Cascades Female Factory Historic Site 2.0 (reviews)

There are so many important historic sites across the country that relate to the convict history of Australia, and many of these kids will learn about in school. But one in particular is significant for females - the World-Heritage listed Cascades Female Factory Historic Site.

This historic site was built specifically for reforming, and imprisoning, female convicts. You don't hear much about them do you? But it wasn't just men!

Did you know that thousands of women and children (yes - children!) were imprisoned at Cascades Female Factory, and sadly many never left.

Today, the whole family can visit this important place, and learn all about the faces, the stories and the history that lived within the walls.

It was WAY back between 1788 and 1853 that around 25,000 women were transported to Australia for crimes they committed in Great Britain. About half of these went to one of five female factories.

Cascades Female Factory was in use between 1828 and 1856 - so there is a lot of history to learn!

When you arrive, you are very welcome to just pick up a printed visitor guide and make your own way around the site, but taking one of their tours is the best way to see the site. The Heritage Tour is offered several times a day, each with a guide to really give you all the stories you need, and to answer any questions.

They also offer a show (part history lesson, part theatre show) called Her Story, which really tells of the life of an inmate. These are performed daily at 12pm, and last around 45 minutes. 

So spend the day immersed in a fascinating history at Cascades Female Factory Historic Site - there is no better way for kids to learn about it than actually experience it for themselves!