J Ward officially closed in January 1991, and in 1993, it was re-opened as a museum providing tours.

Construction of original building commenced in 1859, as a goldfields prison, based on the Pentonville concept, by the Public Works Department.

On 15 August 1870, the first execution was conducted at the gaol, when Andrew Vere was hanged for the murder of Amos Cheale in January 1869.

The second execution at the gaol was held on 25 September 1883, when Robert Francis Burns was hanged for the murder of Michael Quinlivan.

On 6 June 1884, the gaol held its third execution, with Henry Morgan being hanged for the murder of Margaret Nolan in November 1883.