The class had the opportunity to visit the site and have a first hand look at the archaeological material that has been uncovered such as pipes, clothing and food remains. They also learned about archaeological field techniques and took part in a simulated archaeological dig.

At the Barracks is a special memorial to the Potato Famine in the 1840s. Many of the young Irish women who were housed at the Barracks had fled the Potato Famine. One of our students, Tamika-Bree H, was able to find the name of her ancestor, Bridget Davis, on the Irish Famine monument  as she had been one of the female emigrants housed at the Hyde Park Barracks.

After our time at the Hyde Park Barracks, students looked at historic buildings along Macquarie Street and then had lunch in the Botanic Gardens.

Bronwyn Z reflected on the excursion:
'The Elective History excursion was an excellent experience and a good opportunity to see the Hyde Park Barracks in person after a term of studying it. The tour of the Barracks was very interesting as we got to see artefacts we had analysed in class and were able to gain a better understanding of the different functions the Barracks was used for in certain periods of history. After the tour, we took a walk through Macquarie St and saw the Law Court, Sydney Parliament House and the State Library. We were also fortunate enough to take a walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens which were very beautiful and was a great chance to relax and admire the view. Walking through the Gardens and seeing the harbour was my favourite part of the excursion as it was so beautiful.' 

Fran Musico Rullo - HSIE Teacher