The Peel Town Archaeological Sites, located within the Beeliar Regional Park in Henderson, is one of Western Australia’s earliest known European settlement sites, south of Perth and is considered a rare example of settlement during the earliest phase of the Swan River Colony.
The Peel Town Archaeological Site is a direct consequence of the British Government’s aspirations to establish the Swan River Colony as a ‘free’ settlement. It highlights an important phase in world history, of the continuing spread of the British Empire across the globe and represents the establishment of British colonies in the far flung reaches of the Empire.
Much of the site is intact and has a high degree of integrity as its bushland location has been largely undisturbed for nearly 180 years, as the settlement was abandoned after less than a year. It also showcases the rarity of an archaeological site dating back to the c.1829-30 period.
This site demonstrated a rare aspect of Western Australia’s heritage for its association with Thomas Peel, a prominent Western Australian settler, who became notorious for the failure of his attempted establishment of early settlers. The site is an example of the ill-conceived policies of the British government which were unsuited to the circumstances and realities of the colonial experience.
The remains that were found at the Peel Town Archaeological site include hearths that were constructed from brick and limestone, related artefacts and features, limestone tent pads, other dwelling remains that were built from various material including canvas and timber.
