Pam Hesse has researched the Foster family extensively over many years. Together with Janet Lee and the Helensburgh & District Historical Society she gives us The Story of James Foster, one of the district’s early pioneers.

At five foot three and nicknamed “Butterfly”, James Foster more than made up for his small stature – as a skilled axeman in his early years to make a living cutting railway sleepers and firewood, to storekeeper, sawmill proprietor and building contractor/property developer in the booming Illawarra area from the 1890s to 1920s. 

Walking with his mother and her young family from the Victorian goldfields to NSW after the death of his father when he was only 15, James was “on the swag” to find work, ending up in Heathcote where he met his future wife, Elizabeth. 

There were opportunities in these pioneering days and fortunes could be made by some, but these were dangerous work environments. James lost the sight in one eye in a work-related accident. They worked hard but had time to party. There was music, dancing, and song…and probably a few rums for the men. It didn’t hurt him, as he lived to the ripe old age of 97.

The Story of James Foster, from bushman to businessman, is more than an impressive compilation of family history. It portrays James and his wife Elizabeth’s life in “the Burgh” - their family, friends, and the community at a point in time at a burgeoning little town in the Illawarra. A further insight into the early years.

Timber Rolled Out And Money Rolled In can be ordered for $15 (plus P&P) by going to the merchandise tab of the Historical Society’s website www.historichelensburgh.org.au or by contacting us on info@historichelensburgh.org.au or ring Jan on 0418 681 384 for pickup of local orders.