American River

• Summary
• Weather for American River

Discovered by Matthew Flinders in 1802, the following year an American brig sailed in and during a four month stay the crew built the Independence using local timber. It is from this event that the town received its name.

The first recorded settler was Frank Potts, a boat builder, who arrived in 1842 before moving to establish the famous vineyards at Langhorne Creek on the mainland. Potts was assisted by John Buick, who in 1854 built the first home in the town.

Excellent BBQ areas on the foreshore in and near the township are good spots for bird watching, particularly pelicans whilst fishermen clean their catch. During the evening wallabies and other nocturnal animals can be seen around the township, and an evening walk is thoroughly recommended.

A feature of the town is the magnificent carpet of freesias that bloom at the end of August. They are followed by the well-known wildflowers that adorn the Island's roadsides.