1. English Surname:
* "Broome" is a common English surname, possibly originating from a place name in England, like Broome in Kent or Broom in Worcestershire.
* It's likely that early settlers or explorers named the place after someone with that surname.
2. Indigenous Name:
* The Yawuru people, the traditional custodians of the Broome region, have their own name for the area, which may have been adapted or translated into "Broome."
* However, the exact Indigenous name and its meaning are not widely documented.
3. Descriptive Name:
* Some speculate that "Broome" could be a descriptive name, referring to the region's coastal location, the presence of broom bushes (a type of flowering plant), or even a specific feature like a prominent rock formation.
Historical Evidence:
* The town's history is complex, involving various explorers, settlers, and pearl divers.
* There is no definitive record explaining the origin of the name, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact reason.
Conclusion:
While the exact origin of the name "Broome" remains uncertain, it's likely a combination of factors, including the English surname, a possible Indigenous influence, and descriptive elements.