Mercy Heritage Centre Brisbane facts for kids
The Mercy Heritage Centre Brisbane was once a museum about social history. It closed for a time and then reopened in June 2019 with a new name: Adderton: house & heart of mercy. This place tells the story of the Sisters of Mercy and their important work in Brisbane.
Contents
Adderton: A Historic Building
The main part of the building, called Adderton, was built in 1858. A person named John Petrie constructed it. It is one of the oldest buildings still standing in Queensland. It's also one of the few buildings left from before Queensland became a separate colony.
Home for the Sisters of Mercy
In 1863, the Sisters of Mercy bought the building. On November 1, 1863, it was renamed the Convent of Our Lady of Mercy All Hallows'. This became the first permanent home for the Sisters of Mercy in Brisbane. It was their main base, helping them start new convents and schools all over Queensland.
Community Impact
From All Hallows' Convent, the Sisters of Mercy created many programs. These programs helped people with health, education, and social support. The building was made bigger several times. Important additions were made in 1892, 1913, and 1919.
All Hallows' Chapel
The Chapel was built as part of the convent's expansion in 1892. It was officially blessed on March 1, 1892. More additions were made to the Chapel in 1919. The older part of the Chapel has a Victorian style. The newer part looks like early Renaissance architecture.
Chapel's History and Displays
In 1968, the inside of the Chapel was updated. This was done to follow changes from Vatican II. Today, the Mercy Heritage Centre manages the Chapel. It has displays, photos, and information. These show how the building changed over time. They also explain religious practices, special clothing called vestments, and the beautiful stained-glass windows.
Images for kids
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Novitiate exhibition
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Novitiate exhibition
