Open day for historic homestead

Released 17/11/2016

The heritage registered London Bridge homestead will be open to the public on Sunday 20 November, Googong Foreshores Manager, John Freeman said today.

“While many locals will be familiar with the striking limestone land arch that gives London Bridge Homestead its name, less well known is the range of onsite buildings made in distinct architectural styles,” Mr Freeman said.

“Established by Irish immigrant family the McNamaras, the homestead is one of the earliest settlements in the Burra valley.  

“The McNamaras had 13 children and lived on the site from 1857 until 1928, during which time they built a number of buildings, all of which are still standing,” Mr Freeman said.

Dating from 1860, the oldest building at the homestead is a stone cottage built from a random assortment of rocks quarried from a hill close to the homestead.

“The cottage has 40cm thick walls made up of a random assortment of rocks mortared together in a best fit and then rendered,” Mr Freeman said.

The second oldest building is an 1870s slab hut originally built to accommodate some of the McNamara’s children.

“The inside walls are covered with a variety of materials including wallpaper, old newspapers and hessian from old wool packs,” Mr Freeman said.

“For anyone interested in local history, past building techniques and natural wonders I thoroughly recommend a visit to the London Bridge Homestead open day,” Mr Freeman said.

What: London Bridge Homestead open day
When: 10 am to 2 pm Sunday 20 November
Where: parking at the end of London Bridge Road, off Burra Road
Cost: entry is free
Bring: sturdy footwear, water and a hat

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