Crawford House Museum

Crawford House Museum presents domestic and community history through an original farmhouse in northern New South Wales. Its collection includes household objects that reflect family life from the turn of the century through to the 1960s, giving visitors a direct look at how everyday routines, possessions and skills changed across several generations.

The museum’s displays are connected to the Alstonville Plateau and Ballina Shire, with the Alstonville Plateau Historical Society collecting and preserving documents, photographs and objects linked to the area. One example is a child’s Singer sewing machine donated with its box, instructions, needles, table attachment and two dresses made by its owner. The donation also carries a personal story: it belonged to Phyllis Gower, who grew up at Perry’s Hill, Alstonville, and received the machine as a birthday present.

There is more to explore than the house itself. The society runs exhibitions and events throughout the year, including the annual Airing of the Quilts exhibition, and maintains a Research Centre with an extensive library and local-history publications. Research is available on Fridays or by appointment, making the museum useful for visitors interested in family history, regional records and the stories behind the objects on display. The society also accepts donations with a connection to the Alstonville area and Ballina Shire, particularly women’s handicrafts.

The museum suits visitors who enjoy a quieter, object-led experience, as well as families, history enthusiasts and groups. Children under 12 are admitted free according to the museum’s website, while groups can arrange visits at other times by appointment, including a tour and morning or afternoon tea. The website lists regular museum visits on Fridays and Sundays, with other days available by arrangement. The venue listing places Crawford House Museum in Bangalow, Byron Bay, while the museum’s own website identifies it as being in Alstonville, so visitors should confirm the address and arrangements before travelling.