Miss Traill's House, nestled in the charming city of Bathurst, New South Wales, is a captivating slice of Australian history. This heritage-listed residence, now a museum, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the life of Miss Ida Traill and the rich historical tapestry of the region. Built in 1845, this Colonial Georgian house stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural heritage of early Australian settlers.
The story of Miss Traill's House begins with Reverend Thomas Sharpe, the first Rector of All Saints' Cathedral in Bathurst, who was granted the land on which the house stands in 1845. Designed by Henry Kitchen, the house was constructed as a rectory and later served various purposes including a clergy house and a school. The house witnessed the evolving landscape of Bathurst, from its early days as a modest settlement to its growth into a bustling regional center.
The house is named after Miss Ida Traill, a descendant of some of the region's earliest settlers. Her great-grandfathers were among the pioneers selected by Governor Macquarie to explore and settle the Bathurst area. Ida Traill lived in the house from 1931 until her death in 1976. She bequeathed the property to the National Trust of Australia, ensuring its preservation as a museum that showcases her family's legacy and the early history of Bathurst.
Stepping into Miss Traill's House is like stepping back in time. The house museum is filled with a remarkable collection of artifacts that tell the story of Ida Traill's family and the broader history of Bathurst. Visitors can explore rooms adorned with period furniture, horse-racing memorabilia, and a variety of historical artifacts that have been meticulously preserved.
The house itself is a fine example of Colonial Georgian architecture, with its symmetrical design, elegant verandahs, and charming details. The interior is equally impressive, with rooms that reflect the style and sensibilities of the different eras the house has witnessed. From the cozy sitting rooms to the well-appointed bedrooms, every corner of the house offers a glimpse into the past.
One of the highlights of Miss Traill's House is its beautifully maintained garden. The garden, which dates back to the mid-19th century, features a variety of plants and trees that have been carefully tended over the decades. Two pear trees planted in 1852 still stand proudly in the garden, a living link to the house's early days.
The garden is also home to a collection of heritage roses, including varieties such as Crimson Glory, Frau Karl Druschki, and Stanwell Perpetual. The rose Souvenir de Mme. Leonie Viennot, which blooms in the courtyard, is estimated to be over 100 years old. The garden's layout and plantings have been preserved to reflect the period, offering visitors a tranquil and historically rich outdoor space to explore.
Another notable feature of the property is its paddock, a rare survivor of a time when households kept horses, milking cows, and other livestock. The paddock, along with the garden's woodland area, adds to the property's charm and historical authenticity.
Miss Traill's House is also renowned for its collection of horse-racing memorabilia. Ida Traill's grandfather, George Lee, was a prominent horse breeder, and the museum houses a fascinating array of artifacts related to his equine legacy. Visitors can see portraits of famous horses, including the 1899 Melbourne Cup winner Merriwee, and other notable thoroughbreds bred by George Lee.
The hall of the house features studio portraits of George Lee and his wife Emily, alongside a framed photograph of Merriwee. A watercolour depicting the pedigree of Merriwee and other famous horses bred by Lee adds to the collection's significance. Oil portraits of The Barb, inducted into the Australian Racing Hall of Fame, and his sister Gulnare, painted by colonial artist Joseph Fowles, are among the highlights.
Miss Traill's House is more than just a museum; it is a living legacy of Bathurst's history and the people who shaped it. The National Trust of Australia has worked diligently to preserve the house and its contents, ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from and appreciate this important piece of Australia's heritage.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture, or simply looking for a peaceful and enriching experience, Miss Traill's House offers something for everyone. Its blend of historical artifacts, beautiful gardens, and rich equine heritage make it a must-visit destination in Bathurst. As you wander through its rooms and grounds, you will gain a deeper understanding of the region's past and the enduring legacy of the Traill family.
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