart in the 19th century.
During the late 1800s, the demand for timber and lumber began to decline, and many of the mills in Greater South Hobart were forced to close. However, the suburb continued to develop, with the construction of new homes and infrastructure. In the early 20th century, South Hobart became known for its beautiful gardens and orchards, with apples being one of the most popular crops.
The 1960s and 1970s saw a renewed interest in preserving the history and natural beauty of Greater South Hobart. The Hobart Rivulet was restored and turned into a popular walking trail, and efforts were made to preserve the Cascades Female Factory and other historic buildings in the area.
Today, Greater South Hobart is a vibrant, diverse community that continues to celebrate its rich history and stunning natural landscape. Visitors to the suburb can explore its many historic sites, go hiking or mountain biking in Mount Wellington, or simply relax and enjoy the many parks and gardens in the area.