Abbotsford

Item details

Name of item: Abbotsford
Type of item: Complex / Group
Group/Collection: Farming and Grazing
Category: Homestead Complex
Location: Lat: -34.1618591767 Long: 150.5990815400
Primary address: Oaks Road, Picton, NSW 2571
Parish: Camden
County: Picton
Local govt. area: Wollondilly
Local Aboriginal Land Council: Tharawal
Property description
Lot/Volume CodeLot/Volume NumberSection NumberPlan/Folio CodePlan/Folio Number
PART LOT1 DP207960
All addresses
Street AddressSuburb/townLGAParishCountyType
Oaks RoadPictonWollondillyCamdenPictonPrimary Address

Statement of significance:

The Abbotsford property is significant because of its associations with the early settlement of the Picton area and its links with prominent colonial figure, George Harper and later, the Antill family. In addition to its historical significance the site has the potential to yield further evidence of the working of this important pastoral estate through archaeological investigation. The Abbotsford cottage and brick outbuilding are significant for their contribution to the understanding of the function and layout of the group as a whole (Heritage Study, 1992; LEP, 1991).

The ruins of the main farmhouse are significant for their associations with the settlement of the area and the links with the Harper and Antill families. The architectural value and intactness of the house as an early homestead has been lost. The ruins, together with the other components of the property, provide an opportunity to interpret an early pastoral property through archaeological investigation. The ruins are also an evocative part of the Abbotsford group which is a landmark in the rural surrounds of Picton.

The mature trees and remnants of the gardens and grounds of the Abbotsford property have scientific significance as a collection of rare species of horticultural interest and their association with George Harper who was a noted natural history collector. Together with the other components of the Abbotsford group, the plantings provide evidence of the structure and layout of the farm estate. In a wider context, the surviving plantings also illustrate the horticultural practice of plant collecting which was to remain an important influence in the development of gardens of the colony for a substantial period of time. Today, the trees are a landmark and contribute to the character of the rural landscape north-west of Picton.

The mid-19th century cottage and brick outbuilding are significant from their contribution to the understanding of the function and layout of the homestead group (LEP, 1991).

The underground water tank at Abbotsford is significant through its contribution to our understanding of the group as a whole. It is considered to be a potential source for archaeological research into the occupation phases of the site as domestic artefacts are often dropped into wells. Other sites are also considered to have archaeological significance, particularly into the earliest phases of the development of the property and the role of convicts (LEP, 1991).

The location of the earlier Abbotsford bridge and crossing is significant because knowledge of its position contributes to the understanding of the siting of Abbotsford House and its driveway avenue plantings in relation to the Oaks Rd and Abbotsford Rd. (Heritage Study, 1992).
Date significance updated: 27 Mar 12
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

Builder/Maker: George Harper
Construction years: 1822-1835
Physical description: Site / Grounds / Garden: 3.68 ha (Lot 101 on subdivision plan)
The main components of the group are:
House (now ruins) (WO0108)
Trees, Gardens & Grounds (WO0109)
Underground Water Storage Tank (WO110)
Cottage & Brick Outhouse (now ruins) (WO0111)(LEP).
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Site / Grounds:
The listing includes all trees and buildings on the land from road to hill top (AHC, 1980).

'Block 3: 499 acres - Homestead Block. Undulating with rich creek flats. Watered by creeks and bore. Improvements: brick stone house, electricity, telephone, town water. 2 mens' cottages, 4 and 5 roomed; brick milk factory; brick dairy; 12 double bails and 4 single. Concrete yard. 100 feeding pans, 2 concrete silos, 1 underground brick silo. Horse boxes, etc., machinery shed, 2 hay sheds - 4 bull paddocks and houses. 8 subdivisions.' (T.H.Walton, Picton, NZ Loan & Mercantile Agency Co., Ltd. (Sydney) advertisement for sale by auction, 16/8/1952, in NBRS, 2013, 18).

Abbotsford is on the western outskirts of the town of Picton, on rolling hills on the far side of Stonequarry Creek, c.1.5km northwest of the town centre. The homestead, farm buildings and gardens lie on the east-facing side of a hill, looking over a valley drained by Stonequarry Creek towards Vault Hill. The valleys are fertile land; the hilltops are drier with less fertile land. The vast majority of indigenous forest has long since been cleared, leaving a cultural landscape of pastures surrounding the large suburban allotments where the township of Picton has expanded (NBRS, 2013, 25).

Abbotsford Bridge Site:
Site of original timber trestle bridge over Racecourse Creek, at site of Abbotsford crossing. The original timber trestle Abbotsford Bridge over Racecourse Creek was at the site of the Abbotsford crossing. The location of the earlier bridge and crossing is significant because knowledge of its position contributes to the understanding of the siting of Abbotsford House and its driveway avenue plantings in relation to the Oaks Rd and Abbotsford Rd. (Heritage Study, 1992).

The timber bridge was replaced with the present reinforced concrete road bridge, located further south off the Abbotsford axis (i.e. which aligned with the original Abbotsford driveway, lined by trees (NBRS, 2013, 25).

Homestead siting and access driveway(s):
Abbotsford (homestead) was constructed on a mid-rise knoll at the base of a steeper hill with predominant views eastwards. The vista from the homestead is defined and strengthened by the driveway and avenue of trees. Originally the straight-line of the driveway led across Stonequarry Creek via the timer Abbotsford Bridge, towards Barkers Lodge Road. This latter road follows a contour above another tributary of Racecourse Creek and leads to a terminus at the George IV Inn, close to the centre of Picton (NBRS, 2013, 25).

The original access or carriageway probably started at the Chinese funeral cypress (Cupressus funebris) south of the present entrance gate and continued in a line parallel to the present drive. This old line is marked by a regular linear depression in the grass and a double line of European trees some 600m long remains, containing a number of exotic species: a discontinuous series of fairly random plantings including, in order (from the funeral cypress): a kurrajong (Brachychiton populneus), another cypress, a large field elm (Ulmus campestris), a Bunya pine (Araucaria bidwillii), a further large gap then linking with quince (Cydonia oblonga) in the home garden, in line with the northern gable extension to the homestead (NBRS, 2013, 26).

Signature pine on knoll behind homestead complex:
A wide gap in the avenue planting behind the house still leads to the wan specimen of a Norfolk Island pine (Araucaria heterophylla) on the summit of the hill ... which is a local landmark, typical of the colonial habit of planting Araucaria pines on hilltops near homesteads (NBRS, 2013, 26).

The southern avenue (sic: line, of the avenue) of trees grows along the current property boundary south of the driveway. This has fewer specimens and consists of a camphor laurel (Cinnamommum camphora), two Lombardy poplars (Populus nigra 'Italica'), then it intersects with a perpendicular row of English oaks (Quercus robur). The poplar specimens at Abbotsford may be the suckered remnants of larger trees that have collapsed (NBRS, 2013, 27).

Also east of the homestead are an Irish (and Mediterranean) strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo), and a solitary specimen of Photinia x serrulata (a Chinese hedging shrub) also remains(NBRS, 2013, 32)

A hoop pine (Araucaria cunninghamii) visible in a c1996 Department of Urban Affairs and Planning publication, 'Heritage Curtilages' here appears now to be gone (Stuart Read, observation, from NBRS, 2013, 21).

Other European trees mark sites such as a possible former croquet lawn and orchards. The ornamental plantings include relatively rare species of horticultural interest and are thought to have been planted by George Harper (Brad Vale, pers.comm., 14 & 20/11/2012). Several have been dated to the lifetime of George Harper and it is most likely he planted them as part of his interest in natural history (NBRS, 2013, 26).

Several (black-)thorn trees (Bursaria spinosa) are likely remnants from hedges planted to contain cattle as fence substitutes. Building fences to contain cattle in the colonial era from timber was laborious, and barbed wire was not invented until the 1860s. Two groves of Osage orange trees (Maclura pomifera) grow in a row on the northern side of the driveway, within 60m of the homestead. This native Texan tree can grow to 18m, has edible seeds in its fruit, and thorny branches growing in a coppiced form that lends itself to hedging as a windbreak and livestock barrier. There are many thickets of blackthorn. This Cumberland Plain Woodland species can proliferate after clearing of woodland trees, if the land is not burnt (NBRS, 2013, 26).

A c1996 photograph published by the NSW Department of Urban Affairs and Planning in 'Heritage Curtilages' shows the avenue of trees leading up to Abbotsford homestead. Many of those trees have since gone (NBRS, 2013, 21).

Many other trees and shrubs were planted around the house as a pleasure garden. Several of the remnant garden trees demonstrate a symmetrical arrangement. Several shrubs mentioned as being near the homestead in the 1981 Commission of Enquiry appear to be no longer alive, including the hydrangeas and peach trees (NBRS, 2013, 26). None of the detailed planting of the garden (small-scale decorative plants) remains. The homestead ruins are almost taken over by broad-leaved privet, Allamanda and cat's claw creeper (Doxantha unguis-cati)(NBRS, 2013, 27).

Orchard (former):
'An orchard of choice fruit trees, two and a half acres, with a large and productive vegetable garden, three thousand two hundred acres of land, commanding an extensive back run, three hundred cleared and fenced into convenient paddocks and fifty acres now under wheat...' (to let advertisement,, Sydney Herald, 15/7/1841, 4, in NBRS, 2013, 10).

Grounds / Garden (see above also):
The mature trees and remnants of the gardens and grounds of the Abbotsford property have scientific significance as a collection of rare species of horticultural interest and their association with George Harper who was a noted natural history collector. Together with the other components of the Abbotsford group, the plantings provide evidence of the structure and layout of the farm estate. In a wider context, the surviving plantings also illustrate the horticultural practice of plant collecting which was to remain an important influence in the development of gardens of the colony for a substantial period of time. Today, the trees are a landmark and contribute to the character of the rural landscape north-west of Picton (LEP, 2011).

Buildings:
House (now ruins)(WO0108):
A colonial Georgian brick house with front verandah, the main block being flanked by slightly later gable pavilions which at the rear form a U-shaped verandahed court with the centre block. The whole is raised on a high terrace at the front which is unusual. The main block is double pile plan and the elevation is five bays wide under a hipped roof of shingles covered with corrugated galvanised iron. There are pairs of French doors under the gables of the side pavilions. The entrance hall and verandahs are flagged. The doors are 6-panelled, the windows 12-paned and once-shuttered; all chimney pieces are Georgian in character and in the main 3 rooms there are dado rails. The house is of face brick now painted on a rubble foundation and the shingled roof has long been covered with corrugated iron. Internal detailing is intact (LEP, 2011; AHC, 1980, based on NTA (NSW), 1978 classification).

The ruins of the main farmhouse are significant for their associations with the settlement of the area and the links with the Harper and Antill families. The architectural value and intactness of the house as an early homestead has been lost. The ruins, together with the other components of the property, provide an opportunity to interpret an early pastoral property through archaeological investigation. The ruins are also an evocative part of the Abbotsford group which is a landmark in the rural surrounds of Picton (LEP, 2011).

Outbuildings: Maids' Quarters and Smoke House (WO0111):
Behind the house is a small weatherboard cottage and brick outhouse of mid-nineteenth century date (ibid, 1980 / 1978; LEP). Two brick outbuildings are associated with house; one containing a kitchen and servants' quarters, the other a smokehouse. Twice destroyed by fire in last decade and main building now derelict (LEP, 2011).

The maids' quarters and smoke house are the more intact early brick buidings on the site. The cottage was used as maids' quarters and the outhouse as a smokehouse. These are likely to be mid-nineteenth century (NBRS, 2013, 28).

Together with the main residence these two buildings and the gaol (now demolished) were positioned around a central court with a deliberate axial relationship to the hill, the driveway and selected trees (LEP, 2011).

An 1841 advertisement described a: 'Commodious brick cottage of ten rooms, with kitchen, wash house, fowl-house, piggeries and all other necessary conveniences' (to let advertisement,, Sydney Herald, 15/7/1841, 4, in NBRS, 2013, 10).


Timber Barns:
A timber barn stands west of the homestead, built of log posts to which a sawn timber frame has been attached for the corrugated steel cladding. It has simple gable form with openings and some timber cladding on the longer sides. It is likely to date from the Federation period (NBRS, 2013, 28).

'There is a large and substantial barn, with ploughs, harrows, drays and every requisite for carrying on a large agricultural establishment...' (advertisement to let, Sydney Herald, 15/7/1841, 1, in NBRS, 2013, 10).


'Six-stalled Stable, Coach House, etc...' (advertisement to let, Sydney Herald, 15/7/1841, 1, in NBRS, 2013, 10).


Convict Barracks/Old Gaol (demolished).
A sandstone gaol was built to the west of the hoemstead forming an enclosed rear courtyard with other buildings, reflecting a deliberate axial relationship to the hill, the driveway and selected trees. The footings of the gaol can be seen (LEP, 2011; NBRS, 2013, 28).

Underground Water Storage Tank (WO110)
A large brick tank about 3m in diameter. It is internally rendered, capped with a brick dome and still holds water (LEP, 2011; NBRS, 2013, 28).


Archaeological and other elements:
As well as the water storage tank there are other sites considered to be of archaeological interest. They are the site of the "Old Gaol" or Convict Barracks, a line of stones adjacent to the existing timber barns and the remains of a floor surface (LEP, 2011).

The ruins, together with the other components of the property, provide an opportunity to interpret an early pastoral property through archaeological investigation. The ruins are also an evocative part of the Abbotsford group which is a landmark in the rural surrounds of Picton (LEP, 2011).
Physical condition and/or
Archaeological potential: 		A large brick tank about 3m in diameter. It is internally rendered, capped with a brick dome and still holds water.
As well as the underground water storage tank there are other sites considered to be of archaeological interest. They are the site of the "Old Gaol" or Convict Barracks, a line of stones adjacent to the existing timber barns and the remains of a floor surface.
Date condition updated:04 Apr 23
Modifications and dates: Original access road to Abbotsford House extended in a staight line from the Abbotsford crossing of Race Course Creek.

The original homestead was extended with the side gables within decades of the first construction. The maids' quarters and smoke house are likely to date from the early Victorian period, along with the former gaol. The pattern in the pressed metal ceiling suggests it may have been added to replace lath and plaster ceiling in the Federation period. Various farm buildings and sheds are likely to have been built and demolished over the nineteenth century. The remaining timber sheds west of the homestead and the silos and feed lots approximately 200m north-west of the homestead shed may have first been built in the late Federation period, and adapted since. The Model Dairy to the north of the homestead was likely built in the late 1930s (NBRS, 2013, 30).

1919: the present dairy building was reportedly built. Simultaneously, Abbotsford house underwent maintenance - it was painted externally, wall-papered internally and electrically connected.

1939+ Edgar Davies 1939 supervised repair of the front verandah and picket fences and painted the metal ceilings (NBRS, 2013, 15).

1981 fire
1983 fire

1985 new works in commenced

1986 the 1908 timber trestle bridge was demolished - the location of that original bridge over Racecourse Creek was at the site of the Abbotsford crossing.
Current use: vacant
Former use: Aboriginal land, timber-getting, farm, rural residence

History

Historical notes: Aboriginal Country:
This area was the traditional land of the Gandangara people (Garran ,1978, 530), also spelt Gundungara (NBRS, 2013, 6). The area is home to the Tharawal ... people (Robinson, 2008). The Gundungara ranged over a wide area which encompased the (later) towns of Burragorang, Katoomba, Picton, Berrima, Taralga and Goulburn, with the intervening country. According to Normal Tindall, the tribal name incorporates terms meaning 'east' and 'west' (NBRS, 13, 6).

This area was the traditional land of the Gandangara people (Garran ,1978, 530). The area is home to the Tharawal and Gundungurra people (Robinson, 2008).

Gundungurra or Gandangarra people lived in the Southern Highlands area, which includes Mittagong, for many thousands of years. People who spoke the Gundungurra language lived in the Blue Mountains, the Southern Highlands and the Goulburn Plains of New South Wales. They lived in small groups of extended family members, who were attached to particular areas of country (Di Johnson: 2004 in SHR database 5045486).

Gundungurra groups left archaeological evidence of their occupation throughout their traditional lands, including scarred trees where bark was removed for use as a boat or other object, grinding grooves on rocks where axes were ground, and occupation sites which include middens. Well-worn Gundungurra pathways on ridge tops were often the routes used as the first roads by colonists (Di Johnson 2004). Possibly this could have been the origin of the Old South Road... (SHR database 5045486).

One of the first places in the Gundungurra traditional homelands that most appealed to the Anglo-Celt settlers were the river flats of the Burragorang Valley (now flooded under Warragamba Dam). Even before the valley was officially surveyed in 1827-8, many early settlers were already squatting on blocks that they planned to officially occupy following the issue of freehold title grants. From the Burragorang Valley and using Aboriginal pathways, other valleys to the west were occupied and developed by the settlers with construction of outstations and stock routes. These cattle entrepreneurs were then followed by cedar-wood extractors and miners (Johnson, 2009, 4).

After Anglo-European settlers caused displacement of Gundungurra people, they often worked on farms or grazing properties within and adjacent to their traditional land (Di Johnson: 2004 in SHR database 5045486).

The Gundungurra traditional owners resisted the taking of their lands, and, relying on various laws of the colony at the time, continually applied for official ownership. Although their individual claims failed, in some kind of recognition of the significance of the designated tracts of land claimed, six Aboriginal Reserves (under the control of the NSW Aborigines Protection Board) were formally declared in the Burragorang Valley. Even after these reserves were revoked, many of the traditional owners remained, quietly refusing to leave their traditional homelands (ibid, 2009, 4).

Finally pushed into the 'Gully', a fringe development in West Katoomba from about 1894, the Gully community stayed together for more than 60 years until dispossessed of the Gully by the then Blue Mountains Shire Council so a group of local businessmen could develop a speedway that became known as the Catalina Race Track. The Gully people kept talking about areas of land they had walked in as children - the nearby Megalong and Kanimbla Valleys and the Burragorang Valley. They knew of the profound significance of these valleys for their parents and grandparents (ibid, 2009, 4).

Camden & the Cow Pastures:
The area is associated with the early history of the colony of New South Wales. Governor Hunter named it 'The Cowpastures' after a number of cattle which had strayed from the Farm Cove settlement were discovered there in 1795 (ibid, 2008), near the Nepean River. The herd had grown and were seen as a hope for the cattle breeding future of the colony. The government decided to leave them in that are. The area was defined by Surveyor John Oxley as lying between the Bargo River on the south, the Nepean and Warragamba Rivers in the north, westerly to the Nattai Mountains and on the east to the Nepean River. This area was sealed off to allow the cattle to continue breeding without disturbance. This lasted until the 1820s (NBRS, 2013, 6).

The first (European) explorers to come through the Picton area were a party led by ex-convict John Wilson in 1798. Other parties followed in the next 20 years including (KIng's Botanist) George Caley in 1802, collecting botanical specimens (Vincent, c2005, quoted in NBRS, 2013, 6).

Explorer Francis Barrallier encountered the Gundungara people in 1802 as his party moved through the Cowpastures... through the Nattai to the Wollondilly RIver and up to the heights above the present Yarranderie. Barrallier noted in his journal that the Gundungurra 'themselves build huts for the strangers they wish to receive as friends'. However by this date the number of Gundangurra was probably lower than at the start of European colonisation as much of the Sydney Aboriginal peoples were decimated in the 1789 smallpox epidemic (NBRS, 2013, 6).

Due to the early European settlers, namely the Macarthurs, who established flourishing wool, wine and wheat industries here, the area is said to be 'the birthplace of the nation's wealth' (ibid, 2008).

Stonequarry, later Picton:
Picton has a long European history, being one of Australia's earliest settlements. First contained in the area known as the Cowpastures, then as Stonequarry, Picton as we know it today was not the chosen site for the town. It was originally a private town. The area for a government town, just south of the Picton we know today was first set aside in November 1821. This area is now known as Upper Picton or Redbank. It is on the Redbank Reserve, its southern boundary is Redbank Creek, Stonequarry Creek on the east, Prince Street on the north and Rumker Street its western boundary (NBRS, 2013, 6).

The district was called Picton as early as 1822, when the grants were made as being in 'the district of Picton'. Major Henry Colden Antill received the first land grant in 1822 (NBRS, 2013, 7). The town of Picton was re-named by Major Antill after Sir Thomas Picton in 1841. The location was previously known as 'Stonequarry'. The Duke of Wellington described Picton as a 'rough foul-mouthed devil as ever lived' but very capable. He was 'respected for his courage and feared for his irrascible temperament'. He was chiefly remembered for his exploits under Wellington in the Iberian Peninsular War displaying great barvery and persistence. He was killed at the battle of Waterloo and was the most senior officer to die there. He was buried in the family vault at St. George's, Hanover Square in London. In 1859 Picton was re-interred in St. Paul's Cathedral, London, lying close to the body of the Duke of Wellington (Wheeldon, 2015, 3).

Though much discussion has been held over the years as to who named Picton and for whom, it is believed the name was probably decided on by Governor Brisbane, perhaps in honour of an old soldier friend, Sir Thomas Picton (NBRS, 2013, 7).

George Harper and Abbotsford:
The 400 acre property was taken up in 1822 by George Harper, natural history collector, settler, noted Scottish government official and surveyor.

Governor Macquarie granted 400 acres to Harper in 1823 (NBRS, 2013 say it was November 1822). Harper was store keeper at the Commissariat Store (in Sydney). He named the property after the estate of his Scottish patron, Sir Walter Scott. The main block of the house may have been built before Harper made his trip to England in 1827 (Heritage Council, 1983, 9).

He does not appear to have built immediately. Some have speculated that the house was built as early as 1824, but may have been erected as late as 1829. Very little documentary evidence exists to establish a firm date for construction, nor occupation of the property (NBRS, 2013, 8).

In 1826 an investigation into irregularities in the bonded store under Harper's control led to his arrest on a charge of larceny. Though Harper was later acquitted 'it was clear that there had been, at best, considerable laxity in his conduct of the store'. Shortly thereafter he resigned from the service and departed for England on the 'Portland' on 7 February 1829. Now married, he returned to Australia on the 'Camden' on 29 December 1829. He immediately took up residence at Abbotsford as the birth of his first child is recorded there in the same year (NBRS, 2013, 8).

The term 'villa' was first used in England in the 17th century, partly from the Latin and Italian 'country house, farm', perhaps derived from the stem of vicus (village). The villa was a country mansion or residence, together with a farm, farm-buildings, or other house attached, built or occupied by a person of some position and wealth. It was taken to include a country seat or estate and later a residence in the country or in the neighbourhood of a town, usually standing in its own grounds. From this is was approporiated by the middleof the 18th century to mean a residence of a superior type, in the suburbs of a town or in a residential district, such as that occupied by a person of the middle class, and also a small, better-class dwelling house, usually detached or semi-detached. The term 'villa garden' was used in the context of Hobart and Sydney residences in the 1830s, and if near the coast or harbour, the appellation 'marine villa' was often applied. Australian origins probably date from the grant conditions applied to Sydney's Woolloomooloo Hill (1827, under Governor Darling), which obligated the construction of villas fulfilling certain conditions... 'with garden like domain, and external offices for stables and domestic economy' (John Buonarotti Papworth, 1825, quoted in James Broadbent's 1997 book, 'The Australian Colonial House'). Many gardens of 19th century villas followed Gardenesque conventions, with garden ornaments often complementing the architecture of the house. The term had acquired such widespread usage by the 1850s that when Jane Loudon issued a new editiion of her husband (John Claudius Loudon)'s 'Suburban Gardener and Villa Companion' (1838) she merely entitled the revised work 'The Villa Gardener' (1850). This coincided with a growing period of suburbanisation in Australia with consequent fostering of the nursery trade... By the 1880s, descriptions of Australian villas implied sufficient room for a lawn on two or three fronts of the residence...(Aitken, 2002, 619-20).

In the 1830s Harper earned a fine reputation as a horse breeder. Harper was also known as a dairy farmer and for growing wheat, 'we have likewise seen a sample of Red Wheeat from NSW grown at Abbotsford' (Sydney Monitor, 9/6/1832, 3). As early as 1830, Harper advertised in the Sydney Gazette and NSW Advertiser on 6/3/1830 for a 'dairyman who understands his business' (NBRS, 2013, 8).

The ornamental plantings include relatively rare species of horticultural interest and are thought to have been planted by George Harper. The rest of the house was built before his death at Abbotsford in 1841.

The original access road to Abbotsford house extended in a straight line from the Abbotsford crossing of Race Course Creek.

Harper added to his landholdings in the distrct by purchase and lease, including 1630 acres (Portion 144) granted in trust to John Werge Howey in 1840 and confirmed in 1844 as well as the 1000 acre farm of Robert Crawford 'Milton, Portion 138), sold to Harper in January 1832 (NBRS, 2013, 8).

In 1829, Harper unsuccessfully attempted to lay out a township at Stonequarry, but his offer of land for a church, school and courthouse was rejected in favour of a site a mile away. Over a decade later (NBRS, 2013, 9)... Harper decided in 1840 to take advantage of the natural development of the private town on Major Antill's land. He (Harper) advertised in April 1840 that 45 building allotments in the township of Stonequarry would soon be for sale by auction. They would be from one half to one acre in size and situated on his land on the southern side of Stonequarry Creek on either side of the main road (NBRS, 2013, 7). Despite the glowing description furnished and many advantages laid out for potential buyers, the sale appears to have yet again failed (NBRS, 2013, 9).

His private town never took off (NBRS, 2013, 7). Within a month of the unsuccessful auction sale, several newspapesr reported that Harper was to leave for England shortly, anticipating an impending sale of 'the beautiful estate of Abbotsford, Stonequarry comprising 7000 acres of land, with the whole of the livestock, numerous buildings, and improvements theron' (The Sydney Monitor and Commercial Advertiser, 14/9/1840, 2; 'Sydney Herald', 14/9/1840, 3, in NBRS, 2013, 10). No further information on the sale was furnished at this date, so it may have been abandoned, or the planned trip, or both (NBRS, 2013, 10).

Harper died in March 1841 (at Abbotsford, aged 38 years. He was survived by his widow, Margaret Eleanor Harper, nee Howey, and their five children. Probate of the will was granted to his widow in May that year. Shortly after she advertised the auction sale of her husband's horse stock comprising 'first rate mares, fillies and colts'. Simultaneously the property was advertised to let and a full description was furnished therein (Sydney Herald, 15/7/1841, 4). It was re-advertised in October 1841 for a term of seven years, care of J.W. Howey, Abbotsford, by Cawdor' (NBRS, 2013, 10). It extended from the Stonequarry bridge out along the road that led to The Oaks. The remains of the house are still on the property, just past the Abbotsford bridge. Major Antill, in July 1841 advertised in the Sydney papers, the auction of his subdivision to be called the 'Village of Picton, late Stonequarry', in August that year. He stressed that many blocks had frontages to the main road up which all the wealthy owners from the south travelled with their wool clips (NBRS, 2013, 7).

In 1845 the government made moves to lay out its own town just south of the private town. Surveyor Galloway was employed to survey the area and make half acre blocks for purchase. These were first offered for sale in 1847. They were all sold by 1855. Land was reserved for chuches, the school and courthouse. THe government town was also called Picton. This led to confusion and it was re-named Upper Picton in 1847 (NBRS, 2013, 7).

A petition was made to the government to name its village Redbank but the government decided it was to be called Upper Picton. Even to this day, over 150 years later, local residents still often refer to the area as Redbank. On a number of occasions when money was allocated for a public building, arguments developed on where it was to be located. It seemed each time the government called tenders on a sdite in its town, the Antill family would offer land in its private town and that was where the building would ultimately be erected. The Upper Picton residents who had purchased land in Upper Picton naturally felt cheated. Unfortunately they had no friends in government and though they fought for the government's support in its own town, they were unsuccessful (NBRS, 2013, 7).

Tenants:
Abbotsford was subsequently leased to a number of farmers including James Templeton and GEorge Beresford Christmas. According to Geoff Borts and Steven Jones in their 1981 report on Abbotsford, Anne W. Templeton and W.E. Templeton scratched their names in the glass of the French door to the large northern room, on or about 1849. The subsequent tenant, Captain Christmas, was resident around 1852 sa he was appoitned to revise the electoral lists for Picton and simultaneously involved in the maintenance of roads to and from the district (NBRS, 2013, 11).

Abbotsford was advertised to let again in consecutive years 1857 and 1858. There is no available information on the tenants at this date, and it is possible that the Harpers leased it to a number of small farmers. The following year it was offered to let 'furnished or unfurnished... 10 good rooms, kitchen, stable, etc. Detatched, large and well stocked garden, and about 10 acres of grass paddocks' (Sydney Morning Herald, 23/3/1860, 8, in NBRS, 2013, 11). The tenant at that date was Mr Meymott, as the following January there was an auction sale at Abbotsford of the whole of Mr F.W. Meymott's household furniture and effects, horses, pigs, poultry, etc (SMH, 4/1/1861, 7, in NBRS 2013, 11).

Harper's real estate was bequeathed in equal shares to his five children. George Gibson Harper acquired all of his siblings' shares by 1863. Two years later he sold the property, 400 acres therein, to William Redfern Antill, local Magistrate and a prominent early settler, in December 1865. A further 1000 acres and 1630 acres were sold to Antil later the same month. He and his family moved to Abbotsford immediately. He continued to lease parts of Abbotsford estate to various farmers. One of those was a Mr McIntyre, whose intended depature in 1865 was deeply lamented by Antill: 'I lose one of my best tenants, and the district one of its most worthy members' (SMH, 5/1/1865, 2, in NBRS, 2013, 13).

Robert Shoobridge of Abbotsford at one time worked for Mr Dunn in the Burragorang Valley (Russell, 1914). Shoobridge owned The Hermitage, The Oaks between 1865-70 (LEP, 2011; C:LSP, 1987).

According to the 1872 Greville Post Office Directory, Antil is listed as a grazier at Abbotsford, Picton. There is a paucity of information on Abbotsford in this period, but what is known is that Antil and family continued to live in the house and he leased parts of the extensive property to small farmers. In 1885 the following people were identified at Abbotsford in a list of landholders in the Post Town of Picton: A. Bateup, M. Cunningham, T.M. Dunn, H. Evans, J and Wm, Fairley, M & M.Junior Hulholland and B. Niel (NBRS, 2013, 13).

A photograph of Abbotsford house and immediate garden in 1891 shows a richly planted shrubbery un the carriage loop bed before the house, edged with gravel drive (NBRS, 2013, figure 6, 13).

W.R. Antilll died at Abbotsford on 5/9/1905, aged 77 years. Accordingly Antill devised his real and personal estate in equal portions to his seven daughters; they notified the trustees of their intention to let Abbotsford. Robert Henry Antill of 'Jarvisfield', Picton and George Bradbury of 'Leigham Holme', Picton, trustees of the will of W.R.Antill, converted his property, comprising 3213 acres (1300 hectares) to Torrens title in 1912. The property comprised the whole of Harper's 400 acres (portion 136) and Howe's 1630 acres (portion 144), part of Robert Crawford's 1000 acres (portion 138) and Henry Colden Antill's 800 acres (portion 137). In total the estate was valued at 29, 372 pounds. The property was then in the occupation of several tenants, namely Walter and Percy Hanger (621 acres), Fairley (583 acres), Dunn (189 acres), Dymock (196 acres), Stace (201 acres), McKinnon (397 acres), Brookes (157 acres), Larkin (278 acres), O'Brient (18 acres), Boardman (11 acres) and Wedlock (562 acres). Of that list of farmer tenants, Abbotsford house and adjoining land was at that date in the occupation of the last-named gentleman, Aflred Wedlock, a dairyman (NBRS, 2013, 13-14).

In 1906 Wedlock leased Abbotsford from the Antill family, to where he removed his dairy and family, from Marrickville. He enjoyed much success with his Ayrshire dairy cows, winning the annual Royal Champion Butter Fat prize several years in a row at the Royal Agricultural Society Show. A description of the property during his occupation was in the Sydney Morning Herald on 21/2/1908 (p.4):
'the homestead at Abbotsford...is comfortable and nicely situated, looking towards Picton over a pleasant prospect of rich flats. The property is well-watered, and cleaned up. Some of the steading is on the old side, although there is probably sufficient accommodation for carrying on the farm. The dairy and bails are cool and clean' (NBRS, 2013, 14).

The original access road to Abbotsford House extended in a straight line from the Abbotsford crossing of Race Course Creek. The timber truss Abbotsford Bridge over Racecourse Creek at the site of the Abbotsford crossing was built c1908.

Wedlock vacated Abbotsford in 1919 whereupon a 'clearing-out sale of all building material, wire netting, plant of a most up-to-date poultry farm, choice poultry, and sundries' was held on 29/11/1919. The subsequent tenancy of the house and immediate land is not known, however in 1937 the trustees of the will of the late W.R.Antill leased it to the NSW Fresh Food and Ice Company Ltd. A newly formed subsidiary company, Byrne's Exhibition Dairy P/L, whereupon the 'popular 60 year old establishment' relocated from Rosebery to Abbotsford, Picton' (SMH, 4/2/1939, 8, in NBRS, 2013, 15). The present dairy building was reportedly built on Abbotsford at this date (1919) for the sum of 18,000 pounds. Simultaneously, Abbotsford house underwent maintenance - it was painted externally, wall-papered internally and electrically connected. The Antill family appoitned Edgar Davies manager in 1939, and he supervised the repair of the front verandah and picket fences and painted the metal ceilings in the house (NBRS, 2013, 15).

An advertisement in the Sydney Morning Herald on 12/4/1939 noted that 'Byrne's Exhibition Dairy moves to Rich Pastures at Picton' (NBRS, 2013, 16).

The NSW Fresh Food and Ice Co., Ltd, vacated Abbotsford in 1951 on expiration of the lease in June, that year. Three years earlier the Perpetual Trustee Co. (Ltd.) advised the surviving members of the Antill family to sell the property, owing to increasing maintenance and upkeep costs. Following an incident where a child fell through the rotting floor of the old Gaol building into the basement, nearly drowning, the Council ordered the demolition of this building in 1951. It is likely that the homestead was not used as a dwelling again (NBRS, 2013, 17).

The property remained with the Antill family until 1952. The house was considered to be a remarkable survival of a farmhouse from an early period of Australia's settlement. It was also considerd the oldest-surviving house west of the Nepean River (Heritage Council, 1983, 9).

The Perpetual Trustee Co. (Ltd.) advertised the Abbotsford property, 1887 acres (763 hectares), subdivided into five blocks, for sale by auction on 16/8/1952 (SMH, 18/7/1951, 9, in NBRS, 2013, 17). Arthur Thurston Ziems, Charles Julius Ziems and Benjamin Robert Ziems, all of Corrimal, master butchers, purchased several blocks at this date and later on, the house and a further 500 acres (Borst & Jones, 1981, 35, in NBRS, 2013, 17). The house and immediate land was likely Block 3: the homestead block. The Monds share-farmed the dairy until 1976-77 when Charles, the surviving ZIems brother closed the dairy. The property continued in operation as a beef, cattle and pig run for the R & F. Ziems Butchery, Corrimal (NBRS, 2013, 17-18).

In the late 1970s it was reported as being virtually unchanged since the middle years of the last century except for the loss of the original ceilings. Neglect, and two separate fires over the following decade, led to its state of dereliction.

Until the first fire in 1981, the house continued to survive almost in original form, as an archetypal house of the 1820s (Heritage Council, 1983, 9).

Twice in two years the house was ravaged by fire. On 5 July 1981 it was partly damaged by fire, during burning off operations on adjoining land (Heritage Council, 1983, 9). Thyis partly destroyed hte roof, leaving the internal joinery quite intact. This is the time that Borst and Jones investigated the fabric (NBRS, 2013, 18).

Another, more disastrous fire broke out in 14 April 1983, after soaking rain had recently fallen. Police including the arson squad, investigated the causes of the fire. Despite the depradations by fire, the historic and archaeological significance of the site, house and outbuildings remain. The landscape and setting are preserved and the former drive to the house, apart from its beauty, contains many interesting botanical elements to remind us of Harper's important role as a natural history enthusiast and collector (Heritage Council, 1983, 9). This fire burnt down the flooring and most of the internal joinery, leaving the remains exposed to the elements (NBRS, 2013, 18).

The original timber truss Abbotsford Bridge over Racecourse Creek, at the site of the Abbotsford crossing, was handed over to the Wollondilly Shire Council by the NSW Public Works Department. New works in commenced in 1985 and the 1908 timber truss bridge was demolished in 1986 (LEP). It was replaced with present concrete road bridge c1986.

Mountains Heritage was engaged by Abbotsford Group to prepare an Archaeological Management Plan to support a development application to subdivide the property. The AMP has confirmed that the subdivision will significantly increase the current heritage curtilage of Abbotsford and conserve significant archaeology within a single allotment (Mountains Heritage website, recent projects, accessed 9/12/2019).

Historic themes

Australian theme (abbrev)New South Wales themeLocal 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. Gardens-
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. Environment/Contact: What do we know of the Contact Environment?-Environment (Natural) Control
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. River flats-
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. Introduce cultural planting-
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. Special tree or trees-
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: Rivers and water bodies important to 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: Plains and plateaux supporting human activities-
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. Environments important to Aboriginal traditional and spiritual life-
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. Aboriginal Culture-
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. Dharawal Nation - contact sites-
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. Gandangara Nation - sites evidencing occupation-
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. Scottish settlers-
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 migrants-
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. Scottish migrants and cultural traditions-
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. Scottish building and design practises-
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 Private 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 Ancillary structures fencing-
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 - sheds, crop storage-
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 Arboretums - collections of trees for ornament or forestry-
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 Attempting to transplant European farming practices to Australian environments-
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 Developing local, regional and national economies-National Theme 3
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 countryside of rural charm-
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 Gardens demonstrating the travels and sojurns of a gardener-
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 food production-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Events-Activities and processes that mark the consequences of natural and cultural occurences Developing local landmarks-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Exploration-Activities associated with making places previously unknown to a cultural group known to them. Exploring and surveying for the Crown-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Exploration-Activities associated with making places previously unknown to a cultural group known to them. Opening Up, 1818-39-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Forestry-Activities associated with identifying and managing land covered in trees for commercial purposes. Timber getting-
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-
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 Working for pastoralists-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use Pastoral homestead-
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-
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. Country Homes-
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. Farm homestead-
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. Edwardian era residence-
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. Victorian era residence-
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. early settlement or worker's cottage-
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. Pastoral Homestead-
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 working animals-
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 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. Accommodating workers in workers' housing-
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 Early land grants-
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 1820s-1850s land grants-
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 avenue of trees-
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 Early farming (Cattle grazing)-
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 Changing land uses - from rural to tourist-
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 Demonstrating Governor Macquarie's town and landscape planning-
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 Subdivision of rural estates-
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 Estates-
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 A quiet Rural District-
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 living in the country-
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 Impacts of railways on rural development-
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 Creating landmark structures and places in regional settings-
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-
5. Working-Working Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour Working with hand tools and implements-
5. Working-Working Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour Working independently on the land-
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-
5. Working-Working Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour Working in orchards-
5. Working-Working Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour Working on the land-
5. Working-Working Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour Working with plants-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Local government-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. State government-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Colonial government-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - surveying of land-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - administration of land-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - facilitating pastoralism-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - town and country planning-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - conserving cultural and natural heritage-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - administering public roads and bridges-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - facilitating agriculture-
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. Designing landscapes in an exemplary style-
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. Building in response to climate - bushfires-
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. Building in response to natural landscape features.-
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 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. Vernacular structures and building techniques-
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 - Federation 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. Adaptation of overseas design for local use-
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. Interior design styles and periods - Victorian-
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 - Victorian 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. 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. Landscaping - 20th century interwar-
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. Interior design styles and periods - Edwardian-
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. Interior design styles and periods - Colonial-
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 - Victorian (mid)-
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 - Georgian Revival-
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. Applying architectural design to utlilitarian structures-
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 - Victorian (early)-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Ways of life 1788-1850-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Ways of life 1850-1900-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Country estates - visiting, enjoying-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Ways of life 1900-1950-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Ways of life 1950-2000-
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 bushland setting-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Ornamental Garden-
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 on the urban fringe-
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-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Kitchens and servants-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Outdoor relief-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Visiting gardens-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Bird watching-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Rock climbing-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Gathering at landmark places to socialise-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Going hunting and shooting-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Gardening-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Visiting heritage places-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Activities associated with relaxation and recreation-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Horse riding-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Leisure-Includes tourism, resorts.
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Providing charity-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Community organisations-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Belonging to an historical society or heritage organisation-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Developing local clubs and meeting places-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Places of informal community gatherings-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Joining together to study and appreciate philosophy-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with Major H.C. (Henry Colden) Antill, soldier, Aide-de-Camp, farmer, Police Magistrate, Bank Director-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with the Antill family, soldiers, officials, graziers-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with Governor (later Maj-Gen.) Lachlan Macquarie, 1810-1821-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with George Harper, settler, surveyor, naturalist-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with William Redfern Antill, magistrate, prominent early settler-

Recommended management:

Recommendations

Management CategoryDescriptionDate Updated
Recommended ManagementProduce a Conservation Management Plan (CMP) 
Recommended ManagementPrepare a maintenance schedule or guidelines 
Recommended ManagementCarry out interpretation, promotion and/or education 

Procedures /Exemptions

Section of actDescriptionTitleCommentsAction date
57(2)Exemption to allow workStandard 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

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

Listings

Heritage ListingListing TitleListing NumberGazette DateGazette NumberGazette Page
Heritage Act - State Heritage Register 0007302 Apr 99 271546
Heritage Act - Permanent Conservation Order - former 0007314 Jun 85 932716
Local Environmental PlanAbbotsford House Ruins: Abbotsford Group8523 Feb 11   
Local Environmental PlanAbbotsford Silos8523 Feb 11   
Local Environmental PlanAbbotsford Trees, Gardens & Grounds: Abbotsford Gr8523 Feb 11   
Local Environmental PlanAbbotsford Underground Water Storage Tank: Abbotsf8523 Feb 11   
Local Environmental Plan 11923 Aug 91   
Heritage studyAbbotsford House and Group85   
National Trust of Australia register  4787   
Register of the National EstateAbbotsford homestead and curtilage331221 Oct 80   

Study details

TitleYearNumberAuthorInspected byGuidelines used
Macarthur Heritage Study198685JRC Planning Services  No
Wollondilly Heritage Study1992WO0107, WO0108, WO0109, WO0110JRC Planning Services  No
Updates by Council Heritage Advisor, assisted by History Societies2010 Peter KabailaPeter Kabaila Yes

References, internet links & images

TypeAuthorYearTitleInternet Links
Written   
Written   
Written   
Written   
Written   
Written   
WrittenAitken, Richard2002Villa Garden (entry) View detail
WrittenBorst, G. and Jones, S.1981'Abbotsford', Uni NSW School of Arch., Conservation Report
Writtenentry in Australian Dictionary of Biography, Volume 1 Harper, George
WrittenGilpin, Dr Alan, Commissioner of Inquiry1983Abbotsford, Picton: Report of Inquiry pursuant to s.41 of the Heritage Act into objections to making a PCO
WrittenHeritage Council of NSW, in 'Heritage Conservation News' 2(2), Winter 19831983Abbotsford ravaged by fire
WrittenMountains Heritage Abbotsford Archaeological Management Plan View detail
WrittenNBRS and Partners2017Heritage Impact Statement - Subdivision at Abbotsford, Picton
WrittenNBRS and Partners2013Curtilage Study - Abbotsford, 1 Abbotsford Road, Picton NSW 2571
WrittenSibone Nadin, per Arboriculture Consultancy Australia2021Tree Protection Management Plan - Council Application No.: DA/2019/413/1 - Assessment Area: Lot 1 DP 1086066, 15 Fairleys Road, Picton NSW 2571
WrittenVincent, Liz2005Picton, NSW - the Early Years View detail
WrittenWheeldon, Paul2015(Picton section, in) 'Waterloo - those who left their mark on Australia - Part 2' View detail

Note: internet links may be to web pages, documents or images.
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(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: 5045551
File number: S90/02044 & HC 32047

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.

All information and pictures on this page are the copyright of Heritage NSW or respective copyright owners.