Coal River Valley Local History
The Coal River Valley is located within the South East of Tasmania, Australia. The valley was named after the Coal River which runs through it and was originally inhabited by the Paredarerme Aboriginal tribe.
During the early 19th century, the Coal River Valley was considered an ideal location for sheep farming due to its plentiful water supply and fertile soil. The first European settlement in the valley occurred in 1804 with the establishment of a penal colony at Risdon Cove, north of the valley.
In 1818, the Coal River Valley was opened up to free settlement and over time, the valley became home to a number of small farming communities. The primary crop grown in the valley was wheat, however, orchards and vineyards were also established.
In the 1840s, a number of wealthy landowners in the Coal River Valley began to establish larger estates and engage in the production of wool. Some of the notable estates were Brighton, Cambridge, and Richmond. These estates were often worked by convict labor and were responsible for a large portion of Tasmania's wool production during this time.
The Coal River Valley became an important transportation hub during the mid-19th century with the construction of the Tasmanian Railway. The railway connected the valley to Hobart, allowing for easier transport of goods and passengers.
Fast forward to the 20th century, many of the estates in the Coal River Valley were purchased by Italian migrants who established small farms and vineyards. The Italian community in the Coal River Valley is still vibrant today, with many families passing down their farming and wine-making traditions to subsequent generations. The valley is now known for its award-winning wine and is home to a number of vineyards and wineries.
The Coal River Valley also played an important role in Tasmania's convict history. The Richmond Bridge, located in the town of Richmond, is the oldest stone arch bridge in Australia and was constructed by convict labor in the 1820s. The Richmond Gaol, also constructed by convicts, is another historic site that can be found in the town.
In conclusion, the Coal River Valley has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. From its origins as an Aboriginal homeland to its more recent role in the production of wine, the valley remains an important region within Tasmania.