People
The area surrounding the Bridgewater Bridge has a vast history dating back to the Big River People, the Mumirimina clan, early convicts and colonists.
Read about the history and heritage of the area and about the people, and communities who inhabited the surrounding area.
Big River and Oyster Bay people
The Big River Peoples’ territory was the largest in size of all the First Peoples of Lutruwita. Tribal boundaries were geographical features such as rivers, lagoons, and mountains.
Bridge builders
The evolution of industry and transport in Tasmania dictated many of the alterations and changes to the bridge design, function and carrying capacity requirements.
Brief encounters
Notable travellers include Charles Darwin, who reportedly stopped at the Black Snake Inn during his exploration of the River Derwent.
Convicts and convict labour
Convicts endured harsh conditions in the construction of the Bridgewater Causeway, one of the largest and most expensive civil infrastructure projects undertaken by convicts in Australia.
Black Snake Inn Residents
The Black Snake Inn was shaped by convict settlers and colonial entrepreneurs. Richard Burrows first owned the land, later purchased by William Presnell, who established a farm and beer house. His daughter Elizabeth and her American husband George Robinson expanded the site into a coaching inn, contributing to local development. Their efforts transformed the property into a key stopover reflecting both British and American influences.