South Australian Museum

The concept of a South Australian Museum originated in London with the foundation of the South Australian Literary Association on 29 August 1834. The object of the society was to satisfy intellectual pursuits such as literature, arts, history and natural science.

In June 1856, 20 years after Governor Hindmarsh proclaimed South Australia a province and in the same year South Australia established its constitution, an Act to provide for an institution that would incorporate a public library and museum was assented to.

The Act promoted ‘the general study and cultivation of all or any of the branches or departments of art, science, literature, and philosophy’ through lectures and classes and also united cultural societies under one institution.

In June 1859, shortly after his arrival in the South Australian Colony, Frederick George Waterhouse offered his services as Curator of the South Australian Institute Museum. Waterhouse brought with him valuable experience following his work at the British Museum. Consequently, the Board appointed him as the first Curator (Director).

Eighty years later, legislation giving the South Australian Museum autonomy from the Art Gallery and Library was finally passed. This Act became operational in 1940.

Today, the museum has 85 full-time staff members, as compared with about 40 in 1956. This reflects greater specialisation rather than embarkation on new fields of study. Full time staff are matched in number with volunteers. Nine board members provide a valuable resource in terms of marketing, planning and accounting.

The South Australian Museum is a custodian for the State’s cultural and natural heritage. The specialised data generated by collection managers, curators and scientists over the last 150 years are made available to the international community through publication, promotion, education and exhibitions.