Norfolk's Convict Heritage
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Port
Cascade, Norfolk Island, Australia
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$64
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 2 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
This in-depth tour examines the convict settlement of Norfolk -- a terrible secret that hid appalling living conditions for those convicted, in many cases, of relatively minor infractions. 'Hell in Paradise' was the name given to the penal colony established here.
Begin at the end of the story with a visit to the local cemetery. This is where you will learn about the famous and notorious characters who helped shape Norfolk Island's history. Hear the real stories behind the interesting convict and colonial headstones and among the houses along Quality Row, where the officers lived.
Norfolk Island's penal colony remnants are part of the greater Australian Convict Sites UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will walk through the ruins of the New Gaol (Jail). Learn how the convicts lived in the pentagonal building, what the work conditions were like, how the shortage of hemp in the UK gave rise to the penal colony on Norfolk, and how prisoners sentenced to death wept with gratitude while those fated to live out their lives in torment wept with anguish.
Notes:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable sunscreen. Bring bottled water.