The Berrima District Historical Society (BDHS) has put together a booklet delving into streets in Mittagong, Balaclava, Willow Vale, Renwick and Welby.

It is part of a series of booklets which will cover as many towns and villages in the region as possible, and aims to foster greater appreciation for our local history.

The first booklet is titled What's In a Name: The Streets of Mittagong, and is a collaborative project between Carolyn Dougherty, Sandy McKenzie and Linda Emery.

You can immerse yourself in the 50-page local history guide, which provides names of early subdivisions, estates and private townships, and lots of photos.

Early subdivisions in Mittagong were named after the British Royal Family and some scientists and engineers from the 19th century.

Read more:

There is an alphabetical listing of other streets in Mittagong, and separate listings for Welby, Balaclava, Renwick and Willow Vale.

The BDHS believes that street names can tall a unique story about an area, and shape the identies of towns and villages.

Highways and byways also acquire their names in a variety of ways.

They may have originated through common usage, or perhaps be named in honour of an early explorer or prominent citizen of the area.

In early subdivisions in the Southern Highlands, the developer traditionally chose the names often using considerable imagination and flair.

The booklet can be purchased at the BDHS Archives, the Old Council Chambers, 114/6 Main St Mittagong, the Berrima District Museum, 1A Market Place Berrima, by calling 4872 2169, or online via berrimadistricthistoricalsociety.org.au.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content:

Make sure you are signed up for our breaking news and regular newsletters