New identitiy during the renovation

While the Captain is having barnicles removed he has setup the cottage for the rest of 2009 as the "Captain's Abode". He has setup two double rooms so that is ideal for two couples traveling together. Click here for more

Background history

This building was built in 1830 as a barracks for the low security convicts sent to Ross to build the bridge and other important buildings. When it was a convicts barracks the original structure of the building was divided by a stone wall through the middle. The sleeping quarters were separate from the living area, hence the reason for the two front entrances. It was then purchased by J. Hiddlestone esq, G Butler Esq and Captain Samuel Horton Esq. The renovation conducted by these owners utilised the dividing wall to convert the building into two dwellings. It was later sold to Captain Samuel Horton's brother In Law Charles Hudson in about 1850.

The many transformations of the cottage

Since then it has had many make overs, the first known new function was a home on one side and a butcher shop on the other. At busy moments the butcher would often write notes to himself of orders on the wall near where he worked. These notes have been found on the walls and carefully restored and still exist for guests to discover. Later a grindstone shop was setup (where the best grindstones in the world were made and sold). and later as an Antique Shop.

The most major renovation to date was conducted by the present owners Tim and Sue Johnson in 1985 to convert the condemned building into a home and antique shop. In the early 1990's Tim and Sue Johnson moved out, re-renovated it to operate as the next role, tourist accommodation, known as Captain Samuel's Cottage.

The latest renovation

Twenty four years after the 1985 major renovation the cottage is undergoing another makeover. Floors are being removed and restored, walls are coming down and being rebuilt, windows blocked up, other windows removed and being turned into doors, the list goes on. The result at the end will be a stunning rebirth of Captain Samuel's cottage and a new addition to the family, "Cupids Nest". Throughout all its life from when the Captain and his mates purchased the building it had two groups sharing the building. When Tim and Sue Johnson purchased in 1985 the two rotting kitchens were removed replaced by a modern kitchen living area. Now Tim is once again bringing the cottage back to the function of two groups used for over 143 years. When finished the building will again have two kitchens. To be consistent with the original structure (now demolished), an adjoining door will be located between the two parts of the building so that access may be made to the other section. Rather than being a thin rotting door, two solid sound proof doors will provide the privacy we expect in the 21st century. Lovers of the Captain Samuel's Cottage will be able to still stay in the new version of the cottage, still with 3

bedrooms but in an even lovelier atmosphere. Perhaps you may choose the 'run of the house' and access through the adjoining doors "Cupids nest" with its roomy living area with an open fireplace, lovely sandstone bathroom and bedroom.

October 2009 update: We are on schedule with the renovation. Captain's Abode (The temporary2 bedroom version of Captain Samuel's Cottage is up and running. The 3rd bedroom is progreessing well. Cupids nest is also progressing very well.

 

"Cupids Nest" will be available by early 2010. Contact Tim to enquire more if you wish to be one of the first to enjoy this very special romantic lovers nest.