Historic artefacts to go on display at The Observatory

A treasure trove of historic artefacts unearthed by The Observatory hotel at Town Beach will go on display in 2009.

The artefacts were uncovered with the authority of the NSW Heritage Office and under the supervision of eminent archaeologist Professor John Appleton during the building of The Observatory six years ago and have now been professionally inventoried, restored, photographed and preserved.

Observatory director Chris Denny says when the collection goes on display, together with interpretive panels, the exhibition will add significantly to Port Macquarie's heritage attractions dating from early settlement days.

The items include a wide range of miscellaneous ceramics and porcelain, tooth paste pots, soap trays, hand-painted commemorative items, scent and smelling salts bottles, clay smoking pipes, inkpots, lockets, Willow pattern china, serving platters, pitchers, bottles, a Victorian penny, copper coins, brass buttons and chamber pots. In his catalogue notes Prof Appleton says early to middle 19th century household contents were mostly shipped from Europe when the owners migrated to Australia, or acquired subsequently from shipments of goods imported mostly from England.

Mr Denny, who is also president of Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association, said the permanent display would honour the town's historic past and provide an interesting educational experience for both locals and visitors.

"It's fascinating to trace the archaeologists' work that went in to hand-excavating the site and to read Prof Appleton's notes explaining how the artefacts tell the story of our early history," Mr Denny said. "We're really looking forward to being able to share the collection with the community at large within the coming year."

Issued: Dec 2009