Perth Gaol facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Perth Gaol |
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Perth Gaol in about 1865 with exterior yards and walls visible
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| General information | |
| Type | Heritage listed building |
| Location | Perth, Western Australia |
| Coordinates | 31°56′59″S 115°51′42″E / 31.9496°S 115.8618°E |
| Type | State Registered Place |
| Designated | 16 October 1992 |
| Part of | Art Gallery & Museum Buildings (1962) |
| Reference no. | 1965 |
The Perth Gaol (also known as the Old Perth Gaol) was a jail built in Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. It was constructed between 1854 and 1856. Its main job was to hold convicts and other prisoners. You can find it just west of Beaufort Street in Perth.
The gaol was used until March 1888. At that time, the last prisoner was moved to Fremantle Prison. Today, the main building of the gaol still stands next to the Western Australian Museum in Perth. It now has displays of old items from the colonial era and prison history. The building also has the museum's shop and a coffee shop for visitors.
Contents
History of the Old Perth Gaol
The Perth Gaol was an important building in the early history of Western Australia. It was built during a time when many convicts were being sent to the colony. These convicts helped to build much of the early infrastructure in Perth.
Why Was It Built?
The gaol was needed because the number of people in the colony was growing. This included both free settlers and convicts. A proper place was needed to house prisoners safely. The building was designed to be strong and secure for its purpose.
Life at the Gaol
Life inside the gaol would have been very strict. Prisoners followed a daily routine. They were kept in cells and had to work. The gaol was a place of punishment and control. It played a big role in the justice system of the time.
From Prison to Museum
After it stopped being a prison, the Perth Gaol found a new life. It became part of the Western Australian Museum. This change allowed the public to learn about its past.
What Can You See Today?
When you visit the Old Perth Gaol today, you can explore its history. There are exhibits that show what life was like for prisoners. You can see old tools and items from the past. It helps people understand a different time in Perth's history. The building itself is a heritage-listed site. This means it is protected because of its historical importance.
Images for kids
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Perth Gaol in the 1860s, viewed from about the corner of Pier Street and Murray Street
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entrance
