Hamilton and its surrounding district is one of Tasmania's oldest municipalities, having been declared in 1863. The area was first explored by an expedition led by the naturalist Robert Brown in 1804. Originally there were two Hamiltons in Tasmania, one named Hamilton-on-Clyde and the other Hamilton-on-Forth. With the former being adopted for the settlement by Governor Macquarie in 1821, the latter became known as Forth.

The fertile agricultural land led to an influx of settlers, and by 1835 Hamilton had a population of 856 convicts and 789 free settlers, and licenses had been granted to eleven hotels in the district. The prosperity experienced by the town led to many splendid buildings being constructed.

Hamilton became a major thoroughfare for produce going into and out of the district. By the 1840s the town had two breweries, seven inns, a blacksmith, and three specialists in agricultural machinery.

Today, Hamilton is classified by the National Trust as an historic town and retains many of its old buildings. Although being the second largest municipality in Tasmania, the population of the area has remained small due to its proximity to the National Parks and protected zones. Today the mainstays of the area are sheep farming, forestry and related industries, hydro-electricity generation and tourism.


Museums and Historic Sites

Take a floodlit walk around Hamilton to view the numerous historic buildings which deservedly earned the town the title of National Trust Historic Town. Colonial buildings such as St Peters - designed by Chief Clerk and Draughtsman Edward Winch and completed in 1836, his only known work during his one year tenure - and the Hamilton Inn (1837) may be viewed by the visitor.

Old ruins and small sandstone cottages criss cross the streets at every turn. Cottages such as Emma's, McCauley's, Edward's, George's and Victoria's were all constructed prior to 1850, and today offer colonial accommodation to visitors in the area. The Old School House was constructed in 1856 in the style of a Victorian dolls house using convict labour, with the money for construction being raised by the local people who wanted a public school. It remained in use up until 1935.

The Old Post Office was built in 1835 and not very much is known of its formative years. For many years it was home to the Hamilton Council Clerk whose wife ran the post office. Blanchs Store dates back to some time between the 1820s and the 1840s, and was built by William Sibley. It has been a butchers and bakers over the years, and presently operates as the latter.

Glen Clyde House, dating from the 1840s and a restored convict built wayside inn, was once Hamilton's garage and today is an award winning gallery and tea room establishment well worth a visit. Hamilton Inn was built by William Roadnight in the year 1830. He built it with the intention of running a shop and also a private residence. By 1838 it had acquired its first license.

Other Attractions

Visit the Hamilton Sheep Centre and watch sheep shearing and other farm activities on this working pastoral farm. Fabulous walks and fishing spots abound along the shores of Lake Meadowbank and the Clyde river. Visitors wishing to explore the rugged and beautiful terrain of Mount Field National Park can use Hamilton as a base.

The craft gallery at the Glen Clyde House has many fine examples of goods which have been skilfully crafted by artists. There is pottery, woodcraft, leather, toys, knitwear, silk and silver and gold. There are also tea rooms here with mouth watering cakes, scones and bread. For further information phone (002) 86 3276.

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