History Talk - New Building

Enhance Your Experience with a 20-Minute History Talk on History Day

Immerse yourself in Adelaide Gaol’s rich history by joining one of our 20-minute educational talks during History Day.

Duration: 20 minutes 

Times: 11am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm

Please note: History talks are not included with entry. Be sure to book your talk alongside your entry ticket to make the most of your visit.

New Building History Talk 

Discover the intriguing story behind the Adelaide Gaol’s “New Building,” an addition that marked a significant evolution in the prison's history. This talk explores the reasons behind its construction, the architectural advancements it introduced, and how it addressed the challenges of housing a growing and diverse inmate population.

Learn about its role in separating different categories of prisoners, its impact on daily life within the Gaol, and the unique design features that distinguished it from the older sections. Hear about the prisoners who resided there, the guards who worked within its walls, and how this structure reflected broader changes in the penal system of its time.

The New Building stands as a testament to the Gaol’s adaptation to shifting societal attitudes toward incarceration and rehabilitation, offering visitors a deeper understanding of its historical and functional significance.