Saumarez Homestead in Armidale, NSW, is an Edwardian mansion that provides a rare glimpse into 19th century Australian pastoral life.

The property and its original contents have been in the care of the National Trust (NSW) since 1984, and until now its significant collection of furniture and objects has only been available to view at the house.

With the support of a Creative Capital Minor Works grant, the National Trust is now beginning a digitisation project that will provide greater public access to the collection.

As part of the project, the National Trust conservation team together with volunteers will digitise and catalogue diaries, letters, photos, furniture, textiles, artworks, clothing, and even collect oral histories.

James Bosanquet, National Trust Archives & Library Manager, says the project is important for capturing the collection for researchers and historians, as well as breathing new life into the stories of Saumarez.

“It will help us to understand the Indigenous history, share information and interpret the site,” he said. “The project is a test for developing professional images and content and we hope to replicate the successes of the digital hub across other National Trust properties.”

The conservation team is also collaborating with the University of New England, which will conduct 3D tours of the house for digital interpretation.

Find out more

Discover the treasure trove of National Trust archives and digital collections.

Plan your visit to Saumarez Homestead.