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Parramatta’s much-loved Hambledon Cottage will mark its bicentenary these April school holidays with a new exhibition, live music, craft and heritage stalls, trade demonstrations, entertainment, food stalls and cottage open house.
Built in the 1820s for pastoralists John and Elizabeth Macarthur as part of their Elizabeth Farm Estate, Hambledon Cottage was later home to their son, Major General Sir Edward Macarthur, Commander of the British Forces in Australia, Dr Matthew Anderson, one of Parramatta Hospital’s first surgeons and former Governess Mrs Penelope Lucas.
The heritage-listed cottage is now a house museum with a record 4,500 visitors in the last year.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Pierre Esber said the bicentenary celebrations will kick off on Saturday 13 April and are a chance for the community to experience the cottage’s rich history.
“Hambledon Cottage is one of our oldest homes and a much-loved landmark in the heart of our City,” Cr Esber said.
“These community celebrations hosted by the Parramatta and District Historical Society are a chance for local families to experience what life was like here 200 years ago.
“There will be woodturning and blacksmith demonstrations, traditional crafting workshops as well as guided tours and a new exhibition showcasing rarely seen sketches of the cottage and its evolution over the years.”
Parramatta and District Historical Society (PDHS) president, Les Fenech said it is a significant milestone for a remarkable Parramatta landmark.
“Over its lifetime, the Cottage, with its elegance, simplicity and warmth has been much admired as a jewel of Parramatta. It has survived the threat of demolition, the wear and tear of time, the footprint of numerous families, tenants and public visitation - it is iconic and stands as a testament to Parramatta’s Colonial past,” Fenech said.
“The Parramatta & District Historical Society is proud of its custodianship and is delighted to bring this heritage gem to life with a Bicentenary Celebration, supported by the City of Parramatta and many community and heritage groups that help to provide an insight into the past through trade and craft demonstrations, live music and an open house at Hambledon Cottage.”
Attending the event is NSW Governor, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC,
who will unveil a special commemorative plaque and launch a new book titled, ‘Celebrating 200 Years - Hambledon Cottage - A House History Its Evolution-Occupation-Activation 1824-2024’ on behalf of the Society.
Bicentenary celebrations will continue throughout the week with a full program by PDHS including a free music event, children’s activities, heritage walks and talks.
The Saturday event runs from 10am-4pm and is supported by City of Parramatta. Visit atparramatta for more information.
