Tuggeranong School House
34 Enid Lorimer Circuit, Chisholm Australian Capital Territory 2905
About Tuggeranong School House
Welcome to Tuggeranong School House, a recently restored institution located at Enid Lorimer Circuit, Chisholm, Australia. This establishment is not only an educational point of interest but also a popular tourist attraction. Restored by the ACT Government, the schoolhouse is now complete with furniture, artefacts, and antiques that reflect Canberra's pastoral and pioneering past. It is truly a must-see!
One of the highlights of visiting the Tuggeranong School House is the opportunity to hear stories of Canberra's pioneering past from the renowned storyteller, Elizabeth Burness. Through her business, 'History With A Difference', she brings the tales of old schooldays to life, making the experience even more immersive and engaging.
The schoolhouse collection is truly fascinating, featuring period clothing that showcases the changes in lifestyle for both the families living in the school's cottage and its students. It's remarkable to think that Teacher Francis McGee stood in that very classroom and lived in the cottage from 1898 until his retirement in 1927. He not only taught his seven children but also had a profound impact on his grandson, Professor James McGee, who became internationally renowned for his research in nuclear physics and his pioneering work in television.
The Tuggeranong Schoolhouse Museum welcomes visitors on the second Sunday of every month and by appointment. Please note that while the building is owned by the ACT Property Group, the contents of the museum are privately owned and curated by Elizabeth Burness. Every effort is made to ensure the safety and enjoyment of visitors during their visit to this unique museum, including the implementation of a 24-hour back-to-base security system and an interim Fire Evacuation Plan.
Since opening in April 2011 as part of the ACT Heritage Festival, this volunteer-run museum has already attracted 900 visitors in just over a year. To help cover the costs of maintaining the museum, there is a gold coin donation entry fee, which goes towards the security system, electricity, and future newspaper publicity.
Unlike traditional museums, Tuggeranong Schoolhouse Museum does not rely on interpretive signage or captions. Instead, the carefully placed furniture and artefacts from the late Victorian and early twentieth-century eras create an immersive atmosphere that captivates visitors. For older visitors, there are laminated written materials, including general information about the highlighted era, era-specific advertisements, and books, which add to the overall experience.
If you want to learn more about the Tuggeranong School House, there are several articles and resources available for you to explore. These include a story by David Ellery in the Canberra Times (March 2016), an article by Breanna Tucker about the old-school classroom being a hit, and a piece by Tegan Osborne in the Canberra Weekly about the unique history offered at the Tuggeranong Schoolhouse. Additionally, local historian Michael Hall has prepared a document about Tuggeranong School students who served in World War 1.
Come and visit the Tuggeranong School House and immerse yourself in the rich history of Canberra's pioneering past. You won't be disappointed!
Photos of Tuggeranong School House
Old Tuggeranong School House, 34 Enid Lorimer Cct, Chisholm ACT 2905, Australia
Reviews of Tuggeranong School House
"This is a hidden gem in Tuggeranong. Well worth a visit when it is open. Our guide was very friendly and informative. You can also walk up to and around Simpsons Hill."
"Love Toyota and the service they give."
"It was fantastic! Step back in time."
"Wonderful outing. Elizabeth's knowledge and passion is incredible. Highly recommend."
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