Explore the House of History in May
National Trust of South Australia is proud to be a presenting partner of 'The House of History'.
In what is a History Festival first, ‘The House of History’ program will be a feature across the month of May at historic Ayers House on North Terrace - Adelaide’s cultural heritage boulevard.
Conceived by History Trust of South Australia’s CEO, Greg Mackie OAM and curated by history consultant, Dr Heidi Ing, The House of History is presented by the History Trust in collaboration with the National Trust of South Australia and Ayers House Events.
“All 600+ registered events across South Australia’s heart-land are important to our shared history. And now, finally, our brilliant History Festival includes a ‘head-land,’’ said Mackie. “With over 25 individual presenters with connections to multiple history and heritage organisations – and to our three public universities – early mid-week evenings across May will be like a history conference, plus!” he said.
Long-time Ayers House Events Director, Richard McLeod said, “Ayers House will provide the perfect setting for a diverse and enriching program. Guests will be able to enjoy fraternity and discuss ideas over a drink in a club-like atmosphere.”
In June 1973, reflecting on his vision for what in today’s language was the adaptive reuse of Ayers House, in his address at the official opening of the restored heritage-listed historic house, then SA Premier, Hon Don Dunstan, had this to say – “A civilised community is one which values both the achievements of the past and of the present…[Ayers House} will in no sense be a museum…The inclusion of restaurants in the restoration programme, the provision of offices for the National Trust, and the policy of giving the two reception rooms over to proper and appropriate public functions, will mean that the House will have a life of its own.”
National Trust of South Australia’s CEO, Simon Ambrose agrees. “We welcome the opportunity to celebrate decades-long relationships with both the History Trust and with Ayers House Events in this unique and significant heritage-listed place through The House of History program for the enrichment of South Australians and our visitors,” he said.
From 4:30pm each day of the program, visitors will be able to explore the ground floor of Ayers House and discover some of the treasures of the National Trust Collection.
Details:
Doors: 4:30pm
Henry’s Bar: from 5:30pm
Speaker Sessions: from 6:30pm
Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursday in May 2025
Book your spot at the free speaker sessions here: The House of History
