Where history happened

By comparison with the history of many of the world's other countries, it sometimes appears that Australia has much less to offer.

In one sense this country has a much longer history. The aboriginal people are believed to have inhabited the continent for tens of thousands of years. But if we are talking about white European history, then much of it dates from the late 18th century.

Authour Peter Spearritt believed he could unearth more than just what school history books have held, and set about painstakingly uncovering little-known facts about the history of dozens of Australian towns.

The result of his extensive research is a fascinating read, and one which will have you swapping 'did you knows' with your friends and family.

Here is one to begin with.

Did you know that:

Byron Bay was once a rough industrial town, filled with the sounds and smells of mineral mining - and worse? There was a piggery and whaling station too!

Many other towns and cities also have a past that few have uncovered. Spearritt has identified the most interesting details, monuments and buildings and matched them with beautiful artworks, photographs, early cartoon sketches and tourism posters from the collection of the National Library of Australia.

This book covers all of Australia, and makes an ideal gift for friends and family at home or overseas.

A mix of social, architectural, military, political and industrial history, Where History Happened provides a fascinating alternative insight into the origin of some of the most beloved places on the continent.

Where History Happened, by Peter Spearritt, published by NLA Publishing, September 2018, paperback, illustrated, rrp A$39.99.

- reviewed by Sally Hammond

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