Isn’t it amazing how a place can hold so much history within its small area? We are standing in Blackstone, Queensland. This suburb of Ipswich has a population of just over 1,100 people. But Blackstone’s story is rich and fascinating.
Blackstone wasn’t always called Blackstone. Originally, the area was known as Bundamba Creek. This caused confusion with nearby Bundamba. Mrs Orr, the postmistress, suggested the name Blackstone. It was believed to be a place in Ireland.
The area is renowned for its mining history. In 1866, Welshman Lewis Thomas established one of the first mines here. Blackstone developed a strong Welsh heritage because of him. Thomas populated the community with Welsh miners and their families. They established their own Cambrian choir and church in 1886. A School of Arts followed in 1891. A soccer club was founded in 1890. The public school opened in 1887.
After mining at Dinmore, Thomas returned. He opened his first Aberdare Mine in 1876. It brought him prosperity. In 1881, the government allowed him to build a private railway. By 1903, it became a loop line connecting many mines. These mines stretched from Bundamba to Redbank. They included Blackheath, Box Flat, and Aberdare.
Blackstone Congregational Church has a story. It was established in 1879. Architect Will Haenke designed it. The church initially faced Thomas Street. Around 1900, a new church building was constructed. It faced Mary Street. The original building was kept as a hall. In December 2007, the Samoan Methodist Church bought the church. Samoan-language services began on January 27, 2008. The Samoan Methodist Church is still located at 14 Mary Street. You can see the original church entrance from Thomas Street. The later church entrance is on Mary Street.
Blackstone State School played a big role in the community. It opened on January 17, 1887. Sadly, it closed on December 31, 2009. The school was located at 14 Hill Street.
Blackstone is also home to several heritage-listed sites. These include the United Welsh Church, Cambrian House, and the former Blackstone State School. Blackstone has a rich history. It reflects the lives of the miners and their families who shaped this community.