Cascades Female Factory Historic Site

This place is definitely worth a visit. And also definitely worth doing a storytelling tour as it really brings the place to life. Our guide Hugh gave us a real insight into the lived experience of the women who had the misfortune to be housed here. And the lack of options they faced, often for the most minor of crimes. The museum is interesting too. If the uk govt wanted to eliminate the “Criminal Classes” then these days it looks they should have focused on royalty, government ministers and captains of industry not starving mothers trying to feed their children!

A unique look into the history of female convicts in Tasmania. I did the 'Notorious Strumpets & Dangerous Girls' which I found truly fascinating as it included stories of individual women while still providing you the basic history. The tour went for over an hour and cost just over $30, which i think was well worth it. A small shop is located inside with a variety of craft items, jewellery and books focused on history and empowering women. Highly recommend the visit.

Went to the Cascades female factory for the first time and oh boy.. Mike was fantastic as the speaking tour guide, giving the small group insight on a slice of history from the 1800s involving females and their incarnation. Walking around the remains of the building and the recreation of the matrons home was surreal and also incredibly heartbreaking. They also gave out a little number card for you to find the matching plaque and learn about the woman it belongs to.

A fascinating insight into the lives of women sent to an unforgiving Van Diemen's Land. Whilst there is little physically remaining of the site, the staff are passionate researchers, archivists, and tour guides. The hour-long tour (based around the lives of a select few women who faced different fates) that we joined was incredibly detailed and moving. It's truly incredible how much they have been able to piece together, and continue to discover. Nice to walk along the river path to the site. Worth noting that the experience is mostly outside and not under cover. Highly recommend!