Goldfields Exhibition Museum

62 Bayley Street, Coolgardie

Region: Coolgardie and Kambalda
Type: History and Heritage; Traveller Resources

Goldfields Exhibition Museum - Wardens Court - Coolgardie

The Goldfields Exhibition Museum is housed in the historic and grandiose two-storey Warden’s Court Building (built 1898), each room features fascinating displays telling the dramatic and often tragic story of life in and around Coolgardie during the Goldrush days of the 1890s.

Along with a brilliant collection of photographs, models and authentic equipment, the museum also houses a Pharmacy collection, the Varischetti Mine Rescue display and the famous, award-winning Waghorn Bottle collection.

The Pharmacy collection includes a range of 18th and 19th-century medicines as well as various advertisements and posters.

The Varischetti Mine Rescue display tells the story of Modesto Varischetti, who was trapped in an underground mine for nine days in complete darkness while surrounded by water. Divers were used to take supplies to Modesto while water was being pumped out and his rescue was planned.

The famous Waghorn Bottle collection has won many prizes and is one of the largest and most comprehensive antique bottle displays in Australia. It includes bottles and glassware dating from 300BC through to present day.

Some of the smaller rooms have been set up with original furniture along with implements of a bygone era to give the viewer deep insight into life in the goldfields early last century.

Some people have been known to spend up to five hours exploring this fascinating museum.