Many of the buildings in St Johns Avenue are quite historic and the area is considered as a heritage site of local, state and national significance. Several of the most significant buildings were designed by John Lee Archer, a skilled colonial architect, including the Orphan School and St Johns Church. Construction took place between 1831 and 1834.
The church is the most obvious building as you go up the avenue, but beside it on the northern side is what was known as the Orphan School. It was to house orphans in the colony and used for that purpose until it closed in 1879. After that it housed women including those who were destitute. In all it has a sad history and inmates were expected to work and could not freely come and go, while women suffered abuse. Life was harsh and repressive and punishment included solitary confinement.
For more history and old drawing and photos click here
St Johns Church 2013
Orphan School building 2013
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