The NSW Parliamentary Library, in collaboration with Museums of History NSW, is excited to announce the launch of the digitised version of The Settlers’ Muster Book 1800. This crucial document, recognised as the earliest and most comprehensive surviving record of the New South Wales colony during this pivotal stage of its development, offers modern historians a detailed glimpse into the early days of European settlement in Australia. 

The Muster Book, similar to a census, was honoured with inclusion in the UNESCO Australian Memory of the World Register in 2021. UNESCO describes it as one of the most significant documents from the early years of British colonisation, highlighting its historical importance and untapped research potential. 

Join us for an insightful discussion featuring Carol Liston AO, Adjunct Associate Professor at Western Sydney University, and Martyn Killion, Director of Collections at Museums of History NSW. They will explore the profound impact of this manuscript and demonstrate how researchers and the public can access this digitised treasure via our new image database Parlimento. 

Event Details: 

Date: Wednesday, 23 October 2024 

Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm 

Location: Jubilee Room, NSW Parliament House, 6 Macquarie Street Sydney NSW 2000 OR watch online via the livestream

Price: Free, registration required 

Hosted by the NSW Parliamentary Library, this event will offer an in-depth look at a document central to Australian history. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with a cornerstone of our past and what it might hold for our future.