Museum & History

Museum

In our museum are local artefacts, family history, photographs, oral history recordings, DVDs, books and other items that will remind you of our past. Let the children try out our morse code equipment, draw on the blackboard and search for the secretive mice.

Built in 1896, the Old Post Office was the centre of activity for a growing community. Some 20 years after the timber industry began, there were many families living in the town, on nearby farms and orchards and they were anxious for news from their loved ones back home. In an era long before the advent of internet and mobile phones, they could communicate only by letter or telegram. The Post Office was critical to the town’s survival.

The timber industry gradually declined, bauxite mining arrived and the two industries co-existed for several decades. New facilities were built in the town and the old Post Office fell into disuse. In the early 1990s, local residents fought to save the building and so, Jarrahdale Heritage Society was formed. With support from the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale and local businesses, it was restored to its former glory. In 1997, Jarrahdale was classified as an Historic Town.

The Old Post Office is now home to our museum and, some people believe they can feel the ghostly presence of an early postmistress still residing there!!

History

The Jarrahdale History Trail detailing significant sites in the town can be purchased in PDF format by visiting the Walk Books and Payments page.