What is a Convict Brick?
Convict bricks are a unique type of brick that was produced in Australia during the colonial era, primarily in the 19th century. These bricks were made by convict labourers, who were transported to Australia as punishment for crimes committed in Britain.
The bricks were typically made from local red clay, which was shaped by hand into the desired size and form. They often featured a distinctive "frog" design on one side, a hollow indentation that helped with the bonding of mortar. Convict bricks were used to construct a variety of buildings, including historic homes, churches, and public institutions.
Today, convict bricks are highly sought after by collectors and builders alike. They are prized for their historical significance, unique appearance, and durability. Many people choose to incorporate convict bricks into their building projects as a way to connect with Australia's rich colonial heritage.
At Convict Bricks, recognising the demand for authentic convict bricks and the limited supply of original ones, we have developed a range of reproduction bricks. These handcrafted bricks are made from the same red clay and feature the same frog designs as the original convict bricks, providing a beautiful and historically accurate way to incorporate this iconic material into your project.