Container: The Box that Changed the World

An exciting open-air exhibition exploring the history and impact of one of the 20th century’s most important innovations: the humble shipping container.

From 26 October 2017 To 25 October 2018

Let colourful metal boxes—scattered like giant Lego pieces around the Australian National Maritime Museum’s wharves and outdoor spaces—lead you to explore the history and impact of one of the 20th century’s most important innovations: the shipping container. In the museum’s first open-air exhibition, each box will reveal more about how container shipping has shaped our modern world, changing how we live, work, eat, produce and shop.

Seen and recognised worldwide, it’s easy to take the shipping container for granted. But some say this unassuming box has done more for global trade than all of the international trade agreements signed over the last 50 years together.

This unique free exhibition will run for up to 12 months at the Australian National Maritime Museum before the containers continue their voyage around regional New South Wales.

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Image: The Nation's Lifeline, James Thomson, 1991