The Convict Archaeology of Norfolk Island

A reputation as a harsh punishment station for recidivist British convicts has long held the centre stage for Norfolk Island's convict past, owing mostly to this vibrant history and the visible archaeological ruins. As we mark the bicentenary of the second convict settlement (1825–1855), this presentation reconsiders the island’s convict history through archaeological research. Rather than retelling familiar tales of punishment and isolation, we delve into the material traces left behind—structures, landscapes, and artefacts—that speak to the industries, adaptation of the island environment and social complexities of settlement life. Our research brings renewed attention to the often-overlooked First British Settlement (1788–1814), revealing how its foundations shaped the island’s later use.

Drawing on the framework of the Landscapes of Production and Punishment Project used across Van Diemen’s Land and New South Wales, we present new interdisciplinary research that situates Norfolk Island within broader colonial, environmental and carceral contexts. Through this archaeological lens, we introduce a project in development that combines mapping, remote sensing, existing archaeological data and survey to understand this complex landscape.

Speakers

Prof. Martin Gibbs (The University of New England), Tom Sapienza (Kingston & Arthur's Vale Historical Area) and Dr Caitlin D’Gluyas (The University of Queensland)

Location

In-person: Norfolk Island Knowledge and Learning Centre

70 Taylors Road, Burnt Pine, Norfolk Island

Online via Zoom (link will be sent in confirmation email)

Date and Time

Saturday 14 June 2025

4pm AEST, 3.30pm ACST, 2pm AWST, 6pm NZ.

Image: Searle, E. W. (Edward William) 1887-1955 & Beatties Studio. (1913). Norfolk Island convict settlement at Kingston in 1848, National Library of Australia https://nla.gov.au/nla.cat-vn4557061