Hundreds of artefacts, some dating back to the early 19th century, have been uncovered during the recent dig at the Hunter Street metro station site.
Excavation has been ongoing for the past 20 months, to create a giant cavern for the station measuring 180 metres long, 28 metres wide and 20 metres high.
Artefacts discovered by the crew included sandstock brick footings believed to be part of a property once owned by prominent Sydney merchant, Prosper de Mestre.
The footings, dating from the 1820s to 1840s, were found near the former De Mestre Place, a laneway off George Street, that is now part of the station’s footprint.
Archaeologists also unearthed a well, which is likely tied to De Mestre’s redevelopment of the site in the 1840s.
Descendants of the De Mestre family recently joined Sydney Metro and the site’s Excavation Director, Ronan McEleney, to view some of the artefacts recovered.
Relics of interest also included gun flint and bullet shells due to the site’s proximity to George Street Barrack, Sydney’s first military barrack, that once stood opposite.
Among the smaller items discovered were glass beads, a coin dating back to circa 1834, slate pencils, glass bottles, bone and metal buttons.
“Artefacts found are currently being catalogued and analysed by specialists who will advise on the best approach for their long-term safekeeping,” said a spokesperson for Tranport for New South Wales.
Select items will also be on display during a community open day at the site on 18 May 2025. Tickets are available here.
While archaeological excavation at the site has concluded, work by heritage experts continues on site to preserve the heritage-listed Skinners Family Hotel, built in 1845, which will be incorporated into the future over station development.
When completed, Hunter Street Station will be the final stop on the 24-kilometre Sydney Metro West line that will double rail capacity between Greater Parramatta and the Sydney CBD.
