Visit the Sir Henry Parkes School of Arts Museum to delve into memorabilia depicting Australian Federation through grand rooms and galleries. The site stands out in Tenterfield, a town known for heritage-listed architecture and fascinating stories of the past. After admiring the museum, choose your favorite movie and settle in at the state-of-the-art cinema.
Sir Henry Parkes delivered a famous Federation speech in 1889 at the School of Arts, which is now owned by the National Trust. In 1957, it was the first building in New South Wales to be gifted to the trust by Parliament. View the displays to get a sense of the significance of the famous Federation moment in history.
Find the main displays in the Banquet Hall, where the speech was given. Admire objects from Sir Henry’s life, including ivory carvings and historic journals. Glass cabinets within a long, elegant table contain preserved memorabilia. Highlights include an oil painting portrait by Julian Ashton and a bronze bust by Theo Cowan.
See a painting of Moat Cottage, which is where Parkes was born in Canley, Warwickshire. The beautiful frame is said to have been made from salvaged oak from a building destroyed in the 1940 bombing of Coventry. Among personal items is a silver collar that belonged to Sir Henry’s faithful dog.
Check the schedule for movies and shows at the Tenterfield Cinema and at the site. Regular screenings of the latest movies are offered in the cinema. Professional and amateur performers impress audiences with a wide range of live shows, including comedy, drama and special events.
To discover more history, visit other nearby attractions, such as the Tenterfield Saddler museum, with links to famous singer Peter Allen. Learn about railway history at the 19th-century Tenterfield Railway Museum, featuring model trains and old carriages to walk through. Drive along Mount Lindesay Road to see the remains of World War II tank traps.
The Sir Henry Parkes School of Arts Museum charges an entry fee. It’s open every day of the week, year-round. Use the free parking available surrounding the complex. Visit the onsite café for coffee or snacks.
