The history of Brisbane's settlement is what's on display in one of the city's oldest and most noteworthy buildings.
The
Commissariat Store (
115 William Street, Brisbane) is a significant part of Brisbane's history. The heritage listed building was constructed in the 1820's and is the only still-occupied convict built structure in Brisbane. The building was commissioned to provide a food and clothing store for the military and convicts who had settled in Brisbane at the time.
Nearly one hundred years later, the building still remains in inner city Brisbane. The Royal Historical Society of Queensland was given occupation by the State government in the 1980's, and today the address serves as a museum, research centre and meeting venue.
The museum is a fascinating, occasionally gruesome, experience that details the history of early settlement and Moreton Bay's penal settlements. A guided tour of the museum takes visitors through collections of artefacts from the days of early settlements.
Items collected from early homes, Government paddle steamers,
St Helena Island and convicts barracks include house hold items, building materials and prison equipment. Those with a strong stomach might like to check out the jar of fingertips from St Helena – courtesy of convicts who injured themselves to escape heavy labour sentences.
The Commissariat Store is open Tuesday to Friday from 10.00am until 4.00pm. Admission is $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for children.
