MURRAY DISTRICTS HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Located at the Old Schoolmaster's House, Edenvale Heritage Precinct, Pinjarra.
Our volunteers are there to greet you on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am – 3 pm, or by appointment.
The aim of the Historical Society is to research, collect, maintain and share stories of the Murray District that stretches from North Dandalup to Coolup, from West Murray to Dwellingup – and including the vibrant town of Pinjarra. We have a well maintained local history library, interesting displays and a large collection of photographs, documents, and display books.
We also have a strong membership of enthusiastic people and are always looking for additional members to join us. If you have a love of history, in particular of the Murray District, or if you have information to share, please visit us. And if you like what you see, consider becoming a member of our group. Our general meetings with a guest speaker are open to visitors. Other events, including bus trips, are usually restricted to members. All visitors are welcome to browse our collections during our ‘open’ hours or by appointment.
PINJARRA - The Railway Era
The extension of the railway to Pinjarra was a catalyst for the development of the town, the surrounding Hills and Coolup region. The expansion of the rail network in the 1890’s was an ambitious program which brought economic benefit to the region and to the State, improving communications and transport for mail, imports and exports.
Closely associated were the Politicians Sir John Forrest and William Paterson. Civil servants included Alpin Fowler Thomson, Under Secretary of Railways; George Temple Poole, Colonial Architect and assistant Engineer in Chief at the Public Works Dept.; C. Y. O’Connor, Engineer in Chief who made the East Perth to Picton Junction line the first of many of the projects he completed.
Pinjarra Rail is also associated to Neil McNeil & Co. who built the Pinjarra to Picton Junction section and later the Jarrahdale Junction to Pinjarra section. Finally there is the association of all those who managed and worked in the yards and the Fettlers who maintained the line in all weathers. Also their families that lived in the Railway Houses along Williams Road and near the Railway crossing of which many of us can bear testament. Ref. State Heritage Office Library.
(article Submitted by Merv Beacham)
Note: There are books and so much more to read on the Pinjarra Railwa - these can be viewed at the Murray Districts Historical Society.
Follow our monthly articles in the Community Newspaper for more information about the history of Pinjarra and the heritage buildings of the Murray District. And we always welcome any stories or photos you are willing to share with us.
And we welcome new members.
For information about the Murray Districts Historical Society, its membership and its activities, please contact
Anne Cubitt – Secretary mdhspinjarra@outlook.com
For assistance with research or general questions about local history, contact Merv Beacham on 0417 986 838, or Val King on 0458 673 608
For more photos and stories of the rich history of the Murray, look at our Website murrayhistory.org.au/home or visit us at the Old Schoolmaster’s House within the Edenvale Heritage Precinct.
You can also Like us on Facebook here.
Murray Districts Historical Society wishes you all
a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year
We are grateful to all of our Sponsors, Supporters and our Volunteers
and we look forward to All Visitors during 2022.