Ned Kelly's trial

After the fatal shooting at Stringybark Creek, a jury found Ned Kelly guilty of Constable Thomas Lonigan’s murder, and a death sentence was handed down by Justice Redmond Barry.

The trial was depicted in a wood engraving in the Illustrated Australian News, pictured above. Kelly stands in the dock while Barry oversees the case from the bench, wearing the wig and robes of the British legal system. The trial took place at the Central Criminal Court on Russell Street, across the road from the Library.

This type of engraving was common in 19th century publications. As there is no official transcript of the Kelly trial, knowledge of the proceedings comes from journalists who reported on the two-day event. The press played an important role throughout the gang’s evasion of the police and Ned Kelly’s trial, communicating information and shaping public opinion. 

After 25 minutes of deliberation, Barry delivered the jury’s verdict and his sentence. Kelly declared his mind to be easy and clear, causing a sensation in the crowded courtroom. Kelly, who was advised by his lawyers not to testify, said that he expected the result, but had he addressed the witnesses himself he could have cleared his name. In a potent exchange with Barry, Kelly repeats the phrase, ‘no one understands my case as I do,’ and his last words to the judge were, ‘I will see you there, where I go.’

In a very different way than what Kelly may have intended, the two men are now reunited through their connection with the Library: Barry as co-founder of the Library and namesake of this reading room, and Kelly as one of the most infamous figures represented in our collections. 

About Redmond Barry

Sir Redmond Barry (1813–80) was an instrumental figure in Melbourne's early history, establishing many of the cultural and educational institutions that continue to shape our city's character and reputation. The Anglo-Irish lawyer arrived in Melbourne in late 1839, and subsequently became a founding judge of the Supreme Court. In 1853 he was appointed by Lieutenant-Governor La Trobe as Chancellor of the University of Melbourne and Head of the Trustees of the Melbourne Public Library, positions he held for nearly 30 years until his death. During that time he also oversaw the establishment of the Museum and the National Gallery.