Templestowe Local History
Templestowe is a suburb located in the northeastern part of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It is situated approximately 17 kilometers from the central business district of Melbourne.
The suburb was initially home to the Wurundjeri people, the indigenous people of Australia, who had lived in the area for thousands of years. The Wurundjeri people lived off the land, and their traditional way of life was centered around the Yarra River and its tributaries.
During the 1830s, British settlers began to arrive in the area, and they established farms and homesteads along the Yarra River. The suburb of Templestowe was officially named in 1851 after the Templestowe Farm, which was owned by the prominent settler, James Dunlop.
Throughout the 19th century, the area was predominantly a farming community, and the settlers grew crops such as grapes, apples, and berries. The produce was sold in the bustling markets of Melbourne, and the area was connected to the city via the Yarra River, which was used for the transportation of goods.
In the early 20th century, the suburb experienced significant growth as new roads were built, and the area became more accessible via public transport. The population of Templestowe continued to grow, and by the 1950s, it had become a popular location for new housing developments.
During the latter half of the 20th century, the suburb became known for its beautiful parklands, including the Warrandyte State Park and Westerfolds Park. The parks provided recreational spaces for residents and visitors, and they also preserved the natural beauty of the area.
Today, Templestowe is a thriving suburb with a diverse population, and it is known for its high-quality schools, beautiful parks, and thriving local businesses. The area is still connected to its agricultural roots, with several local farms and orchards selling fresh produce at markets and stores.
Overall, the history of Templestowe is rich and diverse, and it reflects the unique mix of indigenous, colonial and modern influences that have shaped the area over the past two centuries.