Parramatta was discovered on the 23 April, 1788, by Governor Arthur Phillip, who had left Sydney to discover the source of what is now Parramatta River. Originally named Rose Hill, the area was the second settlement of Australia and the centre of an extensive farming community. In 1791 Governor Phillip changed the name to Parramatta, the name by which the Aboriginals knew the locality, and the probable meaning of which is 'head of the river'.

The first land grant was issued to James Ruse, a freed convict, who established Experiment Farm, which is today a Heritage building. Other notable settlers include John Macarthur, one of the founders of the Marino sheep industry, who built Elizabeth Farm, the oldest man-made structure in Australia. Other historic buildings include Old Government House, built by Governor Hunter and extended by Macquarie, and Hambledon Cottage built in 1824, now the site of the Parramatta Historical Society. Other significant features of Parramatta include St Patricks Cathedral and Parramatta Park, a quiet recreation park in the midst of an expanding city.

Overview

Not long after the First Fleet had arrived in Sydney Cove, Governor Phillip started to explore the surrounding lands as potential agricultural areas, to support the established Colony. In November 1788, Phillip chose a settlement site which he named Rose Hill, and in 1791 the settlement was changed to Parramatta, from the Aboriginal meaning "place where the eels lie down". Ambitious convicts were granted land in the area; the first convict to benefit from this policy was James Ruse, who took land on the site named Experiment Farm.

Parramatta is also known as the 'Cradle City' as it is the "City of Firsts", the first successful farm, first railway line from Sydney, first legal brewery, first jail, first agricultural society and first recorded race meeting to name but a few firsts of which the city can boast. Today, Parramatta can also boast the first commercial solar powered building in Australia; the MacNamara Building.

Historic Sites

Parramatta is awash with historic buildings and interesting sites for the avid historian. Several cemeteries in the city will give an idea of the development of the town from a small settlement to the thriving city it is today. Mays Hill , St Johns (one of the most intact Georgian cemeteries in the State), Wesleyan and All Saints cemeteries are some of the interesting sites to visit. A walk through the streets will highlight the wealth of historic houses and buildings that the city has to offer.

Old Government House was the former Vice Regal residence, constructed in 1790 and today displaying an extensive collection of pre-1855 furniture. Hambledon Cottage was built in 1824 as a residence for Penelope Lucas, governess to John Macarthur's daughters. This sandstone brick dwelling is built in the finest Georgian style and visitors can inspect the restored rooms. Elizabeth Farm was the first home of John Macarthur and his family and remains one of the oldest surviving buildings in Australia, having been constructed in 1793. Experiment Farm Cottage was the site of the first land grant to convict James Ruse. A myriad of other historic sites and buildings await the visitor to the city.

Museums and Galleries

Brislington House constructed in 1821, now houses the Medical and Nursing Museum complete with displays of early Orthopaedic instruments, a 1920 operating table, nursing and medical textbooks and much more. Linden House was constructed in 1828 and is now the home of the Lancers Memorial Museum which was commenced in 1957, and contains a vast collection of equipment, weapons and paintings from the last century. The Old School Museum is a fine example of late Victorian Gothic architecture, and has a restored schoolroom, dating from the turn of the century. The Gatehouse Gallery has regular exhibitions of various local artists, as well as hosting workshops and demonstrations for adults and children who enjoy art.

Natural Attractions

Parramatta Park is perfect for strolls, picnics and children's' entertainment. Boats can be hired to cruise the Parramatta River; a game of golf may be enjoyed on the nearby golf links, and various buildings may be viewed in the parklands. The Lake Parramatta Reserve covers about 160 acres, and is lined with various trees and shrubs in whose undergrowth thrive an abundance of native wildlife such as snakes, possums and lizards.

Other Attractions

Parramatta is the home of the Golden Slipper, a horse race for 2 year olds, and one of the richest event for this class in the world. Parramatta Raceway attracts exciting speedway drivers from Australia and overseas. The Stadium in Parramatta sees excitement in the form of soccer, baseball and rugby league matches. The swimming complex hosts an international springboard diving championship. Parramatta also hosts various festivals and Carnivales.

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