The oldest scientific institution in Australia, the Botanic Gardens were founded in 1816 by Governor Macquarie. The collection and study of plants began the following year with the appointment of the first Colonial Botanist, Charles Fraser. Stories state that Governor Macquarie's wife often sat on the rocky peninsula overlooking the harbour, watching for ships from England. This monument, carved from that rock, marks the completion in 1816 of Mrs. Macquarie's Road, a three-mile road around the Domain which she planned.

Albumen print. Good tonal range and in fair condition, pasted on original card, title in manuscript.