Strathfield Local History
Strathfield is a suburb in the Inner West of Sydney, New South Wales. It is located 12km west of Sydney's central business district and is part of the local government area of Strathfield Council. Strathfield has a rich history, from its early days as a farming community, to being a pivotal location during World War II, to now being a bustling suburban hub with a diverse cultural landscape.
Early Days
The land that now comprises Strathfield was originally home to the Wangal people of the Eora nation. Europeans first settled the area in the 1790s, with farmers coming to the area to cultivate the fertile land and establish pastoral settlements.
Over the years, Strathfield became a thriving farming community and a popular weekend destination for Sydneysiders. In the late 1800s, many grand Victorian and Federation-style homes were built in the area, showcasing the wealth of the region's residents.
World War II
During World War II, Strathfield was a key location for the Allied forces. The army set up a large military base in the area, which became a hub for training and logistics for troops fighting in the Pacific. The base was also used to house prisoners of war, including Italian and Japanese soldiers.
After the war, the military base became a refugee camp for displaced persons from Europe, including holocaust survivors and Eastern Europeans who had fled Soviet occupation. The refugees were provided with accommodation, food, and employment opportunities while they found their feet in their new home.
Modern Times
After World War II, Strathfield continued to grow and develop into a bustling suburban hub. Many of the grand homes that had been built during the Victorian and Federation eras were subdivided and turned into apartments, as the demand for housing increased in the post-war period.
Today, Strathfield is a vibrant and multicultural community, with a thriving restaurant and café scene, as well as excellent schools and public transport links. The suburb is also home to a number of significant landmarks, including Strathfield Park, Strathfield Plaza, and the Strathfield Town Centre.
Cultural Landscape
Strathfield is home to an incredibly diverse cultural landscape, with residents from all over the world calling the suburb home. There are large Korean, Chinese, and Indian communities in the area, as well as many residents from Middle Eastern and European countries.
This cultural diversity is reflected in the many different types of cuisine available in the suburb, from Korean barbecue and sushi to Indian curries and Lebanese kebabs. There are also a number of cultural festivals held in Strathfield throughout the year, including the Strathfield Korean Festival and the Strathfield Spring Festival.
Conclusion
Strathfield has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. From its early days as a farming community to its pivotal role during World War II, to now being a vibrant and multicultural suburb, Strathfield is a truly unique place. Today, the suburb continues to grow and thrive, with a diverse community and a rich cultural landscape that make it an exciting destination for anyone looking to explore the history and culture of Sydney's Inner West.