The Ross Bridge: Mystery, symbols and satire: National Family History Month

The 'enigmatic art' of the Ross Bridge is endlessly fascinating.

But what do the carvings mean?

As a descendant of convict quarryman, Thomas Herbert, of the Ross Bridge party, Jennie Jackson was drawn to research the details of the carvings.

Thanks to developments in photographic technology and easier access to archives, Jackson has been able to reconsider earlier interpretations and explore the intrigue of these stones.

So, what do the carvings mean? And what are some of the stories behind them?

This event is part of National Family History Month at the State Library and Archives of Tasmania.

National Family History Month is a nationwide celebration of the stories, mysteries and secrets that shape who we are. The theme for 2026 is ‘Family as a Community – Together We Can Do So Much More'.

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