This book is a detailed history of European settlement on the Clarence, Richmond, Tweed and Brunswick Rivers in northern New South Wales, prior to 1850. It begins with the discovery of the area, by sea and by land exploration, and then continues with the story of the cedar-getters; the ships and shipbuilders; the surveyors, the commissioners of crown land and their border police; the squatters and their stations; the early church ministers and priests that served in the area; the settlers such as inn keepers, storekeepers; trades people and government officers; and the hundreds of free immigrants and convicts that played their part in the story of settlement during this early period. It also deals with the tragic consequences of the clashes between the settlers and aborigines.

More than 2000 persons are specifically mentioned, and an attempt is made to document their origins, arrival details, initial settlement and occupational pursuits.

This publication has been enhanced by the inclusion of beautifully executed watercolours by a local artist. These were specially commissioned, and depicts scenes on the Clarence River in the time period.