Murrurundi Museum

The Murrurundi Museum is housed in the historic Literary Institute building, located on the site of the town’s original police lock-up. Murrurundi was first settled in the early 1830s following the discovery of a route over the Liverpool Range, which enabled easier passage to the north and north-west. As a result, the town developed as a key frontier settlement, maintaining law and order while also serving as a vital stop for travellers in need of shelter and provisions.

In 1842, Thomas Haydon began selling portions of his property on the opposite side of the river from Murrurundi, establishing a new settlement named Haydonton. One of Haydonton’s earliest settlers was Benjamin Hall, father of the infamous bushranger Ben Hall. That same year, Benjamin Hall purchased a block of land and built a slab cottage for his family. Today, the Hall family is commemorated in a shopfront window on Adelaide Street, Murrurundi, at the site of the original block.

For many years, Murrurundi and Haydonton existed as separate towns. However, in the early 1900s, they were officially amalgamated under the name Murrurundi. The district has a rich and fascinating history, shaped by its pioneering settlers and the challenges of frontier life.

The Murrurundi Museum, operated by the Murrurundi & District Historical Society, houses an extensive collection of artefacts, documents, and photographs that showcase the lives of those who built and shaped the community. Society members take great pride in preserving this history and sharing it with visitors.

The museum is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 12 pm or by appointment. To arrange a visit, contact Jenny on 0418 647 176. Entry is free, though donations are greatly appreciated. School and group visits are warmly welcomed.