Tracing the Footsteps of
Blue Mountains' History

The Blue Mountains Historical Society was established in 1946 by the Blue Mountains Council, later moving to the historic cottage Tarella, which is now used as a museum and is open to the public on the last Sunday of each month from January to November. The Society is housed in a modern building with research rooms, library, kitchen and meeting rooms adjacent to Tarella.

HISTORICAL TARELLA COTTAGE MUSEUM

Come visit our museum, open to the public on the last Sunday of earch month from January to November

HOBBYS RESEARCH CENTRE & LIBRARY

The Research Centre’s normal opening hours are each Tuesday and Friday from 10.00am to 2.00pm from mid January to mid December

Unlock Your Home's History

Discover the stories behind your historical property with our donation-based research. Whether you’re a new owner or a history buff, we’ll help uncover the secrets of your house or building’s past.

BMHS Tarella Historic Cottage Open Day

January 25, 2026 10:00 am

The Blue Mountains Historical Society (BMHS) will conduct a community Open Day at Tarella, its Historic Cottage Museum. Visitors are invited to view this fine

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Meeting and Public Talk – Pianists of the Blue Mountains by Colin Semmler

February 7, 2026 10:30 am

Colin Semmler, a member of BMHS, will present the first monthly talk for 2026. He will speak to his very well researched and recently completed

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BMHS Excursion – Linnwood House, Guildford, and Fairfield Museum

February 18, 2026 8:30 am

Our first excursion on Wednesday, 18 February, will depart BMHS promptly at 8.30am for historic Linnwood House at Guildford. Linnwood House was built in 1891

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RECENT POSTS

January 2026 Members’ Newsletter

1813: A Tale that Grew in the Telling. A Treasure in the BMHS Library

Blue Mountain Lookouts – A talk by Keith Painter.

Mr Greg North examines Banjo Paterson’s Boer War experiences as a special war correspondent.

‘Colourised ‘ Film footage of Katoomba in the 1920’3, 1930’s and 1950’s

BMHS Meeting and Public Talk – Wal Walker – The Squatters’ Grab

BMHS Excursion to Wiseman’s Ferry and St. Albans – 20 August 2025

Film Footage of Katoomba in the 1920’s, 1930’s and the Queen’s visit (colour) in 1954.

Capturing the Past

Our historical photo archive is a treasure trove of visual history, encompassing snapshots of daily life, iconic landmarks, and significant events that have shaped the area over the years. Members gain access as a part of membership. 

Shop our range of Posters & Books

BMHS Monthly Excursion Fee

$25.00

John Britty North – Merchant, Mine Owner & Stockbroker

$35.00

Platinum-Blue Mountains Historical Society at 70

$25.00