A straitjacket stamped with Maitland Gaol, an original truncheon and a set of manacles are among objects on loan from Dubbo Gaol to feature in Hurled Into Eternity, a three-month display that will coincide with the opening of the space by Hunter MP and tourism minister Jodi McKay on May 29.

But the items that promise to be the most fascinating – genuine hoods worn by the executioner and the offender, and three original hangman’s ropes – will bring with them the stories of the people who died in the name of justice.

Maitland Gaol administration co-ordinator Gordon Sauber admits it might be a morbid opening for the museum and exhibition space, but the tales of the site’s 16 executions – carried out between 1843 and 1897 – are the most popular questions from visitors.

“It is the most asked-about subject; people want to know where the executions were carried out, how did they happen?” he said yesterday. Entry to the museum is included in the cost of admission to Maitland Gaol.