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Preserving and promoting Albany's rich heritage through stories, collections and historic places, connecting stories with the people and events that shaped our region.
The Albany Historical Society is dedicated to preserving, protecting and promoting the diverse heritage of Albany (Kinjarling). For over 60 years, AHS have worked to foster awareness, understanding and appreciation of the region’s rich history as Western Australia’s first and oldest settlement. Today we care for a collection of more than 60,000 items and the management of two significant heritage places.
From local stories to major historical events, immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of Albany and the Great Southern. Our work brings the past to life, connecting people with the individuals, moments and places that have shaped the region, through research and interpretation, we highlight and share the cultural importance of Albany’s history.
Latest Members Articles
Explore the Collection
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AHS holds over 60,000 items in the pictorial collection, capturing Albany’s people, places and progress across 200 years, offering a unique insight into our region’s past.
Early Albany | Bicentenary Edition 1826-2026
Early Albany, a major new publication by renowned author John Dowson, has been produced to mark Albany’s bicentenary in December 2026, commemorating 200 years since the arrival of the HM Brig Amity.
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This important work explores the rich history and heritage of Albany (Kinjarling), tracing the region’s story from early settlement and maritime beginnings through to significant cultural and historical milestones.
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Combining detailed research with engaging storytelling, Early Albany will serve as both a bicentenary keepsake and a lasting record of the region’s heritage for future generations.
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Members will be advised once a confirmed release date is announced. No pre-orders are available at this time.
From the Stacks
Member's Magazine Back Issues
Browse the back issues of the AHS Members Magazine.
​​​Members Magazine Summer 2026
Explore a curated collection of historic newspaper articles, along with supporting resources and sourced publications.
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Latest News
9 March 2026
A New Chapter for the Albany Historical Society Archives.
We’ve completed a full review of our archives, marking an important step in preserving and sharing our collection. In the coming months, members will begin to see a growing range of new and updated articles appearing on the Members Access page.
These will include digitised materials, photographs and historical documents drawn from across our collection. Each item has been carefully reviewed and preserved to ensure it remains accessible and meaningful for future generations and supporting a deeper understanding of Albany’s rich and diverse history.
15 Apr 2026
Pioneer Pathways Installation Underway
The Pioneer Pathways project has experienced a short delay. The first plaques were received in late March 2026 and will be installed in the coming weeks, with remaining plaques to follow. The project will highlight important stories and individuals from Albany's (Kinjarling’s) early history.
1 Mar 2026
Update on transfer of title of Norman House to AHS
Norman House, one of the state’s most significant historic buildings, has been generously gifted by Advance Housing Limited (AHL) to the people of Albany through the Albany Historical Society. AHL has advised that the transfer of title is progressing and we look forward to updating you shortly.
12 Jan 2026
We’re delighted to share our new partnership with Trove, the National Library of Australia, connecting our Collections WA entries to their national archives. This achievement broadens access to Albany’s history and highlights the dedication of our team.
MUSEUM OF THE GREAT SOUTHERN
25 JUNE 2026 - 31 JULY 2026
OPEN DAILY: 10AM - 4PM
​The Maritime Heritage Association and WA Museum acknowledge the Menang people of the Noongar Nation - traditional custodians of the land where replica Brig Amity stands.
Curatorial Talks
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JULY
Tuesday, 7 July 2026 | 10.30am- 11.30am
Museum of the Great Southern
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JULY
Tuesday, 14 July 2026 | 10.30am- 11.30am
Museum of the Great Southern
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JULY
History of Restoration Albany Maritime Foundation: Lawrence Cutbert
Tuesday, 21 July 2026 | 10.30am- 11.30am
Museum of the Great Southern
Patrick Taylor Cottage Rose Garden
12 May 2026
The Rose That Changed Modern Rose Breeding and the Remarkable Story of Wilhelm Hinner.
Rosa Gruss an Aachen, introduced in Germany in 1909, is regarded as one of the most influential roses in modern rose breeding. Celebrated for its soft shell-pink blooms, fragrance, and repeat flowering habit, it became an important precursor to the Floribunda and English rose classes. This article explores the enduring appeal of the rose alongside the fascinating and controversial life of its breeder, Wilhelm Hinner, whose innovation and determination left a lasting mark on horticultural history.
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Despite professional rivalries and disputes over breeding recognition, Hinner’s work demonstrated a progressive approach to rose cultivation at a time of significant change in European horticulture. More than a century after its release, Gruss an Aachen continues to be admired by gardeners around the world for its beauty, reliability, and timeless old-world charm, securing its place as one of the great heritage roses of the twentieth century.
Rosa Gruss and Aachen
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