Cascades Female Factory Historic Site

This all-female prison is one of 11 places that make up the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property. Between 1788 and 1853 approximately 25,000 women—and even some of their children—were held in one of Cascade’s five structures. High rates of illness and infant mortality, as well as grim conditions led to tragic ends for many of the inmates who were forced to sew and mend to repay their debts to society.
Three of the five original buildings are open to the public, so visitors can see the heavy stone walls and thick metal bars that held so many women captive. The Matron’s Quarters in Yard 4 provides travelers with details about the lives of civilians who were charged with punishing and reforming Cascade’s wayward women. This female factory is a fascinating introduction to Tasmania’s role in convict transportation for Great Brittan.

Practical Info

It’s easy to get to Cascades Female Factory on foot by following the Hobart Town Rivulet path. Visitors can also take the 44, 46, 47 or 49 buses to St Johns Hospital and walk down Apsley Street. Tickets range from $15-$20 and tours are included.