On this page members of the Maitland and District Historical Society are sharing their research into a variety of aspects of the history of our locality. New stories will be added as they become available.
Use search to find stories about the person, place, topic or keyword you are interested in.
Otto Baldwin, colonial entrepreneur with wide-ranging interests
Otto Baldwin was an explorer who became an important land-owner, businessman and philanthropist in the Maitland area and further afield.
A dignitary’s death and funeral, 1893
In the nineteenth century, the funerals of important public figure were significant occasions. This was very much the case with Richard Young, the sitting Mayor of West Maitland at the time of his death.
John Gillies, mayor and MP
John Gillies was for two years the Mayor of West Maitland and became for 20 years a member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly, known best for his promotion of the interests of Maitland.
Dr R J Pierce, loved nineteenth century medico
Robert Pierce was a Dublin-born doctor who practised medicine In the Hunter Valley for several years. After his death a fountain was erected in High St in his memory.
Helping hands from outside Maitland: the 1955 flood
David Russell and Malcolm Bailey were two of the many people from outside Maitland who travelled to the town to help during and after the 1955 flood.