The introduction of the convict system to the Swan River Colony created many changes to the fledgling settlement. Following Captain Stirling's glowing reports of plentiful fertile land many people came to the colony in the hope of a better, more profitable life. The reality, however, was much harsher than they could have imagined.

The settlement and the people who lived here were also influenced by events in other parts of the world. This section helps you to better understand the time and place when Fremantle Prison was built and first operated.

• Up to 1850
• 1850-1879
• 1880-1899
• 1900-1929
• 1930-1969
• 1970-2000

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© Fremantle Prison 2002