Preserving Our History

Beyond the Line

The northern extension of Goyder's Line. SRSA GRG 35/585/66

In 1869 the Strangways Act introduced terms for the purchase of agricultural land on credit. The pressure was on to survey and proclaim additional hundreds so that more farmers could take advantage of the new arrangements.

Hundred of Booleroo. SRSA GRS 6910

The Hundred of Booleroo was proclaimed in 1875. Its position right on the line means that its fortunes have fluctuated in dry seasons, but its relative success compared to hundreds to its north can be seen in the predominance of green sections on the map.

After the field survey of a new hundred, a 'public map' was created and made available at the Lands Department offices from which prospective buyers could make their selection. The sections coloured green are those that have been selected by 1902 when the map was withdrawn.

Hundred of Kanyaka. SRSA GRS 6910

The Hundred of Kanyaka was proclaimed in 1876. Far to the north of the line, it had attracted few purchasers by 1918 when this map was withdrawn. Most of the sections coloured pink are held by lease.

SRSA GRG 35/585/66

The plan of 1880 showing the relative positions of the hundreds of Booleroo, with the line running through it, and Kanyaka (in the top left corner) which lies far to the north of the line.