Singleton Public Library Presents The Female Convicts Of The Hunter Valley
This Saturday (May 13) from 11am to 2pm, Singleton Public Library will be hosting a documentary launch for ‘Female Convicts of the Hunter Valley’ with speeches to introduce the documentary, a first-time viewing and catering provided by the local Country Women’s Association.
Stemming from Dr Christina Henri’s Australia-wide initiative, the global public art project uses bonnets that are used as a metaphor for the convict women and children transported to Australia, most whose only crime was trying to provide for their families.
The documentary will discuss the ‘Roses to the Heart’ project, as well as many other initiatives that have stemmed from the project including ‘Many Were Sent, Some Stayed’ by Maitland & Beyond Family History, ‘They Sent Me North’ by Newcastle Family History Society, and projects by Singleton Historical Society & Museum, with scenes of the daily lives of these convict women re-enacted at the historical, Tocal Homestead.
Supported by Create NSW’s Cultural Grant Program, as well as funding from a Mt Owen/Glendell Open Cut Community grant, the documentary will be an opportunity to correct false narratives about these transported Hunter Valley women who among them had over 180 various trades and each their own unique stories.
Though the event is free, it is ticketed, so head to the Singleton Public Libraries Facebook page or call the Library on 02 6578 7500 for more information.