Lydham Hall Historic House and Museum Open Day
Experience life during the Victorian era in one of the oldest homes in the St George District. The State heritage-listed building is home to a wonderful collection of fine antiques and period objects. Enjoy Devonshire Tea on the back verandah with views of Botany Bay.
Enter the foyer with its large portrait of Michael Gannon, a highway robber and forger turned publican. His fortunes quickly rose in Australia, and he bought the land now spanning most of Hurstville.
A piano’s delicate melody draws you into the drawing room, bright with the warm sunshine from large sash windows and a grand mirror above the fireplace. At the writing table, a letter written with quill and ink is ready to be posted.
In the dining room, an ashtray on a tall wooden stand is clean, although if you move close enough, you can still smell the coarse cigar smoke of centuries past.
The writing desk is arranged for a former resident and naturalist, David Stead, to continue his research.
In the bedroom, a steamer trunk and hat box are beside the dresser as though the 19th century residents have just returned from holiday.
Stroll in the manicured garden while the kids play with toys of yesteryear.
Don’t forget to sign the visitor’s book in your best cursive writing.