Our History
Overview
As a result of the events of the Cowra Breakout, Cowra Shire has close historical ties to Japan that manifest themselves in various forms within the town.
Residents and visitors will notice the links through the Avenue of Cherry Trees, the Cowra Japanese Garden, War Cemetery and the Sakura Matsuri Festival to name just a few. Cowra also has a strong relationship with Indonesia and Italy because of the large number of POW in the town during WWII.
Cowra has always prided itself on being the centre of World Friendship and promotes the accepting nature of the town through the annual Festival of International Understanding, celebrating a different international culture each year.
The information under the left hand navigation gives a good idea of Cowra's history and begins to explain how that history has shaped the Cowra we see today.
Cowra Family History Group
If you are researching your family history in Cowra's fascinating past, chances are the Cowra Family History.
Group will have information relevant to your search.
The Cowra Family History Group holds extensive material for research and is housed in the Cowra Library.
Buy the Book! Cowra: Into the 21st Century
Situated in the picturesque Lachlan Valley of Central NSW, Cowra Shire has a rich Indigenous and European heritage, steeped in fascinating history. But what of the last three decades, as Cowra and the Shire's villages moved into the 21st century?
Exploring 30 years of life in the Cowra Shire, Cowra: Into the 21st Century includes contributions from over 150 local authors and photographers. This beautifully illustrated 400 page hardback book provides an overview of the progress and development of the Shire from the years 1988 to 2018, shining a light on its residents and their achievements.
Cowra: Into the 21st Century retails for $49.95 and you can purchase the book from Council's Customer Service Centre in Kendal St, or one of these awesome local retailers or venues:
- Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre
- Cowra Visitor Information Centre
- Kendal Street Newsagency, Cowra
- Cowra Newsagency
- Cowra Regional Art Gallery
You can also purchase a copy from the Visit Cowra online store at https://visitcowra.com.au/cowra-book