At the movies: Sydney's love affair with cinemas
From grand picture palaces to cineplex chains, take a front row seat to the story of our theatres from the silver screen's first century.
History
68 posts
Sydney Town Hall throws open its doors
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of one of Sydney's most iconic buildings with free activities for all ages
In pictures: Sydney’s public restrooms in the early 1900s
To celebrate World Toilet Day, we step back a century to explore the early days of public sanitation in our area.
Titus Grenyer ignites the future of the Sydney Town Hall organ
Meet the 25-year-old organist keeping historic traditions alive with a modern outlook
Support and nurture through culture and dance
Jodie Welsh, founder and artistic director of Brolga Dance Academy, looks back at the building blocks of her life.
Voices from the past come to life during History Week
Explore the fascinating interviews from the City of Sydney’s oral histories collection
I call myself a story catcher
Michelle Blakeney looks back at her childhood and the importance of documenting her people.
Ways to celebrate NAIDOC Week in Sydney
Here are our picks of the program, which runs from 2 to 9 July.
Growing up on The Block
Lindsay Williams looks back on the strong Aboriginal community created in Redfern.
5 things you can discover in the City Archives
We keep more than 1 million records about Sydney dating from the 19th century onwards. International Archives Day is the perfect time to explore them.
Sydney: a history of cycling through the decades
We look in the archives to explore how Sydney developed a love for cycling from the 19th century onwards.
A council at war: World War 1 in Sydney
As we commemorate Anzac Day, we look in our archives to explore the involvement of Sydney Municipal Council in World War 1 and the war’s aftermath.
Coloured Diggers March: making Anzac Day a celebration for all
Find out more about this annual event recognising First Nations service personnel.
7 ways to have a fun day out in Pyrmont
Ideas for an interesting visit to one of Sydney’s most unique suburbs.
8 Sydney Santas from the past
Sydney Santas weren’t always jolly. Many of them were eccentric, grumpy and others downright scary!
In conversation: Preserving Sydney’s industrial heritage one brick kiln at a time
What happens when you mix curiosity, camaraderie and mud.
In pictures: Sydney mourns Queen Elizabeth II
Floral tributes and flags at half-mast marked the death of Her Majesty.
In pictures: Queen Elizabeth II in Sydney
To mark the passing of Her Royal Highness, we look back at her visits to our city.
‘Old, insanitary and ruinous’: Historic photos reveal demolished Sydney
The changing face of the city captured from 1900 to 1931.
4 fast facts about Sydney’s aldermen
As elected officials, they acted as the intermediary between the public and local government, representing residents and ratepayers.
Celebrating World Letter Writing Day: Notes from the City of Sydney Archives
Explore the stories and beauty of decorative 19th and early 20th century requests, demands and complaints.
In pictures: Crown Street through the centuries
As we plan a future transformation for Crown Street, see how the route evolved over 200 years.
Unveil Sydney’s vibrant past during History Week
Explore laser-cut workshops, captivating podcasts, the history of the Uluru Statement of the Heart and over 100 years of stories.
Historic Haymarket landmark returned to its former glory
Learn more about the restoration of the heritage-listed Corporation Building and how it serviced Sydney’s markets.
Sydney Park brick kilns and chimneys to be preserved and restored
We invite your feedback on the concept design.
In pictures: Sydney playgrounds in the 20th century
Did you know that playgrounds weren't a thing before the 1930s? Swings and slippery dips represent a shift in how society saw kids and their place in the world.
Explore the Hall of Service at the Anzac Memorial
Hidden underground, this space contains the stories of World War I enlistees from across NSW.
In pictures: Celebrating 91 years of the Sydney Harbour Bridge
Explore the landmark that has shaped the physical and social landscape of our city.
The most intriguing donations to our archive in 2021
As a new year begins, we take a look at some interesting additions to our collection.
Take a step back in time down George Street
As we create 9,000 square metres of new car-free space, discover how the storied boulevard has evolved.
