Campbelltown, located within the Sydney metropolitan area in eastern New South Wales, Australia, boasts a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1810. Governor Lachlan Macquarie named the town after his wife, Elizabeth Campbell, marking its beginning as a significant settlement in the region.

The indigenous heritage of Campbelltown is deeply rooted in the Dharawal People, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. This heritage is acknowledged and celebrated, particularly in places like the Dharawal National Park in Wedderburn.

The region, originally known for its fertile pastures, gained prominence under the guidance of pioneers like John and Elizabeth Macarthur. John Macarthur was granted 5,000 acres in what was then known as the Cowpastures in 1805, where he played a crucial role in developing the Australian wool industry.

Campbelltown’s growth was significantly influenced by the European settlement of Sydney. Post the European arrival, the area, known for its ‘Cowpastures’ due to straying cattle from Sydney, transformed into a bustling center of agricultural activity. The Macarthur region, named for its renowned pioneers, became a cornerstone for agricultural development, particularly in wool production.

As Campbelltown evolved, it preserved its colonial heritage, evident in the numerous heritage-listed buildings scattered throughout the city. This blend of indigenous culture and European colonial history makes Campbelltown a place of unique cultural significance and a testament to Australia’s diverse heritage.

In the early 1960s, Campbelltown was designated as a satellite city and a regional capital for southwest Sydney. This marked a period of extensive building and population growth, with the government allocating land for public and private housing and industrial development.