It is not hard to see why, with Fremantle one of WA’s first ports and colonies, and there are almost 200 years of history to look back on and appreciate.
With few opportunities for locals to get together and share their historical photos and stories in an informal setting, resident Peter Vinci began Fremantle As It Was, As We Were on Facebook in memory of his father Tony.
‘He inspired me in sharing memories and two weeks before my dad passed away he said ‘photos are everlasting memories and should be cherished forever for the generations to come’,’ Mr Vinci said.
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READ NOW‘I was born in Fremantle and have lived here all my life, collecting many old photos of Fremantle.’
With more than 7600 likes on Facebook, it seems Fremantle residents both past and present share Mr Vinci’s sentiments about being able to share photos of Fremantle of old for the younger generations. School photos, baby pictures, wedding pictures, sporting teams and quick snaps of local streets have all made it onto the page.
Mr Vinci said it was important to be able to preserve and digitise local heritage.
‘Within a few days of creating our Facebook page it was evident from the number of people following and contributing to the page their photos and stories was overwhelming,’ he said.
‘We are at an age to record the many stories of WA and be proud of our heritage.
‘ I hope that our future generations are able to see the beginnings of Fremantle.’
Fremantle As It Was As We Were will be holding the Freo History Quiz Night as part of the Fremantle Heritage Festival.
The quiz night will be held from 7 to 11pm on May 14 at the Italian Club.
Tickets are $15 and can be bought from www.ticketbooth.com.au.
Visit www.facebook.com/ fremantleasitwas for more information.