Painting the Port | State Library of South Australia | 1 May – 30 Jun 2026

A rare panorama of Yartapuulti, Port Adelaide, is on display at the State Library of South Australia for the first time in 170 years.

Visitors to the State Library of South Australia can view a rare hand-painted panorama that captures Yartapuulti, Port Adelaide, Port Adelaide as it appeared in 1855, just two years before the Great Fire of 1857. The panorama stretches nearly two metres and was created by artist Frank George Hankey in July 1855. It is currently on display for the public to view for the first time in 170 years, on the State Library’s Treasures Wall. 

The artwork has been carefully conserved and provides an important historical record of Port Adelaide’s history. Friends of the Paul McGuire Maritime Library President, Julian Murray said,

This remarkable piece is the only known record of Port Adelaide’s maritime history before the Great Fire which destroyed half of Port Adelaide and nearly its entire commercial district, as you see depicted in the panoramic view.

State Library of South Australia Director, Megan Berghuis said of the piece: 

The Hankey Panorama holds incredible historic value to South Australia and we’re honoured to now display it here at the State Library for the first time in 170 years, thanks to the generous Paul McGuire Maritime Bequest and Friends of the State Library of South Australia. Our skilled team have worked hard to see the artwork saved, restored and brought into safe custodianship. We’re excited to share this glimpse of history as part of our state’s heritage, while also recognising the Kaurna people who have been the traditional custodians of the lands we now know as Port Adelaide for thousands of years

You can learn more about the history of the piece and view the artwork online via the State Library of South Australia’s story website with detailed descriptions, animations and interactive elements here.

Families are also invited to get on board when visiting the State Library during the exhibition, taking part in a free self-guided Ahoy Maties activity where young sailors can unleash their imagination and design their very own ship flag.

The Hankey Panorama will be on display at the State Library from 1 May 2026 as part of South Australia’s History Festival. Entry is free.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE 

For more information and all enquiries please visit the State Library of South Australia website

What:   Painting the Port – Hankey Panorama of Port Adelaide

When:    Friday 1 May to Tuesday 30 June 2026

Where:  Treasures Wall, Spence Wing (Level 1) | State Library of South Australia | Kintore Ave, Adelaide

Who:   Everyone

At Play & Go Adelaide we make every effort to provide accurate information to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. We recommend confirming times, dates and details directly before making any plans as details may be subject to change.

Image Source:  supplied

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