Map Project
About the Project
Maps capture a place and moment in time, revealing connections that shaped lives then and now.
The Barossa Museum's much-loved map asks us to consider where the Barossa's Germanic settlers came from in today’s Germany or Poland, and how did they get here? A new multi-media display suitable for all ages has been unveiled for SA History Festival, May 2026.
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The updated display includes a searchable touchscreen, context for migration, animated digital projections utilising the original map and a digital installation "Pieces of Memory" interpreting what settlers brought with them, and housed in an original travelling trunk. ​
Every family story adds another piece to our shared history.
The data set that has been used was compiled by Rev HWR Proeve to support the original map. This first set of names and places was compiled pre-internet and spans the years 1837 - 1848. We are calling to our community to share what you know about your early Barossans, and we are particularly interested in later arrivals (after 1848).
Click the link below or scan the QR code to contribute what you know, or drop into the Museum to complete in person.
A name, a ship, a place, a memory, or a story passed down. Your knowledge will help grow a living record of connecting people, journeys and place across generations and help us to expand this project.
Why are we asking?
The Barossa’s story did not arrive fully formed... it’s still being discovered.
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Historic research has mapped many early migrant journeys , but gaps remain. Community knowledge, family memories, documents and stories help us to understand where people came from, why they travelled, and how lives were rebuilt here.
By contributing you help:
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connect families to places of origin
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expand local historical knowledge
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support future storytelling and education
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preserve stories for coming generations
Your contribution becomes part of a growing community archive.
Partners
The Map Project was developed by the Barossa Archives and Historical Trust Inc. for the Barossa Museum, in collaboration with the Barossa Regional Gallery, Double RR Co and Barossa Lutheran Archives.
This Project is made possible with the support of the Peter Lehmann Arts and Education Trust (PLAET), founded in 2014 to support and enhance the artistic and cultural life of the Barossa. Tutti Arts and Country Arts SA also supported the "Pieces of Memory" installation.
