Port (1820-1900)

During the 19th century, The Rocks developed from a convict town into a thriving port town where a post office, warehouses, newspapers and banks were established. It was home not only to merchants and clerks but also to whalers, sea captains, crews and their families.

Trace the history of one such family in the interactive Byrne family tree timeline. The Byrne family history goes back to the beginning of settlement right through to the present with descendants still residing in The Rocks today.

The Rocks Discovery Dig Game

Become an archaeologist and uncover the artefacts of The Rocks!

Collect buried objects before your time runs out. The quicker you finish the more points you score, but be careful, collecting rocks will slow you down!

You can use your points to buy more time, faster boots or stronger rope.

Visit the artefact cabinet and find out more about the items with real life archeologist, Dr Wayne Johnson.