Commissioned by the Heritage Council of Western Australia, the Thematic History of Western Australia is designed to provide context to help understand the heritage value of places being considered for inclusion on the State Register of Heritage Places.
The work covers everything from devastating disasters, political turmoil and social injustices, to sporting triumphs, entertainment trends and even dietary preferences.
With a focus on the last 200 years following British settlement, the document is the first work of its type to cover the whole of the State. It will be added to and revised over time as our understanding of the State's heritage develops.
It provides a concise overview of WA framed across eight themes and is expressed through key stories and chronological periods. The themes draw on the environmental, economic, social, political and cultural influences throughout the State's development.
It is an invaluable resource for practitioners and others within the heritage sector and a captivating read for anyone who enjoys delving into WA's history and heritage.
The Thematic History was researched and authored for the Heritage Council by historian Clare Menck, who sadly passed away before it could be published, and leaves a lasting legacy for WA.
