Fremantle Prison
Western Australia
Fremantle Prison, located in Western Australia, is a former penal institution and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally constructed using limestone quarried on site, it was initially built to house convicts transported from Britain. The prison complex includes cellblocks, a gatehouse, perimeter walls, cottages for staff, and an extensive tunnel system for fresh water. Throughout its operational history, Fremantle Prison was Western Australia's only lawful place of execution and witnessed over 40 hangings. The prison's population evolved from transported convicts to locally sentenced prisoners, with a notable increase in violent offenders and Aboriginal inmates in the late 20th century. Despite reforms initiated by Royal Commissions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the prison's culture was resistant to change, culminating in significant riots in 1968 and 1988. After its closure in 1991, Fremantle Prison was conserved as a heritage site and repurposed as a major tourist attraction offering special tours and cultural events. Its architecture is notable for the imposing 4.6-metre boundary walls, the Main Cell Block with two chapels, and various specialized buildings such as the former Women's Prison and hospital. The site offers a profound insight into Australia's convict past and penal history, making it a unique cultural landmark.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to book tickets in advance, especially during special events like the Fremantle Street Arts Festival and Heritage Festival. The best time to visit is during school holidays or festival periods when special tours are available. Discounts may be available for groups, students, and seniors. Guided tours provide a comprehensive experience of the site's history and architecture.
Interesting facts
- •Fremantle Prison was Western Australia's only legal place of execution between 1888 and 1984, with over 40 hangings carried out.
- •The prison includes an extensive tunnel system built to provide fresh water from an aquifer beneath the site.
- •Notable escapees include the infamous bushranger Moondyne Joe and several 19th-century Fenians.
- •The 1988 riot involved guards being taken hostage and caused significant fire damage costing $1.8 million.
- •Fremantle Prison is part of the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage listing, emphasizing its convict-era significance.
History
Fremantle Prison was established in the mid-19th century using limestone quarried on site to house convicts transported from Britain.
It transitioned to a colonial prison in 1886, accommodating locally sentenced prisoners.
Royal Commissions in 1898 and 1911 prompted some reforms, but significant cultural and operational changes only occurred in the 1960s.
The prison experienced major riots in 1968 and 1988, the latter involving hostages and fire damage.
It was closed in 1991, replaced by Casuarina Prison, and subsequently conserved as a heritage site and tourist attraction.
Place Guide
Main Cell Block1850s
The central structure of Fremantle Prison, housing the prison cells and containing two chapels. It represents the core of the prison's architecture and daily life.
Gatehouse and Perimeter Walls1850s
The imposing 4.6-metre-high limestone walls and gatehouse define the prison's boundary and security. The gatehouse faces The Terrace and is flanked by cottages for prison staff.
Women's Prison (Former Cookhouse, Bakehouse, and Laundry)19th century
Located in the north-western corner, this building served multiple roles including housing female prisoners and supporting prison operations.
Hospital Building19th century
Situated in the north-eastern corner, the hospital provided medical care to inmates during the prison's operational years.
Tunnel System19th century
A network of tunnels constructed to supply fresh water from an aquifer beneath the prison site, running under the eastern edge of the grounds.
Contact
Phone: (08) 9336 9200
