In 1835, pioneer John Macarthur – after whom the region is named – commissioned architect John Verge to design a house suitable for his family – one of the colony’s most prominent and wealthy clans at the time.
The grand sandstone house was built by convicts assigned to the Macarthurs while the family lived at nearby Belgenny Farm.
However, Macarthur died before the construction was completed and his sons James and William Macarthur instead took up occupancy in the new house, which was named Camden Park House.
Verge’s striking Palladian design has stood the test of time as the house remains today largely as it was built.
Camden Park House, still the home of the descendants of Macarthur, will host a rare open weekend on September 16 and 17.
Located as it is in the heart of the historic Macarthur region, the 182-year-old Camden Park opens its doors to the public just one weekend per year.
The weekend will see more than 2,000 people flock to the historic house and gardens to get a taste of colonial life as they make their way through the dining rooms, drawing rooms, servants’ quarters and stables.
With 80 rooms, many of which have their original furnishings, the Georgian mansion is impressive both architecturally and historically, and has been used as a location for films including the 1979 adaptation of My Brilliant Career starring Sam Neill.
In addition to guided tours of the house and garden, activities on offer over the weekend include history talks, devonshire teas, barbecues, gift and plant stalls, and a display by the Australian Armoured Vehicles Association.
The mansion will be open from 12pm – 4pm on Saturday, September 16 and 10am – 4pm on Sunday, September 17, 2017, as part of the Camden Festival.
SNAPSHOT
WHAT Camden Park House Open Weekend
ADDRESS Elizabeth Macarthur Avenue, Camden.
WHEN 12pm – 4pm on Saturday, September 16 and 10am – 4pm on Sunday September 17
COST House and garden tours $15 for adults, $12 for concessions and $40 per family. $10 for garden tours only. Tickets available at the door.
MORE INFORMATION Phone 4655 8466 or visit www.macarthur.com.au
