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 portal for delving into the rich and diverse history of Albany/Kinjarling. It serves as a virtual resource where you can immerse yourself in the fascinating stories that have shaped our community, while celebrating and preserving the vibrant heritage that continues to define our identity.
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.
FEATURE
Richard Benjamin Merrifield
A Cornerstone of Commerce: Merrifield’s Mark on Albany.
Richard Benjamin Merrifield, a man of vision and community spirit—arrived in Albany in 1909 with his beloved wife, Elizabeth and their growing family. He began his journey in the local retail industry, working as a draper at the well known Barnett Store. However, it wasn’t long before his entrepreneurial drive led him to open his own drapery business. Strategically located on the bustling corner of Stirling Terrace and Spencer Street, directly opposite the old post office, his store quickly gained a reputation for quality and service. As the business prospered, Richard moved his operations to a more prominent and central location at the corner of York Street and Peel's Place, further cementing his role as a key figure in Albany’s commercial landscape.
FIRST SETTLERS
Sydney, November 1826. The newspapers eagerly reported the departure of an Expedition to King George’s Sound including many details of the brig, Amity.
MENANG PEOPLE
A fascinating and enlightening in-depth discovery of the extraordinary Menang Noongar people and Tommy King. With diplomacy, tact and loyal to their country, culture and human-kind.
EARLY SETTLER
James Dunn was better known as a wheelwright, pastoralist and builder. He was contracted with John McKail to build the first Albany Jetty, was also appointed Gaoler and Police Constable in 1841-1849.
ALBANY CONVICT GAOL
John McGovern was the Head Warder of the Albany Convict Gaol from 1879 to 1913. McGovern was a Police Constable at York in 1870-1 before he was transferred to Perth and then Fremantle.
TOC H AUSTRALIA HEADQUARTERS
On December, 5th 1931, Norman House (then Edwards House) became the first Toc H Mark I in Australia. In 1931, there were 28 Marks in the world, the first in the Commonwealth was by way of gift from Miss Dymes.
FOUNDING FATHER
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 Wakefield’s legacy.
FOUNDING FATHER
A visionary vanguard, who with the assistance of his officers, the convicts and the Menang people, laid the foundation for the first settlement in Western Australia.
EARLY SETTLER
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.
WOMEN IN HISTORY
Sir Richard, his wife Lady Ann Spencer and their nine children and eleven servants arrived at King George Sound on 13 September 1833. Sir Richard was newly appointed as Government Resident at Albany.
THE ANZAC'S
The landing of the ANZACs on Gallipoli Peninsula was Australia’s first major action in World War One and the battles the ANZACs fought, established their great military reputation and served with distinction.
ALBANY'S BOER WAR HERO
Major Doctor Ingoldby had been severely wounded at the notorious Battle of Koster River in the western Transvaal, South Africa on 21st-23rd July 1900.
EARLY SETTLER
Patrick Taylor was a leading figure in the town's affairs for several years. A fanatically religious man, he was deeply concerned with the death of clergymen in the new colony.
WOMEN IN HISTORY
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.
NORMAN HOUSE
Read the fascinating history of the home of the first and early settlers and the contribution that shaped the foundation of Albany but the history of the State of Western Australia.
TRUE CRIME
Deeming the most infamous serial killer and was suspected of being Jack the Ripper. Captured in the goldfields’ town of Southern Cross, WA, his transfer back to Melbourne, involved a night spent at the Albany Convict Gaol.
Albany Heritage Walk
Immerse yourself in the city’s rich colonial heritage with history at every turn.
Begin the Albany Heritage Walk and immerse yourself in the city’s rich colonial history, where every turn offers a glimpse into the past, from historic buildings to iconic landmarks, each telling the story of Albany’s pivotal role in shaping Western Australia’s beginnings.
FROM THE STACKS
Albany's Postal and Telecommunication Legacy
A Historical Overview of Postal and Telephone Services by Mr. Wally Offer, Postmaster.
In 1963, Postmaster, Mr. Wally Offer presented a comprehensive and captivating account to the Albany Historical Society of the long and rich history of Albany's postal and telecommunications services. Wally's detailed paper not only delves into the development of the area’s postal system but also traces the evolution of communication in the region. From the pioneering efforts to the modern advancements in the year of 1963, read about the fascinating exploration of the milestones and changes in Albany’s postal and telephone services over 130 years.
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’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. This commitment to thorough research and transparency is what sets History Hub apart, as a trusted and dependable source for learning about Albany / Kinjarling's fascinating history.
