Orange

Local History of Orange, NSW, Australia

The region of Orange, located in the heart of New South Wales, has a rich and diverse history that is deeply intertwined with the land and its people.

The Wiradjuri people, who have inhabited the area for more than 40,000 years, called the region "Dharrangura". They were a culturally rich and thriving community, with a strong connection to the land and the animals that lived there. They were skilled hunters, gatherers, and farmers, and had a deep understanding of the natural environment.

The arrival of European settlers in the 1820s marked the beginning of significant changes for the region. These changes included the loss of traditional land, cultural practices, and resources for the Wiradjuri people, as well as the introduction of new technologies, agriculture, and industry.

In 1846, Orange was established as a town in its own right, after being surveyed by Sir Thomas Mitchell. The town's name was reportedly inspired by the color of the local soil and the surrounding landscape. The discovery of gold in nearby areas during the 1850s brought an influx of people to the region, leading to a boom in the local economy and the establishment of new businesses and industries.

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Orange continued to grow and develop, becoming an important hub for communication, transport, and trade in the region. The railway arrived in 1877, connecting Orange to other towns and cities in New South Wales, while the local post office, banks, and telegraph office provided essential services to residents and businesses alike.

Today, Orange is a vibrant and thriving regional center with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community identity. The town and its surrounding areas are home to a wide range of attractions and activities, including vineyards, orchards, museums, and festivals.

Some notable landmarks and cultural sites in Orange include the Orange Regional Museum, the Orange Botanic Gardens, the Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area, and the historic Millthorpe village. The region is also known for its iconic produce, including apples, cherries, and wine.

Overall, the local history of Orange is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the people who have lived and worked in the region over the centuries. It is a story of cultural diversity, environmental change, and economic development, and continues to shape the identity and future of the town and its residents today.