The Australian Heritage Festival will soon be in full swing and the Gaol has $5 tours available on weekends only! to tell you about 'A Prisoner's Journey'. Click the link for more information. www.nationaltrust.org.au/ahf_event/a-prisoners-journey/

Someone almost looks happy to be arrested?! 🤔 Thanks for sharing @thisiscleopatrali

The Old Melbourne Gaol housed prisoners with Indigenous, Asian and European backgrounds, a culturally diverse mix. So many stories to be told from all corners of the world. So today, we share that of Edward Leonski, from the United States. Also known as the 'Brownout Strangler' Click the link to read his story.

The Australian Heritage Festival is fast approaching with a huge range of events happening across the country from April 18th - May 20th. The Gaol is participating as well! So click the link for more information about our $5 tours available on weekends where you can learn about 'A Prisoners Journey' www.nationaltrust.org.au/ahf_event/a-prisoners-journey/

DID YOU KNOW?! That the Gaol, closed its doors in 1924... only reopening briefly during WWII to house military detainees, mainly those found absent without leave.

Today is St Patrick's Day and the world celebrate's all things Irish. What better day to reflect on some stories that all began in the Emerald Isle? One that stands out is Ellen Kelly. Because while Ned had the accent, he was actually born in Australia. His Mother though.. well click the link to read her story. Its incredibly full.

What a lovely view of the Gaol! Bet it didn't look this inviting in the 1850's though. Thanks for the snap @daniimay

Kids love exploring the cells in the Gaol.. all so interesting!

At the end of your Watch House experience, we have a small exhibition about the Russell Street Bombing for you to take a look at. See evidence from the scene, listen to audio from the day and try your hand at solving the licence plate puzzle. A great way to learn about a significant day in our history and pay respects as well.

Yet another ...Ghosts? What Ghosts?... tour visitor photo! We absolutely love these! Emma kindly sent this in after her tour recently, a little perplexed by the large white 'orb' or light in the top right corner. Certainly one of the larger orbs we have seen in quite a while! Thanks Emma!

DID YOU KNOW?! Despite the first cell block only being operational since 1845.. 5 years, by 1850 the Gaol was already overcrowded! A second cell block (the one that is still standing today) began construction in 1852 and completed in 1858.

Ooops! Sounds about right! 📷@tanisha_dsouzza