Risdon, Tasmania facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Risdon Hobart, Tasmania
Risdon Location in Hobart
Population	296 (2016 census)
Postcode(s)	7017
LGA(s)	City of Clarence
Federal Division(s)	Franklin
Suburbs around Risdon: (Bowen Bridge) Otago Risdon Cove Derwent River Risdon Risdon Vale Derwent River Geilston Bay

Risdon is a small suburb located in Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania, Australia. It sits to the west of another suburb called Risdon Vale. Risdon is a quiet area with a rich history, especially known for its connection to early Tasmanian settlement and a unique local plant.

History of Risdon

The name Risdon comes from Captain William Bellamy Risdon. He was the second officer on a ship called the Duke of Clarence. This ship visited the area in 1793 as part of an expedition led by Sir John Hayes.

A post office opened in Risdon on July 1, 1864. For a short time in 1911, it was even called "Gregson."

Risdon has several old buildings and structures that tell its story:

• Cleburne Homestead: This house was built in the 1820s. It is located near the Bowen Bridge.
• Saracen's Head Inn: This charming hotel was made of sandstone around 1828. It was a popular spot for travelers.
• Risdon Brook Bridge: This bridge, built in 1858, crosses the Risdon Brook. It is also made of sandstone with arched supports.
• St. Margaret's Church: This old wooden church opened in 1867. It is now abandoned but remains a historical landmark.

What is a Zinc Works?

Between 1916 and 1920, a company called Electrolytic Zinc built a large factory in the area. This factory was a zinc refinery, often called the "Risdon works." A zinc refinery is a place where zinc metal is separated from its raw materials. Zinc is a very useful metal used in many things, like making steel stronger or in batteries.

In 1956, the company also started a plant to make sulphate of ammonia. This is a chemical used as a fertilizer to help plants grow.

In 1987, the owners thought about making the refinery even bigger. However, the zinc works and the houses where the workers used to live are now located in a different suburb called Lutana.

The Risdon Peppermint Gum

A special type of tree, Eucalyptus risdonii, grows naturally only in this area. It is often called the Risdon Peppermint Gum. This unique tree was even the symbol for Geilston Bay High School. It's a great example of the special plants found in Tasmania.