Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth cross the Blue Mountains

Background. By the early 19th century, the Blue Mountains acted as a barrier to colonial expansion, particularly after droughts in 1812 and 1813. Settlers lacked knowledge of crossing routes, despite indigenous awareness of paths like Bilpin Ridge. Blaxland sought grazing land and obtained Governor Macquarie's approval for an expedition following the mountain ridges.

Expedition Details. The party left Blaxland's South Creek farm on 11 May 1813, crossing the Nepean River that day. They followed the ridges, completing the crossing in 21 days. The group included four servants, four pack horses, and five dogs. Daily, the explorers marked trails before returning to cut paths for the horses.

Aftermath. The crossing enabled access to land for farming and facilitated the establishment of Bathurst. All three explorers were rewarded with 1000 acres of land west of the mountains. Blaxland published his account in 1823, though records imply joint leadership. Subsequent surveys and road construction followed in 1814 and 1815.