Old Images of Rylstone District

This site was established by Wal Pilz (1927-2016) to share historical information depicted in photos and images of old scenes of the Rylstone District. Wal's belief was that sharing history was the best way to create a living history for Rylstone and the surrounding district. In Wal's memory, the site will continue to operate as an online database and you are invited to contribute images and information. Please comment or email Dan Hatton at oldimagesrylstonedistrict@gmail.com.

Ref: Dingo Gap Gallery

Capertee Railway Station

This historic railway station was built in 1882. It is a typical type 4 ‘standard roadside station’, a design introduced from the late 1870s by the New South Wales Government Railway (NSWGR), Engineer-in-Chief, John Whitton (1820-98).

The design drawings for Capertee station were signed by Whitton on 17th February 1882. The plans were exhibited in Sydney from 28th February to 14th March 1882. John Briton and William Cameron won the tender to build the railway station, the nearby goods warehouse (since demolished), and the still extant Station Master’s House.

This station was the terminus for stage one of the Wallerawang to Gwabegar branch line. Stage one opened in May 1882, with a 23 mile section of track from Wallerawang (on the main western line) to Capertee Camp (as Capertee was then known).

Ref: Capertee Heritage

Night Train to Capertee

Night train to Capertee, a short story in a 1950 issue of the Bulletin. was written by the Australian journalist and author Charles Shaw (1900-1955). Shaw wrote many short stories, and at one time was the rural reporter for the Bulletin magazine.

Night train to Capertee fictionally documents the experience of travelling on the night mail train from Sydney to Capertee sometime during the 1930s or 40s.

This piece certainly challenges the nostalgic view many have of rail travel in the steam age. The story can be viewed here.

Ref: Capertee Heritage