Cape Jervis Local History
Cape Jervis is a small coastal town situated on the southern point of the Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia. It is approximately 150 km south of Adelaide and is the gateway to Kangaroo Island. The town is named after Sir Henry Jervis, a British naval officer who served under Admiral Horatio Nelson.
The area now known as Cape Jervis was originally inhabited by the Kaurna Indigenous people. European explorers first arrived in the area in the early 1800s, with the first recorded visit by Captain Matthew Flinders in 1802. Flinders named the area "Cape Jervis" after his friend and colleague, Sir Henry Jervis.
The town began to grow in the mid-1800s when the first settlers arrived in the area. Some of the early industries in the town included farming, fishing, and timber milling. The town also became an important port for ships travelling to and from Kangaroo Island.
In 1853, a telegraph line was established between Adelaide and Cape Jervis, which allowed for faster communication between the two areas. This helped to further develop the town and its industries.
During World War II, Cape Jervis was used as a training ground for soldiers. A number of buildings and facilities were constructed in the town to support the war effort, including barracks, mess halls, and training grounds.
Today, Cape Jervis is a popular tourist destination. Visitors come to the town to catch the ferry to Kangaroo Island, go fishing, or enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. The town has a number of accommodation options for visitors, including camping grounds, cabins, and holiday homes.
Cape Jervis is also home to a number of natural attractions, including the Deep Creek Conservation Park. This park covers over 4,000 hectares of land and is home to a variety of native flora and fauna. Visitors can hike through the park and enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline.
In conclusion, Cape Jervis has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. From its Indigenous roots to its development into a bustling port town in the mid-1800s and its role in World War II, the town today remains an important hub for tourism and a gateway to Kangaroo Island.