Nestled in the heart of Lilyfield, a suburb in Sydney’s Inner West, lies Callan Park, a site of immense historical and cultural value. This park, known for its heritage-listed former mental asylum, also houses captivating rock carvings that provide a window into the Aboriginal and colonial artistry that has shaped the area.

Originally known as the Garry Owen Estate, Callan Park was acquired by John Ryan Brenan, a Crown Solicitor and Police Magistrate, in 1839. Following Brenan’s bankruptcy in 1864, the land was bought by John Gordon, a Sydney businessman. Gordon renamed the property Callan Park and prepared the land for auction as a new waterfront suburb.

In 1915, the site was renamed Callan Park Mental Hospital, and then again in 1976 to Callan Park Hospital. Since 1994, it has been formally known as Rozelle Hospital. In April 2008, all services and patients of Rozelle Hospital were transferred to Concord Hospital. The Callan Park (Special Provisions) Act, 2002 (NSW) now restricts the site’s future uses to health, tertiary education, and community uses.

One of the most intriguing features of Callan Park is its rock carvings. These carvings, a fusion of Aboriginal and colonial artistry, offer a unique insight into the park’s rich history. Some of these carvings may have been created more recently, possibly by residents of the Callan Park asylum.

It’s important to note that while the rock carvings at Callan Park are a significant part of its history, the exact origins and creators of these carvings may not be definitively known. The interpretation of historical artifacts often involves a degree of speculation and may vary among experts. It’s always a good idea to cross-verify historical facts from multiple sources.

The year 1883 is inscribed in the carvings, which aligns with the presence of masons on the site. These masons were employed during the construction of the Kirkbride Block, Callan Park’s iconic sandstone tower building, between 1880 and 1885. This suggests that the masons may have contributed to the carvings during their time at Callan Park.

The rock carvings of Callan Park stand as silent witnesses to the site’s layered history, bearing the imprints of different cultures and eras. They serve as a silent reminder of the people who once inhabited the area, each carving telling a unique story of its own. As we stroll through the park today, we are walking through chapters of history, etched in stone.

We encourage readers to share their comments, stories, and memories of Callan Park. Your experiences and insights can help illuminate the history of this extraordinary place.

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