From visions of our early city to tales of gothic horror, Sydneysiders can step back in time and see their city as it once was through a series of free events for next month's History Week.
From 31 August to 8 September, events exploring the theme 'memory and landscapes' will offer visitors a glimpse of rarely seen 19th century maps and plans of the city, and take them on a journey of memory, love and gothic horror in a talk on the Devonshire Street cemeteries.
A specially developed walk will enable users to explore the city as it was in 1861, while historic interpretations of the city through maps, diagrams and charts will be exhibited in the Customs House exhibition Cartographica – Sydney on the map.
"History plays an important part in our lives – communities are wrapped in human memory, and these histories explain our shared past, showing how generations of people have shaped our city and made it what it is today," City Historian, Lisa Murray, said.
"Sydney is an ever-evolving city. This History Week we want to encourage Sydneysiders to re-imagine and experience the historical urban streetscape.
"We've unearthed historic maps, plans, guides and paintings that we hope will evoke memories of Sydney's past and remind people of what and who has gone before."
Lord Mayor Clover Moore said History Week is the perfect time to reflect on Sydney's past and ensure it is protected for future generations.
"This is an opportunity to look into the causes and events that shaped our city and gain a deeper understanding how life used to be Sydney," the Lord Mayor said.
"Our past can have a huge impact on our future and we need that inspiration to teach and guide us into the future."
The City's History Week program includes:
Stranger's Guide to Sydney in 1861
Culture Walks app – available to
