This child’s ankle boot of the 1840s, found in the roof cavity of a house in Lower Fort Street, Dawes Point, is believed to have been concealed as a response to the deaths of three children in the same family.
Have you ever found anything unusual hidden in your house?
For centuries, in Europe, people placed objects in secret spaces around the house to ward off evil spirits. They didn't stop just because they came to a new country.
Now home-owners across Sydney are finding these historic treasures and the compelling stories that accompany them.
In a special event at the Museum of Sydney this June, you can hear renowned architectural historian and writer Ian Evans discuss his ground-breaking research into this fascinating ancient ritual.
Rituals in Old Australian HousesA special discussion with Dr Ian Evans
Sunday 24 June, 2pm—3pm
Museum of Sydney, Cnr Bridge and Phillip Streets, Sydney
Tickets: General $10, Concession $5
Bookings not required
You can find out more about the objects hidden and later rediscovered at Hyde Park Barracks in Peter Davies' article on the archaeology of the Barracks, in the Dictionary of Sydney.
