Sandstone Local History
Sandstone is a small town located in the Mid West region of Western Australia. The town, originally known as Mount Magnet South, was established in the late 1800s after gold was discovered in the area.
The town's name was changed to Sandstone after the local quarry that provided building materials for the town's infrastructure. The quarry has since been closed, but remnants of the sandstone can still be seen in many of the town's buildings.
The gold rush attracted a diverse population to the town, including Chinese migrants who worked in the mines and ran businesses. The town's Chinatown area still stands today as a look back at the history of the Chinese in Sandstone.
However, the town's population declined significantly after the gold rush ended, and by the 1920s, the town had become a ghost town. It wasn't until the 1970s that Sandstone was revitalized as a tourist destination.
Today, Sandstone is home to several heritage sites, including the Sandstone Police Station and Courthouse, which was built in 1903 and is now a museum. The town's old post office, which now serves as the local community center, is also a popular tourist attraction.
The town's gold mining heritage is also celebrated every year with the Sandstone Heritage Festival, which features a parade, live music, and other events.
Sandstone also has a rich Aboriginal history. The land is traditionally owned by the Wongutha people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. The town is located close to several important Aboriginal sites, including rock art sites and Dreaming tracks.
The Wongutha people continue to maintain a strong presence in Sandstone and the surrounding region, and their culture and traditions are celebrated throughout the year with various events and festivals.
Overall, Sandstone's history is diverse and fascinating. From its gold mining roots to its Aboriginal heritage, the town has a unique story to tell. Visitors to the area can enjoy exploring the town's heritage sites and learning about the rich cultural history of the region.