Richard Johnson Obelisk Sydney: A Monument to Australia’s First Chaplain

Introduction

At the heart of Sydney, tucked into the lush surrounds of Hunter Street near Lang Park, stands the Richard Johnson Obelisk. This tall stone monument honours Reverend Richard Johnson, the first chaplain of the First Fleet and a key figure in the spiritual and social foundations of Australia’s early colonial life. Installed in 1926, the obelisk marks the site where Johnson conducted the colony’s very first Christian service in 1788.

Though modest in design compared to Sydney’s grand cathedrals or civic memorials, the obelisk carries deep historical significance. It reminds visitors of the role religion played in the early days of European settlement and how faith was interwoven with daily life in the fledgling colony. Today, the Richard Johnson Obelisk is more than a marker of religious heritage—it is a place of reflection, connecting modern Sydneysiders and visitors with the struggles and resilience of the colony’s earliest days.

If you’re a history lover, curious traveller, or someone drawn to Sydney’s lesser-known landmarks, the Richard Johnson Obelisk is worth pausing for.

What is the Richard Johnson Obelisk in Sydney famous for?

The Richard Johnson Obelisk is famous for commemorating Reverend Richard Johnson, the first chaplain of New South Wales. It stands on the site where he led the colony’s first Christian service in February 1788, just weeks after the arrival of the First Fleet.

Why should you visit the Richard Johnson Obelisk in Sydney?

You should visit the Richard Johnson Obelisk because:

It’s a rare historical landmark tied to the colony’s founding.

It offers a glimpse into early colonial life and religious heritage.

It’s easy to access while exploring Sydney’s CBD and nearby attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit the Richard Johnson Obelisk?

The Richard Johnson Obelisk is outdoors and accessible 24/7.

The best times to visit are during the day, when you can clearly read the inscriptions and enjoy the surrounding public space. Morning or late afternoon offers softer light for photography.

How much does it cost to visit the Richard Johnson Obelisk in Sydney?

Visiting the Richard Johnson Obelisk is completely free. It is located in a public area, making it accessible to anyone exploring the city.

What can you see or do at the Richard Johnson Obelisk in Sydney?

Read the inscriptions commemorating Reverend Johnson’s contribution to Sydney’s early colony.

Reflect on the role of faith and community in shaping the colony.

Combine your visit with a walking tour of Sydney’s hidden monuments and colonial landmarks.

Capture photographs of the obelisk set against the modern CBD backdrop.

What is the history behind the Richard Johnson Obelisk in Sydney?

The obelisk was unveiled in 1926 to mark the spot where Reverend Richard Johnson, chaplain to the First Fleet, conducted the colony’s first Christian service on 3 February 1788. Johnson, often called the “Apostle of Australia,” worked tirelessly to bring education, spiritual guidance, and moral support to both convicts and settlers.

Johnson also built Sydney’s first church in 1793, known as the “Church of Australia,” though it was later destroyed by fire. The obelisk ensures that his contributions are remembered, linking the city’s modern skyline with its earliest days of European settlement.

Where is the Richard Johnson Obelisk located and how do you get there?

Location: Corner of Hunter and Bligh Streets, near Lang Park, Sydney CBD.

By train: A short walk from Wynyard or Martin Place stations.

By bus: Numerous bus routes stop along George Street and nearby.

On foot: Easy to visit while exploring Sydney’s central landmarks like Circular Quay or Hyde Park.

Insider Tips for Visiting the Richard Johnson Obelisk in Sydney

Visit during a self-guided history walk through Sydney’s CBD—it pairs well with sites like the Museum of Sydney.

Look up Johnson’s paintings and writings before your visit to add context.

Bring a camera: the contrast between the historic obelisk and modern skyscrapers makes for striking photos.

Nearby Attractions to the Richard Johnson Obelisk in Sydney

Museum of Sydney: Built on the site of Australia’s first Government House.

Hyde Park Barracks: A UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the story of Sydney’s convict past.

St James’ Church: Sydney’s oldest surviving church, built in the 1820s.

Circular Quay: A bustling hub with ferries, restaurants, and harbour views.

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney: A green escape filled with history, art, and natural beauty.

Turn Your Visit Into an Adventure

The Richard Johnson Obelisk might seem like a quiet monument, but it carries stories of faith, endurance, and the beginnings of modern Australia. Standing at this spot, you’re connected to one of the colony’s first community gatherings over two centuries ago.

Want to experience Sydney’s history in a new way? Try a Questo quest and turn your walk through the CBD into an interactive adventure. Follow clues, uncover hidden stories, and discover how places like the Richard Johnson Obelisk fit into the fascinating story of Sydney’s past.