Adelaide's early water shortage

Water supply was a high concern for Adelaide’s population in the late 19^th Century. At that time, the River Torrens (Karrawirra Parri) was the primary water source.

In 1860, the first piped-water network was built, reaching some Adelaide homes. It took many years for houses in the suburbs to be connected, so many property owners had to establish their own water supply, such as a well.

Pictured here are well diggers at work in Stonyfell, circa 1902. Alfred Black of Bell Yett purchased this allotment next to a creek to build an extra well for his home after struggling through a drought year.