Rumours of a land boom whispered through Sydney in the mid-1800s. People flocked to Wentworthville. This area west of the city offered opportunity. They sought land for homes and small farms.
Wentworthville’s story begins long before that though. The Dharug or Darug people were the original custodians of this land. They lived near the river systems. These waterways are now small creeks. Often they are dry. Development changed their way of life.
Then came the Wentworth family. A significant land grant was given in 1810. D’Arcy Wentworth received 2000 acres. His son William Wentworth became a renowned explorer and politician. Wentworthville bears his family’s name.
Another key figure was William Fullagar. He established the Star Inn. This inn stood on the corner of Ettalong Road and the Western Road. The Western Road became the Great Western Highway. Fullagar also opened a large cattle saleyard. It became vital to the colony. Fullagar Road reminds us of his contribution. Wentworthville’s history is woven from these threads.
Wentworth’s holdings were divided into about 600 lots. This subdivision fueled growth. The railway reached Penrith in 1864. Wentworthville got its own station in 1883. Initially it was called T R Smith’s Platform. It was later renamed.
Two shopping areas developed in Wentworthville. The older one is near the railway station. The Supa IGA in Wentworthville Mall Shopping Centre closed in 2017. A newer centre sits on the Great Western Highway. Woolworths is a prominent store there. An Aldi is nearby in South Wentworthville. Factory outlets once thrived. Bonds sold directly to the public.
Wentworthville’s story is one of growth and change. From the Dharug people to the Wentworth family to today’s diverse community. Wentworthville has a rich history. It continues to evolve. Explore its streets. Discover its past and present. You will find a suburb full of stories.