Historic Artefacts Discovered During Sydney Metro Work

Hundreds of historical artefacts were uncovered during excavation on Hunter Street as workers progressed with the Sydney Metro West project in the city’s central business district. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The discoveries near the former De Mestre Place include items dating back to the 1820s. These artefacts reflect a transformative time in Sydney’s early urban and cultural development.

Don’t miss…Japan to Supply Two Trains for Indian HSR Testing

Among the items found were military remnants, household glassware, a coin from 1834, and foundation bricks from an early 19th-century structure once located on the site.

Many artefacts appear linked to Prosper de Mestre, a French-born merchant who settled in Sydney during Governor Macquarie’s era. De Mestre gained British citizenship in 1825 and grew into a key business figure.

His Hunter Street home, which he shared with his Australian-born wife Mary Ann, included a counting house used for managing financial records. Excavators uncovered its sandstock brick footings and the remains of a private well.

Artefacts Reveal Colonial Life in Early Sydney

The artefacts discovered include gun flints, bullet shells, lead shot, bone buttons, slate pencils, and glass beads. These objects illustrate both domestic life and the area’s military connections.

George Street Barracks, constructed in 1792 nearby, explains the presence of ammunition-related objects. The site’s location highlights its significance in colonial-era Sydney.

Public Viewing of Artefacts Scheduled in May

A public open day will take place on Sunday, May 18, offering a unique chance to view selected artefacts and learn more about their historical context and significance.

Members of the de Mestre family have already viewed portions of the recovered collection. The site also neighbors the heritage-listed Skinners Family Hotel, which remains protected during construction.

Metro development continues with heritage preservation in focus. The historic hotel will eventually integrate into the final station design, blending Sydney’s past with its infrastructure future.

Source: cityhub.com.au

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: