The Convict Valley

The Aboriginal clans who had lived for tens of thousands of years in the fertile valley were uprooted, and forced to fight back against the relentless march of settlement. Yet, the dark underside of the early years in the Hunter is not widely known—or at least, not openly acknowledged.

Mark Dunn, public historian and former chair of the Professional Historians Association of NSW and ACT, shares his research and book, The Convict Valley. Descendant from convicts who settled in the Hunter, he has spent two decades investigating the history of the region, uncovering the brutal side of the British settlement and a long-forgotten massacre. While there were some instances of alliances in the early years, in the later scramble for land in the 1820s, tensions rose and bloodshed ensued. 

Presenter details:

Mark Dunn, public historian and former chair of the Professional Historians Association of NSW and ACT, is descended from convicts who settled in the Hunter. He has spent two decades investigating the history of the region, uncovering the brutal side of the British settlement and a long-forgotten massacre. While there were some instances of alliances in the early years, in the later scramble for land in the 1820s, tensions rose and bloodshed ensued.

The Convict Valley uncovers the rich colonial past behind the prosperous vineyards of today's Hunter Valley, and the toil of the convicts who laid its foundations. It is impeccably researched, and a fascinating new Australian history classic for the ages.

Books are available for purchase and signing.

Bookings essential - numbers strictly limited.

Gold coin on entry.

All events are run with COVID safe precautions, social distancing and additional hygiene measures are in place. Masks are recommended.

View the full History Illuminated program here

When

Location

Warners Bay Theatre, Lake Street, Warners Bay, 2282, View in Google Maps