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Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum: A Glimpse into Kangaroo Island's Past

Discover Kangaroo Island's maritime heritage and pioneer stories at the Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum, housed in a historic schoolhouse.

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Housed in the historic Hog Bay School, the Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum offers a captivating look into Kangaroo Island's maritime history and pioneer life. Explore exhibits showcasing shipwrecks, early settlers, and the island's unique cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum

  • Tuesday 2 pm-5 pm
  • Wednesday 2 pm-5 pm
  • Thursday 2 pm-5 pm
  • Friday 2 pm-5 pm
  • Saturday 2 pm-5 pm
  • Sunday 2 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check opening hours before visiting, as the museum is run by volunteers and hours may vary.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits.
  • Consider visiting during the monthly Penneshaw Markets for a broader taste of local culture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Penneshaw SeaLink Ferry Terminal, the museum is approximately a 15-minute walk. Head east along the main road (the Hog Bay Road) towards the town center. Turn left onto Howard Drive. The museum will be on your left.

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Discover more about Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum

The Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum, located in the charming town of Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island, provides visitors with a fascinating insight into the region's rich history. The museum is housed in the former Hog Bay School, which operated from 1869 to 1967. The current building, erected in 1922, was the third school on the site. The museum comprises three distinct rooms, each dedicated to a specific historical theme. The School Room features photographs and objects that reflect education in this remote, rural community. The Maritime Room showcases the island's maritime past, with exhibits on sealing, whaling, and commercial shipping. See ship models of Flinders' Investigator and Baudin's Le Geographe, plus memorabilia from the SS Karatta. The McKenzie Room displays island life, highlighting the isolation experienced by early settlers and celebrating the pioneering spirit integral to the local community. Outside, in the courtyard, you'll find a lifeboat from the S.S Karatta, a reminder of the community's close ties to the sea. There is also a grinding mill used to crush stone for china production, a testament to early industry on the island. The museum was established in 1968 by locals Keith and Margot McKenzie. Their donation of historical items helped create the displays that commemorate the island's history and identity.

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