Old photos of Box Hill wanted

Box Hill and Nelson Progress Association hopes to put together a coffee table book of photos and newspaper clippings compiled from residents of Box Hill and pioneers of Nelson to illustrate how the area has changed.

The oldest photos they have date back to the early 1900s.

Descendants of the Hession family, one of the first families in the area, still live there today.

‘‘It’s been something the association has been talking about doing for a while,’’ member Lena Mezzomo said. ‘‘It’s a terrific idea and would be well received by the community.’’

Her late husband Joe bought the land next to the community hall in 1964 for 1300 pounds.

Dianne Young’s mum, Emma Greentree (nee Lester), was born in Nelson and was from a well-known family in the area.

‘‘She was born here, moved away to get married and we moved back here when I was 12,’’ Mrs Young said. ‘‘My spare time was spent working on the farm and riding.’’

Mrs Young welcomed the idea of the book. ‘‘I have one of Riverstone that everyone is always looking through.’’

Long-time residents have vivid memories of when Nelson and Annangrove Roads were dirt roads, not having a garbage or bus service and when Rouse Hill Public School had 80 pupils. But not everything has changed. ‘‘Box Hill has always been a family area,’’ resident Sylvia Hunter said. ‘‘Everyone looks out for each other. No one is snobbish and help is always there before you ask.’’

If you have any photos, contact Alison Attard.

■ Details: Alison on 0408 629 171.