Tasman Local History
Tasman is a region located in southeastern Tasmania, Australia. The area has a rich history dating back to the early indigenous settlements of over 40,000 years ago.
The first known European settlement in Tasmania was made by Dutch navigator Abel Tasman, from whom the region is named. Tasman made landfall at Blackman Bay, near modern-day Dunalley, in late 1642. However, the Dutch never established any permanent colonies in the area.
The next European settlement was established by the British in 1803 at Risdon Cove, on the Derwent River. The site was chosen by Lieutenant John Bowen, who was sent to establish a penal colony in Van Diemen's Land (now Tasmania). However, the Risdon Cove settlement was short-lived, as the settlers moved to the more fertile grounds of Sullivan's Cove in Hobart.
The area now known as Tasman was primarily used for agriculture and logging during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The region was also home to several timber mills, including one at Nubeena which operated from 1905 to 1930.
During World War II, the Tasman Peninsula was used as a military training area for Australian and American troops. The area was home to several gun batteries and defensive fortifications, many of which can still be seen today.
In 1996, the Tasmanian government controversially closed the Port Arthur historic site, which had been established in 1830 as a penal settlement. The closure followed the Port Arthur massacre in which 35 people were killed by a lone gunman. The site was later reopened as a major tourist attraction, and is now a World Heritage site.
Tasman is now a popular tourist destination, known for its rugged coastline and natural beauty. The region is home to several national parks, including the Tasman National Park and the Three Capes Track, which offers stunning views of the Tasman Sea.
The Tasman region has a unique history that is deeply intertwined with the history of Tasmania as a whole. From the early indigenous settlements to the more recent military training areas and tourist attractions, the region has played an important role in shaping Tasmania's identity and culture. Today, Tasman continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world with its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage.