subject: Female Factory Recounting The Lives Of Hobarts Convicted Women In The 19th Century [print this page] Built in 1828, the Female Factory operated until 1856 as a primary site for the incarceration and reception of convicts who were women. Since then, the factory has remained a significant part of history that often hosts exhibitions and performances.
These factories were a unique establishment created in Australia to handle and manage the women. When the factory was built, the aim was to protect society from the negative influences of crime and corruption of the convicted women. These women were removed from society, far away from any temptations in the city of Hobart. However, over time, the location proved to be a mistake. Since the area is situated in a damp swamp land, the women faced horrible conditions such as poor hygiene, overcrowding, inadequate food and clothing. These conditions resulted in inhumane treatment towards the women, creating a rise in disease and mortality rates among the inmates.
Having such a close connection to the convicted women, the factory describes the lives of these women and the suffering they underwent. As the only remaining Female Factory, the ruins reflect the 19th century philosophies on punishments.
Included in the National Heritage List, there were about 1200 women and their children housed in the factory. There were specific chores and jobs that the women had to complete that included, washing, sewing, spinning and carding.
The role of women in the colonial times was quite traditional. They were seen as strong contributors to society and its stability. However, as the number of women convicts began to rise, their role came under questioning. Regarded useless and immoral, Female Factories were built to penalize the convicted women. The factories mainly operated as a place of punishment, of hiring depots, places of work, places of shelter and a place for these convicted women who were pregnant, sick or ill.
Once the rehabilitation was completed, these reformed women were able to reunite with society and regain their respect. These reformations were done through diligent work and careful supervision. Over time, the place steadily extended to encompass a string of five yards where there were storerooms, cells, workrooms and offices. One of the longest running penal institutions in Tasmania, the tours around the factory capture countless stories of these women. Also included is the dark history of the building and the architecture that follows it from pictorial collections to documentaries. One can see the matrons cottage, the archeological digs and the memorial gardens.
Reflecting the lives and stories of convict women, the Female Factory is a fascinating piece of history. Those who are searching for an apartment accommodation Hobart has to offer, Somerset on Salamanca is the perfect place. A serviced residence, these Hobart accommodation apartments are a wonderful alternative to hotels, especially for a holiday vacation. Located a few minutes away from the Salamanca Market and the Central Business District, one can leisurely engage in sightseeing and witness the abundance of recreation available.
