Three Doomed Communes: A Roma Romance?

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Author(s)
Metcalf, Bill
Dawson, Veronica
Year published
2016
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In the 1890s, 13 socialist communes were established in Queensland, all with some government support. One lasted 16 years; the others only about two years. Some succeeded in various ways, but this paper looks at the most dismal failures, the three communes established near Roma: 'Excel Pioneer', 'Nil Desperandum' and 'Obertown Model'. In doing so, it expands the study of nineteenth century Queensland communes and explores a largely overlooked period of Roma's development.In the 1890s, 13 socialist communes were established in Queensland, all with some government support. One lasted 16 years; the others only about two years. Some succeeded in various ways, but this paper looks at the most dismal failures, the three communes established near Roma: 'Excel Pioneer', 'Nil Desperandum' and 'Obertown Model'. In doing so, it expands the study of nineteenth century Queensland communes and explores a largely overlooked period of Roma's development.
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Journal Title
Queensland History Journal
Volume
23
Issue
1
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Copyright Statement
© The Author(s) 2016. This is the author-manuscript version of this paper. It is posted here with permission of the copyright owner[s] for your personal use only. No further distribution permitted. For information about this journal please refer to the journal’s website or contact the author[s].
Subject
Australian History (excl. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander History)
Other Built Environment and Design
Other Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services
Historical Studies