General History | Page 12 | Maitland Gaol
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General History

The Gaol officially opened and took it's first prisoners in December 1848.

Built of sandstone from Morpeth and Farley, it is considered to be the most intact country gaols in New South Wales with many of the original structures including cell blocks, toilets, awnings and artworks still in the original condition.  

Maitland Gaol is the longest continuously operating correctional institution in Australia.  After holding some of Australia's most hardened criminals, it closed on the 29 January 1998 and any remaining inmates were transferred to other prisons. The closure of the complex was announced in 1996 as part of an upgrade to the state's prison system. It closed because security did not meet community expectations, conditions were considered unsuitable and the cost of operating the antiquated facility was excessive.

Read more about the Gaol's history below. 

  • Discipline

    Segregation, isolation and restriction to a bread and water diet have often been used in the prison
  • Women in prison

    Women were housed in Maitland Gaol on a permanent basis from its opening year (1848) up until
  • Infamous Inmates

    Over its 150 years of operation, the Gaol saw some of the state’s worst offenders walk through
  • Executions

    A total of 16 men (13 for murder and 3 for rape) were executed at Maitland Gaol between 1843 and
  • Drugs and Alcohol

    Just like the movies, inmates would attempt to smuggle drugs and alcohol into the gaol.
  • Riots and protests

    Only one riot took place during the gaol's 150 year history, however protests were numerous over
  • The Daily Routine

    Have you ever wondered what it would be like to spend a day in gaol?

Contact Maitland Gaol

Maitland Gaol opening hours

Monday to Friday, 9.00am - 4.00pm
Saturday and Sunday, 10.00am - 4.00pm
Public holidays, 10.00am - 4.00pm

  •  6 - 18 John St (PO Box 249)
  • East Maitland, NSW 2323
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