J-Ward Historic Gaol operates daily tours of this important Victorian tourist attraction. Located in the town of Ararat.
Guided tours of what is now a museum complex, operate 7 days a week and are dedicated to recording and preserving the history of the criminals imprisoned and hung here.
J Ward started its life as a goldfields prison in 1859. In the mid 1880s the prison buildings were acquired by the Lunacy Department as housing for the Criminally Insane.
Further Information
The County Gaol became a ward (J Ward) of the Ararat Lunatic Asylum where the most depraved and most dangerous men in Victoria were housed in horrific conditions under the highest security.
Primary Groups
Site Description Gaol
Site Facilities Carpark, Public Toilets
Tour Types Guided Tours, Self Guided Tours
General Groups, Individuals, School Groups
Payment Method Cash Payments Accepted, Most Major Credit Cards
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