The history of the Northern Beaches intertwines with Australia’s broader narrative of exploration and the legacy of indigenous communities. Manly serves as a shining beacon of this history. At the time of the first European colonists, the Guringai people inhabited this area.
Captain Arthur Phillip named the region after the Aboriginal population during his visit in 1788. He noted the confidence and masculinity of the Cannalgal and Kayimai clans, who inspired Captain Phillip to name Manly Cove.
For a time, Manly was considered a hidden gem, difficult to reach due to its long and perilous 70-mile road from Sydney, which deterred most potential visitors. It was often deemed one of Sydney's least desirable places to live, overshadowed by the allure of surrounding locations.
Isolated for years, the small population relied on fishing and farming, fostering a strong and tight-knit community that still embodies the area’s resilient spirit today.
In June 1855, Henry Gilbert Smith recognized Manly’s potential as a thriving settlement and invested in its development. He purchased land and constructed hotels, donated space for schools and churches, and established a ferry service to improve accessibility.
By 1880, the Manly Council was officially incorporated, and the area had blossomed into a popular seaside resort. Over the following decades, Manly would become a pivotal cultural and vacation hotspot for Sydney, transforming from one of its least populated areas to one of its most sought-after destinations.
Paradise Lost
As the area gained popularity, Manly began to lose some of its original identity. The surge in visitors drove housing prices up, attracting buyers looking for holiday homes or accommodations, which inevitably pushed out many long-time residents and families.
It’s more important than ever to ensure that the history of Manly and its role in the Northern Beaches is preserved so we can sustain the cultural identity this remarkable area has provided over the years.
Enter Lost Manly and the Northern Beaches
Lost Manly serves as a premier history and culture preservation hub, dedicated to educating people about Manly's rich past and its place within the Northern Beaches. Our products celebrate this history, reminding us of our roots and encouraging both residents and tourists to take pride in the area, ensuring it remains liveable for future generations.
Our keepsake calendars feature stunning photography of seafaring ferries, honouring the legacy of the first voyages funded by Henry Gilbert Smith.
Additionally, we offer clothing that showcases Manly’s vibrant spirit, including hoodies, polo shirts, and V-neck t-shirts—perfect for leisurely beach walks in the summer! You can shop for our products online or visit our clothing store in Manly.
Want to personalize your experience? Customize our logos to your specifications and showcase your connection to the Northern Beaches!
If you’d like to bring a touch of Manly and vintage Sydney to your home, we offer beautiful ceramic mugs, posters, and cushion covers—imagine a vintage poster of Manly adorning your teenager's bedroom!
At Lost Manly, we aim to preserve the cultural spirit of the Northern Beaches, raising awareness of our heritage and advocating for the preservation of our iconic Freshwater Class Ferries.
Ultimately, it’s the people who shape a place’s identity. Cultivating our community spirit and gratitude for living in such a beautiful location is a meaningful pursuit. Together, we can support preservation efforts that honour our shared history and culture.
Feel free to reach out for more information by chatting with us online or emailing us at support@lostmanly.com.au. We’re excited to connect with you!
And don’t forget to check out all our blog posts here!
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