They Don't Make Prisons Like They Used To: How Old is the Old Melbourne Gaol?
So, you're curious about the Old Melbourne Gaol, huh? Let's just say this grand dame of Melbourne's prison scene has seen its fair share of history. We're talking about a building that's older than your great-great-great-grandpa's favourite beard trimmer (and probably a lot more interesting).
But how old exactly is this historic clink?
Buckle up, history buffs (and those who just like a good fact or two), because we're about to delve into the not-so-shady past of the Old Melbourne Gaol.
From Humble Beginnings to Housing History's Heavy Hitters
Construction of the gaol (that's just a fancy word for jail, folks) began way back in 1839. Imagine a Melbourne with horse-drawn carriages and fellas sporting top hats – that's the era we're talking about! The first cellblock opened its doors in 1845, which means this building has been around for over 179 years. That's older than most rock bands and definitely older than your average pair of jeans (unless you're a serious fashion hoarder).
Reminder: Take a short break if the post feels long.
This grand old building wasn't just a place to store your run-of-the-mill petty thief. Oh no, the Old Melbourne Gaol housed some of Australia's most notorious criminals. We're talking bushrangers like the legendary (and slightly misunderstood) Ned Kelly and even the creepy crawly serial killer Frederick Bailey Deeming. These guys wouldn't have looked out of place in an episode of "Orange is the New Black" (although the WiFi situation would have been a real bummer).
From Prison to Popular Tourist Destination
Thankfully, the days of clanging cell doors and hangings (there were 133 of them, yikes!) are long gone. These days, the Old Melbourne Gaol is a popular tourist destination. You can wander the halls, peek into the cells (much more comfortable than actually being stuck in one), and even take a spooky ghost tour (because what's a historic jail without a few resident spooks?).
So, the next time you're in Melbourne, why not check out this historic landmark? It's a great way to learn a bit about the city's past, and who knows, you might even brush shoulders with a ghost (although hopefully a friendly one).
Tip: Read the whole thing before forming an opinion.
## Frequently Asked Questions (Cause We Know You're Curious!)
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| How Old Is The Old Melbourne Gaol |
How to get to the Old Melbourne Gaol?
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It's located at 377 Russell Street, Melbourne, right in the heart of the city. Easy to find and even easier to get spooked at!
Tip: Don’t rush — enjoy the read.
How much does it cost to enter the Old Melbourne Gaol?
Prices vary depending on age and group bookings, but you can check out their website for the latest info. Just don't forget your sense of adventure (and maybe a spare pair of underwear for those ghost tours).
How long does it take to explore the Old Melbourne Gaol?
Allow yourself a good hour or two to wander the halls and soak up the history. There's a lot to see, from the cells to the gallows (yikes again!).
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
Is the Old Melbourne Gaol haunted?
Well, that depends on who you ask. They do offer ghost tours, so there must be something spooky going on, right?
Is the Old Melbourne Gaol suitable for kids?
It can be a bit creepy, so maybe best for older children or those who aren't easily scared. But hey, if your kid is a history buff, they might just love it!
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