Ben Hall — The Myths Behind the Legend
A signature exhibition exploring Forbes' most famous bushranger through music, ideas, opinions and images. See unique relics from the bushranging days and discover the man behind the legend.
About the Museum
A Living Hall of Local History
Forbes Museum is managed by the Forbes & District Historical Society Inc. — a dedicated group of volunteers working to preserve, document and share the rich heritage of Forbes and its district.
Housed in Osborne Hall (c.1878)
The Museum is proudly housed in Osborne Hall, the once-thriving dance hall of the historic Osborne Hotel, built around 1878. Today, its walls tell a new story — one of a community preserving its past for future generations.
Stepping through the doors is like travelling back in time. With a collection of approximately 20,000 items, the museum spans every facet of local life: from the gold rush and bushranging days of Ben Hall, to the tools of pioneering tradespeople, the furniture and clothing of everyday settlers, and a remarkable heritage machinery display.
Our Mission
To preserve and promote the history of Forbes and District — safeguarding our heritage collections, sharing local stories, and welcoming visitors from across Australia and around the world.
- 20,000+ items in our heritage collection
- Extensive online photographic database — Pictorial Forbes
- Research and family-history assistance
- School and community education programs
Osborne Hall - the Museum's historic home since 1878
