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Corowa & Howlong History Trails

Our region is rich with wonderful experiences that celebrate and commemorate our ancient Indigenous and colonial history. Explore our self-guided history trails in Corowa and Howlong, and discover how these towns have contributed to shaping modern Australia.
Sanger Street near Globe Hotel

Corowa The Birthplace of Federation

In 1893 at a conference in Corowa, a resolution was passed paving the way for the formation of the Australian Commonwealth in 1901. Today the township of Corowa is known widely as the ‘Birthplace of Federation’.

Immerse yourself in this rich history as you uncover the stories behind 25 historic sites and landmarks across Corowa. Each site has its own story, taking visitors on the journey from yesteryear to the present day.

Corowa History Trail details

Corowa History Trail brochure (PDF, 6.38 MB)

Chapmans Hotel

The Historic Crossing Place

Howlong’s colonial origins begin in 1836 when the NSW surveyor-general Major Mitchell set up camp on the southern bank before crossing the river as part of his ‘Australia Felix’ expedition.

In 1838 Joseph Hawdon set off from Howlong on the first Overland Cattle Drive to Adelaide. The same river crossing was used by Hawdon for the first overland mail delivery from Port Phillip (Melbourne) to Sydney via stagecoach.

The Howlong History Trail is the perfect way to immerse yourself in this rich history as you uncover the stories behind the 28 sites that are dotted around Howlong.

The tour takes approximately 3 hours by foot or one hour by car.

Howlong History Trail details

Howlong History Trail brochure (PDF, 7.26 MB)

DSC3654 H Federation Museum Back yard

Corowa History Trail

Start your discovery of the Birthplace of Federation here in Corowa NSW 2646.

View our self guided Corowa History Trail here

Howlong Visit Corowa Region History Arts Culture Howlong History

Howlong History Trail

Start your discovery of the Historic Crossing Place dating back to 1836 in Howlong NSW 2643.

View our self guided Howlong History Trail here