Comprehensive Guide to Visiting the South Australian Maritime Museum, Adelaide, Australia
Date: 25/07/2024
Introduction
Discover the rich maritime heritage of South Australia at the South Australian Maritime Museum, located in the historic district of Port Adelaide. This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s maritime history, with an extensive collection of artifacts, interactive displays, and meticulously preserved documents. Founded in a historic building, the museum’s charm is further enhanced by its architectural authenticity. A key highlight of the museum is its comprehensive collection from the Adelaide Steamship Company, which played a pivotal role in South Australia’s economic development by controlling goods transport and providing passenger vessel services (SA History Hub). The museum also sheds light on the company’s significant contributions during wartime, its cultural impact, and the economic challenges it faced. Visitors can explore a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions, such as ‘Action Stations: South Australia and the Navy’ and ‘First Voyages: Exploring the Southern Coast,’ which delve into different aspects of maritime history (South Australian Maritime Museum). Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for an engaging day out, the South Australian Maritime Museum offers something for everyone.
Table of Contents
- Discover the South Australian Maritime Museum
- Visitor Information
- Accessibility and Facilities
- Community Engagement
- Nearby Attractions and Events
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Permanent Exhibitions
- Temporary Exhibitions
- Special Tours and Events
- Educational Programs
- Contact Information
Discover the South Australian Maritime Museum
Founding and Early Years
The South Australian Maritime Museum, located in Port Adelaide, is a testament to the rich maritime history of South Australia. The museum’s collection is extensive, documenting the evolution of maritime activities in the region. Housed in a historic building, the museum itself adds to its charm and authenticity. The collection includes artifacts from the Adelaide Steamship Company, founded in 1875 by a group of pastoralists and businessmen. This company played a crucial role in the development of South Australia’s economy by controlling the transport of goods and providing efficient passenger vessel services (SA History Hub).
The Adelaide Steamship Company
The Adelaide Steamship Company was Australia’s largest shipping company and one of South Australia’s most successful business ventures. The company’s fleet dominated Australian passenger and cargo shipping from Darwin to Townsville for over 100 years. The South Australian Maritime Museum’s Adsteam collection includes several hundred objects, such as ship fittings, furnishings, badged crockery and cutlery, tickets, brochures, ship plans and passes, models, and paintings of ships from the line (SA History Hub).
Wartime Contributions
During wartime, the Adelaide Steamship Company’s vessels were requisitioned for global campaigns. The company’s contribution to the war effort was significant, with its ships playing crucial roles in transporting troops and supplies. In peacetime, these vessels offered Australians the journey of a lifetime, providing luxury and comfort on interstate trade routes (SA History Hub).
Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of the Adelaide Steamship Company is also noteworthy. For over 50 years, from 1910 to the 1960s, the Gulf Trip on Adelaide Steamship vessels was a unique way to see South Australia. Popular with honeymooners and notorious party ships for young men, the seven-day trip cost £6 in 1939. Ships like the Minnipa, Manunda, Moonta, and Morialta provided opportunities for romance and gave many Australians the time of their lives (SA History Hub).
Economic Contributions
The economic contributions of the Adelaide Steamship Company to South Australia cannot be overstated. The company employed nearly 800 people at sea and about 90 onshore. While there was great loyalty from some workers, there were also major waterside disputes during the 1890s and 1920s. These disputes highlight the challenges faced by the company in maintaining its operations and profitability (SA History Hub).
The Museum’s Role in Preserving History
The South Australian Maritime Museum plays a crucial role in preserving and showcasing the history of the Adelaide Steamship Company and other maritime activities in the region. The museum’s collection is the most comprehensive and extensive collection of objects relating to the Adelaide Steamship Company in Australia (SA History Hub).
Visitor Information
Visitors to the South Australian Maritime Museum can explore a wide range of exhibits that provide insights into the maritime history of South Australia. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, except on Christmas Day. Admission fees are $22.50 for adults, $17.00 for concessions, $9.00 for children (with children under 5 free), and $55.00 for families (2 adults and up to 3 children). The museum is located at 126 Lipson Street, Port Adelaide, and is easily accessible by public transport (South Australian Maritime Museum).
Accessibility and Facilities
The South Australian Maritime Museum is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all visitors. The museum has ambulant toilet facilities and lift access to all floors. Guide dogs and assistance dogs are welcome. Visitors can find information about accessible parking options on the Blue Bays website. Additionally, the museum offers venue hire for events, a cafe, and a gift shop where visitors can purchase nautical books, models, and other souvenirs (South Australian Maritime Museum).
Community Engagement
The South Australian Maritime Museum encourages community engagement by inviting visitors to share their stories and memories related to Adelaide’s maritime history. The museum’s website features a section where users can upload photos and share their experiences. This initiative helps create a sense of community and allows the museum to collect valuable historical information from the public. However, all user contributions are moderated to ensure they comply with the museum’s moderation policy (SA History Hub).
Nearby Attractions and Events
Port Adelaide, where the museum is situated, is rich with historical sites and attractions. Visitors can explore the National Railway Museum and the South Australian Aviation Museum, making it a hub for history enthusiasts. Additionally, the South Australian Maritime Museum hosts special events and guided tours throughout the year, providing unique opportunities for visitors to engage with maritime history in a deeper way (South Australian Maritime Museum).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the visiting hours for the South Australian Maritime Museum?
A: The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, except on Christmas Day.
Q: How much are tickets to the South Australian Maritime Museum?
A: Admission fees are $22.50 for adults, $17.00 for concessions, $9.00 for children (with children under 5 free), and $55.00 for families (2 adults and up to 3 children).
Q: Where is the South Australian Maritime Museum located?
A: The museum is located at 126 Lipson Street, Port Adelaide, and is easily accessible by public transport.
Q: Does the museum offer any special events or guided tours?
A: Yes, the museum hosts special events and guided tours throughout the year. Check the museum’s website for the latest information.
Permanent Exhibitions
Action Stations: South Australia and the Navy
This exhibition explores the role of the South Australian Navy from its colonial beginnings to its involvement in the world wars of the 20th century. It includes artifacts such as naval uniforms, weaponry, and personal memorabilia from sailors who served in the South Australian Navy (South Australian Maritime Museum).
First Voyages: Exploring the Southern Coast
This exhibition focuses on the early European exploration of Australia’s southern coast. It features objects from the voyages of notable explorers such as Matthew Flinders and Nicolas Baudin. Among the many artifacts is Matthew Flinders’ “Best Bower” anchor, which was lost in 1803 and recovered in 1973 (source).
Immigration Stories
The museum presents the experiences of immigrants coming to Australia in the 1830s, 1910s, and 1950s. This exhibition includes personal belongings, photographs, and documents that tell the stories of those who made the journey to start a new life in Australia (South Australian Maritime Museum).
Health and Medicine at Sea
This exhibition provides insights into the medical challenges faced by sailors and immigrants during long sea voyages. It includes medical instruments, journals, and accounts of illnesses and treatments used at sea (source).
Ketch Traders
The ketch traders served southern ports from the 19th century to the 1960s. This exhibition showcases the vessels, trade routes, and the lives of those who worked on these coastal traders. It includes models of ketches, navigational instruments, and trade goods (South Australian Maritime Museum).
Ecology of the Port River Dolphins
This exhibition focuses on the unique ecology of the Port River and its resident dolphin population. It includes interactive displays and information on the conservation efforts to protect these dolphins (South Australian Maritime Museum).
Temporary Exhibitions
The Marine Science Century: 100 Voyages of the Nation’s Marine Research Ship
This exhibition celebrates the centenary of marine research in Australia. It features artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that highlight the significant contributions of marine research to our understanding of the ocean (South Australian Maritime Museum).
Dark Things in Dark Places: The Wreck of the Star of Greece
This exhibition explores the tragic wreck of the Star of Greece, a ship that sunk off the coast of South Australia. Artifacts recovered from the wreck provide a haunting glimpse into the past and the dangers of maritime travel (South Australian Maritime Museum).
Special Tours and Events
Portside Lighthouse & Museum Discovery Tour
This tour includes a guided exploration of the museum’s collections, a stroll to the wharf, and a visit to the iconic lighthouse first illuminated in 1869. The tour runs from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM and is limited to small groups for a more interactive experience (South Australian Maritime Museum).
Investigator LEGO® Trail
During school holidays, children can participate in the Investigator LEGO® Trail, which is free with museum entry. This interactive trail allows kids to explore the museum while searching for hidden LEGO® minifigures (South Australian Maritime Museum).
GooRoo Animation – Claymation Workshops
These workshops are held during the April school holidays and offer children the opportunity to create their own claymation movies inspired by the museum’s exhibits. The sessions are free with museum admission, but booking is advised (South Australian Maritime Museum).
Educational Programs
School Programs
The museum provides curriculum-aligned programs for students, including guided tours, workshops, and interactive sessions. Teachers can book these programs in advance by contacting the museum (South Australian Maritime Museum).
Family Activities
During school holidays, the museum hosts various family-friendly activities such as the LEGO® Trail and GooRoo Animation workshops. These activities are designed to make learning fun and engaging for children.
Contact Information
For more information, visitors can contact the museum directly:
- Phone: 08 8151 3260
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: South Australian Maritime Museum
Conclusion
The South Australian Maritime Museum stands as a testament to the rich maritime heritage of South Australia. With its extensive collection, particularly the artifacts related to the Adelaide Steamship Company, the museum offers invaluable insights into the region’s economic, cultural, and social development. The museum’s commitment to accessibility ensures a welcoming experience for all visitors, while its community engagement initiatives foster a deeper connection with the public. Special tours and events, such as the Portside Lighthouse & Museum Discovery Tour and the Investigator LEGO® Trail, provide unique opportunities for visitors to engage with maritime history on a deeper level (South Australian Maritime Museum). For those looking to explore further, nearby attractions like the National Railway Museum and the Port Adelaide Lighthouse offer additional historical insights. Ultimately, the South Australian Maritime Museum is not just a repository of artifacts but a vibrant institution that brings South Australia’s maritime past to life. Stay updated by downloading the Audiala mobile app or following the museum on social media for the latest events and exhibitions.
References
- SA History Hub. (n.d.). Adelaide Steamship Company. Retrieved from SA History Hub
- South Australian Maritime Museum. (n.d.). Visit. Retrieved from South Australian Maritime Museum
- South Australian Maritime Museum. (n.d.). Collections. Retrieved from South Australian Maritime Museum
- South Australian Maritime Museum. (n.d.). What is On. Retrieved from South Australian Maritime Museum
