Old Melbourne Gaol

The Old Melbourne Gaol stands as a formidable and captivating landmark in the heart of Melbourne, Victoria. This historical site, with its bluestone walls and grim past, offers visitors a glimpse into the dark and often brutal history of Australia's penal system. From its construction in the mid-19th century to its closure in the early 20th century, the Old Melbourne Gaol has been a silent witness to the stories of some of Australia's most notorious criminals and the harsh realities of prison life.

A Glimpse into History

Construction of the Old Melbourne Gaol began in 1839, and it opened its doors to prisoners in 1845. Initially, the gaol was built on Collins Street West, but due to overcrowding and inadequate facilities, a new site was chosen at the corner of Russell and La Trobe Streets. The gaol was expanded over the years to accommodate the growing number of inmates, especially during the gold rush era in the 1850s, when Melbourne's population boomed.

The gaol's design was heavily influenced by British prison reform theories of the time, particularly those of Joshua Jebb. The layout featured separate cells for solitary confinement, a central hall, and a chapel. By 1864, the gaol had grown to occupy an entire city block, complete with exercise yards, a hospital, and staff accommodation.

Life Inside the Gaol

Daily life inside the Old Melbourne Gaol was harsh and unforgiving. Prisoners were subjected to strict routines, solitary confinement, and minimal communication with other inmates. They spent up to 23 hours a day in their cells, with only one hour allotted for solitary exercise. The cells themselves were sparse, with thin mattresses on slate floors and limited opportunities for bathing and changing clothes.

Male prisoners were often put to work performing hard labor, such as breaking rocks and working in stone quarries, while female prisoners were tasked with sewing, cleaning, and cooking. Children, some as young as three years old, were also imprisoned for petty crimes or vagrancy, often living in the gaol with their convicted parents.

The Grim Reality of Executions

During its operation, the Old Melbourne Gaol was the site of 133 executions, the most infamous of which was that of the notorious bushranger Ned Kelly in 1880. Kelly, who had become a folk hero to some and a cold-blooded killer to others, was hanged for the murder of a police officer. His execution, along with those of other criminals, was a grim reminder of the brutal justice system of the time.

Executed prisoners were buried in unmarked graves within the gaol's burial yard, and death masks were made from their heads as part of phrenological studies. The gallows, initially a free-standing scaffold, was later moved to a fixed location within the gaol, where it remains today. The first woman to be hanged in Victoria, Elizabeth Scott, met her fate at the Old Melbourne Gaol in 1863.

Notable Inmates

In addition to Ned Kelly, the Old Melbourne Gaol housed several other notorious criminals, including serial killer Frederick Bailey Deeming and wrongly convicted wine-bar owner Colin Campbell Ross. Deeming, who was believed to have also been Jack the Ripper, was executed in 1892. Ross, convicted of the rape and murder of 12-year-old Alma Tirtschke, was posthumously pardoned in 2008 after new evidence proved his innocence.

The Gaol Today

After ceasing operations as a prison in 1924, parts of the Old Melbourne Gaol were incorporated into the RMIT University, while the rest was transformed into a museum. Today, visitors can explore the three-storey museum, which displays a wealth of information and memorabilia related to the prisoners and staff who once walked its halls. Among the exhibits are death masks, personal items, and even the pencil used by Colin Campbell Ross to write his pleas of innocence.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the museum is the opportunity to step inside the cells and experience the oppressive atmosphere firsthand. Guided tours and interactive exhibits provide a deeper understanding of the gaol's history and the lives of those who were incarcerated within its walls.

A Haunting Experience

The Old Melbourne Gaol is not just a place of historical significance; it is also rumored to be haunted by the spirits of its former inmates. Visitors and staff have reported strange occurrences, such as unexplained noises, cold spots, and sightings of ghostly figures. For those brave enough, the gaol offers night tours and ghost hunts, providing a spine-chilling experience that is not for the faint of heart.

In conclusion, the Old Melbourne Gaol is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Australia's history and the darker side of its past. Its well-preserved structure and fascinating exhibits offer a unique and immersive experience, making it an unforgettable stop on any tour of Melbourne. Whether you're a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or simply curious, the Old Melbourne Gaol promises to leave a lasting impression.