In 1870, gold was discovered by Tom Sanders and the town of Gulgong was born. By 1872 the town's population had risen to 20,000 Gulgong today is a living monument of its past, listed in the registrar of the National Estate.

The Pioneer Museum is one of the best museums of its kind in the country, with over one acre of exhibits. A new building is now open, hosting the popular phonograph parlour. Henry Lawson Centre, is home to the most extensive collections of Lawson memorabilia outside the Mitchell library.