Learn about the first European settlement on Port Phillip in 1803 by Lieutenant Colonel David Collins arriving on the Calcutta bringing convicts and their families. Learn fascinating stories of the Boon Wurrung people and convict, William Buckley, who escaped from the settlement and lived with the indigenous people for 33 years.

Watch video of ferries in the 1880s bringing thousands of tourists from Melbourne and the steam trams running up the main street to the ocean beach. See artifacts from many ships wrecked at the treacherous Heads. Examine up close a special figurehead from one of the wrecks.

Visit Watts Cottage, a National Trust classified building, Wattle and Daub Limeburner's home, built 1869-1870. A fine example of homes built by the first settlers using local materials.

The museum has an extensive photo collection and documentary archive. Research and copying services are available on request, and visitors can search some open indexes and material online.

Please visit the website for current opening hours. Group tours by arrangement.