Colonial Settlers on the River Torrens

by Roger Irvine

Paperback

Reviews

[Michael Reilly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Attractively designed and nicely printed, Colonial Settlers on the River Torrens is an enjoyable read, primarily focused on the lives and labours of 26 prominent families who, from the 1840s, settled along the upper section of the river, which runs westward from the Adelaide Hills to Gulf St Vincent, South Australia. These hardy pioneers established themselves as excellent agriculturalists and horticulturalists, skilled in land management and the production of needed foodstuffs for the young colony. Reading about their never-ending toil and resilience is enlightening, as early success was only gained through astute planning and hard work. Author Roger Irvine also notes the impact of the settlers and their for-profit land-clearing activities on the local indigenous population, who suffered greatly through dispossession by the British Empire. Friendly and hostile situations are included, including events triggered by a restriction to food supplies on land they once had complete access to. Featuring a good number of maps, illustrations and photographs, Colonial Settlers on the River Torrens is an informative history book of high quality.