Richmond was settled by Europeans in 1794 and within 5 years was producing almost half of the area's grain

Noting that the Hawkesbury river flooded regularly, in 1810 when Macquarie was establishing Richmond, and Windsor, Castlereagh, Wilberforce and Pitt Town, he placed Richmond on a ridge above the Hawkesbury River. and then attempted to persuade settlers in the area to 'move to these places of safety and security'.

The rich agricultural lands in the area - a direct result of the regular floods produced much foodstuffs and provided good grazing, and soon became an important stopover on the cattle routes from the west and the north.

The University of Western Sydney, (originally Hawkesbury Agricultural College) has ensured the continuing prosperity of the town. The college, now the University of Western Sydney, still draws large numbers of students and, Richmond Airforce base has provided employment and homes for around 2,500 air force personnel.

Today Richmond is a pleasant town removed form the worst of the Sydney City excesses, yet close enough to commute daily to work in the city.

In Richmond, there are a number of interesting venues to visit. These include the
Hawkesbury Museum and Tourist Centre, 7 Thompson Square, Windsor. Open daily from 10.00 am - 4.00 pm.

Historic Richmond
To fully appreciate the town you are advised to wander the streets. If you explore, you will find hidden within more modern developments some elegant houses dating from the the mid-nineteenth century.

Most of these are situated on Windsor Street, March Street and Frances Street.

122 Windsor Street is a house built around 1850 by Andrew Town with stables at the rear; Benson House, built in the 1840s, and 'Toxana', built in 1841 are also of interest.

Carry on and you will come across St Andrews Uniting Church (originally a Presbyterian church built in 1845) and the Old Butcher Shop. Opposite the Ambulance Station is Bowman House, built in 1921 by .

More historic properties are to be found in March Street, for example, 'Rutherglen' from the 1830s, remains in good condition and is still lived in.

In Francis St is 'Josieville', erected in the 18302 by Joseph Onus, and 'Clear Oaks' farmhouse, built before 1819. The original owner was reputed to be David Langley, who arrived in Australia in 1803 with his family - his wife and three daughters. In 1804 Langley was granted land at Richmondand two convicts to help him work it. He became Superintendent of Government Blacksmiths in 1806 courtesy of Governor Bligh, and worked at the Lumber Yard, corner of George and Bridge Sts in Sydney. History tells us that this proprty was later sold by his son-in-law.

There is a good walking map available to identify these interesting buildings. These old houses and buildings reminds us that Richmond dates back to almost the beginning of the European settlement in Australia.