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Date
On display now
Time
Open during State Library opening hours:
Monday: 9am to 5pm
Tuesday: 9am to 7pm
Wednesday to Friday: 9am to 5pm
Saturday and Sunday: 12 to 5pm

Please note we are closed on public holidays.
Location
Mortlock Chamber
Cost
Free entry
About the presenter

State Library of South Australia 

Questions?
For any questions regarding the event, please reach out to the State Library of South Australia:
Email: slsaem@sa.gov.au

This hand-coloured, gilded map is a new addition to the State Library of South Australia’s collections, and has an extraordinary tale to tell.

Generously presented by the Friends of the State Library, The Town of Port Gawler map was created under commission by surveyor Philip L.S. Chauncy and finished in 1840.  The map shows neat parcels of land, a town square, a market, and cemetery laid out between two creeks of the Port Gawler River. But the town of Port Gawler was never built.

Dig deeper into the story of this proposed town, and you will find a scandalous story of brotherly betrayal, colonial price gouging and legal intrigue which gripped the early Adelaide community, over land and waters traditionally owned by the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains.

The map is on display in the Mortlock Chamber of the State Library.

Read more about the story of this unique map here: https://stories.slsa.sa.gov.au/port-gawler-land-scandal-1839/

 

How do I get to the State Library by public transport?

The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by, near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.

You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.

Is there car parking near the State Library?

The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.

There is paid (metered) street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.

Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?

Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.

There is on-street disabled parking available on the nearby roads. View more information and maps of Adelaide City Council's Disability parking for permit holders.

How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?

The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.

When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays.  The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include quiet study areas.

Is there a cafe at the State Library?

Yes, the State Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 12 to 4pm.

Find out more about the cafe and resident organisations at the State Library.