The remains of the first wharf used to welcome the Second Fleet and later ships to Sydney Cove have been rediscovered—under a car park.
According to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald, the site was actually unearthed in 1996 when the car park was constructed. However, the remains were immediately sealed and preserved beneath the construction without any publicity.
The historical find is located next to The Museum of Contemporary Art and The Rocks Police Station.
Archaeologists surveyed the area last month because the museum is planning a $53 million extension. They discovered the wharf piers which are mostly sandstone rubble.
Their professional recommendation was to reseal the site for preservation.
Fortunately, the museum has decided to make the wharf remains a feature in their new building. An artist has been commissioned to help create an interpretive display showing how the original wharf would have looked.
According to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald, the site was actually unearthed in 1996 when the car park was constructed. However, the remains were immediately sealed and preserved beneath the construction without any publicity.
The historical find is located next to The Museum of Contemporary Art and The Rocks Police Station.
Archaeologists surveyed the area last month because the museum is planning a $53 million extension. They discovered the wharf piers which are mostly sandstone rubble.
Their professional recommendation was to reseal the site for preservation.
Fortunately, the museum has decided to make the wharf remains a feature in their new building. An artist has been commissioned to help create an interpretive display showing how the original wharf would have looked.
