Corowa History
Walking through history
Discover the historical heart of modern Australia in Corowa. Uncover the secrets of our vibrant town and the spirit of our proud people as you journey through a past that shaped a nation.
Corowa holds a unique place in Australian history as the 'Birthplace of Federation'. The pivotal People's Convention of 1893, held here, set the nation on its path to unity.
Explore this remarkable story at the Federation Museum, housed in a century-old building with a major exhibit dedicated to the road to Federation.
Immerse yourself in Corowa's rich past by admiring its captivating historic architecture, including the Corowa Courthouse and the Oddfellow's Hall, the very location of the People's Convention.
The best way to experience Corowa's history is through the self-guided historic walk. Follow the informative signs at key buildings and the storyboards at the Corowa Civic Centre and Sanger Street to bring the story of Federation to life.
Allow about three hours for the walking tour, with plenty of opportunities to stop and relax. Alternatively, explore the central sites on foot and then drive to the outer locations for a tour of approximately one hour by car.
Explore Corowa History
Odd Fellows Hall
The Oddfellows Hall was originally constructed by the Loyal Border Lodge of the Manchester United Independent Order of Oddfellows. Construction commenced on this site in May 1886 and the finished hall was handed over to the Oddfellows in…
The Water Fountain
Now located at the entrance to Ball Park Caravan Park and privately owned, this water fountain was originally donated by Mayor A. A. Piggin in 1907 to commemorate the opening of Corowa's town water supply. The Fountain was originally…
Corowa and Howlong History Trails
The Corowa region is rich with wonderful experiences that celebrate and commemorate the ancient Indigenous and colonial history. Explore their self-guided history trails in Corowa and Howlong, and discover how these towns have contributed…
Federation Museum - "Shearing the Rams" - An Artist's Impression Mural
The mural, which is an artist's impression by Tracy Hancock, was unveiled on Saturday 4th October 2020 by the Mayor of Federation Council - Mr Pat Bourke. The project was part of the celebration of the 130th Anniversary of the completion…
Brolgas Sculpture
The "Brolgas" sculpture, situated in the heart of Corowa, commemorates the construction of the Federation Bridge over the Murray River in 2005. The sculptures were unveiled on the 150th anniversary of the proclamation of the town of…
Shearing the Rams Trail
Tom Roberts' legacy looms large North of the Murray. The famed Australian artist spent a considerable amount of time at Brocklesby Station, about 20 minutes north-west of Corowa, where he developed a series of sketches around the shearing…
The Soldiers Memorial
A prominent landmark in the town of Corowa. The Soldiers Memorial stands proud and tall at the head of Sanger Street.The memorial with its clock tower was unveiled in 1922. An avenue of trees was planted along Albury Road, which was later…
Australian Soaring Centre
The skies around Corowa are perfect for gliding, with many clear days throughout the year. The Australian Soaring Centre is in a class of its own. Come out and watch the gliders take off and fly around the countryside, or, for those a…
Corowa Memorial Hall
The Corowa Memorial Hall building was the site of the original School of Arts in 1873, the Literary Institute in 1898, the Facade in 1914 and the Memorial Hall in 1966. It was also the venue for the Celebratory Federation Banquet with Mr…
Memorial Plaza Interactive Mural
Inspired by the Murray River, local street artist, Kade Sarte worked with local high school students to create the Memorial Plaza Interactive murals, just off Sanger Street in Corowa.An excited little echidna peaks over a flowerbed, next…
Rutherglen Wine Bottle
Standing tall since 1900, Rutherglen's historic water tower, now affectionately known as "The Wine Bottle" is a beloved local landmark with a fascinating story. Originally built to hold 72,000 gallons of water for the town, it became a…
Hardworking Horse Sculpture
The "Hardworking Horse" sculpture at Daysdale, situated in the picnic area across from the Exchange Hotel, had a plaque unveiled on 27th March 2021 in honour of the late Len Hanrahan, a local farmer who lost his 40 year-long battle with…
Birthplace of Australian Federation
Step back in time and discover Corowa’s history and its role in the birth of Federation at the Corowa Federation Museum. Museum displays describe Australia’s pathway from a series of independent colonies to a single, unified nation, and vital role the town of Corowa played in this story.
In 2020, to celebrate the 130th anniversary of “Shearing the Rams”, a large mural of the iconic painting reproduced by Tracy Hancock was unveiled at the Federation Museum. The mural was funded by a bequest from the late Tim Fischer AC, local identity and former Deputy Prime Minister of Australia, and the grand opening was attended by one of the descendants of Jim Coffey, the main shearer featured in the painting.
Among other displays, art lovers will also enjoy seeing sketches by Tommy McRae, an accomplished local indigenous artist. McRae, who is said to have worked at Brocklesby Station several decades before Roberts’ visit, depicted Aboriginal cultural life and the arrival of colonists through beautiful sketches. His work can be seen in venues including the National Museum of Australia and the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, the state libraries of Victoria and New South Wales, and the Melbourne Museum.
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