It was here that the rough-and-rumble underworld of 19th century quayside crime, from the petty to the violent, was dealt swift and, at times, harsh justice. The museum exhibits illustrate the turbulent period, as they re-create legal and criminal history. Menacing implements from knuckledusters to bludgeons are displayed as the macabre relics of notorious crimes. Other interesting aspects of policing and the justice system are highlighted in special changing exhibitions. It is a part of the Historic Houses Trust of New South Wales.