The Waratah Museum, at Waratah in Tasmania's northwest, tells the west coast mining story. Waratah is a three-hour drive west of Launceston (232 kilometres) and about 45 minutes south of Burnie (58 kilometres). The Museum is located in Waratah's historic former courthouse and council chambers. It offers a collection of memorabilia and photographs of the town's tin mining history. Waratah was established in 1871 when pioneer James 'Philosopher' Smith discovered the Mount Bischoff tin deposit. During the 1880s Mount Bischoff was reputed to be the southern hemisphere's richest tin mine. At the mine's peak, the population of Waratah swelled to about 3,000 people. Waratah has a number of good examples of 19th century architecture, including a replica of the type of hut lived in by 'Philosopher' Smith's, located beside the Museum. The hunt is typical of the simple dwellings used by local miners in this era. You can visit the charming St James Anglican Church, the old post office or enjoy a drink at the Bischoff Hotel. Visit Lake Waratah and the Waratah Falls, or follow the walking trails to the old power house, Mount Bischoff and the ghost town of Magnet, once the site of the Magnet silver mine.
