Overseas Department Collection

New Caledonia, Ducos Peninsula, the landing stage, from La Depeche Coloniale
661456 New Caledonia, Ducos Peninsula, the landing stage, from La Depeche Coloniale, 1903 (b/w photo) by French Photographer, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Nouvelle Caledonie)

New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, housing of the military warders
661455 New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, housing of the military warders, from La Depeche Coloniale, 1903 (b/w photo) by French Photographer

New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, the prison, c. 1871-80 (engraving) (b / w photo)
661457 New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, the prison, c.1871-80 (engraving) (b/w photo) by French School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Nouvelle Caledonie, ile de Nou)

New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, House of Detention, from La Depeche Coloniale
661453 New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, House of Detention, from La Depeche Coloniale, 1903 (b/w photo) by French Photographer, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Nouvelle Caledonie)

Woman from the tribe of Houailou, New Caledonia, 1870 (b / w photo)
661462 Woman from the tribe of Houailou, New Caledonia, 1870 (b/w photo) by French Photographer, (19th century); Societe de Geographie, Paris, France; (add.info.: femme de la tribu de Houailou)

New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, House of Detention, from La Depeche Coloniale
661451 New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, House of Detention, from La Depeche Coloniale, 1903 (b/w photo) by French Photographer, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Nouvelle Caledonie)

New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, the central prison, from La Depeche Coloniale
661450 New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, the central prison, from La Depeche Coloniale, 1903 (b/w photo) by French Photographer, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Nouvelle Caledonie)

Kanaks, New Caledonia (b / w photo)
661461 Kanaks, New Caledonia (b/w photo) by French Photographer, (19th century); Societe de Geographie, Paris, France; (add.info.: canaques)

New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, House of Detention, from La Depeche coloniale
661454 New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, House of Detention, from La Depeche coloniale, 1903 (b/w photo) by French Photographer, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Nouvelle Caledonie)

New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, House of Detention, from La Depeche Coloniale
661452 New Caledonia, Isle of Nou, House of Detention, from La Depeche Coloniale, 1903 (b/w photo) by French Photographer, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Nouvelle Caledonie)

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"Exploring the Rich Cultural Heritage of New Caledonia's Overseas Department" Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating history of New Caledonia, an overseas department with a fascinating blend of cultures. From the Indigenous police force safeguarding Noumea to the Kanak tribe residing in Canala, these black and white photographs offer glimpses into a bygone era. Transporting us to around 1880, we witness a snapshot of life as Kanaks go about their daily activities on this enchanting island. The Ducos Peninsula's landing stage stands proudly, serving as a gateway for trade and exploration. Meanwhile, military warders find solace in their housing on the Isle of Nou. However, not all stories are idyllic. The prison complex on Isle of Nou tells tales of confinement and struggle during the late 19th century. With its solemn architecture captured through engravings and photographs, it serves as a reminder that even paradise has its darker side. Amidst these historical accounts lies the resilience and beauty of New Caledonia's people. A woman from Houailou tribe gazes into our souls through her portrait taken in 1870 - her strength evident despite being frozen in time. As we delve deeper into this overseas department's past, we encounter further images depicting life within House of Detention or central prison facilities. These haunting visuals remind us that progress comes hand-in-hand with challenges faced by both colonizers and indigenous communities alike. Through these snapshots from La Depeche Coloniale newspaper archives, we gain insight into New Caledonia's complex narrative - one shaped by cultural diversity yet marred by colonialism’s shadows, and is essential to honor this heritage while striving for understanding between different perspectives today. Join us on this journey through time as we celebrate New Caledonia’s rich tapestry woven together by Indigenous traditions and European influences – an overseas department that continues to evolve, embracing its past while forging a brighter future.