During the Australian gold rushes over a million people, relocated to the Australian goldfields in search of payable gold. The influx of hopeful free immigrants would bring with them new skills and professions and change the convict colonies forever. The mateship that evolved on the goldfields and their collective resistance to authority led to Australia’s unique national identity. These articles highlight some of the many stories from the Australian goldfields.
Gold Mining – The First Claim on the New Rush 1876
A black and white illustration of a first claim on a gold rush in Australia. Produced in 1876.
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Life on the Gold Fields 1852-53
An account of life and the conditions of the gold miners in the early years on the Victorian goldfields. Published in 1853.
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Life at the Diggings – Letters from McIvor Diggings, Victoria, 1 July 1853 and Bendigo, 25 July 1853
A Few Words from Australia – Two letters written by William Howitt, one from McIvor Diggings, the other from Bendigo in 1853 to dissuade people, particularly gentlemen, from coming to the goldfields.
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