Geelong Gaol opened way back in 1853 and houses a treasure trove of history.
The gaol closed in 1991 but nowadays the museum, which opened in June 2019, preserves the intricate history of this once terrifying place.
Today’s prisons are luxurious compared to Geelong Gaol, says local historian Deb Robinson.
“Even when the gaol closed in 1991 and they went to Barwon Prison, it would have been like going to a five-star resort,” she says.
The Geelong Gaol Museum showcases the history of the gaol, which has overlooked the township of Geelong for over 170 years, and the men, women and children who spent time behind the walls.
You can tour the gaol, which is the most intact 19th century prison in Victoria.
Tours are generally 90 minutes long and are led by a costumed guide while the gaol can be explored at night by joining the team at Twisted History for a ghost tour or a paranormal investigation.
The gaol can also be hired for private functions and filming.
Go to geelonggaol.com.au to find out more.
