Adelaide Gaol facts for kids
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 Location in South Australia
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| Location | Adelaide, South Australia |
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| Coordinates | 34°55′03″S 138°35′06″E / 34.9176°S 138.5849°E |
| Status | Closed |
| Opened | 1841 |
| Closed | 1988 |
| Managed by | Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources |
| Website | http://www.adelaidegaol.sa.gov.au/ |
Adelaide Gaol is a very old former prison located in the Park Lands of Adelaide, in South Australia. It was the first permanent prison built in South Australia. This historic building was used as a prison from 1841 until 1988. Today, Adelaide Gaol is one of the two oldest buildings still standing in South Australia, with the other being Government House, which was built around the same time. Now, it's a fascinating museum, a popular tourist attraction, and even a place for special events.
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A Look Back: History of Adelaide Gaol
Adelaide Gaol has a long and interesting history. It was built when South Australia was a very new colony. The people who arrived needed a safe place to keep law and order.
Why Was the Gaol Built?
When the first settlers came to South Australia, they needed a place to hold people who broke the law. Before the gaol was built, people were sometimes held in temporary places. The government decided to build a strong, permanent prison to help keep the new colony safe and organized.
Building the Walls
Construction of Adelaide Gaol began in 1840. It was designed to be a very secure building. The walls were made of thick stone, and it had tall towers. Many of the early buildings in Adelaide were built by hand, and the gaol was no different. It was a big project for the young colony. The gaol officially opened its doors in 1841.
Life Inside the Gaol
For over 140 years, Adelaide Gaol was a busy place. It held many different types of people. Life inside a prison was very strict. Prisoners followed a daily routine. They had small cells and limited contact with the outside world. The gaol was designed to be a place where people could think about their actions.
From Prison to Museum
In 1988, Adelaide Gaol closed its doors as a working prison. The government decided to build new, more modern prisons. Instead of tearing down the old gaol, it was decided to preserve it. This was because of its important history and unique architecture. The gaol was then turned into a museum. This allows visitors to learn about its past.
Visiting Adelaide Gaol Today
Today, Adelaide Gaol is a popular place to visit. It offers a unique look into the past. You can explore the old cells, walk through the yards, and imagine what life was like for prisoners and staff.
What Can You See?
When you visit the gaol, you can see many original features. You can walk into the cell blocks and see how small the cells were. There are also exhibits that tell stories about the gaol's history. You can learn about the different people who lived and worked there. It's a great way to understand a part of South Australia's past.
Guided Tours and Events
The gaol offers guided tours. These tours give you a deeper understanding of the building and its stories. Sometimes, special events are held at the gaol. These events can include historical re-enactments or night tours. It's a fun and educational experience for families and students.
Images for kids
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Adelaide Gaol's tall tower
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A view of a cell block inside Adelaide Gaol
