A three volume reference book detailing much of the previously unknown history of Mann Street’s buildings, businesses and people is now available at Gosford Library.

After 16 years of research and with the help of grants from Central Coast Council, local historians Pamela Williams and John Lewis recently completed the first volumes of Mann Street Gosford in the Age of Steam 1881–1960.

Council’s Local Studies Librarian Geoffrey Potter said the important story this publication tells about Gosford’s local history cannot be underestimated.

“Through exhaustive research of land records, newspapers, directories, photographs and council records as well as interviews with residents, Pam and John have pieced together much of Gosford’s previously lost history,” Mr Potter said.

“These two dedicated and patient local historians have documented in detail the when and where of Mann Street’s buildings, who owned them, the people who lived there, and the businesses that were the lifeblood of the town in its formative years.

“It traces the story of Mann Street’s individual building lots from the approval of the Homebush to Waratah railway link in 1881 through to the arrival of the electric train in 1960.”

The publication’s first three volumes cover Paul’s Corner to Georgiana Terrace and both sides of Mann Street between Erina Street and Faunce Street.

“Both Pam and John have a close affinity with Mann Street, having started work there in local banks in 1955,” Mr Potter added.

“They are already working on several further volumes that will eventually detail from Gosford Park through to Racecourse Road.”

Reference copies of Mann Street Gosford in the Age of Steam 1881–1960 are available at Gosford Library. Copies can also be ordered directly from the authors at brianpamw@gmail.com.