One Hundred and Fifty years ago, the goldfield was not yet a reality. Negotiations, planning and endless meetings were underway. Was there gold anywhere but Coromandel?Within a year the landscape and living conditions were changed forever. Gone were the many hapu areas scattered along the flat and hills of the future towns of Shortland and Grahamstown. An 1868 view (right), shows the dramatic effect that mining had on the tribal lands.
Standing at the old Burke Street Wharf today, one can only dream what those early days of the Thames Goldfield were really like. The commemorations starting 1st August 2017 will highlight the rich history of The Thames.
In the meantime, check out this years events for HERITAGE WEEK in March.
