History Hub
The history we share as a society, helps create an opportunity to connect to the past to celebrate the present.
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Explore the rich and diverse history of Western Australia's first settlement with Albany Historical Society.
The History Hub is your online gateway to exploring the rich and diverse history of Albany/Kinjarling. More than just a digital archive, it is a living, evolving space dedicated to preserving, celebrating and sharing the stories, people and events that have shaped our region’s unique identity.
Here, visitors can delve into detailed historical accounts, view rare photographs and documents and discover personal stories that bring Albany’s past to life. From the early Menang, custodians of this land to the settlers who helped build the town, the History Hub connects the threads of our shared heritage.
Through engaging, informative and carefully curated content, it seeks to inspire curiosity, foster respect for cultural diversity and cultivate a deeper understanding of the forces that continue to shape our community. The History Hub ensures that Albany’s historical legacy remains alive, accessible and valued—today and for generations to come.
MARITIME HISTORY
Jack Schumann: Albany’s Legendary Diver and Maritime Adventurer
Exploring the extraordinary life of a man whose courage, skill and adventures beneath the waves left an indelible mark on Albany’s maritime history.
Jack Schumann was a larger than life figure in Albany from the late 1800s into the 1900s. A pioneering diver, intrepid sailor and all round adventurer, Jack’s maritime exploits earned him respect and admiration across the community. From his early days at sea in Europe to daring underwater salvage operations in Albany Harbour and beyond, Jack’s stories of shipwrecks, deep sea recoveries and near-death encounters capture the imagination even today.
Richard Benjamin Merrifield, a man of vision and community spirit—arrived in Albany in 1909 with his beloved wife, Elizabeth and their growing family.
For a man who held a highly responsible position of authority and had a successful military career spanning twenty-five years, there is scant recognition of Captain
James Dunn was better known as a wheelwright, pastoralist and builder. He was contracted with John McKail to build the first Albany Jetty and was also appointed Gaoler and Police Constable.
In 1963, Postmaster, Mr. Wally Offer presented a comprehensive and captivating account to the Albany Historical Society of the long and rich...
An enlightening journey into the remarkable story of Tommy King and the Menang people and their diplomacy, loyalty and deep cultural pride.
One might refer to John McKail as a ‘rebel with a cause’, a colourful character, who traversed the Swan River Colony with his fiery nature, acts of insurrection and irascible nature. Relocating to Albany altered McKail into a man of his word.
Sydney, November 1826. The newspapers eagerly reported the departure of an Expedition to King George’s Sound including many details.
A visionary vanguard, who with the assistance of his officers, convicts and the Menang people, laid the foundation for the first settlement in Western Australia.
At just 13 years old, Bessy Flower, a young Menang girl, distinguished herself as the top student at the Camfield School in Albany, she displayed her exceptional academic performance that earned her a Certificate of Proficiency.
WAR & COMMEMORATION
Ross Steele: The Story Behind the Man of Mt Clarance
The remarkable journey of Ross Steele and the man who brought a memorial home, that became a nation’s tribute.
The Avenue of Honour and the Desert Mounted Corps Memorial on Mount Clarence stands today as two of Albany’s most cherished landmarks. A place of reflection, remembrance and profound national significance. Thousands of visitors walk these paths each year, yet few know the remarkable story of how they came to be, or the extraordinary individual whose vision helped shape them. Long before the Anzac tradition became deeply embedded in the national consciousness, the people of Albany worked quietly and determinedly to honour those who had served and those who never returned.
We are dedicated to preserving and sharing Albany's rich history, honouring both its colonial and Aboriginal heritage.
We place the utmost importance on the accuracy and reliability of the content we publish. Each article is written with great care and attention to detail, ensuring that all historical facts are presented in an authentic and transparent manner. We understand the value of preserving the integrity of Albany / Kinjarling's history, so we thoroughly research every subject before publishing any material.
Our research process involves reputable primary and secondary sources, including books, archives, journals and expert interviews. By cross referencing various resources, we ensure that the information is not only precise but also within a broader historical framework. Our team takes extra steps to check the credibility of every source and we understand the responsibility we hold in portraying Albany/Kinjarling's past, telling the truth with respect and authenticity.
Should readers ever wish to verify the information we present, we are more than happy to provide our sources on request. Through engaging and carefully curated content, the History Hub aims to cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation of our cultural legacy, ensuring that its historical significance is cherished for generations to come.
