Sydney Sandstone - Museum of Sydney

While the Museum of Sydney is not one of the original sandstone buildings along Bridge Street it is of significance because it is on the site of the First Government House and still has some of the original sandstone foundations on display.

I have also included it because the façade of the museum shows the evolution of the way sandstone was used in buildings in Sydney. From the rough hewn original blocks at the bottom of the photo, progressing to the more refined squarer blocks  further up and then through to the smooth finish in top of the photo.

Sydney sandstone known as Yellowblock was quarried in and around Sydney predominantly around Pyrmont where there were approximately 50 quarries. The main public buildings built in Sydney from the 1850's until the 20th century were built using this stone.

 

 

 

The Museum of Sydney is well worth a visit as it interprets the archaeological remains of first Government House and also looks at the stories of Sydney both past and present through interesting stories and interactive displays.