Heritage & History

The Denmark region combines a beautiful setting with an intriguing history and a growing cultural awareness.

The Denmark area was known to local Noongars (Aborigines) as Kurrabup which means 'place we return to'. Signs of Noongar culture, such as fish traps, and ochre and dolerite quarries, can still be seen in the area.

In 1895 European settlers moved into the Denmark region seeking the magnificent timber that once grew throughout the region. In the 19th century streets in London were paved in timber blocks cut from trees that grew here. The timber industry lasted only a decade although it did receive a boost after the second World War when the demand for building products soared.

The introduction of the Group Settlement Scheme in the 1920's brought significant change to the area. Small farms of 40 hectares were developed to create pasture for cattle, dairying and orchards.

Tourism commenced in the early 1930's and after the second World War Denmark became a popular holiday destination for West Australians. Denmark has now come of age as a 'must visit" destination for tourists from all over the world.

The Denmark Historical Museum is a good place to explore stories of early settlement.  Located in Mitchell Street, it houses an impressive collection of early photographs, artefacts and documents. The museum is open Tuesdays (2-4pm), Thursdays (10am-12noon, 2-4pm) and Sundays (2-4pm).