St Leonards Local History
St Leonards is a suburban town located on the Lower North Shore of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. It is one of the oldest and most historical suburbs of Sydney. It was originally inhabited by the Cammeraygal people, who were part of the larger Eora Aboriginal group.
In the 19th century, the area was used for grazing by the then-colonial government. In 1836, Thomas Holt, a wealthy landowner, purchased a large portion of the land and established a settlement known as ‘Gore Hill’. The settlement was named after Lieutenant William Gore, who was the first European to enter the area in 1790. Holt built a mansion, which still stands today and is now called 'St Leonards House’.
The suburb of St Leonards was officially named in 1861, after a small village in Scotland. The area was then known for its orchards and market gardens, as well as its scenic views of Sydney Harbour. In the late 19th century, St Leonards became a popular destination for wealthy Sydney residents who built grand homes along the waterfront.
The St Leonards railway station was opened in 1890, connecting the suburb to the city centre and facilitating its growth. The area’s population boomed in the early 20th century, due in part to the establishment of the Royal North Shore Hospital in 1885. During World War II, St Leonards was home to many military personnel, and the hospital played a crucial role in treating wounded soldiers.
After the war, St Leonards continued to grow and develop. It became a major commercial and business hub, with many office buildings and modern retail spaces. In the 1960s and 70s, the suburb went through a period of urban renewal, with a number of buildings and homes being demolished to make way for high-rise apartment complexes.
Today, St Leonards is a bustling, vibrant suburb with a diverse population. It is home to the Royal North Shore Hospital, as well as a large number of businesses, including healthcare, finance, and technology companies. The area is also known for its excellent schools, parks and recreational facilities, and its easy access to the city and other parts of Sydney.
Despite its modern developments, St Leonards’ rich history can still be seen throughout the suburb. The heritage-listed St Leonards House, built by Thomas Holt in the 1800s, is still standing and is now used as a private residence. There are also a number of other historic buildings and sites in the area, including the St Thomas' Anglican Church, the Gore Hill Cemetery, and the North Shore Gasworks.
In conclusion, St Leonards has a deep and interesting history that dates back to the early days of Sydney’s settlement. Over the years, it has undergone significant changes and transformations, but it has managed to retain its identity as a unique and important part of the city’s past and present.