Northam's Influential People

George Throssell George Throssell, the “Lion” of Northam, was born in Fermoy, Ireland in 1840.  He was the second Premier of Western Australia, serving for a brief three months.  At the age of 21 he became a produce merchant in Northam and also served as the Postmaster.  He rapidly expanded owning a chain of stores, farmland and the flour mill. He was a large part of the community and very respected.  He built his family home on the Northam Hill, now part of St. Joseph’s school.

Sir James Mitchell Sir James Mitchell was born in the Shire of Dardanup in April 1866.  Serving as the Premier and Governor, he was one of the more influential figures in the development of the Avon Valley. With a background in banking, he entered into politics due to his popularity and passion for agriculture and the further development of Northam. He held the finest set of hacks (riding horses) in the State and was well known for his kind gregarious nature.  He was responsible for the growth of agriculture in

James Byfield James Byfield moved to Northam in 1898. He designed his home as well as other significant buildings in Northam.  He was a leading building contractor and established a coach building business. He successfully operated the flour mill between 1883 and 1902.  James Byfield was a leading member of the Temperance Movement, which became very influential in the district.  He served on the Council for 35 years from 1879 to 1914.  He was also the owner of the first car in Northam, a 1904 Oldsmobile. He was tragically killed