Regent Street, Redfern
Artefact completed an archaeological excavation of former Victorian-era buildings in Redfern in 2024. The site contained two early-twentieth century terraces, two 1890s shopfronts, and a circa 1891 corner pub.
The project
Location: 90-102 Regent St, Redfern, Sydney on Gadigal Country
We were contracted by Richard Crookes Construction on behalf of Wee Hur Holdings to investigate the archaeology onsite to facilitate the construction of student accommodation as part of a State Significant Development.
-
Richard Crookes Construction on behalf of Wee Hur Holdings
-
Archaeological assessment
Archaeological Excavation Report
Photographic archival recording
Design advice
Archaeological testing and salvage
Heritage solution
Artefact was initially engaged to prepare an archaeological assessment and provide design advice for the developers. Our initial findings led to a larger program of works that also involved archaeological testing and salvage. A range of historical features and artefacts were uncovered across the site.
During demolition removal of the decorative cast-iron fireplace revealed a cache of alcohol bottles (pre-dating 1920), charred WWI era Capstan Navy Cut cigarette boxes as well as metal tins, a corkscrew, men’s and women’s shoes, ripped family photographs a fragment of a print dress, and charred sheep bones.
Below the floorboards a test excavation unearthed an intact metal safe emptied of all contents.
But perhaps one of the more interesting artefacts found on site was a NSW Government Tramways button – possibly belonging to previous inhabitant William Blackwood who was a tramway employee from 1902 – 1912.
Work was completed to the developer’s timeline and came in on budget. Artefact's archaeological investigations allowed construction to commence.
The historical artefacts were logged and secured for storage in perpetuity for research and display purposes.
“I was incredibly impressed with Artefact’s archaeological site investigation work in Redfern. Their expertise, professionalism, and dedication to preserving our history were exceptional. They seamlessly integrated their findings into our project, and their comprehensive reports were invaluable. I highly recommend Artefact for their outstanding services.”