Tahmoor was originally traversed by European settlers as early as 1798 – a party led by John Wilson, although it is probable that he had been here before.
Tahmoor has a major shopping centre, supermarket and banks. Many shops are open on weekends. Plenty of cafes and take-away food bars. There is a large hotel just south of town, with a bistro and a comfortable budget-priced motel much favored by travelers and those enjoying a stay in this delightful part of the Wollondilly.
Tahmoor grew slowly, and in the 1950’s through to 1970’s the country town thrived as a stopover for motorists on the main highway south. When bypassed again in the 1970’s by the new freeway to the east, Tahmoor did not go into decline as did other towns. Instead the opening of a major coal mine just south of the town brought a new industry and prosperity.
Tahmoor today has the largest population, and the second largest retail area in the Wollondilly. Access to rapid transport – the railway and the freeway – means that many of its residents can enjoy benefits of living in a large country town, yet work in the western suburbs or the city itself.
Tahmoor has well served shops and service industries, has excellent recreation areas, and is a good place for the traveler to rest and refresh on their way to the many sights and attractions of the surrounding area.