National Trust of Australia (Qld) | James Cook Museum

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Discover the rich history of Cooktown in Far North Queensland. Set in a stunning nineteenth-century convent, Cooktown Museum is a must-see when visiting far North Queensland. 

Formerly named James Cook Museum, Cooktown Museum has been reimagined to proudly tell the fascinating stories of the region.

The museum houses an extensive collection of local Guugu Yimithiir artefacts, along with an original anchor and canon from HMB Endeavour that were salvaged in the 1970s and a model of the ship that dates to the early twentieth century. 

Learn the fascinating story of the first recorded act of reconciliation between the Guugu Yimidhirr peoples, the Traditional Owners of this land, and Lt. James Cook. This largely untold story involves events during the 48 days when Lt. James Cook and his crew of HMB Endeavour repaired their ship after running aground on the Great Barrier Reef. Told from both perspectives, the story relates the interactions between Cook and the Bama over the capturing of turtles by the crew. Its outcome is integral to the story of Reconciliation in Australia. 

Experience the history of this remarkable town in the beautifully restored Sisters of Mercy convent school building. Built in 1888 - 89, this three-storey building once operated as a school for day students and boarders. 

From the verandah, you can enjoy stunning views of this beautiful town on the banks of the Endeavour River and the gateway to Cape York while learning the fascinating history. The stories will captivate children and adults alike!

The Museum celebrates the history of the convent and the nuns and children who lived there until the 1940s. The displays also tell the stories of the Chinese immigrants and the Gold Rush era in Queensland's far north.

Open 9am-4pm daily.