The Main Cell Block, built by convicts to house up to one thousand men, now provides the central focus for interpretation at the Fremantle Prison. The cell block has changed little from the 1850s when it was first constructed and contains much evidence of the penal system implemented at that time.

Here a tour group is shown in Division 3. Beneath them is the reconstructed cell range. The roof of this division is of particular interest as you can see the change from dark jarrah wood to lighter oregon. The replacement roof was due to damage caused during the 1988 riot.