Ayers House

Ayers House

Post
Subscribe

Posted 2021-08-23 by Audreyfollow


You might have been there for lavish parties and fun celebrations, but did you know that 's illustrious history started in the 1850s? It was originally a small nine-roomed brick cottage built by chemist William Paxton. The house then evolved in several stages to finally encompass over forty rooms. It became an ostentatiously rich and luxurious home with fine imported furnishings and fixtures.





So, why isn't it called Paxton House instead? Well, although originally built by Paxton, the property was leased to Henry Ayers upon Paxton's return to England. Henry and his wife Anne were the ones who then extended the house showcasing their wealth and status.





To locals, the name Henry Ayers possibly rings a bell. And, if you think affluence and influence, you'll soon recollect. He was not just a distinguished politician and financier during that time but also Premier of South Australia!





was central to Henry's family life for approximately forty years. However, after his death, the property was sold and has since been used by a number of organisations for various purposes. In the 1970s, National Trust began restoring the 19th century Victorian character of the house with purchased, as well as donated, furniture and fittings to create its current displays.



There are three levels and many rooms to explore including the dining rooms, drawing room, butler's pantry, kitchen and bedrooms. However, it was the basement, which incorporates Henry's study, that intrigued me the most. This is where the family would have spent most of the summer when the weather got too warm.



Located at 288 North Terrace in the city, is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays. It can easily be reached on foot from Rundle Mall or by tram alighting at the Botanic Gardens stop. Entry is free.

#adelaide_city
#free
#historic_houses
%wnadelaide
143900 - 2023-06-13 20:39:26

Tags

Free
Outdoor
Festivals
Music
Markets
Nightlife
Family_friendly
Fundraisers
Food_drink
Community
Arts_culture
Random
Educational
Shopping_markets
Theatre_shows
Copyright 2024 OatLabs ABN 18113479226