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Timeline: introduction to the site

Introduction part 1

Read the timeline of the Hyde Park Barracks to discover how the use of the site has changed over time. You can refer back to this chapter at any time to help guide you through the site study.

From time immemorial, the site was (and still is) Aboriginal land ()

1817–19
The Hyde Park Barracks was built on Gadigal Country between 1817 and 1819. It housed male convicts until 1848. 

1848
In 1848, the building was converted for use as temporary accommodation for female immigrants arriving in NSW to start a new life.

1862
In 1862, an asylum opened on the top floor to provide shelter for sick and poor women. 

1886
Renamed Chancery Square, the Barracks became a bustling complex of courts and government offices. 

1975–90
Extensive conservation works began, and the main building was restored to its original appearance.

1984
The site became a museum. 

2020
A new museum experience opened on the site.

Site study navigation

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Education program at Hyde Park Barracks.
Resource

Hyde Park Barracks site study

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 the convict History of Australia

Artist Jonathan Jones with the new installation 'Untitled (maraong manaouwi)' in the forecourt of Hyde Park Barracks.
Resource

Multiple points of view: introduction to the museum

Introduction part 2