Stories of Downs pioneers
FAMILY historians have captured the stories of 60 pioneers from Toowoomba and across the Darling Downs.
The book titled Men of Fire, Iron and Leather gathers the history of coachbuilders, blacksmiths and wheelwrights, saddlers and bootmakers across the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The Toowoomba and Darling Downs Family History Society documents family histories and is celebrating 20 years at its permanent home which was moved from 61 Drayton Road to its present site on cemetery grounds in 2006.
President Marie Green said that the society wanted to pay tribute to these special skills and the men that used them.
“It is testament to the hard work of editor and contributor Diana Beal that this book has been completed”
Mrs Green said.
“It tells the tale of our early pioneers who battled tough conditions to help create the beautiful region we enjoy today,” she said.
Member for Toowoomba South David Janetzki had the honour of officially launching the book.
“The book captures the resilience and determination of our pioneers who helped shape the recent history of the Darling Downs,” Mr Janetzki said.
“I congratulate President Marie and in particular, Diana for her hard work gathering this important history for our future generations,” he said.
Men of Fire, Iron and Leather is available at the Toowoomba and Darling Downs Family History Research Centre, 452 South St, Harristown at a cost of $20. The centre is open Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm.