Unearthing the Forgotten Architect of Sydney’s North Shore: Edward Skelton Garton
Hear from citizen heritage sleuths who uncovered an important contributor to North Shore development, the long-forgotten architect, E.S. Garton. They diligently connected the incredible jigsaw pieces that spanned decades of Garton’s life that ultimately reconnected history with local heritage.
At the time of Federation in 1901, Sydney’s lower North Shore was going through a period of rapid urban development. A key local identity at the time was the multifaceted Edward Skelton Garton. Architect, developer, poet, ANZAC, expat and ultimately bankrupt, Garton led a very colourful life. But his incredible life story has been largely forgotten.
The multitalented Garton also served as an alderman on Mosman Council and mentored Australia’s first female architect, Florence Taylor. Garton designed and built many houses in and around Cremorne, as well as being responsible for the heritage building ‘Leesthorpe’ in Mosman.
Learn how Edward Skelton Garton was ‘rediscovered’ by citizen heritage sleuths and how a jigsaw of historical information was connected to help piece together the incredible story of an amazing man who is part of local heritage.
Held by the Cremorne Conservation Group and Harrison-Bennett Precinct at North Sydney Stanton Library