Whats on

news and events
Contact us

What's on?

Our latest events and exhibitions at a glance.

Share your knowledge and help other community members researching a specific topic, or

share your unique story with us - for future generations

Our next event:

Female Convicts on the Floating Prison Hulks

Thursday 27 March  @ 7.30 pm


Williamstown Town Hall, Level 1 Meeting Room


Guest Presenter - Brian Haynes


Our history books are full of stories about Point Gellibrand's floating prison hulks from the 1850s and 1860s. Sadly, these accounts barely mention the female prisoners who were also incarcerated for over 11 years aboard the hulks.


Join our resident historian Brian Haynes as he shares some of the personal stories and crimes of nearly 1500 females and children, incarcerated aboard the prison hulks "Sacremento" and "Success."


All welcome (including non-members)

@ The Library

 A display on the Streets & Houses of Hobsons Bay is now showing at the Williamstown Library.

Community Noticeboard. Can you help?

We are frequently contacted by members of the public who are researching a topic or family history. If you have information or stories to share on any of these topics we would love to hear from you too.

Thompson Street

Do you have any stories or photos on the early development of Thompson Street, Williamstown?


A society member is interested in researching it's development including any photos of the original court house, town hall, police station.

Family History

One of our members is doing some family history and would like to contact any descendants of Richard Hook who ran a grocery store at 62 Douglas Parade in the 1950s/60's.


He would also like to speak to anyone who knew his aunt Aleksandra Rzecki who lived in Williamstown from the 1950s - 1983. She lived at 27 Lyons Street, Williamstown and was a portrait painter.

Preserving the past for the future

Do you have a story to tell?

Do you or a family member have a fascinating story to tell about a significant person, family, event, or location related to the communities of Williamstown, Newport, or Spotswood?


Make this year the year to share your history.


Get in touch and share your story with our community.


Contact us

Blogs

By Nicole Harris August 4, 2024
In 1867 Steedman published the ‘Manual of Swimming’, drawing on his extensive personal swimming experience to provide a practical manual. This comprehensive manual provided early descriptions of racing strokes, and training methods, and contributed significantly to the development of 'speed swimming', diving, water safety, and the health benefits of bathing.
By Maureen Gibb May 9, 2024
Her true legacy lies in the countless animals whose lives were saved or improved thanks to her tireless advocacy.
By Jennie Moloney April 8, 2024
Courtney's Post and Australia's First Victoria Cross recipient - Albert Jacka
More Posts

Our community supporters

Share by: