Chapter 13: The North-South Route - 1824 to 1825
Jul 1824: Looking to build on his legacy as a Governor who would be remembered for his successful delivery of key infrastructure projects across the Colony, Governor Bowman sought to link the two major settlements of Windsor and Victoria by road. The two towns had grown significantly over the past 20 years, however the only mode of transport between the two was via local ferry services, which were struggling to keep up with demand. The services of revered pioneer explorer and civil engineer Rowan Oakwood were requested by Governor Bowman to map a North-South route between Victoria and Windsor. As the road from Victoria had already extended South to York, this was chosen as the starting location for the new road. The road would pass through uncharted territory South of York, through the hilly interior and terminate on the North bank of the Windsor River at Newport, where ferry services would provide the final link to Windsor. A future bridge would surely be needed, however funding did not allow for such a bridge at this point in time.
Sep 1824: Construction began at both ends of the new road, with teams planning to meet at the Jefferson Creek, where a small bridge would be constructed to provide the final link. The road followed the topography of the land to minimise cut and fill requirements, which resulted in many bends and turns along the way.
Apr 1825: After 6 month of construction the two teams eventually met at either side of the Jefferson Creek, and the bridge was constructed. The town of Jefferson was founded at the crossing, and a small monument and park was built to commemorate the opening of the new road and the achievements of Rowan Oakwood.
Jun 1825: The small farming community of Doncaster was established along the new North-South route, just South of York. Several large farms were established, and a few small shops were built along the busy route.
Oct 1825: A road soon branched out from the new North-South route to nearby Sutton Bay, and the small coastal community grew with the new influx of tourists, who were keen to experience the many gambling cafes which had been set up since the legalisation over 10 years ago.
Dec 1825: The small farming town of Boxwood was established along the new road to Sutton Bay.
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