Parramatta Park - Part 1

European History

In September 1788 Governor Phillip announced his intension to establish a settlement at Parramatta.

Governor Hunter granted George Salter 30 acres in 1796. Salter erected a small cottage sometime between 1796 and 1800, which was later purchased by Governor Macquarie for Government use. This cottage, which is still standing, was enlarged by Macquarie and became known as the Governor's Dairy. It is one of the oldest buildings in Australia.

In 1823 Brisbane also constructed a bathhouse west of Old Government House. When in operation a sunken bath was located in the centre of the building surrounded by a suite of rooms. In 1886 the building was converted to its present form as a pavilion after it had been extensively vandalised following the Domain becoming a public Park in 1857.

During the years 1822 to the 1850's the area supported agriculture whilst also being used as a gentrified residence for successive Governors. The last Governor to occupy the house, Fitzroy left Government House in 1855 after the death of his wife. During the 1840's it was debated whether to hand Governors Domain to Trustees for public use which was finally achieved in 1858. Parramatta Park has been a People's Park since then.

Archaeology: Indigenous – Parramatta Park has evidence of Aboriginal occupation. Aboriginal stone artefacts have been found in 14 locations. According to Aboriginal consultants, scarred trees are located within Parramatta Park. 

Archaeology: Non-Indigenous – Government farm and convict huts are one of the first buildings constructed in Parramatta Park.

During the years 1822 to the 1850's the area supported agriculture whilst also being used as a gentrified residence for successive Governors. The last Governor to occupy the house, Fitzroy left Government House in 1855 after the death of his wife. During the 1840's it was debated whether to hand Governors Domain to Trustees for public use which was finally achieved in 1858. Parramatta Park has been a People's Park since then.

Aboriginal History

Darug people called Parramatta as Burramatta. Burramatta consists of two words:

• Burra meaning eel
• Matta meaning creek

Evidence of Aborigional occupation exists within Parramatta Park along the ridgeline of the Cresent and Domain Creek – scarred trees and several artefacts.

Parramatta Park is a World Heritage listed site and one of the oldest Parks in Australia. The 85 ha park offers a unique blend of natural and rural landscapes and historical features.

Continued to Part 2