This town is a sleepy hamlet in the hills, east of the Barossa Ranges and north west of Adelaide. Springton is renowned for two very different beverages – milk and wine. The high rainfall produces lush green pastures and dairy farming has been the backbone of the region’s economy since the 1850s. Herds of Holstein-Fresian cows are still run on the land today. The rich soil and elevated position, is also excellent for viticulture; with white varieties, in particular, gaining an outstanding reputation. Modern vignerons in the region are among the Barossa’s most adventurous and are keenly experimenting with Viognier and other lesser-known varietals.
The original Springton Hall was a building housing the Council offices built in 1886. In December 1907 the Springton community gathered to celebrate the opening of their new Town Hall premises. The residents had felt the need of such a facility “for the purpose of meetings and social gatherings”. This was done largely by raising the roof of the existing premises and extending the hall by about “18 feet” and adding a Council office. Fundraising ensured the funds were available for the work and the events included Strawberry Fetes and skating in the hall itself. Considerable work was again carried out on the Hall in the period between 1934 to 1938. Over the years the Springton hall has hosted a variety of flower shows, dinners, dances and community meetings. It was and remains the hub of this vibrant community.
The new front section has an Art Deco entrance and in the stage surrounds. While you are standing at the Springton Hall, look downhill and you will see the Springton Hotel, opened in 1864. A bit further to the left of Williams Street is the old Springton Butter factory which exported butter throughout Australia, and some reports say also to overseas markets.