And so, dear reader, while I took you down a rabbit hole sharing the incredible story of the Reverand and Mrs Robertson, I’ll return to Karl’s visit with the family who showed him the “greatest hospitality” in Sydney.
Karl visited many of the same tourist sites that remain popular today. For this chronicle, I’d like to extend some hospitality and share the sights of Sydney—both the places Karl explored and one iconic landmark that hadn’t yet been built in his time.
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
Established in 1816, the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is the oldest “scientific institution” in Australia and one of the most historically significant botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. Originally a farm under Governor Arthur Phillip in 1788, the land was later converted into gardens. The garden has played a key role in plant research and conservation and remains an important green space in the heart of Sydney.
Sydney Town Hall Grand Organ
Installed in 1890, the Grand Organ in Sydney Town Hall was the largest in the world at the time of its completion. Built by English organ builders William Hill & Son, the instrument has over 8,000 pipes and remains one of the finest examples of 19th-century organ craftsmanship. It has undergone restorations but retains its grandeur and is still used for concerts and official events.
I didn’t get to see the organ at City Hall and could only get as far as the City Hall security team. It’s a working office, the only access to see the organ is for public events/concerts of which none were scheduled during my visit. [link youtube video]
Moore Park Zoo (1884–1916)
Located in Moore Park, this zoo was established by the New South Wales government and became Sydney’s first official zoological park. It housed various exotic animals, including elephants, big cats, and monkeys, but had relatively small enclosures typical of 19th-century zoos. By the early 1900s, it was clear that Moore Park Zoo was too small and unsuitable for modern zoological practices, prompting the move to the larger Taronga Zoo in 1916.
So while Karl visited the Moore Park Zoo, I went to the Taronga Zoo.
Taronga Zoo
Opened in 1916, Taronga Zoo was designed with a focus on providing more naturalistic enclosures, a significant departure from the caged exhibits of the time. Located on the northern shore of Sydney Harbour, the zoo is a leader in conservation and animal care, and it houses over 5,000 animals today.
Sydney Opera House
The Opera House is Australia’s number 1 tourist destination— attracting over 10.9 million visitors annually—and a World Heritage-listed masterpiece.
Construction of the Sydney Opera House began in 1957 and was completed in 1973. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, its iconic sail-like design was inspired by nature and modernist architecture. The project faced significant delays and cost overruns, originally budgeted at $7 million but ultimately costing $102 million. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous performing arts centers in the world. There are daily tours of the opera house to learn the history, better understand the architecture, and even walk through some of the theatres. Yes, of course, dear reader, I did this as well!
And while you weren’t given the pleasure of being toured by Reverand Roberson and his wife, I hope you enjoyed this virtual tour.
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