Cambridge Town Local History
The region of Cambridge Town is located in the western part of Australia, approximately 8 kilometers from the city center of Perth. The area is named after the Duke of Cambridge who was a cousin of Queen Victoria and served as the Commander in Chief of the British Army from 1856 to 1895. The region has a long and rich history dating back to the late 1800s.
The first European settlement in the area was established in 1831 when Captain James Stirling founded the colony of Perth. At that time, the place now known as Cambridge Town was a swampy and marshy area. The area was however, not suitable for farming and was mainly used for hunting and gathering.
In 1895, Sir John Forrest who was the Premier of Western Australia, developed a plan to drain the swampy area and turn it into a residential suburb. The plans were implemented and by the early 1900s, the area had become a desirable location for many wealthy families who built large homes on large plots of land.
The suburb continued to grow and develop throughout the 20th century. During the Second World War, the Royal Australian Air Force established an airfield in the area to train pilots. After the war ended, the airfield was turned into a public park which still exists today.
One notable event in the history of Cambridge Town was the construction of the Claremont Showgrounds, which is one of the largest event venues in Western Australia. It was built in 1901 to host agricultural shows and is still in use today for various exhibitions and events.
Another significant event in the history of Cambridge Town was the establishment of the Cambridge Cricket Club in 1939. The club has since grown and developed into a well-known sports organization that has produced many talented cricket players.
The suburb has also been home to many famous Australians, including the former Prime Minister Bob Hawke, who lived in the area for over 30 years. The area has also been the setting for many movies and television shows, including the popular Australian drama series "The Secret Life of Us".
Today, Cambridge Town is a highly sought-after residential suburb with a mix of new and old homes. It is known for its beautiful parks, tree-lined streets, and prestigious schools. The region continues to be an important part of Australian history and culture.