Sunday May 18th 2025, 10:00am - 4:00pm.
Step into history at Adelaide Gaol’s annual History Day, an event revealing how choices shaped the lives of prisoners and guards. Explore their challenges through a self-guided tour with immersive activities like polls and a decision trail. Enhance your experience with educational talks running throughout the day.
Half-price tickets!
There will be a sausage sizzle, along with our Mugshot Café serving hot pastries, sandwiches, hot dogs, coffee, and cold drinks.
Adult $8.50
Concession $7.00
Child $5.25
Guest Speakers
Alice Neikirk- University of Newcastle
Pleading the Belly: Juries of Matrons and Pregnancy in Prison
Elizabeth McGree was held in Adelaide Gaol from 1882-1883 while her case was heard at the Supreme Court. She was found guilty of murder and sentenced to hang, but ‘pled the belly’ and was granted a stay of execution. This talk will discuss her trial, the unique role that all-female juries played in our legal history, as well has the historic experience of pregnancy and childbirth in Adelaide Gaol.
11am -11.45am - Mess Hall
Alan Atkinson - Author
Alan Atkinson is a journalist, author, editor who has long lived and worked in South Australia. He began his journalist career on The Scotsman in Edinburgh, followed by the Guardian in London. In Australia he wrote for the Advertiser before joining the ABC as a reporter and then becoming a senior producer in Adelaide. He is now a freelance author and editor. His previous non-fiction book was called Three Weeks in Bali, an eye-witness account of the 2002 terror attacks in Kuta (he was there on holiday at the time). His work as a journalist has brought several awards, including a Walkley nomination and inaugural Journalist of the Year in SA.
The Trials of Billy Freeman is his second book
1.00pm –1.30pm Mess Hall
Educational Talks at Adelaide Gaol’s History Day
Delve deeper into the fascinating history of Adelaide Gaol with our 20-minute educational talks, offering unique insights into the stories and events that shaped this historic site.
- Hangings and Executions: Learn about the grim realities of capital punishment at the Gaol, the individuals who faced the noose, and the impact these executions had on the community.
- Women in Gaol: Discover the experiences of women imprisoned at the Gaol, their struggles, and the unique challenges they faced in a male-dominated environment.
- The New Building: Uncover the history of the Gaol’s “New Building,” its purpose, and the significant role it played in the lives of prisoners and guards alike.
These engaging talks provide a deeper understanding of life at Adelaide Gaol and are perfect for history enthusiasts or those seeking to connect with the past. Talks will be running throughout the day—don’t miss the chance to enrich your visit!
Please book in addition to your entry tickets.
Tix are available to book online for the Hanging Tour and New Building, but not Women in Gaol.
Important Information for History Day at Adelaide Gaol
Parking
Please note that onsite parking will be limited due to the construction of the new Women’s and Children’s Hospital near the Gaol. Limited disability permit parking will be available onsite.
We strongly recommend using public transport to visit the Gaol. If parking is required, visit Visitor Information for details on nearby parking options.
Public Transport
The nearest tram stop is Thebarton, located adjacent to George Street, Thebarton. From there, you can enjoy a short walk through Bonython Park to reach the Gaol.
