Archaeology
A closer look at bricks
A high-tech research collaboration is giving us new insights into some very familiar objects from our vast archaeological collection
Excavating Australia’s first Government House
Did you know that when you walk into the Museum of Sydney, you’re walking over the remains of one of the most significant buildings in Australia’s history?
Hyde Park Barracks: a keeper of lost things
Uncover and explore some of the items found inside the barracks
Convict Sydney
Objects
These convict-era objects and archaeological artefacts found at the Hyde Park Barracks and The Mint (Rum Hospital) are among the rarest and most personal artefacts to have survived from Australia’s early convict period
Convict Sydney
Earthenware vessel
This lead-glazed earthenware vessel probably once contained medicines or ointments for treating convict patients
Convict Sydney
Jaw harp
This iron jaw harp was found by archaeologists at Hyde Park Barracks alongside other convict-era objects
Convict Sydney
Convict braces and belts
Convict ‘slop’ clothing was one-size-fits-all, so some convicts had to improvise ways to keep up their baggy trousers
First Government House foundation plate
When the foundation plate was rediscovered in 1899 the site of first Government House was a distant memory
Demolished: first Government House
Built on a prominent rise overlooking Sydney Cove, first Government House served as the official residence and administrative office for the first nine governors of New South Wales