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Lawrence
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HistoryLawrence is situated 35kms north-east of Milton along the highway to Central Otago. The township is only 3kms from Gabriels Gully where gold was discovered in 1861. Surveyed in 1862, the population of goldminers in the area meant authorities could not wait for the township to be built. They established a township of tents known as ‘The Camp’ which included a tent courthouse, gaol, warden’s office, gold office, land and survey office, and post office. A built township followed with storekeepers, ironmongers, drapers, bootmakers, builders, watchmakers, a newsagent, chemist, and many banks.
At the height of the goldrush Lawrence had a population double that of Dunedin at the time. In 1866 Chinese miners arrived and set up a camp west of Lawrence. By 1870 the camp had a population of 300. By 1924 this had decreased to only 14.
Though the goldrush was short-lived, its impact on Lawrence can still be seen today with 21 buildings heritage listed in the town. In recent times, Lawrence has become a service town for a widespread farming community. Additionally, the town sits on the main route to Central Otago, and therefore is becoming an increasingly popular stop for tourists.
At the height of the goldrush Lawrence had a population double that of Dunedin at the time. In 1866 Chinese miners arrived and set up a camp west of Lawrence. By 1870 the camp had a population of 300. By 1924 this had decreased to only 14.
Though the goldrush was short-lived, its impact on Lawrence can still be seen today with 21 buildings heritage listed in the town. In recent times, Lawrence has become a service town for a widespread farming community. Additionally, the town sits on the main route to Central Otago, and therefore is becoming an increasingly popular stop for tourists.
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Lawrence . Clutha Heritage, accessed 08/10/2024, https://heritage.cluthadc.govt.nz/nodes/view/59