A walk down memory lane

Did you know that in 1883, Barmedman boasted a population of around 500 residents? By 1891, however, this number dwindled to just 176, as recorded in the census. During its commercial peak, Barmedman flourished with a diverse array of businesses including auctioneers, bakers, blacksmiths, bootmakers, and more. The town thrived with services ranging from cafes to hardware specialists, hotels to solicitors, reflecting its bustling economy.

In the late 19th century, Barmedman's Goldfields yielded an impressive 25,825 ounces of gold between 1882 and 1899, equivalent to approximately $90.3 million in today's terms. The town was an early adopter of modern amenities, becoming the first in New South Wales to install electricity, water, and curbing.

Tragedy struck on New Year's Eve in 1912 when a devastating fire razed a block of buildings, including landmarks such as the Royal Exchange Hotel and Nurse Macaskill's hospital, leaving a lasting impact on the community.

The Barmedman Mineral Pool, now a local icon, originated in 1932 when a committee proposed converting a dam beside the battery into a swimming pool. The modern pool, as known today, took shape from 1950 through excavations and officially opened on October 20, 1951.

Known for its vibrant sports culture, Barmedman has hosted numerous clubs and activities over the years, from tennis and cricket to rugby league, with teams synonymous with the Maher Cup. The town's industrial prowess was evident in its own brick kiln, renowned for producing high-quality bricks comparable to those from Sydney.

Innovations also marked Barmedman's history, such as Ferguson's Garage operating the town's lighting plant until the 1950s, and Bob Penfold's Blacksmith introducing Barmedman's first electric welder.

Through its rich history and community spirit, Barmedman remains a testament to resilience and adaptation in rural New South Wales.