Dalwood House and surrounds of Wyndham Estate

Item details


Name of item:	Dalwood House and surrounds of Wyndham Estate
Other name/s:	Anandale estate, Wyndham estate
Type of item:	Complex / Group
Group/Collection:	Farming and Grazing
Category:	Vineyard/Winery
Location:	Lat: -32.6467171773 Long: 151.4152000610
Primary address:	Dalwood Road, Branxton, NSW 2335
Parish:	Branxton
County:	Northumberland
Local govt. area:	Singleton
Local Aboriginal Land Council:	Mindaribba

Property description

Lot/Volume Code	Lot/Volume Number	Section Number	Plan/Folio Code	Plan/Folio Number
LOT	1		DP	739349

All addresses

Street Address	Suburb/town	LGA	Parish	County	Type
Dalwood Road	Branxton	Singleton	Branxton	Northumberland	Primary Address

Owner/s

Organisation Name	Owner Category	Date Ownership Updated
National Trust of Australia (NSW)	Community Group

Statement of significance:


	Dalwood House is significant because it reflects the history of one of the most important pioneering families in the Hunter Valley. The house is a rare survival of one of the earliest Greek Revival buildings in New South Wales and the earliest known example of the style in the Hunter Valley. It is significant for its association with the development of viticulture and the development of the Hunter Valley wine industry. The fabric reveals the constructional evolution of the house and notably an innovative attempt at flat roof construction (Logan 1983)
	Date significance updated: 02 Nov 16
	Note: The State Heritage Inventory provides information about heritage items listed by local and State government agencies. The State Heritage Inventory is continually being updated by local and State agencies as new information becomes available. Read the Department of Premier and Cabinet copyright and disclaimer.

Description


Designer/Maker:	Unknown
Builder/Maker:	George Wyndham
Construction years:	1829-1838
Physical description:	Estate: Dalwood House is set on a slight rise overlooking the vineyards established by George Wyndham in the 1830s on now near) the west bank of the Hunter River. Much of the historic landscape remains intact including a timber barn and the graves of George and Margaret Wyndham amidst the vineyards overlooking the house. An access road from the homestead forms a 'panhandle' off its curtilage and weaves, in zig-zag pattern, east, connecting to the road (Stuart Read, off curtilage map). Outbuildings: A trio of outbuildings are within the curtilage, being: a) a Slab Hut to the north of the homestead; b) a Garage, of galvanised iron, to the west of the homestead's northern tip; c) a Cottage, of weatherboard and fibro-cement sheeting, to the east of the homestead (Stuart Read, off curtilage map). Garden: Much of the historic landscape remains intact including several mature trees surrounding the homestead. Judith Wright (Wyndham family descendent) wrote in her biographical novel 'Generations of Men' of 'a stone flagged courtyard' and 'the scents from the garden summer roses, lemon-hedge, lavender and sage, herbs...' (Logan, 1984, 8). Documentary evidence has come to light showing that several Bunya pine trees (Araucaria bidwillii) were sourced and provided to the Wyndhams at Dalwood in 1874, from Sydney nursery, Shepherd Brothers (Don Seton Wilkinson, pers.comm., 2015). House: Dalwood is an expansive single storey sandstone and predominantly locally-sourced brick residence in the Greek Revival style and built in stages between 1829 and 1838 (Design 5, 2016, 1). It has a Greek portico, two parapeted wings with bedrooms and servants quarters on either side of the courtyard. A verandah faces the river and forms the main entrance to the house. The dominant external element is the classic sandstone portico with its pair of squat columns (Logan, 1983). The external walls are of dressed coursed sandstone externally and random rubble internally. A number of internal walls are of sandstock brick. The stonework included finely detailed gable pediments and corbelled parapets which conceal early attempts at flat roof construction. The roof is now corrugated iron. The house contains carved sandstone mantlepieces and elegant joinery of local cedar (Logan, 1983). The house consists of a long central block facing south that originally had a parapeted wing at each end with bedrooms and study and two rear wings to the north to form a courtyard (Design 5, 2016, 2). The courtyard features a flagged covered verandah along the central, east and west wings. Originally, bedrooms opened off the verandah from the east wing on one side and various informal rooms, servants' quarters and service rooms were in the west wing (now demolished) on the opposite side (ibid, 2016). The central block faces south to the Hunter River and features French doors opening onto a verandah with a direct connection to the garden, coverd with a timber shingle roof (1980s reconstruction) and supported by plain rectangular timber columns (ibid, 2016). The core of the main central block was originally covered with a flat roof structure, which was later built over and covered with corrugated iron. Remnants of the flat roof still exist (ibid, 2016). The flat roof was constructed of split slabs nailed over timber beams. A thick layer of earth ('mud' (Logan, 1984, 8) (approx.150mm) was topped with a further 40mm layer containing tar, sand, lime and blood. Scientific analysis by Dr George Gibbons at the time showed the upper layer to be a relatively strong mix of one part lime to three parts sand topped with bitumen or coal tar, suggesting it was intended as a waterproofing measure. It soon failed and around 1838 a pitched roof was added (Logan, 1983). It is possible that Dalwood's flat roof was intended as a summer sleep out (Logan, 1984, 8). The interiors were originally furnished with features typical of colonial houses of the period, with Australian cedar joinery, fireplaces of carved stone and wood, lime-plastered internal walls, lath-and-plaster ceilings and timber-boarded floors. Most of the original and early interior finishes have deteriorated and have been removed (ibid, 2016). Since 1954 the house has been vacant and considerable degradation has occurred as it has entered a phase of accelerating dilapidation. Located on highly plastic soil, extremities of wet and dry and poor roof and site drainage have caused severed movement and partial collapse of the structure (ibid, 2016). During the later decades of the 20th century, the roof form of the homestead was again altered when the portico roof was raised in pitch to the same height as the main roof and decorative parapets and gables of the portico were removed, which were then covered in sheet iron (ibid, 2016). Between 1973 and 1974 the west rear wing of the homestead was demolished after it had substantially deteriorated. Remnants of the rear wing footings are now covered by a modern metal-sheeted roof structure that was erected in 1990 to interpret the original form of the west wing and courtyard verandah (ibid, 2016). During the 1980s and 1990s extensive conservation works were carried out under the guideance of conservation architects Howard Tanner & Associates including re-roofing with corrugated steel sheeting and roof drainage, consedrvation of the southern verandah, including rebuilding to its original configuration with timber-shingled roof, external joinery, shutters and timber columns; reinstating damaged/missing joinery including French doors, 12-paned windows and shutters; stabilisation/reconstruction of brick and sandstone walls, footings including construction of a concrete apron slab and site drainage system; weather-proofing; restoration of three principal rooms of the main central block; reconstruction of fireplaces in principal rooms; reconstruction of the rear courtyard verandah (ibid, 2016).
Physical condition and/or Archaeological potential:	Physical condition of the restored rooms is excellent, remaining rooms are fair. In 1985 an archaeological investigation was undertaken of underfloor deposits in each of the rooms in the east wing, west wing and main rooms, courtyard and perimeter area.
	Date condition updated:01 Oct 97
Modifications and dates:	Original construction commenced in 1829 and by 1830 nine flat roofed rooms had been built. 1831 a washhouse and kitchen were added. Side wings were completed by 1833. Portico front added in 1833 but 'cornice' not completed until 1838. Between 1831 and 1836 the flat roof was replaced by a pitched roof with shingles. Stone gables built. Shingled roofs replaced with corrugated iron. Roof form modified. Alteration to room arrangments. Since 1954 the house has been vacant and considerable degradation has occurred as it has entered a phase of accelerating dilapidation. Located on highly plastic soil, extremities of wet and dry and poor roof and site drainage have caused severed movement and partial collapse of the structure (ibid, 2016). During the later decades of the 20th century, the roof form of the homestead was again altered when the portico roof was raised in pitch to the same height as the main roof and decorative parapets and gables of the portico were removed, which were then covered in sheet iron (ibid, 2016). Between 1973 and 1974 the west rear wing of the homestead was demolished after it had substantially deteriorated. Remnants of the rear wing footings are now covered by a modern metal-sheeted roof structure that was erected in 1990 to interpret the original form of the west wing and courtyard verandah (ibid, 2016). During the 1980s and 1990s extensive conservation works were carried out under the guideance of conservation architects Howard Tanner & Associates including re-roofing with corrugated steel sheeting and roof drainage, consedrvation of the southern verandah, including rebuilding to its original configuration with timber-shingled roof, external joinery, shutters and timber columns; reinstating damaged/missing joinery including French doors, 12-paned windows and shutters; stabilisation/reconstruction of brick and sandstone walls, footings including construction of a concrete apron slab and site drainage system; weather-proofing; restoration of three principal rooms of the main central block; reconstruction of fireplaces in principal rooms; reconstruction of the rear courtyard verandah (ibid, 2016).
Further information:	NOTE: PCO does not cover whole of Wyndham Estate.


Current use:	Agriculture, viticulture, tourism
Former use:	Aboriginal land, Pastoral property and homestead, viticulture/vineyards and agriculture

History

Historical notes:

In 1823 David Maziere acquired a 2,000 acre crown land grant in the Hunter Valley. He called the property Anandale Estate and set about fencing stock yards and paddocks and cultivating 60 acres of land. Due to insolvency, Anandale Estate was put up for auction in 1828 and purchased for 1,200 pounds by George Wyndham.

Born at Dinton in Wiltshire in 1801, George and his wife Margaret arrived in Australia on 26 December 1827 on the convict transport ship, 'Louisa' (Watson (3), in Dalwood Restoration Assn.newsletter, 12/2018, 9). Wyndham was a member of a socially and politically prominent family in England (1988, NTA(NSW)).

The Wyndhams purchased the (2080 acres/842 hectares: Dalwood House Newsletter, 12/2018, 2) land at Branxton in January 1828 (Logan, 1983). Early that year George and Margaret moved to the property and renamed it 'Dalwood' after a wooded portion of the Dinton Estate, in England.

Dalwood House:
The construction of Dalwood House began in 1829 (1828, according to NTA (NSW), 1988) and proceeded in stages. Its stone was quarried by convicts and it had to be a large house as Wyndham and his wife had 12 sons and 2 daughters (Simon, 1966, 8).

Irish convicts Anthony Boland, 28 and James Brogan, 30 were assigned to George Wyndham on arrival in Sydney in January 1828. When the census was taken later that year they were assigned to William Carter at his Piercefield estate near Muswellbrook (Watson (2), in Dalwood Restoration Assn. newsletter, 12/2018, 5).

Convict Jane Brett (also Irish) arrived with 2 of her 3 children (one had died en route) at Dalwood on 27 April 1830, 'with a black eye'. She died in August (1830) and was buried in Newcastle. Her life of crime may have started after her husband Thomas, a private in the 1st Foot Guard, 2nd Battalion, was court-martialled for desertion in 1823. He was transported, arriving in Sydney on the 'Countess of Harcourt' in 1824. Jane was left with several children to support (Watson (4), 2018, 12).

The first two roofs, within a flat-roofed pavilion, were completed and occupied in February 1830 (Logan, 1983) although the house was incomplete. By 1833 a washhouse, kitchen and wings had been completed (Logan, 1983).

Dr James Broadbent AM is of the opinion that Helenus Scott of Glendon near Singleton may have had a hand in the design of Dalwood house, as Scott had an interest in architecture and designed several houses with courtyards similar to that at Dalwood. Both he and his brother Robert, were friends with George Wyndham (Wilkinson, 2012).

However in evidence of which Broadbent would not have been aware, among the drawings collection of the Royal Institute of British Architects in the Victoria & Albert Museum, London is a collection of 75 drawings prepared for William Wyndham between 1812 and 1817. They include the initial proposals for remodelling the existing house, by architect Jeffry Wyatt (later Sir Jeffry Wyatville). Two rough sketches, dated 12/10/1812, which were probably made during Wyatville's initial visit to Dinton, show the floor plan of the existing late-Elizabethan or early Jacobean house, with suggested additions and new entrance portico (ibid, 2012).

A comparison of the floor plan of the original house at Dinton and that built at Dalwood, shows a striking resemblance. Whilst not identical, there are more than enough similarities to allow that George built a house using a floor plan with which he was both familiar and comfortable (ibid, 2012).

It is quite likely that Scott influenced Wyndham to include the verandahs on the 3 sides of the courtyard, based on his experience of the climate in India. The front verandah is another story. There is enough evidence to show that George had intended to build an imposing portico at the front, overlooking the river. Columns had been quarried for the purpose. However while he was living at the RIchmond River in the mid 1840s, the columns were cut up for grinding stones and the portico was not built. There is a simple verandah (ibid, 2012).

The flat roof structure was constructed of split slabs nailed over timber beams. A thick layer of earth (approx.150mm) was topped with a further 40mm layer containing tar, sand, lime and blood. Scientific analysis by Dr George Gibbons at the time showed the upper layer to be a relatively strong mix of one part lime to three parts sand topped with bitumen or coal tar, suggesting it was intended as a waterproofing measure. It soon failed and around 1838 a pitched roof was added (Logan, 1983).

With the help of labour provided by a mix of convicts, free immigrants, indigenous people, German vine dressers and colonial born employees, George Wyndham developed successful cattle, sheep, horse and vineyard enterprises at Dalwood, Mahngarinda, Colly Blu, Bukkalla, Nullamanna and Keelgyrah. Two Irish convicts employed by Wyndham at Dalwood were Anthony Boland and James Brogan (Dalwood Association Newsletter, 12/2018, 2, 4).

The estate is believed to be the home of the first pure-bred Hereford cattle on the Australian mainland, which Wyndham brought out (c2019, unsourced brochure, via Maitland City Council).

Almost 200 convicts have been identified as being assigned to Wyndham between 1828 and 1849 (Don Seton Wilkinson, pers.comm., 9/12/2019).

In a letter written in the early 1850s, George recorded he was buying some iron with which to re-roof Dalwood house and asking his wife to make sure enough straw is collected after the harvest to re-thatch the houses of employees living at Dalwood (Don Seton Wilkinson, pers.comm., 7/4/2021).

Vineyards and viticulture at Dalwood:
The first grape vines were planted at Dalwood on 1st September 1830 (Dalwood Association Newsletter, 12/2018, 2). The planting of vineyards and the making of wine were given every encouragement by the early Governors of New South Wales, as well as by urban and rural authorities, for their economic value and also partly, if not chiefly, for their 'sobering' appeal (Simon, 1966, 9).

In 1825 James Busby wrote the first of a number of books on viticulture and wine making. In 1833, he brought 437 grape cuttings back to NSW and made these widely available (through the Botanic Gardens, Sydney). Busby, who had been trained in vineyard management, grape varieties and wine making in France, referred to Mr (Gregory) Blaxland's vineyard as being a showplace in the Sydney Basin. He commented on the generosity of Blaxland to share his knowledge and cuttings from his vineyard. Cuttings from Blaxland's Brush Farm provided early vines for Wyndham Estate (then Dalwood) in the Hunter Valley. It was not until the 1830s that William Macarthur sent 34,000 vines to the Barossa Valley in South Australia, to begin the wine industry in that state (Blaxcel, 14/10/10).

There is no indication of who actually planted the first vines in the Hunter Valley. The first official returns did not appear until 1843 and listed only acreages and production figures by counties. However, a list of vines planted in the colony by 1832 appears in manuscript notes on the flyleaves of a copy of James Busby's 1830 publication, 'A Manual of plain directions for planting and cultivating vineyards and for making wine in NSW'. At this stage there were 10 settlers on the Hunter River growing vines. These included George Wyndham at Dalwood who had 2 acres. The total (15.5 acres) was, of course small but already two of the vineyards that were to achieve outstanding reputations in later years, Dalwood and Kirkton, had been established. (Driscoll, 1969, 11-12, revised by Stuart Read).

Wyndham's diary for 1830-1840 is expansive on one topic only: his first attempts to make wine. His first attempt to grow vines was made in 1830, when he received, on 31 July, vine cuttings 'from Mr Busby'. Clearing and planting took place in August, but very few of the 600 vines took: 'they were dead before I got them'. He planted again in August 1831, and had 1400 vines in January 1832. In July 1832 he received cuttings of Muscatel, Black Hamburgh, Red Portugal, Green Malaga, Constantia and Black Cluster varieties from Captain Wright (ibid, 1969).

Further plantings took place in July and August 1833, with cuttings from Captain Wright and a Mr Townshend, including extra varieties, and more in June 1834, with Oporto and Gouais cuttings from James P. Webber of Tocal. The diary also gives details of other vineyard activities during these years: clearing, hoeing, ploughing, staking and pruning. His first vintage was in February 1835. It was not a marked success as he had fermentation troubles with Black Cluster grapes. However by the end of the month he was reporting success with white wine. In the following year he reported that he had a vintage of 1650 gallons which seems to suggest the produce of 2 or 3 acres, perhaps more in yields were low. This diary is the sole first hand account we have by an inexperienced wine maker and emphasises the problems and very hesitant first steps being taken (ibid, 1969).

A further problem was the lack of skilled labour. Vine dressing was a skilled occupation. With a few exceptions, such labour was unavailable. The early settlers mostly used convict labour, though Wyndham had the additional help of the Aborigines to pull the maize. It is true that what labour had to be hired was quite cheap. In 1833 Wyndham hired 'Tom, ploughman' at 5 shillings, a 1/4 pound of tobacco, 2 oz. of tea, 2 lb.s of sugar, 10 lb.s of flour and 10 lb.s of beef per week (ibid, 1969, 27-29).

Dalwood estate's wines won prizes in France and other places which helped to establish the international reputation of the Hunter as a premium wine-producing region (1988, NTA (NSW)).

The Wyndhams' wine reached such a standard that they won prizes all over the world, in Europe, America and India. At the Bordeaux Exhibition 1882 they were awarded the coveted Gold Medal for best Australian wine. George and his wife who was of French extraction had 13 children, 12 of these sons. George was not only keen on farming but loved horses. In 1830 he wrote to his father asking for a special stallion to be sent. This was answered by a gift of a combined threshing machine and mill. Crops at Dalwood that year were maize, wheat, hemp, mustard, castor oil, tobacco, millet and Cape barley. Also every variety of fruit tree and vegetables and flowers were grown. They had plenty of assigned servants and treated them well. In 1831 Wyndham selected 2560 acres near Merriwa called Mahngarinda, later increased by leasing 3830 acres extra. In 1832 more land was bought at Dalwood, Terrace Hill, 960 acres were added to the farm, for 360 pounds. In 1839 he joined adventurers travelling to the north and secured Bukkula, 100,000 acres, near the present day town of Inverell. Also he took up Collyblu on the Liverpool Plains c.1840 and Keelgyrah on the Richmond River (although these were not mentioned in the Government Gazette until 1848)(Griffiths, 1954).

So great was the interest to be in wine making that when the first returns for vineyards were made in 1844 for the year 1843, the Hunter had 262.5 acres of a NSW total of 508. By 1850 this had grown to over 500 acres. The 'Maitland Mercury' estimated that in 1850 there were 32 vine growers in the Maitland Police district alone. The Hunter pattern was for large farming and grazing properties. J.D. Lang noted that in 1836 the farms varied from 500-2000 acres, and were held by free immigrants employing convict labour. The areas devoted to vines were necessarily small though Lang does say that the wealthy proprietors had their vineyards managed by scientific and practical vine dressers from southern Europe and that landholders were already talking of exporting wine to India and England (Driscoll, 1969, 23, 25).

In June and July 1836 Wyndham and Dalwood were visited by Quaker missionaries George Walker and James Backhouse (Watson, in Dalwood Association Newsletter, 12/2018, 3-4). George Wyndham was elected Chairman of the Maitland Bench of Magistrates in 1837 (1988, NTA (NSW).

The 1840s depression gripped the colonies, causing crises in labour and prices and consequent havoc in the established agricultural industries. Possibly this helped stimulate interest in vine cultivation as a new source of profit, its attractions being its suitability to the climate and soil, relatively low production costs and high yields and above all, once vintage problems were overcome, its non perishable nature which made wine particularly suitable as an article for storage and export (Driscoll, 1969, 36).

At all events, wine making increased as an activity during these depression years. Of the major pioneer growers only George Wyndham at Dalwood found conditions too difficult to continue, and in 1845 he left Dalwood to take up properties first near Kyogle and then at Bukkulla near Inverell. Dalwood was advertised to let and at that stage, its 3-4000 acres contained about 5 acres of vines. When conditions improved Wyndham returned to Dalwood and resumed wine making operations there (Driscoll, 1969, 36).

From 1853 the vineyards grew to be the second largest in the world. John Wyndham, George's 4th son continued to run the property until 1887. By 1886 wine production had added cellars, press house, cooperage and offices (Logan, 1983).

Cuttings from Wyndham's Dalwood supplied some of the earliest vineyards to be established (Wilkinson's 'Oakdale', and possibly Campbell's 'Daisy Hill' from 1852 onwards) in the Pokolbin Hills after the Robertson Land Act of 1861 released land in that area, and a rush to take up land here where it appeared most attractive for agriculture, took place (Pike, Walker et al, 1994, 23).

In 1862 4 cases of colonial wine from Wyndham and Lindeman estates were recorded (16/4/1862, 'Empire') and 22 bales of wool (George Wyndham), 15 cases of wine (Wyndham & Co.), per 'Liberator', for London (17/4/1862 'Sydney Morning Herald'. In 1862 George Wyndham was listed as a member of the General Committee of the Newcastle Church Society. The names of the members reads like a list of the most prominent members of the Hunter. A Sydney Morning Herald, 21/5/1862 article 'Culture of the Vine' listed industry statistics in various parts of the colony, as read to the last meeting of the Hunter River Vineyard Assocation. These included 'Mr. Wyndham's Vineyards', noting (inter alia) that Dallwood (sic) had 32 acres in all - from 24 acres, it produced over 12,200 gallons of wine. From 52 1/2 in all-35 acres, in bearing - a total wine production of 15,200 gallons. Other reposrts in 'Bell's Life in Sydney' and 'Sporting Chronicle' (24/5/1862) noted that in the Maitland Races A.(lexander) Wyndham's chestnut colt, Incledon had run third; his bay mare, Elphine won a first and a second place and his grey mare, Langolee, a third place. A following letter from Alexander Wyndham corrected this report, noting that Langolee had in fact run second in the Hunter River handicap, and 'Wild Dayrell' had come third. Further press reports in 'Empire' (24th and 26th June 1862) noted the further export of two cases of wine, and 12 further cases of wine, (the latter to Moreton Bay) from Wyndham & Co. (Wilkinson, 2012, 14).

In 1868 Sir William Macarthur MLC was elected President of the Agricultural Society of NSW and Lord Belmore, Governor of NSW, was made patron. The Society's name and constitution were discussed by a committee on February 3, 1868. A few days later John Wyndham and others were appointed as a committee to draw up rules, which were adopted on April 7th. That society's first show, or Metropolitan Intercolonial Exhibition as it was called, was held at the Cleveland Paddock, which is now known as Prince Alfred Park, in Sydney. The committee which managed this first exhibition in Sydney (earlier forms of the Society had had exhibitions in Parramatta since the 1820s) included J. Wyndham. It was a great success and began what became known as the Royal Easter Show. That Wyndham was among those asked to draw up the rules and constitution for the society, subsequently being incorporated and later becoming the Royal Agricultural Society, shows he was respected by his peers and continued Wyndham tradition of contributing to the betterment of the community. John appears to have contributed significantly to the arrangements for the red and white wine section and may very well be regarded as having laid the foundations for what developed into Australia's premier wine show (Don Seton Wilkinson in Dalwood House News, 2009, 5-6).

Among the Mitchell Library's collection is a document showing the plans and contents of extensive varieties of fruit trees that Wyndham planted at Dalwood. It indicates how, like so many settlers, he had serious intent to experiment with and trial as many different varieties of each fruit, to determine the most suitable for the Australian conditions. It also indicates in some cases those people from whom Wyndham obtained varieties and with whom he probably had social contact. The list contains 39 varieties of apple; 2 of quinces; 25 of pears; 2 of almonds; 9 of plums; 4 of apricots; 6 of nectarines; 5 of figs; 14 of peaches; 3 of mulberries; 2 of medlars; loquats; oranges, citrons; pomegranates; Spanish (or sweet) chestnut; olive, gooseberries; currants; raspberries; filbert (or hazelnut); walnuts; and 9 grape varieties. There are many more varieties of grapes listed in his diary and elsewhere (Don Seton Wilkinson in Dalwood House News, 2009, 5-6).

Documentary evidence has come to light in 1874 of the Wyndhams sourcing several Bunya pine trees (Araucaria bidwillii) from Sydney nurserymen, Shepherd Brothers (Don Seton Wilkinson, pers.comm., 2015).

The Australian Hereford Herd Book Society was formed in 1885 in Sydney. George Wyndham's 11th son, Reginald, was a prime mover, playing a key role as member of the Editing Committee, and donating almost a third of the publication cost. In recognition of his service to the Hereford industry, he was the first Australian awarded life membership of the Hereford Society in the United Kingdom. The first Hereford cattle arrived in Tasmania in 1826 and on mainland Australia in 1827. The Cressy Company brought them to Tasmania, and George Wyndham brought them to New South Wales. The hereford cow is now the most-numerous breed in Australia. Whilst established as a breed in England in the 1700s, it was not until the 1800s that stud records became common. Stud records were still not common when George brought his cattle, which explains the lack of any mention of them in the Australian Hereford Herd Book prior to the Hereford bull sent by his father (George) in 1840. The first Hereford Herd Book did not appear in the UK until 1842. The original minute book from the Australian Hereford Herd Book Society from 1885-1891 was recently acquired for the NSW State Library from a book dealer in Queensland. This is one of the most important documents in the history of that breed in Australia (Wilkinson, (2), 2018, 18).

The 1893 bank crash and subsequent depression badly affected this early wine industry. It was further depressed by the removal of interstate trade barriers following Federation in 1901, with the result that the market was flooded with cheap South Australian wines. During this time grape growing retreated to select pockets around Branxton, Rothbury, Cessnock and Pokolbin. By the end of the First World War wine making was on the increase again, only to be devastated by the mildew disease of the 1920s. It suffered badly during the 1930s depression but gradually, after the war as Australia's drinking habits changed, it showed a slow and steady increase. Until the 1960s the wine growing areas of the Cessnock district were known amongst wine buffs for their high quality table wines, although the area produced less than 1% of Australia's wine (Pike, Walker et al, 1994, 23).

Between 1901 until 1972 the property was subdivided by subsequent ownerships (Logan, 1983).

Up to 1959 some of the original convict-planted vines remained in the vineyard. These were then uprooted. The Dalwood vineyards and estate now (in 1966) belongs to Messrs. Penfold, who have also given the name 'Dalwood' to a 723 acre estate 40 miles from the parent Dalwood vineyard and 15 miles west of the dairying centre of Muswellbrook. 300 acres of this new Dalwood Estate, which was bought in 1960, were planted by 1965 with the finest table-wine varieties (Simon, 1966, 8).

A mid-(20th)century photograph by Max Dupain from the portico of Dalwood, ...explores the same visual parameters and pays homage to the picturesque sensibilities of the original owner/builder, George Wyndham (Ellis, 2004, 21).

In 1972 the property was conveyed to Wyndham Estate Pty Ltd. (Logan, 1983).

In 1984 the house was in imminent danger of collapse. Its walls were cracked and leaning, its iron roof rusted and its doors and windows missing. Over recent years it has suffered the effects of foundation movement, moisture penetration, vandalism and neglect. However a determined group of Wyndham family descendents met at the National Trust of Australia (NSW) headquarters in Sydney to launch the Dalwood Restoration Association. Intending to restore the house by the 1988 (Australian) Bicentennial, the association has the support of Wyndham Estate P/L (present owner of the property) and the National Trust of Australia (NSW) which launched a public appeal for funds. At the meeting, Trust Executive Director Peter James announced that Wyndham Estate had offered to donate Dalwood to the Trust and negotiations were proceeding along those lines. The (then) Governor of NSW, His Excellency Sir Jame Rowland, himself a Wyndham descendent, took a keen interest in the project. Other noted family members are (poet, writer) Judith Wright, her brother Dr Peter Wright of Armidale and Sir Harold Wyndham, former Director of Education. While the association hopes that government funds will be made available to assist, a large part of the estimated $500,000 needed for the restoration is expected to come from Wyndham family descendents, here and overseas. The restoration will be based on a conservation plan prepared by Heritage Branch architect, David Logan, who undertook the study as part of a masters degree in building conservation at the University of NSW. It is intended that Dalwood be restored to its 1901 appearance, when it was last occupied by the Wyndham family. The first task of the restoration program, will be to provide a dry, stable foundation beneath the walls. This will be achieved by pouring new concrete footings and inserting a damp course. Some of the more precariously-leaning sections of walls may have to be carefully dismantled and reconstructed, although this will depend on the advice given by specialist engineers (Logan, 1984, 8).

In 1988 the property was transferred to the National Trust of Australia (NSW)(Logan, 1983). A great deal of work was done in the house restoration, including stabilising the foundations. The Greek wing, the front and the remaining rear wing exterior walls have been lagely restored. Three rooms in the Greek wing have been restored to use. The garden has been fenced and planted as a 19th century garden by the National Trust's consultants. Work still to be done will be done section by section, project by project, as funds are raised. All work is under the supervision of the National Trust (c.2019 unsourced brochure, via Maitland City Council).

In 2009 the property was owned by Orlando Wines.

In 2/2011 a box of historic documents about NSW's oldest vineyard , Wyndham Estate (formerly Dalwood Estate), salvaged from a rubbish tip 50 years ago, is now part of the (State) library's collection. In an act of corporate generosity, Wyndham Estate manager Stephen Guilbaud-Oulton donated the entire archive - 3,500 documents dating back over 160 years - to the Library to ensure the future preservation of this historic material. A pictorial album comprising early photographs of Wyndham Estate can now be purchased for the first time (State Library of NSW e-news, 2/2011).

Today the property is owned and managed by French wine company, Pernod Ricard, Wyndham Estate.

Dalwood is now the oldest continuous commercial vineyard in Australia (Dalwood Association Newsletter, 12/2018, 2).

Almost 200 people attended a Descendants' Day at Dalwood lunch in September 2019, a most interesting set of descendants of convicts, Wyndhams, German vinedressers and free immigrant employees. Discussions have commenced with the new owners of Dalwood Estate with a view to turning a large part of the cellar building into a museum showing the history of the property from Indigenous times to the present (Don Seton Wilkinson, pers.comm., 9/12/2019).

Historic themes

Australian theme (abbrev)	New South Wales theme	Local theme
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Other open space-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Changing the environment-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Cultural: Natural landscapes valued by humans-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Cultural: Rivers and water bodies important to humans-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Aboriginal cultures and interactions with other cultures-Activities associated with maintaining, developing, experiencing and remembering Aboriginal cultural identities and practices, past and present.	Wonnarua Nation - working for pastoralists-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Convict-Activities relating to incarceration, transport, reform, accommodation and working during the convict period in NSW (1788-1850) - does not include activities associated with the conviction of persons in NSW that are unrelated to the imperial 'convict system': use the theme of Law & Order for such activities	Working on private assignment-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Convict-Activities relating to incarceration, transport, reform, accommodation and working during the convict period in NSW (1788-1850) - does not include activities associated with the conviction of persons in NSW that are unrelated to the imperial 'convict system': use the theme of Law & Order for such activities	Demonstrating convicts' experiences and activities-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Ethnic influences-Activities associated with common cultural traditions and peoples of shared descent, and with exchanges between such traditions and peoples.	German wine making practices-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Ethnic influences-Activities associated with common cultural traditions and peoples of shared descent, and with exchanges between such traditions and peoples.	English rural building practises-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Ethnic influences-Activities associated with common cultural traditions and peoples of shared descent, and with exchanges between such traditions and peoples.	Irish migrants-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Experimenting with new breeds of animal-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Growing vines and maintaining vineyards-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Processing wheat and other grains-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Marking the transition from pastoralism to agriculture-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Experimenting with new crops and methods-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Farming wheat and other grains-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Clearing land for farming-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Flour milling-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Farming with convict labour-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Farming with convict labour-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Attempting to transplant European farming practices to Australian environments-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Orcharding-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Ancillary structures - wells, cisterns-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Ancillary structures - windmills-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Agricultural Society activities - research, experimentation, acclimatisation --
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of food production-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes and gardens of domestic accommodation-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of industrial production-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use	Modifying landscapes to increase productivity-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use	Pastoral and Agricultural Associations-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use	Livestock structures-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use	Agisting and fattening stock for slaughter-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Accommodating convicts-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Housing farming families-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Housing for farm and station hands-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Sub-division of large estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Granting Crown lands for private farming-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Vernacular hamlets and settlements-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Country Estate-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Rural orchards-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working on pastoral stations-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working with animals-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Landscaping - colonial period-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Architectural styles and periods - colonial homestead-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Living in a rural homestead-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Living in, adapting and renovating homes for changing conditions-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	(none)-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Max Dupain, photographer and artist-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with George Wyndham, squatter, farmer, viticulturist-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Gregory Blaxland, explorer and viticulturist-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Sir Jeffry Wyatville, English architect-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Helenus Scott, grazier, Police Magistrate, amateur architect in the Hunter Valley-

Assessment of significance


SHR Criteria a) [Historical significance]	Dalwood House is historically significanct because it reflects the history of one of the most influential pioneering families in the Hunter Valley. Dalwood epitomizes the aspirations of the early English settlers in the region. (Logan 1983)
SHR Criteria c) [Aesthetic significance]	Dalwood House is aesthetically significant because it is a rare survival of one of the earliest Greek Revival buildings in New South Wales and the earliest known example of the style in the Hunter Valley. Dalwood retains its historic setting amidst vineyards and pastures and in particular its historic visual links with neighbouring Leconfield homestead and the Wyndham family graves. (Logan 1983)
SHR Criteria d) [Social significance]	Dalwood House is socially significant because of its association with the development of viticulture and the development of the Hunter Valley wine industry. (Logan 1983)
SHR Criteria e) [Research potential]	Dalwood House is technically significant because the form and plan of the remaining fabric of Dalwood House have undergone little alteration since the 1830s. The fabric reveals the constructional evolution of the house and noteably an innovative attempt at flat roof construction. The roof is of great technological interest as one of the earliest of its type in Australia. (Logan 1983)
Assessment criteria:	Items are assessed against the State Heritage Register (SHR) Criteria to determine the level of significance. Refer to the Listings below for the level of statutory protection.

Recommended management:

Recommendations

Management Category	Description	Date Updated
Statutory Instrument	Nominate for State Heritage Register (SHR)	02 Nov 16
Statutory Instrument	Nominate for State Heritage Register (SHR)	02 Nov 16
Statutory Instrument	Nominate for State Heritage Register (SHR)	02 Nov 16
Statutory Instrument	Nominate for State Heritage Register (SHR)	02 Nov 16

Procedures /Exemptions

Section of act	Description	Title	Comments	Action date
57(2)	Exemption to allow work	Standard Exemptions	HERITAGE ACT 1977 ORDER UNDER SECTION 57(2) TO GRANT STANDARD EXEMPTIONS FROM APPROVAL I, Penny Sharpe, the Minister for Heritage, on the recommendation of the Heritage Council of New South Wales and under section 57(2) of the Heritage Act 1977: revoke the order made on 2 June 2022 and published in the Government Gazette Number 262 of 17 June 2022; and grant an exemption from section 57(1) of the Act in respect of the engaging in or carrying out the class of activities described in clause 2 Schedule A in such circumstances specified by the relevant standards in clause 2 Schedule A and General Conditions in clause 3 Schedule A. This Order takes effect on the date it is published in the NSW Government Gazette. Dated this 29th day of October 2025 The Hon Penny Sharpe MLC Minister for Heritage For more information on standard exemptions click on the link below.	Nov 7 2025

Standard exemptions for engaging in or carrying out activities / works otherwise prohibited by section 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977

Listings

Heritage Listing	Listing Number	Gazette Date	Gazette Number	Gazette Page
Heritage Act - State Heritage Register	00377	02 Apr 99	27	1546
Heritage Act - Permanent Conservation Order - former	00377	12 Jul 85	103	3473
National Trust of Australia register		01 May 83
Register of the National Estate		11 Aug 87

References, internet links & images

Type	Author	Year	Title	Internet Links
Tourism		2007	Dalwood House and surrounds of Wyndham Estate	View detail
Written	National Trust of Australia (NSW), with the Australian Bicentennial Authority	1988	Dalwood House and Estate (brochure)
Tourism	Attraction Homepage	2007	Dalwood House and surrounds of Wyndham Estate	View detail
Written	Ballard, Harrie Benjamin (photographer); Dalwood Restoration Association Inc.	2010	Photographs of the Dalwood Vineyards near Branxton, New South Wales, Australia
Written	Blaxcel, Greg.	2010	Letter to the editor, Northern District Times, re Brush Farm/Blaxland/viticulture
Written	Christopher Levins	1992	Dalwood House, Branxton: Courtyard reconstruction - Report on Heritage Assistance Program Grant
Written	Dalwood Restoration Association Inc.		Dalwood - a national treasure (website)	View detail
Written	David Logan	1983	Dalwood House Conservation Plan
Written	David Logan, for the National Trust of Australia (NSW)	1983	Dalwood Classification Card (classified 1/5/1983)
Written	Design 5 - Architects P/L	2016	Conservation Works - Dalwood House, Dalwood Road, Branxton - Exemption Notification - NSW Heritage Grant WRK201500039
Written	Design 5 - Architects P/L	2016	draft Dalwood House, Dalwood Road, Branxton - Conservation Management Plan
Written	Don Seton Wilkinson	2009	'The Agricultural Society of NSW' and 'Dalwood's Fruit Trees'
Written	Driscoll, W.P.	1969	The beginnings of the wine industry in the Hunter Valley
Written	Edward Higginbottom	1985	Dalwood House, near Branxton, NSW: report on archaeological investigation, February to March 1985
Written	Ellis, Elizabeth	2004	Line of Sight: Allusions to the Picturesque in some Colonial Gardens	View detail
Written	Griffiths, G.Nesta	1954	Some Northern Homes of New South Wales
Written	Logan, David	1984	'The house in the vineyard'
Written	National Trust of Australia (NSW)	1993	Dalwood House, Branxton - Heritage Properties Restoration Program
Written	Penelope Pike, Meredith Walker. & associates	1994	City of Cessnock Heritage Study: Historical Context Report - 3.4 Viticulture
Written	Simon, Andre	1966	The Wines, Vineyards and Vignerons of Australia
Written	Watson, Marcia	2018	'Visitors to Dalwood'
Written	Watson, Marcia (2)	2018	'Anthony Boland and James Brogan, convicts employed by George Wyndham'
Written	Watson, Marcia (3)	2018	'Voyage to Australia'
Written	Watson, Marcia (4)	2018	'Jane Brett - a convict employed by George Wyndham'
Written	Wilkinson, Don Seton	2018	'What was George Wyndham doing in 1862?- part 2'
Written	Wilkinson, Don Seton	2012	'Who designed Dalwood House?', in Dalwood House Newsletter no. 82
Written	Wilkinson, Don Seton	2006	'The Wyndhams of Dalwood'
Written	Wilkinson, Don Seton (2)	2018	'The Australian Hereford Herd Book Society Minute Book'

Note: internet links may be to web pages, documents or images.

(Click on thumbnail for full size image and image details)

Data source


The information for this entry comes from the following source:
Name:	Heritage NSW
Database number:	5045253
File number:	S90/01295-HC 32187-S92/01003

Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained in the State Heritage Inventory is correct. If you find any errors or omissions please send your comments to the Database Manager.

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