Tired of the city’s hustle? Imagine a serene escape. That is Bushells Lagoon. It is a hidden gem with a fascinating past.
Bushells Lagoon owes its name to Paul Bushell. He was a Second Fleeter and a Wilberforce resident. He lived there from 1798 until his death in 1853. His story is remarkable.
He wasn’t granted land in New South Wales. Instead, he bought it all. He saved his earnings as a convict. Then, he established businesses in the Hawkesbury. He supplemented his income as a hardworking farmer. Bushell ran an equine and a shoemaking business. Unlike many, he didn’t profit from the alcohol trade.
Paul Bushell was unique. He chose independence from government aid. He and his family never received government stores. He contributed to the community. He helped establish the first school at Wilberforce around 1807. He also aided the church and school at Ebenezer in 1808-9 and St John’s Church at Wilberforce from 1846.
Around 1803, he first bought land near Bushells Lagoon. It was a 25-acre allotment initially granted to Thomas Lawrence. It had high ground for building his home. He lived there for 50 years. His family remained there after his death in 1853.
In 1818, he acquired 50 acres of Benjamin Cusley’s land. This was through a bequest in Peter Clark’s will. By October 1820, he added 60 more acres of Cusley’s land. He also obtained 55 acres granted to William Cross. In 1821, he purchased two 30-acre parcels of Cusley’s old land. Around this time, he bought 20 acres of John Cobcroft’s grant. It faced the Lagoon.
Paul Bushell also bought about half of the Edward Robinson grant. He gave it as a wedding dowry to his adopted daughter. Her name was Isabella Jane Forrester. She married in 1822. By then, he owned almost all the land around the Lagoon.
Accessing Bushells Lagoon isn’t always easy. It is surrounded by private land. Viewing it can be difficult. One spot on Argyle Reach Road offers a glimpse. Brewer’s Lane also provides access.
For years, the Lagoon has often been dry and shallow. This raises questions about land ownership. Paul Bushell had disputes over this. High water levels submerged much of his land.
Today, there’s a focus on preserving Bushells Lagoon. Preventing power boat use is a goal. Promoting historical tourism is another idea. A storyboard could explain its history.
Remember, Bushells Lagoon is more than just a body of water. It is a testament to Paul Bushell’s resilience. He transformed himself from a convict into a successful landowner and community pillar. His legacy lives on in the name of this hidden gem.