Littlehampton's BIG history...

The small township of Littlehampton, located in the Adelaide Hills region, was not part of South Australia's original Special Survey conducted in 1839–40. Instead, the area remained Crown Land for several years until it was formally laid out in 1849 by Benjamin Gray. Gray named the town "Little Hampton" in honour of his home village in Sussex, England—a nod to his heritage and hopes for the new settlement. 

Over time, the name evolved into "Littlehampton," which has remained ever since.

In the decades that followed, Littlehampton transformed from quiet farmland into a bustling centre of local industry. 

By the end of the 19th century, the town had established itself as a hub of agricultural and manufacturing activity. Local farms and factories produced a remarkable variety of goods including clay bricks, bacon and smallgoods, fruit preserves, fresh vegetables, dairy products, tobacco, and even beer. These thriving operations not only supported the surrounding region but also contributed to the development of infrastructure and community spirit that still defines Littlehampton today.