Albany Convict Gaol facts for kids
Albany Convict Gaol seen from the north
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| Established | 1852 |
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| Location | Albany, Western Australia |
| Type | State Registered Place |
| Designated | 27 February 1996 |
| Reference no. | 37 |
The Albany Convict Gaol, also known as the Old Gaol, is a historic jail in Albany, Western Australia. Today, it has been restored and operates as a museum. Visitors can explore the old buildings and learn about its past.
Contents
What is the Albany Convict Gaol?
The Albany Convict Gaol is a collection of buildings that once served as a prison. These buildings include a large hall, living areas for the wardens (jail guards), and cells where prisoners stayed. All these structures are built around a central courtyard. In the middle of the courtyard was a "hiring depot." This was a place where people could hire convicts to work.
Prison Walls and Security
The entire prison area is surrounded by tall stone walls, about 3.6 meters (12 feet) high. These walls were made even more secure with pieces of broken glass stuck into the top. This made it very difficult for anyone to climb over and escape.
A Look Back: The Gaol's History
The Albany Convict Gaol first opened in 1852. It was built for convicts sent from England to Albany. These convicts were often skilled workers. The jail was designed not just to hold prisoners, but also to help them get back on track. It also worked as a hiring depot.
Convicts and Their Work
Many convicts were sent from England between 1850 and 1868. They often served their time at this jail. When they arrived, many had a "ticket of leave." This was like a special pass that allowed them to work for free settlers (people who had moved to Australia). These convicts helped build important parts of Albany. They worked on the town jetty, helped with pilot boats, and even built the road to Perth.
Becoming a Public Prison
In 1873, the jail was made bigger and became a public prison. Other buildings on the site were turned into homes for the town's magistrates (judges). Aboriginal prisoners were moved to this prison because there were many escapes from the older town prison.
New Buildings and Changes
By 1875, more parts were added to the jail. These included the Great Hall, cells specifically for women, and more living quarters for the wardens.
Later Years and Restoration
The jail was last used in the 1930s during the Great Depression. At that time, it served as a police lock-up. By 1941, the Public Works Department decided the jail was not fit for use and put it up for sale. It stayed in poor condition for many years. However, between 1989 and 1996, the jail was carefully restored. It then reopened as a museum, allowing people to learn about its past. Since 2007, the museum has even offered late-night tours.
See also
- List of reportedly haunted locations
- List of convict ship voyages to Western Australia
- List of places on the State Register of Heritage Places in the City of Albany
