Family historians have captured the stories of 60 pioneers from Toowoomba and across the Darling Downs.
The book titled “Men of Fire, Iron and Leather” gathers the history of coachbuilders, blacksmiths and wheelwrights, saddlers and bootmakers across the 19 th and early 20 th centuries.
The Toowoomba and Darling Downs Family History Society documents family histories and is celebrating 20 years at its permanent home which was moved from 61 Drayton Road to its present site on Drayton and Toowoomba Cemetery grounds in 2006.
President Marie Green said that the Society wanted to pay tribute to these special skills and the men that used them.
“It is testament to the hard work of editor and contributor Diana Beal that this book has been completed” Mrs Green said. “It tells the tale of our early pioneers who battled tough conditions to help create the beautiful region we enjoy today,” she said.
Member for Toowoomba South David Janetzki had the honour of officially launching the book.
“The publication captures the resilience and determination of our pioneers who helped shape the recent history of the Darling Downs. I congratulate President Marie and in particular, Diana for her hard work gathering this important history for our future generations,” Mr Janetzki said.
“Men of Fire, Iron and Leather” is available to buy at the Toowoomba and Darling Downs Family History Research Centre, 452 South Street, Harristown at a cost of $20. The Centre is open Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm. To order email tddfhs@westnet.com.au or phone (07) 4634 7377.
Submitted by:
Janice Nicholson
Office Manager
Office of David Janetzki MP
Member for Toowoomba South
566 Ruthven Street, Toowoomba Qld 4350
Email: toowoomba.south@parliament.qld.gov.au
