Even the most ordinary object has many stories to tell, depending on how you look at it.

Between 1983 and 1991, archaeologists excavated one of the most contested blocks of land in Sydney – the site of Australia’s first Government House. They unearthed around 140,000 objects that had lain hidden beneath the city’s streets for almost 140 years.

Unearthed displays a fascinating selection of objects excavated from the site, from remains of the first printing press in Australia, to wine bottles transformed into tools by First Nations toolmakers, and elaborately decorated crockery hidden in a privy. The exhibition explores the tangible and intangible histories embodied in the finds and sheds light on the people who lived and worked at the house, and those whose lives were impacted by decisions made within its walls.

Unearthed also presents the people and stories behind the archaeological digs, from the first excavation in 1983–84, which found remains of the house, to later digs that uncovered foundations of the governor’s guardhouse.

When: 10am to 5pm daily

Where: Museum of Sydney, cnr Phillip and Bridge Sts, Sydney NSW

For more information: https://mhnsw.au/whats-on/events/unearthed/

Photo © James Horan for Museums of History NSW