Clare and Gilbert Valleys are located in the mid-north of South Australia, with the main district town being Clare. The region is known for its scenic landscapes, vineyards, and historic towns and buildings. However, the history of the area dates back much further than the arrival of European settlers. Prior to European colonization, the Clare Valley was predominantly inhabited by the Ngadjuri people, who were a nomadic group of Indigenous Australians. The Ngadjuri people would move throughout the region to take advantage of the seasonal food and water resources, including the rich variety of bush plants and animals. There is evidence that Aboriginal people have been living in the Clare Valley for over 40,000 years. In 1839, explorer Edward John Eyre, along with his associate John Baxter, traversed the region and named the valley in honour of the then-Governor of South Australia, Sir Richard Graves MacDonnell's wife, whose maiden name was Gilbert. The first European settlement in the valley was set up in 1842, by a group of Scottish immigrants. They were soon followed by German Lutherans who established the first vineyard in the region and began producing wine. Many of the German settlers continued to practice their Lutheran faith and built several churches throughout the valley. The history of the Clare Valley is tied tightly to its local agriculture industry. From the 1850s onwards, agriculture dominated the region's economy. Wheat, barley, and oats were the main crops produced in the early years of the valley's settlement. However, viticulture (the cultivation and harvesting of grapes) soon became a significant industry in the area and continues to this day. Towns in the Clare and Gilbert Valleys began to emerge in the mid-1800s. The town of Clare was established in the early 1840s and served as the district's commercial center for many years. The town was also known for its significant stone buildings, many of which were constructed by local stonemasons using locally sourced materials. The town of Mintaro was founded in 1854 and became known for its heritage buildings built of bluestone. Auburn, another town located in the region, became an important centre for transportation, with many teamster's hauling produce from the outlying districts into the township. The region's railway line, which was built in 1919, had a significant impact on the Clare and Gilbert Valleys' economy as it provided an easy means of transportation for both people and goods. The railway line was used to transport agricultural products, such as wheat and livestock, and also provided a passenger service that connected the region with the state's capital, Adelaide. Throughout the years, the Clare and Gilbert Valleys have been home to many significant pioneers and entrepreneurs. One such individual was John Horrocks, who was one of South Australia's earliest colonists. Horrocks established his property, Penwortham, in the Clare Valley in the 1840s. The property became renowned for producing fine merino wool and was passed down through the Horrocks family for several generations. The property has now been transformed into a museum and house garden. Today, the Clare Valley is one of South Australia's premier wine regions, with over 40 wineries producing some of Australia's most exceptional wines. The region is renowned for its Riesling, which is celebrated globally for its crisp, refreshing taste. Many of the region's wineries offer tastings and tours, making it a popular destination for wine enthusiasts and tourists. In conclusion, the history of the Clare and Gilbert Valleys is a reflection of the region's rugged landscapes, rich soils, and pioneering spirit. The region has undergone significant changes since its early establishment, from the arrival of European settlers to the growth of agriculture and the development of transportation networks. The Clare Valley's historic buildings, townships, and vineyards provide a glimpse into the area's past and a testament to the hard work and ingenuity of those who have made it the vibrant region it is today.