Australian Jewish History
The ground floor focuses on
Australian Jewish History,
Jewish Culture and Religion

Almost 1,000 Jewish convicts arrived in New South Wales between 1788 and 1852. The Jews also brought with them their age-old traditions and history. This helped them adapt to their new land despite the hardships of convict life.
Esther Abrahams was sentenced to be transported for stealing two cards of lace. Later, as the wife of Lieutenant Governor George Johnston, she became "First Lady of New South Wales".
Others, more infamous, include bushranger
Teddy Davis and Joseph Samuel
"the man they could not hang".

ESTHER ABRAHAMS

After emancipation many rose to
high positions in communal life.

Amongst those who contributed were Isaac Nathan (Australia's first composer), General Sir John Monash, Sir Isaac Isaacs (First Australian Governor General), Barnett Levy (who built Australia's first theatre).

Experience the sights and sounds of
George Street circa 1848.

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