The Swan Reach Museum holds a fascinating collection of memorabilia, which reflect upon the early European history of this magnificent part of the Murray River in South Australia.

The Museum

The Swan Reach Museum is housed in the original school building that was built in 1917 for the grand sum of £2,124/9/11 ($4249). In the early years, attendances generally fluctuated between 40 and 50 students. During the two wars many men enlisted in the Armed Services, which left the town sparsely populated and caused the student numbers to drop to as low as 19 because the youth were required to work at home.

The original Swan Reach School closed in 1972 due to the establishment of a new Area School adjacent to the town’s sports oval. The local kindergarten then made use of the building until 2001 when the Mid Murray Council granted permission to the Mid Murray Lands Local History Group to establish a museum.

The museum’s collection consists of documents, photographs and historical items relating to its two themes, namely the history of education and social history of the area. The museum’s collection extends beyond Swan Reach to include historical items from the river and rural communities of Murbko, Maggea, Copeville, Bowhill, Black Hill and Blanchetown.

Available at the Museum are: Souvenir spoons, fridge magnets, stubby holders, tea towns, colour 1956 flood postcards of Swan Reach, town, family and river history books and works by local artists.

Entry by Gold Coin Donation

Open Hours

Wednesday 2pm – 4.30pm
Saturday 10am – 12pm
Sunday 2pm – 4.30pm