Welcome to Sarah & Norah’s ‘Ye Olde Curiosity Shoppe’
Step into the heart of Australia’s history at the Parramatta Female Factory Friends – Matron Elizabeth Fulloon’s Shop — where every item tells a story. Our collection celebrates the lives, resilience, and legacy of the convict women who once lived and worked within these historic walls. Every purchase supports our mission to preserve this nationally significant site and share its stories with future generations.
Books and Publications
Explore an inspiring range of titles that bring the Parramatta Female Factory and early colonial Australia to life.
- Bicentenary Book – Black ($30): A definitive commemorative volume marking 200 years of history.
- Bicentenary Wafer ($25): A compact keepsake edition honouring the women of the Factory.
- HerStory Series ($20 each):
- Vol. 1 – First in the Series
- Vol. 2 – Another Chapter Unfolds
- Vol. 3 – Parramatta and Beyond
- Conviction by Gay Hendriksen ($15): A moving exploration of the lives of Factory women, and the first strike and riot by female convicts. Gay is the President of the Parramatta Female Factory Friends, and as Research Coordinator, has a wealth of knowledge on the Parramatta Female Factory and the lives of the female convicts who endured the Factory.
- Academy for Young Ladies by Sue Bell ($25): A historical insight into education and discipline for young women under the watchful eye of Matron Bell.
- Cockatoo Island by Sue Castrique ($35): An engaging account of Sydney’s convict past by looking at the gentlemen and convicts on Cockatoo Island.
- About That Shout & First Big Steps by Gary Carter ($40 each): Insightful local histories from a celebrated author Gary Carter, who is the local historian on Parramatta.
- The Parramatta Cemeteries – St John’s ($25) and Then & There Lying Dead ($20) by Judith Dunn OAM, a celebrated author. Judith is on the Parramatta Female Factory Friends Committee and lends her significant historical knowledge and heritage experience.
- Mothers of the Nation EP CD ($15): A musical reflection on the spirit of the Factory women.
Badges and Memorabilia
Wear your history proudly with our distinctive badges:
- 200 Years Bicentenary Badge ($2.50)
- HerStory Matters Badge ($2.50)
- FMN Badges and Craft Items ($5–$10) – including crochet badges and garden stones, perfect for collectors.
Clothing and Accessories
Carry the spirit of the Factory with our authentic handmade pieces:
- Female Factory Bonnets and Caps ($10–$15)
- Factory Pockets ($15)
- Hussif Sewing Kits ($15) – traditional sewing companions used by convict women.
Stationery
Write, preserve, and commemorate with our heritage stationery:
- Bookmarks ($2) – beautifully printed with Factory imagery.
- Envelopes ($2) – perfect for correspondence or gifts inspired by the era.
Tours and Experiences
Walk the same paths as the women who shaped our nation:
- Guided Walking Tour ($20) – a compelling introduction to the Factory’s history.
- Bespoke Private Tour ($25/hour) – tailored experiences for researchers or small groups.
- Workshops ($100/day) – hands-on heritage experiences led by our Research Centre team.
Membership and Research
Join our community of heritage advocates:
- Membership ($20 individual / $30 family)
- Research Assistance ($25/hour) – professional support for your family or academic projects.
- Workshops & Archival Access – variable rates for group sessions and educational programs.
Events and Fundraising
Support our preservation work through community events:
- Raffle Tickets ($2 each or 3 for $5)
- Speakers Program ($5) – informative sessions with heritage experts.
- Donations ($5–$100 or variable) – every contribution strengthens our advocacy and conservation work.
Food and Refreshments
At various events, meetings, talks and special celebrations, we open the Matron Ann Gordon Café & Tea Room, so come and relax and enjoy the offering of light refreshments in an evocative setting (prices vary).
Every purchase supports the preservation, interpretation, and celebration of the Parramatta Female Factory and Institutions Precinct.
Discover the stories, share the heritage, and become part of a legacy that continues to shape Australia’s identity.
Visit us in person or explore online to uncover your piece of history.
For enquiries, contact contact@parramattafemalefactoryfriends.com.au
Badges


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Craft



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Stationary

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Price List
All items are available to purchase from our Rooms or you can send an email to contact@parramattafemalefactoryfriends.com.au so we can mail the items to your address.