The most significant collection of Australian Aboriginal cultural artifacts in the world are contained in the South Australian Museum located on Adelaide’s North Terrace, next to the University of Adelaide. In 1847, The South Australian Institute, which included a public library and a museum, was established in rented spaces on King William Street while it awaited construction of its own new building. The new museum building opened on North Terrace in 1856 and focused on natural history and research. It’s stated mission was “To increase knowledge and understanding of natural and cultural heritage ... (and) to provide opportunities for study, education, and enjoyment.” Over the years, the museum has developed partnerships with such organizations as the University of Adelaide, University of South Australia, Flinders University, Botanic Gardens of South Australia, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization, and SANTOS (Australia’s oil and gas company), among others.
The Museum is home to the most significant Australian Aboriginal cultural artifacts in the world, including this wall of aboriginal art....
Here is a piece of fossilized sandstone from the Ediacaron Ocean that covered Australia more than 550 million years ago.
Long before the arrival of the Europeans, women of the Pacific Islands (particularly Figi and Samoa) wore aprons like these decorated by sea shells. When glass beads were introduced to the islands by the Europeans, the aprons took on a more colorful appearances.