Chinese Temple and Museum |
The NT Chinese Museum provides a comprehensive account of the Chinese people in the Top End of the Territory from 1874 to the present day through photographs, memorabilia, heritage objects and family history.
Did you know that at one time the Chinese population outnumbered the European population in the Top End? Many were recruited by the Government of the day and by 1878 the Chinese were the largest non-Aboriginal group of the time.
Chinese people have played an important role in the history of the Northern Territory and a Chinese Temple has been located on this site since 1887.
The first Temple on this site was built in 1887, the date on the original ceremonial bell. It was damaged by cyclones in 1897 and 1937 and partly damaged during bombing raids and looted by Australian soldiers during World War II. The stone lions, handcrafted in China, originally belonged to the Brocks Creek Temple, near Pine Creek. After the Brocks Creek Temple was destroyed by Australian soldiers, the lions were re-located to Darwin.
The Museum presents a story of grit and determination and the contribution of the Chinese people to the development of the Northern Territory. A particular focus is the impact of World War II: the bombing of Darwin, the fate of China Town and the contribution by the Darwin Chinese people in their service to Australia.
School visits are especially welcome when the Museum volunteer staff can share with students the participation of the Chinese people in the history of the Northern Territory and their contribution to the cosmopolitan nature of Darwin today.
The NT Chinese Museum welcomes contact by researchers - whether this is understanding your family history or for academic research.
Only a five minute walk from Smith St Mall, open daily from March to November ( except public holidays).
❊ Address ❊
⊜ 25 Woods Street, Darwin 0800 View Map
℅ Gulumoerrgin
✆ Telephone: +61 8 8941 0898
❊ Web Links ❊
➼ Chinese Temple and Museum
➼ www.facebook.com/chungwahsociety
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