The Gladstone Gaol

The Gladstone Gaol is a heritage listed building and is located in Park Terrace at the northern end of town. It was built between 1879-81 at a cost of £21,640. The slate was quarried at Mintaro and was transported by bullock draying. It was originally used for 'inebriates and debtors'. It was never a big gaol and from the time of its opening until the 1920s it never housed more than 20 prisoners.

It was always a gaol for both men and women, right from the beginning. During World War II it was used as an internment camp for Italians and Germans. It remained unused between 1943 and 1953, when it became a corrective training complex for 18-25-year-old offenders. There were only 20 escapes in the gaol's 100 year history.

It was eventually closed down in 1975 and opened to visitors in 1978, and is even available for backpacker accommodation. A specialty coffee shop/art gallery is located in the Warden's House and regular country music shows are held in the gaol compound. The Gladstone Gaol is open weekends and public holidays from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm; and weekdays from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm.