Erikin, Western Australia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids ErikinWestern Australia |
|
|---|---|
 Erikin
Location in Western Australia
|
|
| Established | 1921 |
| Postcode(s) | 6418 |
| Elevation | 243 m (797 ft) |
| Location |
|
| LGA(s) | Shire of Bruce Rock |
| State electorate(s) | Central Wheatbelt |
| Federal Division(s) | O'Connor |
Erikin is a small town located in the eastern Wheatbelt region of Western Australia. It is found near the Salt River. You can find Erikin between the towns of Quairading and Bruce Rock.
Welcome to Erikin
Erikin is a quiet place in Western Australia. It's part of the Wheatbelt, an important farming area. Even though it's small, Erikin has an interesting history connected to the railway and early settlers.
How Erikin Began
Erikin started as a simple railway siding in 1913. A railway siding is like a short extra track where trains can stop or wait. This siding was built during the construction of the railway line that connected Bruce Rock to Quairading.
Soon after the railway was built, people wanted to live and work in the area. Land was measured out, and the townsite of Erikin was officially created in 1921. This meant it was recognized as a proper town.
The Story Behind the Name
The town of Erikin has a special name. It was named after Eric Harvey, the son of an early settler. Eric was the first person of European background to be born in that part of the district.
The second part of the name, "Inn," comes from an old word for a camping place or a stopover. Eric's mother suggested this name in 1913. So, "Erikin" means "Eric's camping place."
Early Days and Development
The railway was very important for Erikin. In 1914, the railway siding was made bigger. They added a new crane, which is a machine used to lift heavy things, probably for loading goods onto trains. More barracks were also built. Barracks are buildings that provide housing for workers, in this case, likely railway workers.
Life in Erikin started to grow. A school was already open and teaching children in the town by 1914. This shows that families were moving to Erikin and building a community there.
