Visit the South Coast's "Premier" holiday destination
Accommodation Activities Arts and Crafts Attractions Dining History
Home Location Recreation Visitor Info Wineries Within Reach
head.gif - 8Kb
'Where the forest meets the sea'


History


Established in 1895 as a mill town by the Millar Brothers it operated until 1905 when the main timber reserves were cut out. After lobbying by a small group of residents remaining after the mill closures the town was purchased by the WA Government.

Fishing, farming, dairying, market gardening and orchards were at various times important local industries.

In the 1920's the original Millars rail line was rebuilt from the Hay River west to the town. The line new line was also extended to Nornalup where the Frankland River barred the way. It was envisioned that the line would ultimately continue to Pemberton and thus link Albany to Bunbury and then Perth.

From 1924 a scheme to introduce new settlers saw many immigrants from interstate and overseas arrive in the district. There were fifteen Group Settlements formed to clear and farm the land.

One of the Historical Society's valuable photographs.

 

hislog.jpg - 10KbCommunityOrgFINALIST.JPG - 27Kb
Denmark Historical Society

The Denmark Historical Society maintains an extensive photographic collection from the turn of the century to the current day. This is accessible to the public and copies can be purchased.

Another local project has resulted in an ongoing collection of oral histories. These cover recollections particularly from the Group Settlers, fishermen, farmers, townsfolk and descendants of the original families.

It also has several significant publications recording aspects of the districts history. It meets on the third Monday of each month at 4.30pm in the Old Police Station Museum, Mitchell Street, Denmark. Visitors and potential members always welcome.

The Museum is open every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday 2:00pm 'til 4.00pm. as well as Thursday 10.00am 'til Noon. It is also open at other times depending on the season. By telephoning (08) 9848 1781 (evenings) arrangements can be made to open at other times convenient to the visitor.

The Old Police Station Museum.

Donations of relevant material and equipment, oral histories and photographs are sought and welcomed.

winA.jpg - 44KbintPeo.jpg - 84Kb
L: The Curator of Vital Records, -- R: Main Room of Museum

L: The Late Wynne Wirrell at work in the Museum - R: Looking through the photo albums

Publications available
History walk
Opening Times
.

 


The Denmarkwa web site tries to show you some of the features that make this district a top destination for visitors and holiday makers. Any suggestions for improvements or additional information please contact history@denmarkwa.com.au Browse through for information but remember there is no substitute for actually coming and seeing for yourself.

Accommodation Activities Arts and Crafts Attractions Dining History
Home Location Recreation Visitor Info Wineries Within Reach
Contact - info@denmarkwa.com.au
Copyright 1999-2012 - Denmarkwa Web Sites