The Hyde Park Barracks is an important historical site. It has been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site because of its significance to Australia’s history. A new museum experience opened at the Hyde Park Barracks in 2020. It aims to show what life was like for people inside the Barracks, but also how the site affected people who lived outside of its walls.
This site study gives students the opportunity to extend their knowledge and understanding of the following study areas:
The era of colonisation – Historical context study (core)
Aboriginal peoples’ experiences of colonisation in Australia (1788 – c1901) – Depth study (core).
Students learn about the history and legacy of the Hyde Park Barracks, and examine the decisions made by curators and designers in developing the museum experience. Students will consider how curators have presented different perspectives – including those of convicts, female migrants and First Nations people – and explore how this shapes the way we understand the Barracks’ history and its wider impact.
Students will consider the role of the Barracks in British colonisation and expansion, and its impact on Aboriginal people, by examining a range of historical sources and museum displays. This site study includes examples of Aboriginal people’s connection to Country. The nature of this connection provides context for resistance to British colonisation and expansion, such as Gudyarra, the Bathurst War of 1822–24.
Outcomes
HI4-CON-01 – describes continuity and change over a period of time in relation to a historical context
HI4-CPP-01 – describes different contexts and perspectives of the past
HI4-APP-01 – explains Aboriginal people’s experiences and perspectives of colonisation
HI4-INQ-01 – explains the meaning and context of sources as part of a historical inquiry
In this site study you will:
explore the Hyde Park Barracks
examine the decisions made by curators and designers in developing the museum experience
consider how their choices shape the way we understand the Barracks’ history and its wider impact
answer questions, listen to audio files and complete activities.
