Hindmarsh Square / Mukarta 'head' (King John's wife)

Hindmarsh Square / Mukata

Hindmarsh Square / Mukata is one of six public squares in the City of Adelaide.

Mukata, also known as 'Pretty Mary' or "Mocatta'

Rear-Admiral Sir John Hindmarsh

Hindmarsh Square, City of Adelaide Archives, HP0152, circa 1890s

The Kaurna name for this Square celebrates one of the four wives of Mullawirraburka, Mukata, also known as 'Pretty Mary' or "Mocatta'. Mullawirraburka (c.1811-1845) translates as "dry forest old man" and was an indication of the esteem in which he was held. He was also known as King John, a skilful warrior. The Square was an important meeting place for Aboriginal Elders.

The European name for this Square recognises Sir John Hindmarsh (1785-1860), first Governor of South Australia. Appointed upon settlement in 1836, he was recalled to London in 1838 following an altercation with the Resident Commissioner, James Hurtle Fisher.

The "Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout" is included on the National Heritage List. Adelaide was designed and laid out by Colonel William Light in 1837, creating the only City in the world completely surrounded by Park Lands.

City of Adelaide acknowledges the traditional Country of the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains and pays respect to Elders past and present. We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship with the land. We acknowledge that they are of continuing importance to the Kaurna people living today. We also extend that respect to other Aboriginal Language Groups and other First Nations.

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