Historical information
The Beechworth Historic Courthouse is a living history museum in Victoria, Australia. Built in 1858, it has been in continuous service for 131 years and is currently home to a unique collection of artifacts, including its original furniture and fittings. The Courthouse Law Library is also recognised as being of outstanding national significance with many rare books held in the collection.
Significance
The courthouse was built in 1858 and is located in the centre of the Beechworth Historic Precinct. It was built from granite with a double height gabled courtroom with the entrance via a central projecting porch.
The building was classified in 1959 as part of Group Classification (B2615)with Forests Office, Lands Office, Police Lock-up & Police Station.
The Courthouse is a significant site in Australia’s legal history because it was the location of more than 40 trials and hearings for the Kelly Gang and their sympathisers.
Physical description
This a rectangular, black and white photograph, unmounted.
Inscriptions & markings
Reverse
Ministry of Tourism, Melbourne
Subjects
References
- Court House - Beechworth Historic Area Web page on Victorian Heritage Database
- Beechworth Courthouse Kelly Trials Project Webpage detailing a joint project between Indigo Shire and the Victorian State Government. The project is intended to increase cultural heritage tourism to the region, to recognise the significance of the Beechworth Historic Courthouse.
- Beechworth A Titan's Field ISBN/ISSN: 0949905259 Book by Carole Woods
- Beechworth Historic Courthouse Web page on the Indigo Shire Council site describing the courthouse
- Australia's Dark Heart Elizabeth Scott's story of how she became the first woman hanged in Victoria.
