A Rich and Proud Heritage
In the early years, this area was home to both indigenous and non-indigenous people.
The original inhabitants of this area were the Darug people. Recent excavation of The New Rouse Hill site, one of the most archeologically investigated and significant in Australia, led to the discovery of close to 200 ‘grinding grooves’; providing physical evidence that aboriginal communities were sustained in the northwest of Sydney thousands of years ago.
The New Rouse Hill site is close to the site of the infamous Battle of Vinegar Hill, a clash between Irish patriot convicts and the Redcoats, remembered every year in this district.
Edward Robinson, an ex-convict turned innkeeper and sheep breeder, received the first grant of land on the site. Other settlers followed: the Pearce family, who planted the surrounding land mainly with orchards, owned Mungerie House, a typical homestead-style property which will be restored and incorporated within The New Rouse Hill.
Baulkham Hills was proclaimed a Shire on 6 March 1906, with the first meeting of the provisional Council held on Mr Pearce’s property.
The New Rouse Hill has a rich history as well as a vibrant future.
Both the original Darug people and the European settlers shaped the landscape. Now, The New Rouse Hill will welcome new generations.
Rouse Hill House & Farm
Founded in 1813, Rouse Hill House & Farm resonates with six generations of Rouse-Terry family and rural NSW life, its 19th century buildings, furnishings, belongings, paddocks and garden, leavened by the relics of later generations, stand as a remarkably complete record of its long existence. For information on guided visits, and community events and school holiday activities, visit www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/rouse-hill-house-farm.
Mungerie House
For more information on the history of your community, please visit www.thehills.nsw.gov.au.