Manager’s House

Statement of Significance

This place has historic value for its association with the establishment of the Darlington Vineyard by Dr Alfred Waylen which was a key project for the development of Darlington in the late 19th century. The place has aesthetic value for the remaining mud brick within the core of the building

Physical Description

This single storey brick residence has a complex plan form with a pitched and gabled roof clad with coloured corrugated metal sheeting. It is probable the original building was a simple rectangular form with verandahs across the front elevation addressing Owen Road. It is not known how much of the original mud brick remains to be seen internally, externally the place is constructed of painted brick and multi pane casement windows, and later style French doors. Portions of the external walls feature unpainted face brick, and another is painted weatherboard. The verandah across the front elevation is created through the extension of the roof, supported on simple timber posts. The floor of the verandah is brick paving. The residence is located within a large lot that features mature trees and shrubs with a plumbago hedge across the front boundary.

History

This residence was constructed in 1888 by Dr Alfred Waylen and his business partner Josceline Amherst to provide accommodation for the manager of the Darlington Vineyard, Charles E Mumme and his family. The vineyard was the first major development in the region which lead to the settlement of the region and investment. The Vineyard declined and in 1902, the property was offered for sale and this residence was described as ‘Darlington House’. In 1923, the property was transferred to the V. Reilly and it is understood this is when it was first leased to Auber and Maryan (Gypsy) Neville. Auber Octavius Neville (1875-1954) was the Protector of Aborigines from 1915-1936. A position that held immense power over the Aboriginal people of the state. The Nevilles later purchased the property and named it ‘Windyridge’ and it is likely they undertook some alterations and additions during the occupation. The plumbago hedge across the front property boundary dates from their occupancy. The Neville’s were very active in the sports and social life of Darlington. Janet Curlewis bought 5 Owen Rd on the 9th February 1942 from the Neville family and it was in the Curlewis family until sold by her son Brian Curlewis in 1963 to Harold Francis Henderson. Harold lived here up to his death in 1983. It is believed that the mud brick was clad with contemporary brick at this time. The original earthen floor was replaced and raised with the roof and walls also being raised altering the roof line. Aerial photographs indicate that since the mid 20th century several programs of additions and alterations have been undertaken.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update