Unlock the history of Albany "Kinjarling" and experience the stories that have defined our culture, community and heritage.
The Albany Historical Society, established in 1962, is committed to preserving, protecting, and promoting Albany /Kinjarling's rich and diverse history. Our history collection is among the oldest and most esteemed in Western Australia.
AHS celebrates Albany/Kinjarling by honoring our community's varied cultural heritage and the significant role Albany played as the first European and Aboriginal settlement in Western Australia. We acknowledge and respect the connection of the Menang Noongar people to the land and the significance of Kinjarling in their culture and everyday lives.
Bicentenary Project Update
CELEBRATE 2026 ALBANY
Old Albany
Celebrating Albany’s Bicentenary Through the Lens of History
AHS is incredibly proud to be a major sponsor of a remarkable new book commissioned for the Albany Bicentenary. This publication, a collaboration with renowned local historian John Dowson, offers a profound exploration of Albany's rich history, marking a significant milestone in Western Australia's first bicentenary.
Our partnership with John Dowson spans over several years, including his acclaimed coffee table book, Old Albany. This earlier work presented over 250 original photographs from 1850 to 1950, capturing the essence of Albany's early days. Dowson’s meticulous research and dedication to preserving local heritage have made him a trusted collaborator in documenting our community's past.
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The History Hub
ALBANY'S BOER WAR HERO
Major Doctor Ingoldby had been severely wounded at the notorious Battle of Koster River in the western Transvaal, South Africa. This decisive battle on 21st-23rd July 1900, resulted in 6 dead and 22 wounded.
FOREFATHER
A visionary vanguard, who with the assistance of his officers, the convicts and the Menang people, laid the foundation for Western Australia.
EARLY SETTLER
Patrick Taylor was a leading figure in the town's affairs for several years. A fanatically religious man, he was deeply concerned with the death of clergymen in the new colony.​
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From the Stacks
FEATURE
Richard Benjamin Merrifield
A Cornerstone of Commerce: Merrifield’s Mark on Albany.
Richard Benjamin Merrifield, a man of vision and community spirit—arrived in Albany in 1909 with his beloved wife, Elizabeth and their growing family. He began his journey in the local retail industry, working as a draper at the well known Barnett Store. However, it wasn’t long before his entrepreneurial drive led him to open his own drapery business. Strategically located on the bustling corner of Stirling Terrace and Spencer Street, directly opposite the old post office, his store quickly gained a reputation for quality and service. As the business prospered, Richard moved his operations to a more prominent and central location at the corner of York Street and Peel's Place, further cementing his role as a key figure in Albany’s commercial landscape.
Upcoming Experience
LET THE AFTERLIFE PARTY BEGIN!
STEP INTO THE ALBANY CONVICT GAOL
Curious about what awaits beyond the veil? Whether you're a die hard believer in the paranormal, a hardened skeptic or simply seeking a thrilling new experience, The Afterlife Party offers a one of a kind night of exploration, mystery and discovery in one of Western Australia’s most historically haunted locations—the Albany Convict Gaol.
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Now, you can be part of the experience. Join Jaysinn and Kat, the lead investigators and founders of The Afterlife Party for an exclusive, limited event in Albany, Western Australia. This exclusive event is limited to a select number of participants, don't miss the opportunity to be part of this unique paranormal investigation experience.
School Holiday Program
Convict Kids Corner
Unlock the history of the Albany Convict Gaol at the Convict Kids Corner with fun activities, dramatic escapes and so much more. ​The gaol museum reveals stories about the town's settlement, colonial artefacts, the convicts who were kept here and the gaol.
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Visit the Convict Kids Corner and dress up as a convict and get the whole family involved with Warden uniforms and Victorian costumes available. Take a photo behind bars and grab your convict colouring pages, puzzles and quiz and walk the Gaol to find the answers.​​
10am to 4pm
5 July - 20 July 2025
