One of the oldest settlements in Western Australia outside of Perth. It was declared a townsite in 1864, some 20 years after rich copper deposits were discovered at Wanerenooka Hill. Northampton was awarded 'Historical Town' status by the National Trust in 1993.
The Northampton/Horrocks Beach/Port Gregory area is steeped in historical significance. From Aboriginal cave paintings near the Bowes River mouth to the various buildings constructed by convicts in the 19th century. Springtime is wildflower time in Historic Northampton with the area a blaze of colour and the atmosphere is loaded in history.
History
In 1848 Cornish and Welsh miners began lead mining with copper mining soon after in 1855. Northampton was declared a town site in 1864. Nearby Port Gregory was used as a mineral port, and a convict hiring station with a Captain’s residence, recently restored, existed at Lynton. 1879 saw the first private railway in Western Australia. It ran for over 100 years from Geraldton to Northampton. The railway station and tracks can still be seen, with the embankment of one of the old railway bridges visible from the Cottages’ West Verandah.
Location
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This stunning region offers pristine beaches, charming coastal towns as well as majestic hinterlands and national parks. Read more ...
