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HISTORICAL PHASING, t<l t t·t4 ~·1·•1 t t·l·t·l·t·~·l•l ~t ~ l tt ~i>·i•tt1 <I i"l·id I ioi t 1"1•1 tt tt <it l•ll~ lll'~ ~ ti •~ iii .i i<·~i til t·i·1 ~ J~ ••·t .. J•·!·• tl at •1 i IJ i'.i 48 PHASE ONE 1788 ... 'l808 .... t~!·t·AIIot~·1·1·1·~~-·~'i<i·i>~···'"'"'j'~·····"''t'tl·l·•l·ilt••••&tl~ltl·j·<jJ<t•i><t<itlili~·~ll~~··~·····8 PHASE· -rwo 1 809 .... 1822,, ,., 'Jt lj. I>~·~ t ,, ~··- ~~ j, r i> l•i ,,,,, •. i> ,,,, t•i· i>•l'1''i i> ,, 1••1·' t·l·1 ~·' &·!··•· 1•!••1·11••1••t" t·l•'i 'i·i i> j.•j•tj ·t•l•·l·•l t ~···~ Jt ~I .12 PHASE THREE '1823 -1850,,,,.,~•-~>·t>JIIItataii·r~iil·flti>tlli<ifltlt.,tl:li.flltiiJ<I~·~1'"'"''''i<i·ifF~·oi!'<i~•'·"<~>~lllloo·to·•·t'.l4

PHASE FOUR 1851 -1880~~·~~~~···1·K·········· .. ~·········t····~.,,·~······~··~·i·'·'··''"·~·1·~·--·~·1·t····,~··~~·'i"'*".l8 PHASE FIVE 1881 ... 1930s.~···~i·I·J~··~"'··~··I<illt~<il*•l·t~~~·l'"-•·•···········~··j;·i~i·i·--·~.l>~lllllo&llill•t'i~··i>il•t.J20 PHASE SIX POST 1930S. , .. , .. '.,..,. j i· I~~ j I-~ .. ,., tl·t tt. 11·t •t ••. ,I·~ i ·~ li ~~··',.I j j tt 1 ~"''ttl.,.,~··~·~ i ~. j It ti 1·1 ~22

QUEENS WHARF AREA DESCRIPTIONS ............................................................ 23

(1) CHARLES STREETTO HARRIS STREET ............................................................ 26 (2) HARRIS STREET TO THE LINE OF PURCHASE STREET.. .................................. 29 (3) WEST-SIDE LINE OF PURCHASE STREET TO ALFRED STREET ...................... 41 (4) ALFRED STREET TO ARTHUR STREET. ................................................................. 55

(6) SOUTH SIDE OF GEORGE STREET BEfflEEN · HARRIS STREET AND PURCHASE STREETS .......................................................... 64 THE FIRST PERMANENT STORE .................................................................................... 67 THE FIRST PERMANENT BARRACKS ..................................................................... 69

ARCHAEOLOGICAL RECOMMENDATIONS .................................................... 71

HERITAGE ACT OF NSW (1977) ................................................................................ 73

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Consultants and officers of Parramatta City Council involved in the Project have without exception been obliging and generous in their co-operation and sharing of plans and illustrations, among them are: Dick Bass, Geoff Britton, Dinah Fisher and Oriana Senese .. The numbering system of Ted Higginbotham's report The Future of Parramatta's Past: An Archaeological Zoning Plan 7 788-7 844 has been adopted where possible. In regard to the north side of Parramatta River, this report has benefited by the plans found in the report by AT. Yarwood and Peter Douglas, Historical and Archaeological Assessment of the Site of the Reverend Samuel Marsden's Seminary for Maoris in Parramatta. Parramatta and District Historical Society for the kind use of some plans.

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5

This report was commissioned by Parramatta City Council in view of the proposed rejuvenation of the River foreshores, In this case, the area known as the Queens Wharf Reserve. The proposed redevelopment is part of a larger scheme to rehabilitate more than nine kilometres of foreshore, stretching from Homebush Bay to Parramatta Park..

The greater project is to catch up on the beautification of the foreshores, after years of neglect, in order to entice the local community back into the area: recreationally, to promote the use of existing facilities such as the Rivercat service and to attract visitors to Parramatta. Anticipating the year 2000 Sydney Olympics, which will draw attention to Sydney's harbour, foreshores and the Parramatta River, it is desired to present the best face possible as part of a promotion of Australia's beauty, commercial desirability, history and culture. A cycle way and pedestrian walk is to be established along the rim of the Parramatta River. Areas that have been abused by dumping soil and refuse, unimaginative development or neglect are to be landscaped and be transformed into places of popular recreational use.

In view of the above, the Council is also aware of its obligations to preserve its less conspicuous assets such as the rich archaeology, in itself of national significance, as well as comply with statutory controls and procedures before major work commences. ,

The principal area of study includes the foreshores of the Parramatta River from Arthur Street to the Charles Street Rivercat Wharf. Because of the very early history of the area, which does not necessarily fit into the present delineations of roads and property boundaries, the strip of land on the south side of George Street between Harris and Purchase Streets, the site of the 1790 Barracks and Store, is included in this study. In addition, because the north side of the river from the Gasworks Bridge to Morton street had early associations with the main area under study, the foreshore there also receives some attention.

Some of the landscaping work was completed during the course of this study; the stabilization of the River bank at the end of Alfred Street, this involved on­site supervision and some recording. Parts of an early sea wall or wharf was identified and the unexpected discovery of a remnant population of indigenous land mollusca (snails), some of these species were first described from early Parramatta but thought to be long extinct in the district.

The methodology involved the examination of early primary written or printed sources, plans and illustrations. Secondary sources were also found to be very useful.. Previous reports relating to the area were consulted at the commencement of this study. The sources consulted are listed in the bibliography section. Footnotes are not provided in this report, though in some

6

sections sources are listed where there might be an element of documentary controversy.. The bulk of this report had been completed by the time of the book launch of Parramatta: A Past Revealed. Some of the new facts and· illustrations threw additional light on some aspects covered in this report. Where used, the author is acknowledged in brackets, for example, (Carol Liston). The 1877 panoramic view of Parramatta was of particular help.

The study area was examined for remains of former structures and evidence of land and water use. As the greater part of the evidence of the very early development of the area is now confined underground, methods were employed to determine locations, combining documentary evidence with site constants (or the succession of site constants such as the Gasworks Bridge which replaced Howell's Dam which, in turn, was built over a natural rock constriction across the River). Site constants, from the 1790s or earlier, include the RiveL the site of Howell's dam, George Street from the west to Harris Street and the small creek and pond from Clay Cliff Creek to the south. Site constants combined with map overlays allowed a fairly accurate determination of such sites as the 1790 Barracks and Store. Remains of building materials from the 1790 structures were discovered during the survey period.

The formulation of the Statement of Significance is according to Burro Charter and ICOMOS guidelines. The site has strong national significance in relation to White Australia's origin and initial successful development: it is a close second, in significance, after Parramatta Park, to such a claim. Both River-front sites, which are fairly intact, combined with the unique degree of detail in early documentation, these areas have a claim to international significance in terms of being a frontier of Western global expansion during the eighteenth century and as such deserve to be protected and promoted .

•

This report is designed to assist the transformation of the Parramatta foreshores in a way where the archaeological resource is not compromised but made part of it.

Daily Telegraph, March 27, 1996, page 17..

-•

Rejuvenating the Parramatta River foreshore . , , Richard Bass and Oriana Senese .PAC<<:

7

The Queens Wharf area, particularly between Harris Street to the west line of Purchase Street on both sides of George street, are of prime national significance because:

---of the role Parramatta played in the survival of the nation during its founding years, specifically from 1788 to the Macquarie period. Hence the potential to provide data leading to a greater understanding of Australia's European cultural history and on an international level, the phenomenon of global European colonial expansion during the eighteenth century.

---of the high degree of survival of a range of archaeological remains , a rare if not unique survival because of the comparatively intensive development of the Sydney CBD. Rivalled only by Parramatta Park and Kingston, Norfolk Island

---of the association with surviving early nearby sites such as John Macarthur's Elizabeth Farm (in the early years a next-door neighbour), Experiment Farm, Government House, Parramatta (and the City and Parramatta Park in general).

---of the association with most early pioneers and visitors who used the wharf or were tied up with the Barracks or Store.

---of the early development of industries in particular milling with such sites as Howell's windmill and water-mill, Byrnes' steam mill and cloth Dfactory ..

---of the early and intensive development of wharfing, grain storage, steam river transport, and role as a major public store and welfare centre.

---of the Barracks' association with the notorious New South Wales Corps and John Macarthur.

---of the role the Barracks played in the convict uprisings of 1800 and 1804, the only serious attempts at civil war in Australia's history.

The greater area of the Queens Wharf Reserve also contains a remarkable survival of a community of invertebrates, particularly a number of endemic snail species first recorded in Australia and thought to have been extinct in the place of their original naming.

There is also a high degree of regional significance as relates to the Asylum which once took up about half of the site, many of the inmates having been transportees: an early example of state welfare. The site also contained one of the early gasworks in the colony.

8

This section is intended to provide the reader with an outline of the . development of the Queens Wharf Reserve in chronological sequence.

PHASE ONE 1788.1808

The first landing area was approximately just east of the present Gasworks bridge, then a natural stone constriction dividing fresh or brackish water from the tidal salt water.. The smaller boats could reach the stone constriction and small beach on the south side of the River. The water remained very shallow 'almost dry at low tide' for most of the nineteenth century. For several decades the boats were regulated by the tides because of the many sandbanks: they came in on the high tide and left as the tide went out.

The shallowness of the water was the cause of the public wharf to be built a little further downstream from the casual landing place.. By the end of September 1790 'a very convenient wharf and landing place were made'., There are no illustrations or descriptions of this wharf but judging by the times (even up to the Macquarie period) it had to be a timber wharf. The first carriage road between Sydney and Parramatta was built by September 1795 but did not seriously diminish the need for water transport. The wharf was repaired in 1798. The two principal wharves in Sydney were of timber and were described in 1803 as 'decayed wooden wharves'. The wharves in general were enlarged in 1804, probably including the Parramatta one. This wharf evidently served very well until about 1809. The timber wharf may have been used side by side with the new one for many years.

During 1790/1791 Barrack and Store complexes were built over the rise above the landing area. Both complexes may be seen in th~ 1804 Evans' plan. The site is now along George Street, south side. (See documentation later).

More convenient wharf and landing facilities were required, considering the shallowness of the water and the distance goods had to be carried to the Store (about 150 metres). Land had to be swapped with John Macarthur, so that the 1808 wharf could be built beside sufficiently deep water to admit the larger boats. The Stone Store was completed in 1809. The town plan of 1823 shows one wharf, this was one and the same as the 1808 wharf and Stone Granary /Store .. This was to remain the main wharf site for decades after.

The 1808 'Stone Granary' was an ambitious structure of three floors. The structure was built to act as the chief granary of New South Wales until a larger structure was completed in Sydney. The structure was ready for service in 1809. An early watercolour ( ca 1809) shows it with a stone wharf along the edge of the River. The focus for landing boats shifted to this area and the 1790 wharf, just a little further upstream, became redundant or fell into ruin .

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PHASE TWO 1 8 0 9 . 1 8 22

During the Macquarie period the focus for public landing continued to be concentrated on the 1 808 wharf and Store. As a result, George Street had been lengthened eastward into what was once John Macarthur's land.

There is little direct evidence as to how the wharf area was developed during this phase, which includes all of the Macquarie period. Macquarie began his reform of Parramatta' s town layout from 1 811; he brought regulation to the form and extent of the streets and plans of proposed buildings had to be inspected and approved before work could commence. Macquarie significantly transformed the Town and the Government Domain by the end of his administration.

Nowhere in the lists of Macquarie's achievements is there a mention of wharf improvement, though solid timber wharves were built at Liverpool and Windsor, for example. The apparent reason for the silence on the Parramatta wharf is that the stone wharf connected with the 1808 Store was adequate for river traffic during this time. The 1814 plan of Parramatta shows that an area had been fenced, or marked oft as part of the landing area to the west of the 1808 Store. This could suggest that the old timber wharf was still in existence then. The marked-off line, or boundary, seems to represent the east boundary of what became Howell's by 1823, judging by the Town plan of that year .

. As an indication of the abandonment of the original (shallow) landing place, one large block was alienated along the foreshore in 1823 in favour of George Howell, senior. The boundary sliced the original beach in halt Howell receiving the western half. This boundary can be plotted to this day (see 1895

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PHASE THREE 1823 · 1850

1823 was the year when permissive, or 'naked', occupation at Parramatta came to a grinding halt .. Those holding land on sufferance (the majority) were Invited to apply for formal town leases. Formal leases could be converted to grants by advance rent payment or improving properties by the value of one thousand pounds. This ruling resulted in a good town plan and more .importantly, the incentive to build substantially: in theory, this was the catalyst for big changes to the townscape and the promotion of industry.

In 1825, a large Commissariat Store of four floors was built behind the old stone Granary/Store of 1808. At first it was proposed that the stone granary was to be utilized as a place for interim storage (during times of bad weather) but evidently this was not to be. The old stone Store was demolished but the stone wharf probably stayed in use for another ten years. The Commissariat Store became a military barrack within three years and after that was used as an immigration depot. In 1862 the structure was converted into a benevolent asylum. The building was set back from the water, just beyond (and including a part of) the present day Noller Parade, so it did not interfere with the public wharf functions.

It was during this phase that Howell's water-mill and tall windmill were constructed (1828). By the mid 1830s buildings had been built to the east of the mill. By the 1840s substantial structures extended all the way to within metres of the public wharf, mostly along the George Street frontage. On the south side of George Street the sites of the 1790/1791 Store and Barracks had become a sort of wasteland, though there were some small structures scattered about.

Around 1834/1835 the Lennox wall , actually a wharf, was constructed. It is likely that the Lennox wall was built in front (water side) of the 1808 wharf, which means that remains may yet be found of the earlier wharf. The new stone wharf was probably built in response to the introduction of steam boats. The first proposal was made in April 1830 by an English merchant from Holborn, H. G. Smith, who intended to return to Sydney /Parramatta the following month with a steam engine which could be fitted into an existing vessel. As a result, an eighty foot vessel Surprise, launched at Neutral Bay in March 1831, was the first steam boat to sail between Sydney and Parramatta but the service lasted only fro'm July to December 1831. The next steamship was the paddle steamer Australia, owned by the local Australian Steam Conveyance Company and was active around 1834. Carol Liston records that Ben Singleton's paddlewheel Experiment, powered by four horses, sailed for a few months between late 1832 and early 1833: it was sold and converted to steam and was in operation from 1834 to 1842. In 1838 an iron steamer, the Rapid , joined the others but was wrecked during the early 1840s.

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The greater increase in river traffic and use of the larger steam boats signalled that silting had to be kept in check and obstacles removed. In 1834 a contract had been let to clear the flats from the River. Work commenced by 1835 but without success. In 1836 and 1837, Captain Barney, Royal Engineer, removed obstructions from the Parramatta River. References to the clearing of the River are fairly rare yet must have happened from time to time, particularly later in the century ..

The silting war was lost so a new wharf was established in 1846 at Redbank for disembarking travellers during low tides, this system continued for many years.

The Lennox wall was actually the 'government wharf' (in todays language, 'public wharf'). At the time it would have been referred to variously as: 'the wharf', 'the public wharf', 'the government wharf' and 'the King's wharf'. From the time of Queen Victoria's ascent to the throne in 1837, the 'King's wharf' naturally would have become known as 'the Queen's Wharf', a synonym for government wharf, and listed as such on maps. The same thing happened at Sydney Cove (thus, there was a Queen's wharf both in Sydney and Parramatta). In time the name, Queen's Wharf became the actual name of the wharf rather than a descriptive designation on a map. Matter of fact notes on maps by suNeyors have often become proper names for certain areas (hence the proliferation of 'government road', 'broken bridge' etc., as proper names).

The Queen's Wharf area reached its classical form by the early 1840s and the rural nature of the town would have been on the wane if it wasn't for the 1840s Depression, the end of convict labour and the 1851 Gold Rush.

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PHASE FOUR 1851- 1873

This was an era of change.. Improved roads and the railway meant that commercial river transport was in further decline. The convict transportation system had been at an end for quite a while but Parramatta still had to deal with some of the consequences of the system, hence the gaol, benevolent and lunatic asylums, orphanages etc. A steady commercial/industrial boom began as an outcome of the gold discoveries (influx of money) and increased immigration. The commercial/industrial period was to become increasingly mechanised with the need for more and more fuel.

Symbolic of the change was the gentrification of the area. While development, mainly housing, continued to develop along the street frontage, the area behind to the River fell into decline and then ruin. Purchase's Riverside townhouses were built along what was once, Howell's frontage. Howell's Mills had changed hands and toward the end of this phase, what was left of the complex was demolished in favour of the Gasworks.

An all-tides wharf had been built down the River in 1846 because of the larger steam boats and because of silting .. In 1867 petitions were signed to gain access over Macarthur family property to and from the new wharf. Otherwise, the Queens Wharf continued to be used at high tides and/or by smaller vessels, the wharf had become the virtual property of the Byrnes family, having the only wharfage unloading facilities there. It seems that a wharf was also built along the Macarthur's River frontage some time before 1867 by the Parramatta River Steam Company (of which there are still some remains and may be seen in the panoramic view of 1877).

Of importance was the demolition of Howell's dam sometime after the late 1860s and well before 1877, probably 1872. The old rock constriction was blasted away, giving access for small boats at least to Charles Street where there seems to have been a small wharf by 1877.

The mills gradually declined over this period because of the huge mechanized mills springing up in Sydney and elsewhere, particularly along the railway lines. The River lost its appeal as a commercial highway. . ..

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The Queens Wharf site was a barometer of the technological advance of Parramatta. The construction of the Gasworks in 1872/1873 placed Parramatta in the new industrial age of gas, a second gasworks was established east of Alfred Street. The construction of the Gasworks Bridge in 1881 necessitated the demolition of half of Purchase's terraces. A tramway was established along George street during 1883/1884 from the wharf below the Macarthurs' land at Silas Sheather' s nursery (Uston) to the 0' Connell Street terminus. ,

The Queen's Wharf area suffered as the Gasworks lost the 'cutting edge' of technology image (the same deterioration of image set in along the railway lines years later). Pollution became a part of daily life. The streets became more congested with the increasing popularity of the car: This phase reached a low point during the depression when grime and poverty had become all pervasive. ,

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PHASE SIX Post-mid 1 9 3 Os

. This.phase\begins during the closing y~rs of the depression when there was a desrre to sweep away the dust and gnme of the past. The large Benevolent Asylum complex, including the old (1825) Commissariat Store was demolished in 1937, the Gasworks cleared away, as was the (1841) Steam Mills and Cloth Factory. The area was systematically neutralized and designated for public housing and parkland.

The only obvious links to the past being the sea wall, wharf remains (which are best seen from the north side of the River or from a river ferry) and one or two early buildings nearby.

It is now 1996 and the development of the 1940s and 1950s are beginning to look depressed. The former service station on the corner of George and Harris street is a sign of the times. Modern highrise units at the eastern end of the site and the new Jetcat wharf at the western end are signs of the future more intensive use of the site. Parramatta City Council have been planning to upgrade the lacklustre Park sites with a view to beautify and make more interesting the historic (largely archaeological) site. The prospect of the Sydney Olympics has fostered a climate of co-operation which will result in several 1

programs of community use, such as a Sydney linked cycle way, walking tracks etc.

The Rivercat service was established in December 1993, the first such service in decades. Fortunately the wharf was established in Charles Street, saving the old wharf areas from modern development. ·

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QUEENS WHARF RESERVE AREA DESCRIPTIONS

For the purposes of this report, the Reserve area has been divided into four geographical units and two units outside of the Reserve:

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(1) Charles Street to Harris Street. •

Largely residential or ex-residential and light commercial.

(2) Harris Street to the line of Purchase Street.. Parkland, ex-industrial/commercial and wharf related.

(3) The west-side line of Purchase Street to Alfred Street. Parkland and residential, formerly wharf, major industrial and social related activities.

(4) Alfred Street to Arthur Street. Residential and industrial/ commercial, formerly agricultural and industrial.

Two other areas have been covered because of their connections with the past development of the Reserve area.

(5) The north bank of Parramatta River. Reserve, formerly agriculture and wharf-related.

( 6) South side of George Street between Harris Street and Purchase Street. Social, commercial and residential, formerly government activities (stores and barracks), agricultural, light commercial and residential.

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SECTION 23 18:l5 L""ll> :DIVI.SION

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-(1) CHARLES STREET TO HARRIS STREET

RESIDENTIAL AND LIGHT COMMERCIAL •

In 1823 this area was designated as Section 23 of the Town of Parramatta but a number of leases were issued before that time, among them to Thomas Halfpenny, allotments 69 and 70 in 1804; and to Elizabeth and Samuel Young, allotments (65?) 66 to 68 in 1809. Others would have lived there from the 1790s but not under any formal arrangement.

In 1823 the occupiers were given the opportunity to enter a formal lease or even to obtain the land as a grant if they could afford to pay rent twenty one years in advance or spend one thousand pounds on improvements. Not surprisingly, there was a large overturn of occupiers in that year because many could not afford to pay. The big winners were those who could afford to turn a lease into a grant: Samuel Barber, allotment 16; R Hunt 'in trust'. lot 18; William Byrnes, lots 13, 14 and 72; William Bowen, lot 69; the Rev William Walker, lots 48 and 49; Richard ·Mortimer, lot 67; Henry Ellison, lots 63-65 and William Sherwin, lot 62. (Further details can be provided. See also E. Higginbotham's Zoning Plan but note the problem concerning allotments 62 to 64, belonging to William Sherwin, Henry Ellison and George Howell senior).

Up to about the early 1870s, the land backed on to brackish or slightly brackish water because of the rock constriction, then under Howell's dam. George Howell senior had noticed this natural feature and rapid fall of water as early as 1823 when he took the opportunity to secure the lease of the adjoining land. The dam, or causeway, was under construction by January of 1828. It is assumed here that the natural constriction and Howell's dam remains were removed before the bridge was constructed (1881) because the 18 77 panoramic view does not indicate either. The removal was probably fairly soon after the mills were demolished, between 1868 and 1872.

For the interpretation of the Section 23 area, it should be noted that it was largely residential in nature with some light commercial activity. There were a number of private schools in the area. As there was no safe way by water over the constriction (or dam by 1828), until about 1870, no large wharves were built. Booting activity above the dam (and below the Macquarie Marsden Street weir, or dam, further up stream) would have had little point

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apart from fishing and crossing the water.

TWO SMALL SEA WALLS IN ALLOTMENT 62

Two minor stone walls existed just westward of the Gasworks Bridge, recorded in 1888 and 1914 in allotment 62. The west-most wall in lot 62 was described in 1888 as a 'stone wall' but in 1914 as a 'very old stone wall' and was covered

•

27

by water at high tide, according to one of the surveys. This was a small domestic wharf, judging by the shape and size. It most likely dates to after the late 1860s when the River was cleared by the demolition of Howell's dam and the rock beneath it freeing the River for shallow boat access up to Charles Street for a while. The feature seems to be indicated in the 1877 panoramic view of Parramatta. The other walt adjacent to the 1881 Gasworks Bridge, may have been associated with the construction of the bridge; a retaining wall. The latter wall is shown in a survey, dated 1888.

It is unlikely that either of the walls were constructed before Howell's dam and the associated rock was removed because water access would have been confined to between Howell's dam and Marsden street maximum. The west­most wall in lot 62 probably appeared to be very old at the time of the 1914 survey after more than 40 years of high tides washing over it. It is difficult to explain the 'very old' wall otherwise, because before Howell's dam and stone wall were removed, the water must have been higher than high tide due to the dam---otherwise Howell's water-wheel would not have been able to work.

It has been suggested that the mill would have benefited from the tidal flow but this is doubtful because the water wheel would have been in danger (and useless) at every incoming tide and there is no suggestion that it operated as a tide-mill such as that of Hannibal Macarthur's or that the wheel could turn both ways .

CHARLES STREET WHARF

A smallish wharf was built here after Howell's dam and the rock constriction were removed, circa 1870. A wooden wharf is suggested in the 1877 Parramatta panoramic view.

SUNDRY BUILDINGS

The greatest building concentration occurred along the George Street frontage and to a lesser degree along the Charles Street frontage. Building commenced here from about 1 790 with the construction of temporary huts. Though the early plans of the area indicate houses, the exact locations can only be guessed at. There were early leases in 1804, 1809/10, particularly on the western half of Section 23 but for every formal lease ther~ were several informal occupations. This means that the whole block should be regarded as having archaeological potential.

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Documentation becomes more reliable from 1823, for reasons outlined above. The 1895 cadastral plan of the block is probably the best record we have because it is a summary of all the surviving structures built there up to that time. Privies, outbuildings, wells and cisterns are also indicated. A working sheet of ownership was prepared (at the commencement of this commission) to clarify some of the boundaries and is included in the appendix.

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(2) HARRIS STREET TO THE LINE OF PURCHASE STREET •

FIRST LANDING AREA

As boats could not travel further up the river than the rock constriction (later Howell's Dam and now the Gasworks Bridge site) we can be fairly certain that this area was the site of the first landing place. Boots could be moored onto the rocks or landed on the small beach (parts of which can still be seen in early views and was memorialized in the 1895 cadastral plans of Parramatta). That was the reason why the 1 790/1791 Store, Barracks, flagstaff and guardhouse were located as they were. The very first landing site of Governor Phillip's first visit, April 24, 1788, was not at Parramatta, he and his party arrived on foot!

There is still room for debate about where the spot was that White described as the 'flat space of large broad stones over which a fresh water stream ran~, that is, a rock constriction. Considering the location of the early landing place, the location of the 1790 Store etc., and the fact that Howell needed a positive drop in the flow of the stream for his water-mill, it would seem that the site of the Gasworks Bridge was the one referred to by White. This area has been overtooked by historians because the evidence of it was removed by about 1870. There is a fair amount of evidence regarding the state of the River and salinity above this point but that belongs to a different study.

As crops and livestock increased over the years, boats of greater capacity were required, needing deeper water to unload cargo. The water was shallow near the rock constriction on the south side at least, almost dry at low tide. In 1790 the first wharf was completed probably a little further downstream from the rock constriction, midway from the site of the later Lennox wall. The Lennox wall area was vacant at the time and within two years granted to John Macarthur, so we know that the first wharf could not have been that far down the River (had to be swapped back in 1808 for the new Grain Store and wharf). Early plans suggest that the wharf was in line between the 1790 Store and Barracks. The wharf was undoubtedly of timber (as were those later built at Windsor and Liverpool). It is possible that the lower parts of the timber posts may still exist, if the soil was as muddy as seen elsewhere along the River.

The 1790 wharf and first landing area determined the route of George Street at the east end and Government House, Parramatta determined its west end. See (3) West Line of Purchase Street to Alfred Street discussion on the 1808 stone Grain Store and Queens Wharf in regard to the subsequent development of the landing area.

There are few detailed descriptions of this area during the 1790s to Macquarie period except for the construction of the new Grain Store, 1808-1809.

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HOWELL'S WIND AND WATER MILLS

Depicted by several artists during the 1830s and 1840s, no two depictions seem to agree on detail. The water-mill was closest to the dam and was evidently run on the undershot principle. The windmill was set on the higher ground adjacent, both mills were hemmed in by a number of smaller structures representing: grain stores, work sheds, a small wharf(?) and accommodation. The 1828 census indicates that George Howell junior was in charge.

George Howell senior, famous for his mills well before the construction of this complex, must have seen the potential of the site years before. He had some form of permissive occupancy before appearing in the 1823 Return for allotment 60, Section 23, Parramatta. He obtained a lease in 1823 and converted the lease into a grant on June 30, 1823 by paying lease money (quit rent) 21 years in advance or by improving the allotment by a minimum of 1 000 pounds.

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It seems that in order to build the water~mill next to the natural rock constriction, George Howell had to arrange, in 1827, to obtain part of his neighbour's grant, (William Sherwin. See TatraL pages 60 and 1 03). Work on building the mill seems to have begun immediately. The construction of the dam caused a sensation in Parramatta and Sydney in January 1828 when John Raine opposed Howell when he built the north end of the dam against Raine's land. Olga Tatrai, in her book on Parramatta mills, gives an amusing account of the conflict and the attention received in the newspapers of the time. Young George Howell received the full support of the people of Parramatta. After much litigation and turmoil, the mill etc., was completed by November 1828. The Census of 1828 list the following people attached to George junior at Parramatta: William Carver, servant; Samson Cook labourer; Eleanor Murphy 'widow'; Thomas Stokes, servant; and Mary Taylor, servant. The mill was said to be one hundred feet high, of six floors-- Parramatta's first and most popular high-rise building, a nineteenth century tourist attraction ..

The mill continued after George junior's untimely death in 1838 (then run as Howell and Hamilton's) by his wife as a family concern. By May 1847 the mill changed hands and became known as Knight's Mill. The mill was abandoned in 1868. (Tatrai, pages 60 -78). The big steam mills, located along the railway, had made the operation unprofitable.

Within five years all traces of the mills were gone and replaced by the gasworks .

PARRAMAlTA GASWORKS

Even by 1933 gas was considered one of the most important public utilities in Parramatta and the gasworks a sign of the progress of the times. The · publication, Parramatta, 7 788- 7 933, offered the following under a heading of ~ ~

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'Old George Street':

'True, there is an up~to-date look about the Australia Gas Light Compan{s premises, and the service garage across the road is a reminder that this is the year of Grace, 1933' (page 11 ).

The gasworks have gone but the garage is still there, although no longer used as one, a sign of the times for the 1990s. ,.

The Parramatta Gas Company Limited was set up as a local initiative in 1873 and continued as such until 1890, when the Australian Gas Light Company took over the operations. In time, electricity became the preferred medium for lighting and the gasworks concentrated on gas for cooking and heating .

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Building began on the gasworks around 1872. On March 29, 1873 the first street lighting was turned on at Parramatta with great ceremony. Gas light was replaced by electricity forty years later (1913). The actual works were comprised of a substantial brick factory building with furnace, converters etc., buttressed along the wall facing the River for greater strength; a large iron gasometer, also with reinforcement (in the form of a retaining wall) on the River side. A second (?) gasometer was added lateL set on a stout brick retaining wall. There were coal sheds and other minor buildings. The then extant buildings along the George Street frontage were initially retained. The office was in a pre-existing two storey building on J.E.Manning's former allotment the attached single storey houses may have been used for accommodation.

The footings required for the substantial brick factory building would have destroyed much of the archaeology of Howell's windmill, though not all of it. The footings, pits etc., of associated Howell structures should still survive to some degree.

The footings of the gasworks should remain fairly intact. Consideration should be given to exposing and landscaping some of these potential archaeological features.

GASWORKS BRIDGE

The Gasworks bridge was built around 1881, necessitating the partial demolition of Purchase's Riverside townhouses. It is thought that Howell's dam and the natural rock constriction were blasted away some time between 1868 and 1872. This would have resulted in changes upstream:.

---the lowering of the level of water. ---increased salinization. ---conversion to a full tidal regime. ---extension of boat access to at least the line of Charles Street (where a small wharf was built by 1877).

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38

The construction of the bridge destroyed most of the archaeological remains of Howell's water-mill and all of the old dam. A large stone base· with mortices may be seen at low tide at the east side of the bridge pylon which may have formed part of Howell's complex.

SUNDRY BUILDINGS

A number of buildings were built along the George Street frontage, the outlines of these may be seen in the 1877 panoramic view of Parramatta and the 1895 cadastral map:

(Allotment 62, William Sherwin. 1823: strictly not part of this section but part of this grant was swapped so that George Howell could build his water-milt that is, the part now under the bridge .. Purchase's 'River Townhouses' were built here during the early 1850s, half being demolished around 1881 to make room for the bridge. Note: there is some confusion regarding allotments 62 to 64 in the Zoning Plan).

Allotment 60, George Howell, senior. 1823. See Howell's Mill. Surviving the demolitions for the Gasworks, between 1868 and 1872, a longish structure along the frontage. Unknown date unless part of Purchase's townhouses, requires investigation if the site is to be disturbed.

Allotment---, Samuel Wright: grant to the east of Howell's, date?: A small rectangular structure, possibly part of the Gasworks. Pictorial evidence ambiguous/ see mill views.

Allotment---, J.E.Manning: grant to the east of Wright's, date?: Pictorial evidence of the 1830s and 1840s suggests a number of substantial buildings. A two storey structure was later used as an office by the Gas Company in 1873. Attached to this building on the east side, a single storey row dating to before 1873.

(CADMAN'S) THE STEAM PACKET INN later THE EMU HOTEL

Allotment---, Commissioners of the Government Saving Bank of New South Wales: grant to the east of Manning's, date?

A largish building on the street frontage. This was this the site of John Cadman's (of Sydney fame) Steam Packet Inn of "1845'1 • According to Carol Liston, once the Government Boatshed: the hotel later named the Elephant and Castle and the Emu.

The structure was demolished between 1907 and 191 0 for the sewerage scheme. Another source (Provis and Johnson) suggests that John Cadman purchased the, apparently pre-existing, Steam Packet Inn about 1843, two years before he retired and. moved to Parramatta (in 1846 ). He died at the inn on November 12, 1848, aged 77! His wife, Elizabeth, continued to run the inn

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39

until the 1850s, she died at Woolloomooloo on May 22, 1861 . It is not certain how much of the archaeology remains in tact or if a government boatshed ever existed on the site. See the 1877 panoramic view of Parramatta.

GOVERNMENT BOATSHED

John Cadman was said to have converted the government boatshed into an inn (see previous entry) but this is unlikely since the inn was already in operation when he purchased it around 1843 and the inn seems to have been on the George Street alignment, too far away from the water.

In the painting by Augustus Earle ( ca 1825 -1827) 'A View of Parramatta NSW Looking East', a medium sized building on a fairly high foundation is depicted near the area, westwards from the public wharf. It is possible that this represents the government boatshed because of the location and absence of chimneys. Commissioner Bigge was alarmed at the lack of· security of government boats in general and this building may have been built as a result of Bigge's criticism. The structure is not mentioned in the Historical Records of Australia but then the construction of the Commissariat Store is virtually ignored also.

BOATSHED

The outline of what appears to be a water-side boatshed may be seen on the 1895 cadastral plan of the site, in the middle of the only section along the River not protected by a stone wall (adjacent to the Lennox wall, or Queen's Wharf). The whole of this area has been reclaimed by mangrove trees.

Although this is the probable site of the 1790 timber wharf,r.d-nore toward the west of this section, the stumps seen at low tide may relate->to the boatshed. Further research required.

SEAWALL FROM THE BRIDGE EASTWARD

There are several phases of seawall or wharf remains along this stretch, terminating at the 'natural' shore section (where the mangroves thrive). The part closest to the bridge contains several anomalies which may have been due to the former Howell's mills complex, suggesting that footings may survive behind the wall. A goodly section of the footings would have been destroyed by the construction of the large drain situated there (and because of the stone pylon footing of the bridge). The wall, as seen, was built around 1872 as a wharf for coal barges to serve the Gasworks. The regular breaks in the wall are reminders of the timber superstructure of the Gasworks wharf.

The mid stretch of wall appears to be of a more recent age, part of it rests on

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40

a natural stone outcrop that would have witnessed every stage of Parramatta's water-side history.

The east one-third of the wall is difficult to date without archaeological probing. It has been punctuated several times in relation to drainage and the 1907-1910 sewerage installation (which required the demolition of the Emu Hotet higher up the bank).

Archaeological probing is recommended for the various parts of this wall. Some of the excavation work may be done without the destruction of the stratigraphy by re-excavating around the service trenches.

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(3) WEST SIDE LINE OF PURCHASE STREET TO ALFRED STREET

The west-side line of Purchase street is approximately aligned with the Lennox steps, hence a convenient means of neatly dividing the study area. However, the area to either side of this line relates to the two earliest whaNes built at Parramatta: the 1808 Store to the east and the 1790 wooden wharf to the east.

1808/1809 Grain Store

This was an ambitious stone building of three floors with an attached stone wharf, the most substantial structure built in the Colony up to that time, rivalling the stone mill of three floors further upstream (now Parramatta Park, on the Stadium side of the River) ..

There are two fairly detailed views of the structure agreeing on form .. It is likely that the original concept was for four levels (see elevation in HRNSW, vol. 7, opposite page 40,) but actually built to three floors, as a general view of around 1809 suggests. The structure was begun under Governor Bligh, the foundations being completed by July 1808 when Foveaux assumed control of government because of Bligh's arrest. The site was chosen primarily because of the greater water depth (and proximity to the old wharf which, unfortunately, is not seen in the views dated circa 1807 and 1809). The one and an half acres had belonged to John Macarthur and was exchanged for a block in Sydney. By September the stone work was well under way. The benefits of it being so close to the water so that boats could unload directly, saving on cartage, were explained to the authorities in England, adding predictably that the old store had 'fallen entirely into ruin'. The success of the Parramatta building was to result in a larger such building to be built in Sydney.

After several earlier predictions of forthcoming completion of the stonework, it was finally on the 18th November 1808. The completed stonework was of the 'best Parramatta stone', the structure measuring 56 long, by 25 wide and 30 high (in feet).. The structure was built 'so as to unload from the River with a crane' (Sydney Gazette, November 20, 1808, page 2, column 1 ). The roof had been completed by February 20 1809 (HRNSW, vol. 7, page 41) and the building ready for business soon after.

The documentation on the Stone Granary is important because it corrects a long-enduring misunderstanding of a letter written by Governor Foveaux to Governor Macquarie on February 27, 1810. In the letter Foveaux states,

'I finished the very substantial Stone Granary at Parramatta, of which I found the foundation only laid.' (HRA Ser. 1, Vol. VII, page 233)

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' PLAN OF THE NEW STONE GRANERY AT PARRAMATTA

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The stone wharf seems to have been adequate for Parramatta until the new Commissariat Store was built in 1825, the older timber wharf may have continued to be used also until this time.

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\., !' THE COMMISSARIAT STORE •

Plans were being formulated for a new Granary and Store at Parramatta in 1821 by Commissioner J.T. Bigge:

'If the ground immediately above the present Store, and Sufficiently firm for a foundation, the Contiguity- of the present Wharf, and the first Floor of the present Store converted into a shed and wet-Store, would afford the advantage of easy access to laden Boats, and the expense of carriage of heavy Goods from the Store to the top of the Bank. The Store above would be sufficiently elevated for exposure to the breeze, and might consist of 3 Stories, the dimensions being the same as those of the Store at Liverpool.' (HRA Ser. 1, Vol. X, p 383). As late as May 1825, Governor Brisbane identified the need for additional granaries in a number of population centres, including Parramatta.

This work did take place from mid to late 1825 (documentation sparse) but it seems that the 1808 building was completely demolished. The old stone wharf may have done a few more years service, until the Lennox seawall/wharf was built.

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The Commissariat Store was converted for accommodation by about 1828, serving as a military barracks for a while, a home for newly arrived immigrants etc. By March 19, 1862 the building had been converted for the reception of infirm and destitute men, as part of the Parramatta Benevolent Asylum. The structure was demolished in 1937. .

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It is very likely that a substantial portion of the footings of the old Grain Store and the Commissariat Store, outbuildings and pits survive underground .

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BYRNES' STEAM MILL AND CLOTH FACTORY

This mammoth factory of five floors was built during 1840/1841 by James and William Byrnes on a forty year tease from the Macarthur family. The land adjoined the east side of the main public wharf (Lennox wall/wharf), then often referred to as the Ferry Wharf. The River was still the most convenient form of transport and a stone wharf was built adjoining on the east side of the eartier Lennox built public wharf. Other interests of the Byrnes family included warehousing (on site) and a Brewery (since 1833 in Grose's Store established

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50

by James, senior) known as Burton's Brewery., The 1853 Brownrigg plan and elevation of the works suggests that the wharves were reinforced with a battery of spaced timber uprights to protect vessels from damage against the stone.

Although built as a steam flour mill, the timing was unfortunate because it coincided with one of the worst economic depressions ever experienced in the Colony .. Whether this caused the Byrnes family to diversity their operations in the manufacture of cloth (wool based) is not known. Parramatta already had a reputation for good quality cloth, beginning with the old Gaol and then the Female Factory. The production of Parramatta tweed was to make the factory famous.

In 1844 a five storey addition was constructed as a cloth factory, though the steam machinery did not arrive until two years later. Production began in 1847. The factory was later known as the Australian Steam Mills and Cloth Factory and continued in the ownership of the Byrnes family for decades. In addition to manufacturing, J. C. Byrnes had his own commercial warehouse facilities directly on site, this helped save money on landing charges etc. To the south of the main building there were a number of structures including two worker's cottages on a large piece of land extending to Alfred Street. An 1853 plan and elevation of the site by W.M. Brownrigg is probably one of the best records that we have of the site.

The Gold Rush created chaos in terms of staffing, despite the enormous output. The Mill was closed from 1855 to 1860. There were rapid changes in the local economy, in line with the greater economic trends and the woollen mill fell on hard times. In 1883 the Mill and iand were sold to the government and the complex was given over and converted to an asylum for men.

•

The only reminder of the factory is the wharf adjoining the Lennox sea wall (old public, or Queens, Wharf). It is expected that some of the footings of the factory will have survived later development.

QUEENS WHARF •

Adjoining the factory wharf of the Byrnes family on the west side, this wharf had its origins in the Stone Granary of 1808, the land also being ex-Macarthur property.

It is probable that the 1808 wharf was sited to the east of the 1 790-built (timber) wharf, which today is the section without a sea wall. The 1808 wharf became the main public wharf and was replaced in 1834 or 1835 with the wall we know know as the Lennox sea wall and steps (though it was a wharf). The footings, at least, of the older wall may survive behind the Lennox wall.

The public wharf area once defined the end of George Street. A path leading to it probably follows the traces of an older road, the path evidently survived

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The name 'Queens Wharf' was not a sentimental designation. The name was a synonym of 'government wharf', hence the same name appears at Sydney Cove during the same time .. Before 1837, it would have been referred to as the King's wharf.

With the coming of the railway and later improvements in roads, especially . .

after the popular acceptance of the motor vehicle, river transport suffered a severe decline. Wharves and sea walls were neglected, resulting, not surprisingly, in their survival to the present day.

. .

BYRNES' WORKMEN'S COTTAGES

Three largish structures are indicated on the 1895 cadastral map of Parramatta, part of the former Benevolent Asylum which once took up much of the area between Alfred Street and the Queens Wharf. Two of the structures originally formed workers' cottages belonging to the Mill: each structure was divided into two semi-detached units of four rooms (each man may have had two rooms, judging by the number of fireplaces. The third structure, closest to the Mill, was described as a weavers' room and was internally divided into twenty six units on each side of a central hallway along the length of the structure: there were no chimneys.. A smaller fourth structure had a wide double door facing the water and was composed of only one room, possibly a wood or coal shed. The latter structure was probably demolished before 1895. The group was built during the late 1840s, when cloth manufacturing began or certainly by 1853 when they were drawn by W.N. Brownrigg.

The yards to the south of the cottages were originally divided into the house yard with double closets (one half for each house unit) and what looks to be a common laundry or kitchen. Vegetable gardens were provided to the south of the house yards. By 1895 a long shed was built along what is .today Noller Street. The area to the south of the Weavers' room was a 'wood yard'. These features took up the whole of the land from the Mill to what later became Alfred Street. The 1877 panoramic view of Parramatta is not as useful as it could be because it simplified and rationalized the layout of the group of buildings east of the Mill. These cottages represented a philanthropic phase of the time where Industrialists felt responsible for the welfare of their workers but there were doubtlessly advantages of having staff live close to their pla~e of employment.

The area is now fairly densely occupied by large units and a number of houses. The houses date from the 1940s and 1950s Housing Commission programs. Although the sea wall was not indicated, it was almost certainly there at the time, based on the appearance of age. It is difficult to understand why

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54

Byrnes' or the Asylum would need to construct a wharf when there was a wharf in front of the Mill and to the west of the Mill.

ALFRED. STREET SEA WALL

This well built stone sea wall located westward of Alfred Street remains something of a puzzle. The area received landscape attention by Parramatta City Council during March and April 1996, during which a proportion of the weed and rubbish was removed from over the wall. The eastern end of the sea wall was found to bend landwards at an angle of about 35 degrees, indicating the termination of the wall.

Sea walls are difficult to date closely because the mortar and fill can not be seen from the face of the wall. Often, the surface of the stone has worn and the stone may have been reused from an earlier structure. The remains of a circa 1900 bottle was discovered and some early bricks over the top of the wall (due to River erosion). A large amount of soil had been dumped over the surface of the area from Alfred Street to the Mill area and as the landscaping work proceeded without the disturbance of earlier soil profiles, little was learned of the site. It is hoped that some sort of investigation of early soil profiles may take place in the near future. ·

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The termination of the east end of tl:le wall does respect the east boundary of the Byrnes lease from the Macarthurs (and as a consequence the later Alfred Street). It is likely that the wall was built when the Byrnes' workers' cottages were built but there is no evidence that it originally extended the whole way to join the Mill wharf. In fact, the termination of the east end of the Mill wharf was found. The 1853 Brownrigg elevation does show a very neat shore line, other sources suggest that the mid section was not walled. ·

Another possibility exists, though purely conjectural. As the land belonged to the Macarthurs, the wall may have been built by them as their private wharf before Byrnes' obtained the lease. In the earlier days the Macarthurs produced plant crops and raised cattle and sheep on a large scale on that land; a private wharf would have been very useful.

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(4) ALFRED STREET TO ARTHUR STREET

This area was the least developed section of the Queens Wharf ReseNe, two features worthy of preseNation were noted:

TIMBER WHARF

Only timber piers remain and some submerged timbers with slots for uprights (another example on a large scale but of stone, may be seen on the east side of the Gasworks bridge pylon, possibly relating to Howell's Mill). The suNiving metal fasteners are corroded but most likely date to the mid to late nineteenth century .. The remains should be further examined when the path for the cycle way is established (nails will be of the greatest diagnostic value).

There is good reason to believe that the wharf was built by one of the ferry companies, with Macarthur family permission, to off-load passengers when the tide was low . The wharf or a wharf is depicted in the 1877 panoramic view of · Parramatta in roughly the right position: if that is the case, the wharf may date to the 1860s, when people began to resent the Macarthur's hold on the River front and silting remained an ever worsening problem.

The wharf is worthy of retention as one of the last remaining wooden wharfs in the area. The remains need to be monitored on a half yearly basis. Stabilization work may be done when the cycle way is constructed.

THE SECOND GASWORKS

These works are shown in out line in the 1895 cadastral map of Parramatta. The works with a large retort, furnace and coal shed would have been constructed after 1883 when the Elizabeth Farm Estate was subdivided (sold 1880).

The timber wharf was probably a pre-existing ferry wharf, ideal for the off­loading of cool which arrived by barge. It is not known if there would be any remains left underground.

INVERTEBRATE REMNANT POPULATION

A remnant population of native terrestrial mollusca (snails) was discovered thriving in the largely weed environment along the steep bank between the timber wharf and Alfred Street. Some of the species have not been ~ecorded in Parramatta for over one hundred years. The species are usually very sensitive to urban development but their suNival there suggests a very slow plant community change from native to introduced. The native snails and other small invertebrates probably suNived because of the suNival of native

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fungaL helping to break down leaf litter .. See appendix I for details.

The 1877 panoramic view (which I had not seen when I wrote the above paragraph) shows remnant forest near the timber wharf: a circa 1825-1 827 view by Augustus Earle shows the same. It is this area where the population has survived, thanks to the long survival of native vegetation and the relative inaccessibility of the sloping bank.

• This rare community must be preserved.. This means that the largely weed infested banks must not be cleared under any circumstances. A program of gradually introducing local leafy flora may help solve the visual problem (which can not be seen from the River) but there must not be any attempt made to clear the existing weed species. This area should be closely monitored and protected from accidental clearing by government agencies or local garden enthusiasts. Attempts should be made to reintroduce these species to suitable habitats undergoing regeneration elsewhere at Parramatta. The native species help break down rotting leaves (although the largest of the species is · carnivorous).

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(5) NORTH BANK •

The mangroves and associated river edge native flora and fauna thrive, though are not very diverse in species. Fortunately, there are few exotic species that are suited to the tidal marine environment. The mangroves form a fringe of green along the north side of the River and hide the flats behind. Along the first bank, behind the mangroves, it is mainly weed with some native herbs, evidence was found of the survival of the native carnivorous snaiL Strangesta capillacea. Being an area frequently inundated by floods or high tides, a curious mixture of freshwater and marine debris frequently washes up. A coconut still in its husk was found there during one of the field trips, a very long way from the tropical north ..

Early views show this area bereft of mangroves, which may explain why silting was such a problem .. We know that tre mangrove tree was a favourite timber with wheelwrights and there are early references to the collection of such timber.

An old sea wall and wharf remains are to be found behind the little beach (across the River from the mangrove banks just west of the old Lennox wharf). The wharf, as a longish sea wall is indicated in the 1836 view of Marsden's Rangihu, or Rangihou, (note the indicated post in the drawing, seems to coincide with archaeological evidence on the site).. An 1848 plan shows an 'old wharf', at right angles from the shore and a boathouse along the River end of allotment 44, 'Jno Lord & Co'. Both view and plan may be seen in the Yarwood and Douglas report (see bibliography).. A New Zealand flax plant is to be found growing near the boundary (to the west), formerly part of Marsden's Rangihu. However, the plant may have been the result of a later commemorative planting.

Having examined the Rangihu house area, it is possible that some of the footings of the house, outbuildings, pits etc./ may have escaped the later urbanization of the area, despite the site clearing of 1984 to build the Housing Commission units. The landforms below are probably much as they have been since the first clearing, except for the concentrated dumps of building material below the Housing Commission development (nearly all post-late nineteenth century material). Some relicts of the former bushland survive around the bridge area, including a minute fern species.

The small beach, referred to in the above paragraph, seems to be the result of decades of silting. The Rivercat service is partially eroding the area and the amount of early artefacts uncovered is surprising, probably material previously thrown up from the Riverbed during floods.

Of concern is the recent erosion of the mud flats caused by the Rivercat at all levels from low to high tide mark. It was noticed that the erosion was much reduced wherever a log lay at rightangles to the River, (appeared to act as a buffer).

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(6) SOUTH SIDE OF GEORGE STREET BETWEEN HARRIS AND PURCHASE STREETS

Although this area has had a fairly strong building history, most of it has taken place along the fringes of George and Harris Streets.

This is undoubtedly the site of the 1790-1791 (with later development) Store and Barracks. The main identifying constant is the watercourse and 'lagoon' behind (south of) Tara. The south boundaries of the Store and Barracks were formed by the natural landscape of this watercourse (compare the 1823,1844 and 1895 maps). Minor identifying c'onstants which relate to the site are: the bridge which is on the site of Howell's dam (first landing area) and the line of Macarthur Street, north of the River, which appears to be indicated in the Tench/Bonwick plan of circa 1791.

The old Barrack site was set well back from George Street, so there is a good chance that footings, ash and privy pits may have survived the later development of the area. This is a prime archaeological site.

To the east of the Barracks was the old Store complex. These structures were built ribbon style, not far from the edge of George Street, approximately in front of Tara and the vacant block contiguous to the east. Earlier this year (1996) a deposit of roofing tile fragments was uncovered during the . excavation of a service trench along the footpath at the present boundary of Tara and the vacant block on the east side. The tiles are typical of those produced during the 1790s and were almost undoubtedly part of the old Store. There is a good chance that some of the footings, pits etc., may have escaped destruction. This is a prime archaeological site.

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67

THE FIRST PERMANENT STORE

The store was proposed in September 1790 to replace the 1788/1789 store built in the redoubt (most likely located to the north-east of Parramatta Government House). The site chosen was well above the River bank opposite the then wharf and landing area, along the south side of the present George Street. Brick and tile makers, some 52, under the leadership of Birmingham brickmaker, Becket, were sent from Sydney the same month. By November 1790 the brick kilns had been set up and were evidently in production because Tench records that the store was nearly completed, including a house for the storekeeper. The building was 1 00 feet long and 24 feet wide. Collins recorded that the store was begun and finished in November, adding that the bricks were not as good as in Sydney, because of the deep red colour (usually a feature of under fired bricks).

Governor Phillip (March 1791) was justifiably proud of his brick and tile store houses in Sydney and Parramatta, being fire resistant and having a total capacity of two years' provisions. Because of the lack of lime, a clay mortar was used but the walls could not be taken up higher than 12 feet. The Governor's prediction that the structure would survive 'a great number of years', if taken relatively, turned out to be correct. The store was referred to as 'His Majesty's Store', 'Government Store' or just 'the Store'.

Early plans of the area suggest a central building (1 00 by 24 feet) flanked at both. ends by smaller structures, along one frontage. One of the smaller structures appears to have been the storekeeper's house; the other one probably a granary for corn which was converted to a wheat granary around February 1798 when yields had increased.

It is difficult these days to imagine how important the government stores were to just about everyone of those early days. The Parramatta store was the focus of settlers, convicts, military and authorities alike; undoubtedly the backdrop to many public and personal dramas not recorded. Everyone in Parramatta and district would have been familiar with the place and yet we have no image of what the complex looked like, although a comparison with similar buildings in Sydney can give us an idea.

By 1796 many of the brick buildings in Parramatta and Sydney were showing signs of weathering. Shell had been collected in great numbers along the harbour (including the Parramatta district) and burned into lime. It was proposed to coot the brick buildings in lime and then whitewash. This project began by February 1796 and was intended to have been completed by the end of the year. This would have hidden the bricks and the result very similar as seen on the Dairy Cottage in Parramatta Park. The two Government Houses were given the same treatment around 1800, a fraction of this early work survives on the 'Hunter' chimneys of Parramatta's Government House. Future excavations of the Store area will undoubtedly come across fragments of this plaster.

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68

Major work was done to the main building around February 1798 involving general repairs, the addition of another floor, expressed as 'and two floors laid throughout' and an extension of 60 feet, probably to the rear (south side). The corn granary was converted to a granary for wheat. The second floor is confirmed by the account of Phillip Cunningham being hanged on the 'staircase' of the Public Store in 1804, as the result of his part in the Castle Hill Rebellion. The pre~ 1798 walls were only 12 feet high.

Further information on the Store may yet be found in the records of the Parramatta Lumber Yard, Law records, Sydney Gazette and the Bonwick Transcripts.

The importance of the 1790 store would have lessened with the construction of the stone granary/store in 1808/09 when, predictably, it was reported to be in a ruinous condition. It is not known what actually happened to the Store buildings but they are not shown in the 1814 map of Parramatta, so were presumedly demolished by then.

Something should be mentioned about the Wet Provisions Store. This building is listed as having had received repairs between 1796 and 1800. The repairs involved rebuilding parts of the walls and constructing a new foundation. The latter would not have been possible if it were a brick building, so it is assumed to have been constructed of timber. Although an early building, the timber store could not have been part of Governor Phillip's brick and tile store complex of 1790. Two unsigned and undated views of circa 1807 and circ"a 1809 (T. McCormick's First Views .. .) show a cottage on top of the bank above the River, east of the track leading to the landing area: could this have been the Wet Provisions Store? (The other possible interpretation could be that the cottage was the Storekeepers' house---which would not have needed a tiled roof).

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69

THE FIRST PERMANENT BARRACKS

The first barrack was built within the small redoubt late in 1788 or early 1789 as accommodation for the military guarding the convicts. The structure consisted of a frame, the walls and roof were covered with shingles and already in ruin by November 1790. Permanent barracks were proposed in September 1790 for which brickmakers were sent up to Parramatta (also to make bricks and tiles for the new Store).

•

The first stone of the foundation was laid on November 16, 1790 for the main building and described as being one hundred feet long and twenty-four feet wide. Wings were yet to be added for the officers. Several noted the good location of the Barracks, being next to the Stores and within 150 yards from the unloading wharf. Collins records that the Barracks were designed as quarters for one company with the regulation number of officers, a guard room and two small storerooms. Collins also mentioned that the building was begun and completed in November 1790.

The officers' barracks were projected to be completed by May 1791 . Building was in progress during April but may not have been completed until after June. Collins wrote that the Barracks were ready enough in June to be occupied by the NSW Corps.

The subsequent history of the Barrack buildings is one of constant repairs needed. The brickwork had little or no lime in it, as was the case with the Store. The brickwork of the Barracks 'and guardhouse' was rendered and whitewashed in 1 797 and a number of doors and window shutters installed. Repairs were again required in February 1798 and in the following year the Barracks were fenced. 'all round', it seems in anticipation of an Irish uprising. During 1800 new chimneys had to be constructed and were also rendered and whitewashed. There was a shortage of beds and stools in 1800. Over the following years repairs were a constant feature of the site. By 1807 the 'Officers and Privates" Barracks were considered in bad repair but only the light horseman's barracks were repaired. By 1812 the Barracks were considered 'ruinous', Governor Macquarie noting that they dated to Governor Phillip's administration.

By December 1817 the Barracks were beyond repair being 'almost in Ruins and Consequently very dangerous', according to Macquarie. A new site was chosen for Barracks and the new building was underway by March 1819, the old buildings were described as 'ruinous and decayed ... hardly habitable'. By February 1820, the new Barracks had been completed and the old buildings presumably then demolished. The old Barracks are not shown on the plan of 1823.

The Barracks were the backdrop to a number of very interesting events during - -

the founding years of settlement, among those being:

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The early role of John Macarthur, who managed to secure his 1793 grant virtually 'next door'.

The accommodation of the notorious NSW Corps. (There is also an artefact relationship with Phillipburgh, Norfolk Island).

The 'Lampoon incident' of 1803, where a highly satirical political poem was traced (considered to be seditious).

The convict uprising of 1800 where the rebels were to take the Barracks (after surprising the military in church).

The Castle Hill Rebellion, 1804. The Barracks as a refuge for those fearing the rebels who were on their way to Parramatta.

LIST OF SOURCES USED REGARDING THE WHARF, STORE AND BARRACK.

Collins, vol L pages 40, 56, 60, 67, 113, 117, 132, 136 and 326. Collins, vol IL pages 60, 69, 221 and 222. Tench, pages 195, 196. Historical Records of Australia, Series 1 : vol I, page 143; vol IL pages 140, 560, 563 and 648; vol V, pages 256, 257, 319 and 665; vol VI, pages 98, 170, 630, 671 and 693; vol VII, pages 4, 232, 528 qnd 529; vol VIII, page 339; voiiX pages 720 and 877; vol X pages 96, 287, 383 and 690; vol XI, page 583. Historical Records of New South Wales: vol 1, part 2, pages 217, 218, 469, 470 and 539; vol 2, page 509, 808 and 817; vol 3, pages 80,176, 339, 534 and 753; vol 4, pages 67, 68,156, 283 and 284; vol 5, pages 22,118,122, 163, 167, 197,212, 215, 216, 246, 256, 257, 315, 319, and 665.

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ARCHAEOLOGICAL RECOMMENDATIONS

As far, as is known, no archaeological investigation has taken place in the area under study. While it can be seen from this report that almost every early site has been redeveloped in some way, few early or significant sites have been totally destroyed in terms of the archaeology. Early walls and footings may be found behind later sea walls or buried under fill.

It is thought that substantial footings, drains and pits may be found on the south side of George Street belonging to the 1790 Store and Barracks, despite some of the residential development over the area. It is also thought that the footings of the 1808 Grain Store will have survived behind the Lennox wall/wharf (Queen's Wharf). Footings of the Commissariat Store and the later Byrnes Mill will have survived in part, despite the extensive housing development. Howell's Mill complex will have been greatly compromised by the construction of the bridge and gasworks, however parts should still have survived.

The following is a list of sites which have archaeological potential toward the greater understanding of the past and activities which took place, not otherwise obtainable from the documentary evidence.

(1) The 1790 Store.

(2) The 1 790 Barracks.

(3) The 1808 Stone Store/Granary.

(4) Howell's Mill complex, 1828 (largely damaged).

(5) The ca 1825 Commissariat Store (largely damaged and built over).

(6) Byrnes Mill, 1840/1841 .... (partially built over). '

(7) Steam Packet Inn, 1830s/1840s (demolished for sewerage scheme)

(8) Sea walls/wharves: all those listed deserve archaeological probing.

(9) The 1873 Gasworks (though recent, the solid construction of footings could serve as interesting landscape elements).

(1 0) Sea wall, north side of River.

All work done in the study area should be done under archaeological supervision if there is to be disturbance to below-surface deposits, including the street frontages and roadway. Many of the early domestic structures were never recorded and several surprises are expected to emerge in the

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HERITAGE ACT OF NSW (1977)

The Queens Wharf ReseNe contains some of the earliest sites of European settlement in the Nation, as well as highly significant waterfront and commercial/industrial sites. Any work that takes place which alters the appearance of the site, disturbs above or below ground remains or actions which could have an adverse secondary impact must be done under a Section 60 or 140, unless covered by Standard Exemptions I~X (see NSW Heritage Guidelines on Standard Exemptions tor Items Covered by ConseNafion Orders, March 1996, Department of Planning).

If relevant, this report may form the basis as part of the documentation for the application of Sections 60 or 140 for work to take place at the Queens Wharf ReseNe.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY of sources directly consulted and used

Collins, D. An Account of the English Colony in New South Wales. 1798. Edition of A.H. and A. W. Reed in association with the Royal Australian Historical Society, Sydney and edited by B.H. Fletcher. 1976. Volumes 1 and 2. (Volume 2 published in 1802).

Higginbotham, E and Johnson, P-A The Future of Parramatta's Past: An Archaeological Zoning Plan 7 788-7 844 . Department of Planning (NSW)

Historical Records of Australia. Published by The Library Committee of the Commonwealth Parliament 1914. Reprint 1971 (Government Printer, Commonwealth of Australia).

Historical Records of New South Wales. 1893 (Government Printer, New South Wales). Facsimile reprint published by Lansdown Slattery & Company, Mona Vale, Sydney. 1978.

Kass, T; Liston, C; and McClymont, J. Parramatta: A Past Revealed. Parramatta City Council., 1996.

Kerr, J.S. The ConseNation Plan: A Guide to the Preparation of ConseNation Plans for Places of European Cultural Significance. National Trust of Australia (NSW), 1982.

McCormick, T. First Views of Australia 7 788-7 825. David Ell Press in association with Longueville Press. Sydney.1987.

New South Wales Department of Planning: Heritage Council of NSW. Historical Archaeological Sites: Investigation and ConseNation Guidelines. 1993. Note: the Heritage Council has produced a number of practical guides to the application of the Heritage Act (1977) to heritage buildings and sites (between March 1994 and December 1995). These have also been consulted.

Parramatta Council, Parramatta, 7 788 - 7 933. Publication to celebrate the 145th anniversary of Parramatta and 'Back to Parramatta Week'. October 26 to November 4, 1933.

Provis, J.S. and Johnson, K.A. The Coxswains' Barrack known as Cadman's Cottage. Genealogical Publications of Australia. Sydney, 1973.

Sainty, M.R. and Johnson, K.A. Census of New South Wales: November 7828. Library of Australian History, Sydney, 1980.

Tatrai, 0. Wind and Watermills in Old Parramatta. 1994 .

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Tench, W. Sydney's First Four Years. Originally two volumes, 1789 and 1793. Published , Library of Australian History in association with the Royal Australian Historical Society, Sydney. 1979.

Yarwood, AT. and Douglas, Peter. Historical and Archaeological Assessment of the Site of the Reverend Samuel Marsden's Seminary for Maoris in Parramatta. Commissioned byTe lwi Maori Inc. (NSW). 1994 ..

Sydney Gazette, 1803-1811.

M A P S (Chronologically listed)

Tench, W. A Complete Account of the Settlement of New South Wales, 1793. (Mitchell Library, Bon wick Transcripts, Box 36). Circa 1791 . •

Anon. Town of Parramatta. co 1791 .. Mitchell Library, Bonwick Transcripts, Box 36. (Public Records Office, London, CO. 700.4). Note: date variously given, circa: 1790, 1791 and 1792.

Evans, G.W. Plan of the Township of Parramatta. co 1804. Mitchell Library, M2. 811.1301 /1813/1. Note: This plan has also been dated to co 1813/1814 on the basis of the listed land grants (which I have confirmed) but it seems that this map was the only one available so as to be able to record the grants of a later date.

Preston. Plan of the Township of Parramatta in New South Wales. October 7, 1814. Archives Office of NSW., map 4708.

Stewart, G.C. Plan of the Township of Parramatta. 1823. Archives Office of NSW., map 4907.

Johnstone. 1836. Archives Office of NSW, map 4799.

Brownrigg, W.M. Plan of the Town of Parramatta and the Adjacent Properties. 7 844. Mitchell Library, M3.8ll.l30l /1844/1.

Kirby (Surveyor). Sketch Shewing the Boundaries Proposed for a Park for the Town of Parramatta .... 1858. Archives Office of NSW, map P714.n.

McKinnon, G.. Fuller's Map of Parramatta. 7 883. (A commercial map).

Parramatta 1895. Note: a series of numbered cadastral maps of which I have an incomplete copy. Scale 1: l 000.

Department of Lands, NSW. Produced a series of editions of what seems to have been the same basic map. Third edition in 1920.

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Robinson, H.E.C Robinson~s Street Directory, Pannmatta, City and Suburbs (No 879). Co 1926-1930. A large format commercial map.

Department of Lands, NSW. Map of the Town of Parramatta, and Suburban and Adjacent Lands. 7 96 7. Sydney.

Central Mapping Authority. Parramatta .. 1981.

Suters Architects Snell Pty Ltd for Parramatta City Council. Landscape Concept Masterplan. .. and Queen's Wharf Reserve, Parramatta. 7 994.

Parramatta City Council. Parramatta River Foreshores: Queens Reserve Link .. January 1996. .

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APPENDIX I

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INTRODUCTION

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The snails were discovered after a small area was cleared of Lantana camera during landscaping work, by Parramatta City Council, along the bank of the Parramatta River at the end of Alfred street in April 1996. The first of the snails were noticed during a routine archaeological examination of the River bank.

It should be noted that terrestrial mollusca, or snails,· apart from the Common Garden Snail, are generally extremely fussy about their habitat It came as a huge surprise to find so many species, in particular the endemic species, in such a degraded habitat. The chief species along the bank are: Lantana,. Coral Tree and Balloon Vine. Apart from the Mangroves and estuarine herbs, growing along the River edge, there were no endemic plant species apart from some weed-like herbs. Most of the species are minute and so easily overlooked by the untrained eye.

The presence of the snails indicates that there must have been a fairly gradual shift from endemic flora to the rank weed growth seen today. The implication is that there may be many invertebrate· survivals from the fauna of Parramatta of 200 years ago along this area. It appears that Lantana and Coral Tree in particular, in some circumstances may not be so evil after all (they do build up good mulch at any rate).

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In contrast, the bank to the west of Alfred Street does not appear to have had the same gradual shift from endemic to exotic; only exotic snail species are to be found there ..

Of significance to Parramatta is' the rediscovery of the species, Turrisitala parramattensis, first published by J C Cox in 1864 and collected by the Rev R L King of Parramatta, one of the foremost collectors of the time. Though found elsewhere in the State, the species probably has not been recorded at Parramatta for well over a century. Several other species I found at the site were also. published in 1864.

LIST (April 1-7, 1996)

HELIX ASPERA, Common Garden SnaiL Europe Only two fragmented specimens found along the whole area. This result is extraordinary and appears to be due to the prese~ce of Strangesta capi/lacea, or Carnivorous Snail, which is also extraordinary considering the total lack of endemic vegetation (though have been known to take up residence in gardens close to natural bush land.

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BRADYBAENA SIMILARIS, Bradybaena Snail. Europe etc.. · Fairly common along the banks along both sides of Alfred Street. Many of the specimens were damaged, perhaps due to the Carnivorous snaiL The snails were of the reddish~brown peripheral band variety but for two old,. worn, specimens. The population on the east bank, at least, had very strongly defined bands and some shells had a distinct reddish or purple hue. About 40 specimens were noted.

OXYCHILUS ALLIARUS, Garlic Snail. Introduced. A small, flattish, dark amber, glassy shelled snail. Also found along the west bank and at Old Government House. The snail is supposed to give off a garlic smell when crushed. About 60 specimens were noted.

OXYCHILUS SP? Introduced? A similar shell as the above but smaller, slightly flatter, more whorled when specimens of a similar size are compared. The outer whorls do not flare out or widen greatly. Of a dull tan colour, I first mistook these as long~dead juveniles of 0. alliarus (in many species clear shells decalcify to a dull white colour over a period of time after death).. Although unlikely to be related to the preceding species, the name is used for convenience of reference. Further work required. 11 specimens were noted.

SODALETA MICROCOSMOS Endemic·

·A miniature snail resembling preceding species. A species also collected by R L King but at Stroud. Considered in 1868 as the 'most minute of Australian Helices'. About ten specimens seen.

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OPEAS or BULIMOID species Introduced? The name is yet to be determined. A small (3~5mm), narrow (2-2.5mm) snail with a very shiny shell. The rim of the mouth of the shell has a distinct orangy hue. Also found on the west bank but not yet in Parramatta Park. Over 250 specimens noted.

TORNATELLINOPS SP Introduced? Endemic? The name needs confirming. On first appearance this snail resembles that of the above but is distinctively clear (with a Vaseline sheen) or white if the shell is old. The shell is also slightly longer (5-6mm) and has 6 to 7 whorls instead of 4 to 5. Specimens also found along the west bank and at Old Government House. A very similar species has been found at both Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island (not published at the latter place). Only 9 specimens were found. ·

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STRANGESTA CAPILLACEA, Carnivorous Snail. Endemic. One live specimen and a recently dead one displayed· a deep amber colour on the upper surface and a yellow-tan on the under side .. The shell is highly shiny. These are flattish snails and can reach 25mm across, most found on site were much smaller, though most seen were not mature specimens. The lack of the Common Garden Snail (only two) must be due to the presence of this species. One specimen was found on the other side of the River but may have floated there during the January storm. One specimen has also been found at Old Government House in remnant bush land consisting of three trees and lots of leaf litter.. Ten specimens noted.

TURRISITALA PARRAMATTENSIS, Parramatta Turrisitala Snail. Endemic. An unexpected find, having thought that the snail would have disappeared from Parramatta long ago. The Rev. R L King of Parramatta collected specimens in Parramatta mid last century which became the 'type' for the species and hence the name of the district. The original name was Helix parramattensis. The snails do exist elsewhere in the State, I found a small population of them in bush land near Gosford.

There are two population concentrations along the bank: one near the ruined wharf and the other next to the plaster dump close to the line of Alfred street The snail is very small (2.25mm across the base), amber hued, see-through and beautifully formed, like a rounded stepped pyramid with about five 'steps', or whorls. Rounded at the base, not umbilicated. Over 60 specimens were noted ..

TURRISITALA SP Endemic A miniature version (1 mm across the base) of T. parramattensis but umbilicated and with minute transverse ribbing on the surface. These have about 4 whorls. This

' species is too small to be the introduced Helix nitida described in J C Cox' 1868 publication. I believe I have come across the species before in the Central Coast region and may not have a name. About five specimens seen.

PSEUDOTURRISITALA Endemic A contrived name to describe a minute snail with a similar pyramidal outline, but not as elevated, as the two species described above. Differs in that this species has a very deep and wide umbilicus like a coiled staircase .. This species is probably a Charopid and would be difficult to name. About six specimens found.

HELIX NITIDA 8 ritai n/E u rope A tiny, species with a wide umbilicus and coarse, oblique, minute ribbing. The snail superficially resembles the preceding species. The snail was introduced during the early days and was widespread around Sydney even in the 1860s. I have found specimens at Kingston, Norfolk Island and the Botanical Gardens, Sydney.. The name may have been changed. About 20 specimens found.

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ALLOCHAROPA BRAZIER! Endemic

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A very widely distributed snail but usually found in bush settings. A small Charopid , of coiled appearance, deep and wide umbilicus, depressed top, the last whorl descending, the whorls having very fine and evenly spaced ribs. Have found specimens at the Botanical Gardens in Sydney and at Old Government House in the remnant area. About 20 specimens found.

SP CHAROPA •

Endemic A small snail similar in appearance to the preceding but even more discoidal, the last whorl not descending. Three specimens seen.

AUSTRALBINULA STRANGEANA Endemic A very small species roughly resembling a truncated form of Tornatellinops. The mouth has an extraordinary set of 'teeth'. This species and one similar to it (probably the sam~e) was collected in Parramatta by Rev. R L King of Parramatta:. originally named Pupa Kingi and Pupa Strangei. There is a dextral and sinistral

· variety .. Of the six specimens collected, all were sinistraL More recent work on the ·snail suggests that the coastal variety is always sinistral but 'inland' snails may be dextral. Of the hundreds I have collected, this bears out for the coast and am yet to find a dextral one .. Another exciting find for Parramatta.

POST SCRIPT Many Australian species of snails are yet to be found, let alone described and published. Every effort was made to distinguish juvenile specimens of the species described above so as to avoid listing them as potentially new species. More species may yet be found but this is not a priority as long as the habitat is made secure.

Dr Robert V J VARMAN Archaeologist/Heritage Consultant. April 21, 1996 .

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JROISJEJRT V Jf !PY VAJRMAN JPllhl D (§y(\jl) ARCHAEOLOGIST & HERITAGE CONSULTANT PHONE- (02) 43882169 FAX- (02) 43898450 E M A I L - varman@ozemail.com.au u R L- http:/ /www.geocities.com/Paris/LeftBank/6559 31 WOMBAT STREET, BERKELEYVALE, CENTRAL COAST N.S.W. 2261 AUSTRALIA

QUEENS WHARF RESERVE SEA WALL: ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION •

Executive Summary

Trenches 2 to 4 indicated fill dating to the l?st twenty or thirty years to a depth of at least two metres. The sea wall at trench 1 was found to be intact for about 11 metres. The sea wall from trench 2 to trench 4 was found to be missing or surviving only as a footing or backing for a wall. Solid slate was not reached in any of the trenches, though some slate grit was found at the base of trench 3 at a depth of about three metres. The wall curves inwards at Trench 1, perhaps forming a bay or may just indicate a widening in the River. There seems to be another change in the line of the wall between Trench 1 and Trench 3 but further investigation should take place, when stabilization work commences, by tracing the wall step by step (wall chasing). It is concluded that the wall and early stratigraphy from about Ch 80 eastwards survives only in remnant form.

Introduction

The investigation to locate the sea wall between the east end of the Lennox Wharf (corner of George Street and Noller Parade) and Alfred Street took place on the 6th and 7th October 2000. A 4.5 ton excavator was hired for a total of 17.5 hours from Territ Pty Ltd, operated by Niall Connery. Four locations were selected for deep excavation to uncover evidence of the former sea w~ll and to determine the stratigraphy. No stratigraphy earlier than 50 years could be disturbed without a Section 140 Application (under the Heritage Act of N.S.W., 1977): this restriction did not hamper the investigation because of the depth of fill deposits relating to the last twenty or thirty years. Richard Bass, Engineer, of Parramatta Council organized this investigation.

Statement of Significance

The sea wall is a significant part in the development of wharfing facilities along the Parramatta River from the 1790s to the 1840s. The wall may also be significant as an early attempt to combat bank erosion. The sea wall is significant in its role in nineteenth century water transport and in relation to the early textile industry.

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Methodology

Historical documentation relating to the area was reviewed. The site was thoroughly inspected in relation to the documentation. The test trenches were located in areas which were calculated to pick up the line of the wall, as established by eye and through a recent survey by Lean & Howard, "Noller Parade Detail of River Bed and Foreshore", dated September 26, 2000 .

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Brief History •

The sea wall is a remnant of the Byrnes Mill sea wall built around 1840 at a time when water transport was an economically viable mode of transport. The sea wall is the only visible r~mnant of the Byrnes Mill complex. The complex included a four storey mill structure, workers' cottages and wharflng facilities, completed by the early 1840s. ·

The land along the River, judging by early views of the area was characterised by high banks. How the sea wall related to the high banks is not entirely clear. The wall evidently ~uffered from considerable erosion over time, resulting in an enormous amount of fill being dumped over the area within recent decades .

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The Excavations

Apart from trench 1 , the trenches were excavated in a south-west orientation to maximise the ch~nce of locating wall remains. Trench 2 had to be excavated at an angle because the excavator could not negotiate the bank directly to the south. The excavations were back-filled, compressed and the surface tracked in.

Trench 1.

The position of the buried sea wall was determined by following the surface of the wall from the exposed bend at the west end of the site. The wall was found to be intact at the same height as the exposed sections to the west and directly to the north of Ch 80. The wall was found to be intact to the extent of at least 11 metres. See plan of Trench 1.

The stratigraphy above the surface level of the wall was found to be recent j~dging by plastics and ·modern glass found in the soil. The raised stratigraphy to the south of the wall appears to be a sequence of fill layers but earlier deposits are expected at lower levels (below the surface level of the waH).

Regarding future work on the sea wall, it is recommended that it be traced by following the surface of the wall. This method leaves no doubt as to the exact location of the wall and should pin-point areas where the wall changes direction or where it has been destroyed. It seems from the results of Trenches 3 and 4 that at

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Trench 2 •

No traces of the wall were found here, despite excavation below the water table (two metres down from the present surface). The footing of the wall may survive lower down.

The stratigraphy consisted of a series of fill layers. The lowest layer excavated (1850mm down) consisted of fine blue metal with fragments of Gao-textile fabric evident from previous attempts to stabilize the River edge.

Trench 3

This trench was taken to a depth of three metres. At about 2800mm a number of very roughly dressed blocks of sandstone were found, likely representing the footing of the sea wall. The latter feature could not be carefully assessed because of the fast rate of tidal water seepage. One of the stones was loosened but even at the depth of 3000mm, no solid shale rock was found ..

The location was chosen also because it coincided with the line of the fissure in the ground, the land had dropped approximately 300mm along the north side of the fissure. Here the sandstone. footing was located along the north side of the fissure, whereas in Trench 4 (where the stone remains were found at a higher level) it was located along the south side of the fissure. ·

The stratigraphy consisted of a number of layers of recent fill, the lowest being of unconsolidated sand with sandstone 'floaters' (between 1950mm ano 2800mm). The latter deposit was very unstable, the sides collapsing as the tidal water in the

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trench rose. At the depth of 28QOmm, at the south side of the trench, fragments of shale were noticed, perhaps indicating the proximity of more solid shale.

Trench 4

Here apparent footing remains were found located at a depth of about 2000mm, along the south side of the fissure. A squared stone was found in the line of the wall (as seen to the east) but slightly tilted toward the River. The stone was part of a series of ston~s as shown in the plan and elevation. The feature is possibly a continuation of the recently exposed wall.located to the east.

As with Trenches 2 and 3, the stratigraphy consisted of a number of layers of recent fill. At around the depth of 2000mm a layer of fine clay was found containing rotting organic matter, associated with the stone. The stratigraphy below the clay may be early.

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INTRODUCTION

The survey undertaken has involved the identification of above ground remains along the Deserve from Charles Street to the ruined timber wharf east of Arthur Street. The surrounding streets, bloeks of land and even the north shore has also been taken into account, where relevant to the study. Particular note has been taken of the sea walls.

Apart from the sea walls, very little of an early naiu.re may be stodied at present (remains being buried). To overcome the disadvantage, research has been undertaken foeusing on the early landing areas, wharfs and related structures.

Foeus was also placed on the (non-destructive) stabilization work which took plaee at the end of Alfred Street during late March and early Aprll. The work led to a number of discoveries, . primarlly related to the existing early wall and remnant fauna.

As this survey relates to work involving several consultants, this progress report wlll brieRy outline some of the conclusions already made which wlll assist the other consultants' greatest needs, namely the extent of the early walls and impaet of cycle ways. Consultants ete., contacted include: Dick Bass, Geoff Britton, Dinah Fisher, Oriana Senese and Carmen Osborne of Urban Strategy •

. SUMMARY STATEMENT OF SIGND'ICANCE

The area contains the site of the . l:trst European landing and landing Area (Gas Works Bridge, east side) which determined the layout of Parramatta. Assoeiated early structures inelude the first Store and Barracks of which there may yet be found archaeological evidence. The series of sea walls mark the changes in the use of the area as a public wharf to a complex sequence of private and government wharfs relating to agriculture and industry from about 1808. The construction of the Gasworks, the bridge, roads and service trenches destroyed much but certainly not all of the archaeology of the area. The Lennox wall of 1834/1835 is a rare survival of early and building practice. It is almost certain that remains of the 1808 Store and wharf will be found a little inland from the

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present structure.

The original landing area and River crossing (Bridge area) will also bave been used by Aborigines as an important crossing. Parts of George Street and Macarthur Street very lili.ely followed

. earlier Aboriginal tralls.

Although the native bush land bas been :marginalized to extinction (some minor survivals on the north side of the River), the :mangrove areas are generally healthy. Of huge significance is· the survival of a population of native invertebrates, mainly land mollusca (snails) in one stretch of degraded banli. from the east side of Arthur Street to the ruined wooden wharf. Some of the native species bave not been recorded in Parramatta for at least a century.

The Reserve has early associations with many pioneers, most notably John Macarthur and George Howell.

The whole of the ftueens Wharf Reserve should be regarded as an arcbaeological resource.

INITIAL RECOMMENDATIONS

Extent of sea walls

The area of the wharves extend from the ruined timber wharf down stream of Alfred Street to the Gas Works Bridge. The latter place was the site of the old dam and Howell's Mill and divided the River between fresh and salt water. As boats could not proceed further upstream (from the bridge) because of the former rocks, there was no need to build wbarves farther upstream.

The situation altered considerably when the rock constrictions were removed, and the tidal part of the River extended further upstream and the shore much altered. The present landing is now at Charles Street.

Future worli. between the bridge and Charles Street should still have arcbaeological input if soil is to he disturbed but there should be little danger if future works minimise soil disturbance in this area. See attached list.

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Cycle Way

The exact course of the cycle way is yet to be determined. Comment may be made for the area between the ruined timber wlmrf and Alfred Street because the cycle way can only take one route. This area is fairly narrow and the present track is located between the base of the bank and the mangrove. The bank is covered with weed growth, largely lantana, bot contains a population of native and introduced land mollusca of great significance. Some of the species, such as Turrisitala parramattensis, have not been recorded in Parramatta for over one hundred years. This population should be actively pt:otected: care nmst be taken not to disrupt the habitat when . the cycle track is constructed. ·

The ruined timber wharf should also be protected, being the only wharf of that kind to survive along this stretch of the River.

There should be few heritage obstacles to the cycle way if care is taken not to disturb the soil. Once the route is -determined, it will require a Section 60 or 140 after examination by the site archaeologist.

The final plan for this work should be examined by the site archaeologist because 1 the whole site is archaeologically sensitive, despite the destruction caused by the Gas Works, road construction etc.

It would add interest to the landscaping if it could reflect the archaeology of the area: early landing site, 1808 Store, Bowell's mill etc.

Research ArchaeoloUY

An outcome for the lmal report will be a list of suggested research-based archaeology, for example: the location of the 1808 store; the determination of structures associated with the different sea walls; the determination of any remains of Bowell's Mill and former nearby structures etc. Even more recent structures could be considered of interest. It should be

• considered that an excavation along the Reserve would create a lot of interest for visitors (lu-st glimpse from the ferry), particularly in view of the forthcoming Olympics.

Dr Robert V .J Varman Archaeologist, Heritage Consultant •

. -May 1996

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INTRODUCTION

The snails were discovered after a small area was cleared of Lantana camera during landscaping work, by Parramatta City Council, along the bank of the Parramatta River at the end of Alfred street in April 1996. The first of the snails were noticed during a routine archaeological examination of the River bank.

It should be noted that terrestrial mollusca, or snails, apart from the Common Garden Snail, are generally extremely fussy about their habitat. It came as a huge surprise to find so many species, in particular the endemic species, in such a degraded habitat. The chief species along the bank are: Lantana, Coral Tree and Balloon Vine. Apart from the Mangroves and esturine herbs, growing along the River edge, there were no endemic plant species apart from some weed-like herbs. Most of the species are minute and so easily overlooked by the untrained eye ..

The presence of the snails indicates that there must have been a fairly gradual shift , from endemic flora to the rank weed growth seen today. The implication is that there may be many invertebrate survivals from the fauna of Parramatta of 200 years ago along this area. It appears that Lantana and Coral Tree in particular, in some circumstances may not be so evil after all (they do build up good mulch at any rate). In contrast, the bank to the west of Alfred Street does not appear to have had the same gradual shift from endemic to exotic; only exotic snail species are to be found there ..

Of significance to Parramatta is the rediscovery of the species, Turrisitala parramattensis, first published by J C Cox in 1864 and collected by the Rev R L King of Parramatta, one of the foremost collectors of the time. Though found elsewhere in the State, the species probably has not been recorded at Parramatta for well over a century. Several other species I found at the site were also published in 1864.

LIST (April 1-7, 1996)

HELIX ASPERA, Common Garden Snail. Europe

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Only two fragmented specimens found along the whole area. This result is extraordinary and appears to be due to the presence of Strangesta capillacea, or Carnivorous Snail, which is also extraordinary considering the total lack of endemic vegetation (though have been known to take up residence in gardens close to natural bush land.

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BRADYBAENA SIMILARIS, Bradybaena SnaiL Europe etc. .. Fairly common along the banks along both sides of Alfred Street. Many of the specimens were damaged, perhaps due to the Carnivorous snaiL The snails were of the reddish-brown peripheral band variety but for two old,. worn, specimens. The population on the east bank, at least, had very strongly defined bands and some shells had a distinct reddish or purple hue .. About 40 specimens were noted.

OXYCHILUS ALLIARUS, Garlic Snail. Introduced .. A small, flattish, dark amber, glassy shelled snail. Also found along the west bank and at Old Government House. The snail is supposed to give off a garlic smell when crushed. About 60 specimens were noted ..

OXYCHILUS SP ? Introduced? A similar shell as the above but smaller, slightly flatter, more whorled when specimens of a similar size are compared. The outer whorls do not flare out or widen greatly ... Of a dull tan colour,. I first mistook these as long-dead juveniles of 0. a/liarus (in many species clear shells decalcify to a dull white colour over a period of time after death). Although unlikely to be related to the preceding species, the name is used for convenience of reference. Further work required. 11 specimens were noted.

SODALETA MICROCOSMOS Endemic A miniature snail resembling preceding species. A species also collected by R L King but at Stroud. Considered in 1868 as the 'most minute of Australian Helices'. About ten specimens seen.

OPEAS or BULIMOID species Introduced? The name is yet to be determined. A small (3-5mm), narrow (2-2.5mm) snail with a very shiny shell. The rim of the mouth of the shell has a distinct orangy hue. Also found on the west bank but not yet in Parramatta Park. Over 250 specimens noted.

TORNATELLINOPS SP Introduced? Endemic? The name needs confirming. On first appearance this snail resembles that of the above but is distinctively clear (with a Vaseline sheen) or white if the shell is old. The shell is also slightly longer (5-6mm) and has 6 to 7 whorls instead of 4 to 5. Specimens also found along the west bank and at Old Government House .. A very similar species has been found at both Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island (not published at the latter place). Only 9 specimens were found.

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STRANGESTA CAPILLACEA, Carnivorous SnaiL Endemic .. One live specimen and a recently dead one displayed a deep amber colour on the upper surface and a yellow-tan on the under side. The shell is highly shiny. These are flattish snails and can reach 25mm across, most found on site were much smaller, though most seen were not mature specimens. The lack of the Common Garden Snail (only two) must be due to the presence of this species. One specimen was found on the other side of the River but may have floated there during the January storm. One specimen has also been found at Old Government House in remnant bush land consisting of three trees and lots of leaf litter. Ten specimens noted.

TURRISITALA PARRAMATTENSIS, Parramatta Turrisitala Snail. Endemic. An unexpected find, having thought that the snail would have disappeared from Parramatta long ago. The Rev. R L King of Parramatta collected specimens in Parramatta mid last century which became the 'type' for the species and hence the name of the district The original name was Helix parramattensis. The snails do exist elsewhere in the State, I found a small population of them in bush land near Gosford.

There are two population concentrations along the bank: one near the ruined wharf and the other next to the plaster dump close to the line of Alfred street The snail is very small (2.25mm across the base), amber hued, see-through and beautifully formed, like a rounded stepped pyramid with about five 'steps', or whorls. Rounded at the base, not umbilicated. Over 60 specimens were noted.

TURRISITALA SP Endemic A miniature version (1 mm across the base) of T. parramattensis but umbilicated and with minute transverse ribbing on the surface. These have about 4 whorls. This species is too small to be the introduced Helix nitida described in J C Cox' 1868 publication. I believe I have come across the species before in the Central Coast region and may not have a riame. About five specimens seen.

PSEUDOTURRISITALA Endemic A contrived name to describe a minute snail with a similar pyramidal outline, but not as elevated, as the two species described above. Differs in that this species has a very deep and wide umbilicus like a coiled staircase. This species is probably a Charopid and would be difficult to name. About six specimens found.

HELIX NITIDA Britain/Europe A tiny, species with a wide umbilicus and coarse, oblique, minute ribbing. The snail superficially resembles the preceding species. The snail was introduced during the early days and was widespread around Sydney even in the 1860s. I have found specimens at Kingston, Norfolk Island and the Botanical Gardens, Sydney. The name may have been changed. About 20 specimens found .

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ALLOCHAROPA BRAZIER! Endemic

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A very widely distributed snail but usually found in bush settings. A small Charopid, of coiled appearance, deep and wide umbilicus, depressed top, the last whorl descending,. the whorls having very fine and evenly spaced ribs. Have found specimens at the Botanical Gardens in Sydney and at Old Government House in the remnant endemics area. About 20 specimens found ..

SP CHAROPA Endemic A small snail similar in appearance to the preceding but even more discoidal, the last whorl not descending. Three specimens seen.

AUSTRALBINULA STRANGEANA Endemic A very small species roughly resembling a truncated form of Tornatellinops. The mouth has an extraordinary set of 'teeth'. This species and one similar to it (probably the same) was collected in Parramatta by Rev. R L King of Parramatta: originally named Pupa Kingi and Pupa Strangei. There is a dextral and sinistral variety .. Of the six specimens collected, all were sinistral. More recent work on the snail suggests that the coastal variety is always sinistral but 'inland' snails may be dextral. Of the hundreds I have collected, this bears out for the coast and am yet to find a dextral one. Another exciting find for Parramatta.

POST SCRIPT Many Australian species of snails are yet to be found, let alone described and published. Every effort was made to distinguish juvenile specimens of the species described above so as to avoid listing them as potentially new species. More species may yet be found but this is not a priority as long as the habitat is made secure.

Dr Robert V J V ARMAN Archaeologist/Heritage Consultant. April 21, 1996. ·

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