Kingston District

Local History of Kingston District, South Australia

Introduction

The Kingston District is located in the South East region of South Australia, covering an area of approximately 5,500 square kilometres. The district is named after the town of Kingston SE, which is the largest town within the region. The district is known for its scenic coastline and pristine beaches, as well as its rich history.

Aboriginal History

The traditional owners of the land on which the Kingston District is located are the Ngarrindjeri people. The Ngarrindjeri people have a rich cultural heritage and have lived in the region for thousands of years. They relied on the natural resources of the land and sea for their sustenance and developed a deep spiritual connection with their environment.

European Settlement

European settlement in the Kingston District started in the 1850s, when the first pastoral runs were established in the region. The town of Kingston SE was founded in 1857, and was named after Sir George Strickland Kingston, a prominent South Australian politician and architect.

The discovery of copper at nearby Greenways in 1860 led to the establishment of the mining town of Tantanoola, which was named after a Ngarrindjeri word meaning "a place of many springs". The town grew rapidly, with a population of over 2,000 people at its peak, and became an important centre for the mining industry.

The Kingston Jetty was built in 1886 to facilitate shipping and trade in the region. The jetty was an important hub for the transport of goods and produce, and played a vital role in the development of the local economy.

World War II

The Kingston District played an important role in Australia's efforts during World War II. The RAAF established an airfield near the town of Lucindale, which was used as a training base for pilots and aircrew. The airfield also served as a base for Allied aircraft, which were used for surveillance and reconnaissance missions over the southern seas.

The district was also home to a number of prisoner of war camps, which were used to house German and Italian prisoners captured during the war. The camps were located at places such as Naracoorte, Padthaway and Coonawarra, and played an important role in the war effort.

Modern Era

The Kingston District has continued to develop and prosper in the years since World War II. The town of Kingston SE has become a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches and excellent fishing opportunities. The area is also famous for its wine industry, with a number of world-class wineries located in the district.

The Kingston District has also become a major producer of renewable energy, with a number of wind farms located in the region. The area's abundant wind resources and favourable economic conditions have made it an attractive location for renewable energy projects.

History of in Kingston District

The history of the Kingston District is a fascinating and rich story that reflects the diversity and strength of the region. From its Aboriginal heritage to the modern era of renewable energy, the district has played an important role in the development of South Australia and the nation as a whole.