A decade after Guildford was settled in 1829, and following the establishment of three public houses in the town, many locals were being charged with drunken behaviour. It became evident the town was in dire need of a gaol.
As a result, the Colonial Gaol in Meadow Street was built in stages between 1841 and 1867. It is a fine example of Colonial architecture and is listed on the State Register of Heritage Places.
The Gaol's most famous inmate was bushranger Moondyne Joe, caught sampling the produce at Houghton Winery two years after escaping from Fremantle Prison. He was temporarily locked up at the Gaol, awaiting his return to Fremantle.
Operated by the Swan Guildford Historical Society (SGHS), tours of the Gaol and Taylor's Cottage are available three days a week, with a small entry fee payable.
Conveniently located next to the Swan Valley Visitor Centre, Guildford Gaol is less than a 10-minute stroll from Guildford Train Station and close to Guildford's iconic pubs, cafes, vintage boutiques, other historic sites and walking trails.
Continue the experience with a visit to the 'Cradle of the Colony' Exhibition, curated by the Swan Guildford Historical Society and housed in the Guildford Courthouse Building (Swan Valley Visitor Centre), available daily.
As a result, the Colonial Gaol in Meadow Street was built in stages between 1841 and 1867. It is a fine example of Colonial architecture and is listed on the State Register of Heritage Places.
The Gaol's most famous inmate was bushranger Moondyne Joe, caught sampling the produce at Houghton Winery two years after escaping from Fremantle Prison. He was temporarily locked up at the Gaol, awaiting his return to Fremantle.
Operated by the Swan Guildford Historical Society (SGHS), tours of the Gaol and Taylor's Cottage are available three days a week, with a small entry fee payable.
Conveniently located next to the Swan Valley Visitor Centre, Guildford Gaol is less than a 10-minute stroll from Guildford Train Station and close to Guildford's iconic pubs, cafes, vintage boutiques, other historic sites and walking trails.
Continue the experience with a visit to the 'Cradle of the Colony' Exhibition, curated by the Swan Guildford Historical Society and housed in the Guildford Courthouse Building (Swan Valley Visitor Centre), available daily.