Creation of Laidley Pioneer Village by Cheryl Qualichefski

How one man’s vision, a $40 block of land and a community of volunteers built Queensland’s first pioneer village.

A vision and a meeting at the local hotel

The Laidley Pioneer Village was born from the vision of one man, Eb Cook, who dreamt of creating a place where visitors could step back in time and experience life as it once was. Determined to bring his vision to life, Eb gathered a group of his friends at the local hotel on 10 June 1969. Together, they resolved to make his dream a reality.

Securing the land

The first step was securing a suitable piece of land. Eb approached Jean Capner, who owned a block at the corner of Drayton and Pioneer Streets. The property had been in the Faulkner family for many years. After explaining the purpose and significance of the proposed village, Eb was able to acquire the land for the token amount of $40 — and, demonstrating his dedication, he then donated it to the Pioneer Village, laying the foundation for what was to come.

As the Village grew, more land was needed. The back block, at the corner of Pioneer and Frome Streets, was later purchased from Albert Laidley Milne, fondly known as Bert. This expansion allowed the Village to accommodate more historical structures and artefacts.

“Build it, and they will come”

Volunteers from across the region, often accompanied by their children, dedicated their weekends to constructing and maintaining Laidley Pioneer Village. Their commitment and enthusiasm were unwavering, and they worked tirelessly to bring the historical site to life. Throughout this process, Mrs Cook and her team of helpers ensured that these hard-working people were well fed, fostering a strong sense of community and shared purpose.

The first committee

The Village was formally organised with a leadership team to guide its development. The first President was Jim Crack, William Blake served as Secretary, and Hugh Peters took on the role of Treasurer. Under their stewardship the Village flourished, attracting more volunteers and support from the community.

Laidley Pioneer Village was officially established in 1972 and holds the distinction of being Queensland’s first pioneer village. The Laidley District Historical Society Inc. was formed, and the Village continues to operate as a not-for-profit organisation run solely by its members and volunteers.

An elderly man with gray hair smiling, standing in front of a large tree in a grassy park with cloudy sky and residential houses in the background.

Jim Crack, the first President of the Laidley District Historical Society

A black and white photo of a group of adults standing outside in front of a house with a flagpole. The group appears to be at a social gathering or event, with several women and men dressed in casual and semi-formal attire, some wearing glasses and hats.

Founding members of the Laidley District Historical Society.

THE FIRST YEARS

Building the Village, 1971 onwards

A rustic wooden barn with a sloped roof and weathered exterior, situated on a grassy field under a partly cloudy sky.

Volunteers raising the slab hut, buildings arriving by road and the people who made it happen. Select a photograph to see it larger.

The Pioneer Slab Hut nearing completion, 1971.

Black and white photo of a small, raised house under construction with visible stairs and open windows, in a rural or suburban setting with power lines and trees in the background.

Jim Crack’s building in Vaux Street.

Nighttime view of suburban neighborhood with house, trees, utility pole, and vehicles on the street.

Jim Crack’s building being moved to the Village.

Two young boys walking outdoors in a residential area, one wearing a hat and the other with short hair, with houses and utility poles in the background.

Volunteers at work with Brian King.

Plan your visit

Open Monday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, with last admission at 2:00 pm. Adults $10, concession $8.

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