Seymour

Local History of Seymour, Victoria

Seymour is a regional town located in the Hume region of Victoria, Australia. It is situated on the banks of the Goulburn River, approximately 100 kilometres north of Melbourne. The town was named after former Governor of New South Wales, Sir Thomas Brisbane's private secretary, Henry Seymour.

Indigenous History

The area of Seymour has a rich Indigenous history, with the Taungurung people being the traditional owners of the land. The Taungurung people have lived in the region for over 25,000 years and have a deep connection to the land. The Goulburn River was an important source of food and water, and the Taungurung people used it for trade with other Indigenous groups.

European Settlement

The first European to explore the area was Major Thomas Mitchell in 1836. He named the area 'Mitchellstown', but later that year it was renamed 'Seymour' after Henry Seymour. The town grew rapidly due to its location on the main road and rail routes between Melbourne and Sydney.

In 1841, the Seymour Hotel was built, becoming the first hotel in the town. The hotel was a popular spot for travellers as it was located on the banks of the Goulburn River and provided a place to rest and refresh. The hotel still stands today and is a popular spot for tourists.

Gold Rush

In the 1850s, gold was discovered in the region, leading to a gold rush. Many people came to Seymour in search of gold, and the town grew quickly. At its peak, the town had over 60 hotels and 10,000 residents. The gold rush lasted for several years, with many miners striking it rich.

Transport Hub

Seymour became an important transport hub in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The town was located on the main rail line between Melbourne and Sydney, and many people and goods passed through the town. The railway station was built in 1872 and is still operating today.

In 1928, the Hume Highway was completed, linking Melbourne and Sydney. This made Seymour an important location for the transport of goods and people by road as well as rail.

Modern Era

Today, Seymour is a thriving regional town with a population of around 7,000 people. The town has a strong agriculture industry, with dairy farming and crop growing being the main industries. The town is also home to an army base and a large abattoir.

Seymour has a rich cultural history, with many historic buildings still standing today. The Seymour Railway Heritage Centre is a popular tourist attraction, showcasing the town's rich railway history. The Seymour Art Society and the Seymour and District Historical Society are also active in the town, promoting the region's art and history.

History of in Seymour

Seymour is a town with a rich history, from its Indigenous roots to its role as a transport hub in the early 1900s. The town has faced challenges over the years, including floods and economic downturns, but has always managed to bounce back. Today, Seymour is a vibrant regional town that celebrates its past while looking to the future.