Captain James Cook's Cottage
Captain James Cook is famous for his 'European' discovery of Australia. Just before that historic voyage, from 1756-1767, he charted the coastal waters off Newfoundland, Nova Scotia and the Saint John River of the Canadian Maritimes where I was born. I would invite Melbourne visitors to discover Captain Cook's cottage in Fitroy Gardens close to CBD to see not only the oldest building in the vicinity of the city, but also to gain new insight into his life and adventurous voyages. You may be lucky enough to meet historians on site who would be pleased to provide you a guided tour of the grounds.
History buffs may choose to buy a Melbourne Heritage Pass at Cooks' Cottage (or in Como House, and the Old Melbourne Gaol). This pass is good for two-for-one entry at all three of these historic local places. Alternatively, you can buy the pass at Melbourne Visitor Centre at Federation Square, on the City Circle Tram or, from another participating venue. Ask around.
While visiting Cook's Cottage, you can learn more about his great voyages in command of the Endeavour. During his initial South Pacific voyage (June 1769), he was taking British astronomers to Tahiti to observe the planet Venus move across the sun. If you desire to learn more, you can read about his subsequent visit to New Zealand, where he took formal possession of main islands and became the first to accurately charte 3860 km of its coastline. During 1770 he stumbled on the east coast of Australia, which he charted and claimed for Great Britain as 'New South Wales.' That trip stopped there.
Upon Cook's return to England in 1771, he was appointed commander. His next expedition in 1772 commanded the Resolution. He was accompanied by a ship called the Adventure. These ships were on a quest for the legendary southern continent, named Terra Australis. At this time, Africa was thought to be part of this territory. It hadn't yet been charted.
Take time to discover 'The Captain and the Cottage' which enables you to learn facts as you go. This investigative trail was originally set up for children, but it leads people of all ages through the individual rooms upstairs and downstairs and into the backyard garden.
You may be surprised to learn Cook's Cottage was first built in England in 1755 by his parents. It evolved into a quaint museum furnished with original and reproduction antiques. The structure was dismantled and transported as a pile of bricks to Melbourne in honour of Victoria's Centenary Celebrations (1934). Exhibits in the souvenir shop highlight Captain Cook's major voyages. The nearby gardens contain seasonal fruit, vegetables and herbs similar to those available in north England during Cook's era. You may savour a taste or take bottled herbs home from the store!
This attraction is open every day of the year, except Christmas Day from 9am-5pm. Admissions vary based on age.
