Melbourne Jail: 133 Hangings, Ned Kelly’s Cell

Melbourne Jail Offers Grim History and Unique Tourist Experience

Melbourne Jail, a historic structure built in 1845, stands as a stark reminder of Australia’s penal past. Despite closing its doors as a functioning prison in 1924, it remains a significant tourist attraction, drawing over 200,000 visitors annually. Its unique location, nestled among modern skyscrapers, creates a striking contrast between old and new, offering a glimpse into a darker chapter of Melbourne’s history.

Inside the Cell Blocks: A World of Silence and Hardship

The main cell block, remarkably well-preserved, showcases the harsh realities of prison life in the 19th century. Cells, measuring approximately 2 meters by 6-7 meters, were designed for solitary confinement, with prisoners spending 23 hours a day in silence. Unlike depictions in movies, these cells featured solid walls and doors, not bars, emphasizing isolation. The “silence mask,” a device worn by prisoners during their limited hour outside the cell, further enforced this isolation, obscuring the wearer’s face and preventing any communication. This extreme regimen often led to mental breakdowns among inmates.

Punishments were severe. Prisoners who misbehaved were forced to wear heavy ball and chains during their hour of exercise, adding physical hardship to their psychological torment. This brutal environment was designed to break the spirit of those incarcerated.

Ned Kelly: Australia’s Most Infamous Outlaw

The jail’s most famous inmate was Ned Kelly, Australia’s most notorious outlaw. Kelly, known for his confrontations with the police, famously wore a suit of homemade metal armor during his final stand. A replica of this armor is available for visitors to try on, offering a tangible connection to his legend. The original armor is housed elsewhere, but the jail preserves other artifacts related to his story.

Ned Kelly’s Cell and the Macabre Practice of Death Masks

Ned Kelly occupied a cell that offered more space and a larger window compared to others, suggesting some preferential treatment. However, his stay ended with his execution. The jail also displays Ned Kelly’s death mask. This artifact is linked to a grim practice where plaster casts of executed prisoners’ heads were taken. Doctors at the time sought to understand the physical differences between criminals and ordinary people. Their research ultimately concluded that there were no significant differences, rendering the practice largely futile.

Interestingly, Ned Kelly’s mother was also imprisoned at Melbourne Jail during the same period. The prison housed both male and female inmates, reflecting the era’s approach to penal practices. Many women were also executed within its walls.

The Gallows: A Site of 133 Executions

Melbourne Jail was the site of 133 executions during its operation. The gallows, a simple yet chilling structure with a trapdoor, was used for these proceedings. The stark reality of these events is palpable within the prison’s walls.

A Glimpse into Victorian Prison Life

The jail’s architecture, typical of Victorian-era prisons, features long corridors lined with cells. Despite its age, the structure remains in excellent condition, allowing visitors to vividly imagine the daily lives of its former inhabitants. Reenactments and detailed information panels provide further insight into the lives of prisoners and the workings of the jail.

The Hangman’s Role

The “hangman’s box” display illustrates the tools and equipment used by executioners, including ropes, restraints, and masks. A dummy demonstrates how the hangman would prepare for an execution. These exhibits, while grim, are presented in a way that is informative and appropriate for the setting.

The stories of individual prisoners, their crimes, and the public reactions to their executions are shared throughout the jail. These narratives highlight a growing public sentiment against capital punishment, which eventually led to its abolition. The last hanging in Australia occurred as recently as 1967.

Visitor Experience and Value

The top floor of the jail offers panoramic views of the cell blocks below and features ornate architectural details. While the overall atmosphere is somber, the upper levels can feel brighter and more open. The exercise yard, where prisoners spent their single hour of freedom daily, offers a final glimpse into the confined existence within the jail.

As a tourist attraction, Melbourne Jail provides a unique and educational experience. It is a departure from typical tourist activities, offering a deep dive into Australia’s history. The entrance fee of approximately $38 per person is considered good value for the roughly one-hour tour. The thick walls of the jail naturally keep the interior cool, providing a respite from the heat outside. For those seeking a different kind of historical exploration in Melbourne, the jail is a highly recommended destination.

Source: A Fun Day Out at Melbourne Jail – Melbourne’s Darkest Attraction. 133 Hangings & Ned Kelly’s Cell (YouTube)