Walkerville

Local History of Walkerville, South Australia

Walkerville is a suburb in the inner-northeastern region of Adelaide, South Australia. The suburb is named after the Walkers, one of the early settlers in the area. Its history dates back to the early 19th century, when the land was unsurveyed and covered with dense bushland.

The first European settlement in the area was established by John Holden, who arrived in South Australia in 1837. He built a house and named it "Walkerville House." Holden's property was quite extensive, and he farmed wheat and barley.

By 1840, the land around Walkerville was surveyed and subdivided into sections. One of the early purchasers of land was the banker, Sir Thomas Elder, who built a mansion called "The Grange." The mansion was later donated to the people of South Australia and is now used as a conference and function centre.

During the 1850s, Walkerville began to grow as a suburb. The opening of the main road to Adelaide, now known as North East Road, helped to facilitate access to the area. The first shops were established, and many of the businesses that have been operating for over a century today had their beginnings in the suburb. Walkerville became a fashionable place to live, and many wealthy families built large homes and gardens in the area.

One of the most significant events in Walkerville's history was the construction of Victoria Bridge in 1877. The bridge linked Walkerville to the city of Adelaide and helped to further connect the suburb to other parts of South Australia. The Victorian Italianate-style bridge is an iconic landmark that still stands today and is used by pedestrians and cyclists.

In the early 1900s, Walkerville was transformed by the electrification of the tram lines. This allowed for easier transportation to the city and surrounding suburbs, and even more people moved to Walkerville. Many of the grand homes that were built in the 19th century were converted into multiple dwellings, and the suburb became more densely populated.

Throughout the 20th century, Walkerville continued to grow and change. More modern houses were built, and the suburb became more diverse. However, many of the original landmarks, buildings, and parks from the 19th century remained, and today the suburb is known for its historic charm and green spaces.

Today, Walkerville is a thriving community with a unique history and a strong sense of local pride. It is a popular place to live, work, and play, with its tree-lined streets, beautiful parks, and excellent restaurants and cafes.

In conclusion, Walkerville has come a long way since its early days as a farming community. Today, it is a vibrant and fascinating suburb that has retained many of its historic landmarks and buildings. Its charm, character, and sense of community make it a top destination for anyone looking to explore the rich history of Adelaide and South Australia.