Alice Springs History
The history of Alice Springs began back in 1871 when it was originally named by a very important explorer that was making his third and final attempt through the center of Australia to the north coast and mapping the terrain for white settlement to come through after him. After making his mark through the Australian countryside it was only fitting that the then-built Stuart Highway be named after him in recognition. Once Stuart had mapped out the track to the north coast of Australia it was seen that the Overland Telegraph Line that runs from Adelaide through to Darwin be constructed which was complete come the year 1872 which made it much easier for anyone who wished to take up leases in the far north parts of the country. But it wasn’t until 1887 that the big boom came for Alice Springs when gold was finally discovers in these parts which saw hundreds of settlers flock to the region to claim the stakes.
Throughout the years the main and only way to receive supplies, food and provisions was by way of huge camel trains that drove their way through the centre of the country. They were vital to the survival of the people who lived in the far north as they carried all that the settlers needed from the south coast all the way through to Alive Springs. The land in and around Alice Springs was originally inhabited by the Arrernte Aboriginal people until the white settlers came through and marked their land, and they still can be found here telling their creation stories and describing links with many of the main Australian attractions.
Transport for Alice Springs was constructed until the year 1929 when the camel trains were finally replaced with trains. The railway that ran between Adelaide and Alice Springs was finalized which saw the population of the region grow and the accessibility grew even more over the years. The trains saw more provisions and relocating families that saw promise in the area as Alice Springs was not seen as so isolated anymore. But it was only in 2004 that the train line that ran from Adelaide through to Alice Springs was finally extended and ran all the way through to Darwin.
The name Alice Springs was first given to the waterhole that was originally discovered near the town when the Overland Telegraph Live was being constructed and was named after Alice Todd the wife of the superintendent Sir Charles Todd. But back then this name created a lot of confusion so it was finally decided that the name Alice Springs would be given to the adjacent town to the water hole as well.
Alice Springs has come a long way over the years from a small settlement to a bustling outback town that many tourists and travelers alike always make a point of visiting. It was the epitome of the true outback town from its dusty streets, pubs, and locals. It lies in the heart of Australia and is known the world over for its history, culture, Aboriginal background, and art. It is one of the most famous outback towns in the country and is the closest to Ayers Rock and Kings canyon and well worth a trip. There is much to see, do and learn when you are here, so make a point of visiting Alice Springs. The stories only begin with the history of the town and only keep going with everything else that you can discover.