When Were Olive Trees Planted in Parramatta?

Parramatta, located in the Western Sydney region of New South Wales, Australia, is known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. One of the crops that have been grown in the area for centuries is olive trees. Olive oil production has been a significant part of the Parramatta economy, but when were olive trees first planted in the area? Let's explore the history of olive trees in Parramatta.

Indigenous Australians and Olive Trees

The Darug people were the first inhabitants of the Parramatta area, and they have been known to use olive leaves and roots for medicinal purposes. There are no records of olive cultivation during the pre-colonial period, but it is believed that the indigenous people had some knowledge of the olive tree.

Colonial Period

The earliest records of olive trees in Parramatta date back to the colonial period. The first olive trees were planted in the region during the 1790s by Governor John Hunter. The trees were brought from Chile and planted in the Government Domain, located in the heart of Parramatta.

In 1805, a land grant was given to George Suttor, who was a pioneer of olive cultivation in Parramatta. He established an olive grove on his property, which he named "The Hermitage."

19th Century to Present

During the 19th century, olive cultivation in Parramatta continued to thrive. In the 1850s, the Italian community began to settle in Parramatta, and they brought with them their knowledge and expertise in olive oil production.

The late 19th century saw a decline in olive production as the region became increasingly urbanized. However, in the mid-20th century, there was a resurgence of interest in olive cultivation in Parramatta.

Today, olive trees can be found throughout Parramatta, and olive oil production continues to be an essential part of the region's economy. The agricultural industry has seen growth in recent years, and the production of locally grown olives is becoming increasingly popular among food enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The history of olive trees in Parramatta spans centuries, and the crop continues to thrive in the region today. Although there are no records of pre-colonial olive cultivation, the indigenous people are believed to have some knowledge of the tree. The colonial period saw the establishment of the first olive trees in Parramatta, with George Suttor being a significant figure in the industry. Today, olive oil production is an essential part of the Parramatta economy, and the region continues to prioritize the growth of the agricultural industry.