Old Melbourne Gaol
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Humanities Excursion to the Old Melbourne Gaol
The Old Melbourne Gaol is a museum on Russel Street, in Melbourne. It consists of a bluestone building and courtyard, and is located next to the old City Police Watch House and City Courts buildings. It was first constructed in 1839, and during its operation as a prison between 1842 and 1929, it held and executed some of Australia's most notorious criminals, including Ned Kelly. In total, 133 people were executed by hanging. Though it was used briefly during World War, 1 it formally ceased operating as a prison in 1924; with parts of the gaol being incorporated into the RMIT University, and the rest becoming a museum.
The three-story museum displays information and memorabilia of the prisoners and staff, including death masks of the executed criminals. At one time the museum displayed Ned Kelly's skull, before it was stolen in 1978; as well as the pencil used by wrongly convicted Colin Campbell Ross to protest his innocence in writing, before being executed. Paranormal enthusiasts claim the museum is haunted, with claims of ghostly apparitions and unexplained voices near cells.
The year 9 students enjoyed a tour of the gaol, experienced being arrested in the watch house and role played Ned Kelly’s trial. Our students were on their best behaviour and represented our school in the best way possible. It was a pleasure to share this experience with them.
Year 9 Humanities