National Trust Property Guide - "Bryn Glas", Maitland, New South Wales

History:
For over 100 years, “Bryn Glas” has been one of most beautiful, heritage landmarks of historic Maitland in the superb Hunter Valley. Referred to as a mansion in the early 1900’s, it is still one of the most impressive & elegant heritage residences in the area today.

It was built 1903 for Azariah Thomas, a Welshman, who arrived in the Hunter Valley in the 1890’s. Prior to this he had been living in Canada yet was focused on the exciting opportunities offered for someone with his particular expertise in early Australia. Azariah with his a wealth of experience as a mining engineer, came at an opportune time when the South Maitland coalfields were expanding. In 1898 he married Deborah Rees at the seaside town of Stockton and subsequently 3 children were born- a daughter Bronwyn in 1899 and twin boys Ivor and Trevor in 1909.

“Bryn Glas” (meaning “green hill”) was an appropriate name as it resided amidst the green beauty of Azariah’s 500 lush acres on the western fringes of early Maitland. (The name also refers to the battle of Bryn Glas fought in 1402 between the English and Welsh armies.)

Azariah was a man of vision, well respected in the burgeoning mining industry and a prominent and influential identity in the Maitland business community of the early 1900’s. He was appointed manager then superintendent of the East Greta Coal Mining Company and held this position until he retired. Coal was the “black gold” of the time & those involved in senior management were obviously people of prominence in early Maitland. Azariah also had a close association with the building of the East Greta Railway. He retained his position with EGCM Company until the industrial upheaval in 1929 culminated in “the great strike” and lockout which caused unemployment and reduced coal production. He was then 70 years old.

It was a well known sight in the early 1900’s when Azariah drove his buggy at a good clip to attend to business, visit nearby landowners or perhaps to enjoy an ale with his friends at the nearby Eckford Family Hotel (circa 1860).

After savoring for many years the tranquility of his large landholding, Azariah subdivided off some of his 500 acres creating nearby streets named after his children Thomas, Ivor & Bronwyn. He obviously had a strong sense of family thus named the street fronting “Bryn Glas” Elizabeth St after his much loved mother, Elizabeth.

“Bryn Glas” was intended as a fine family home and also as a place to entertain friends who were surely impressed with its opulence and grandeur both externally and internally. It exhibits the best features of architecture and sheer artistry of the Edwardian era with fine Queen Anne features and is absolute visual enjoyment as you approach and while you savor its gracious rooms.

The grand entry foyer with soaring 25ft ceilings sets the theme of a truly grand mansion. Of the 6 marble fireplaces, 1 black & 5 white, the tradition of black marble in men’s drawing rooms and white in the ladies’ was adhered to and thus denotes the extent of traditional hospitality “Bryn Glas” offered to guests in the early 1900’s. The deep encircling verandah with impressive caste iron columns would have provided a cool venue to escape summer’s excesses while enjoying the company of friends and family. They were also a sheltered place to enjoy the sheer beauty of the tranquil surrounds. The upstairs return verandah with timber balusters, posts and ornamental shingle enabled unrestricted vistas of the surrounding countryside and possibly a sleeping area under mosquito nets for those seeking cooling breezes to lull them to sleep in summer.

Azariah’s practicality and demand for perfection is denoted in the excellence of construction and architecture. It is obvious that his engineering expertise and Welsh heritage find expression in this superb residence. Of double brick construction, the insertion of steel banding in brickwork and above doorways has rendered the house 100% square even in the 21st century with nary a crack or signs of movement in the walls. Tar damp course and under floor air flow has prevented any damp invasion as is evidenced by the perfection of internal walls today. The roof structure is substantial with wide trusses and 250ml iron bark joists.

Only the best materials were used with cedar architraves, cedar staircase & cedar doors, rich hued Canadian pine floors, elaborately detailed pressed metal ceilings and of course the superb 6 marble fireplaces with chimneys that draw perfectly even now.
It is said that when summer temperatures soared, Azariah would have his bed taken down to the substantial cellar under the house and enjoy its cool relief while he slumbered. The cellar is large and a perfect environment for a vast wine collection today.

Azariah died at Maitland in 1943. Deborah moved from the fine home which she had loved for many years and “Bry Glas” was subsequently sold. It was purchased by a prominent local physician and his wife. They enjoyed a long stewardship as owners of this grand home for many years. It was then sold to a local business person and after this has been the cherished home of the current owner since July 1982. The meticulous and expert restoration/renovation has truly been a labor of love for her while her children and grandchildren have relished Bryn Glas’s wonderful environment,

Bryn Glas Today:
“Bryn Glas” has made a graceful entrance into the 21st century on secluded 2.4 Acre Grounds with boundaries of high manicured hedges creating green walls of privacy and remote control gates (with intercom) of impressive appearance which ensure that it remains a wonderful retreat for family and friends and a safe haven for any family pets who have a tendency to roam.

The grounds are truly magnificent, with circular driveway bordered by roses and with an impressive centerpiece of a 100 year old Californian palm tree whose spreading fronds provide excellent summer shade. An old Bunya pine tree attracts your admiration as will the large oak, peppercorn trees, jacarandas and silver ghost gum which are all a magnet for visiting birdlife.
Well planned gardens where lilies, bulbs, roses, proteas, lavender and a diverse number of perennials and shrubs thrive and regenerate ensure a floral display year round.
Serenity and harmony is the focus of the grounds and can be enjoyed from the wide windows and verandahs of the house or while you stroll through its peaceful beauty. Gardens in the Edwardian era were described as “open air rooms” and this has been achieved by the current owner using the “bones” of the original gardens and creating diverse areas of colour, green richness and sheltering shade. The croquet court (no longer there) was greatly enjoyed by Zachariah, his family and friends. The area where it stood is still the perfect place to establish a new court and participate in this genteel skilled sport.

Outdoor Focus Points and Conveniences:

Salt water pool is an oasis in summer and has inner lights for night time atmosphere
The original carriageway has been restored at the rear of the home and is a significant and enduring feature of a gentle time past when the horse was the transport of choice. Abutting the rear verandah, it would have allowed the ladies to alight from the carriage undercover with no concerns that their fine dresses would be spoilt by a rain shower or dust.
Courtyard is large and with subtle lighting, tranquil outlook and leafy surrounds, is the perfect venue for family gatherings which give the phrase BBQ a certain panache and style
Gazebo is an idyllic place to relax and is a charming feature in the grounds.
4 car garage plus 4 car carport are in an unobtrusive location and provide 21st century convenience without spoiling the outward charming appearance

Ground Floor Accommodation:

Wide encircling verandahs with original caste iron columns and ornate shingles are the perfect introduction to Bryn Glas as is the marvelous front door with leadlight features. (The original keys are still available)
Grand entrance with soaring 25ft ceilings, ornate dado and graceful cedar staircase (surely the work of a master craftsman) fulfills the intention of Edwardian era home design as a reception room rather than hallway. The entrance hall was described in Everywoman’s Encyclopedia 1912 as: “It is really the keynote of the house, and the first impression it makes on you, good or bad, remains” Well Bryn Glas’s welcome is impeccable and its grandeur and beauty is perfectly emulated throughout the home.
Lounge room has a black marble fireplace as a focal point and is obviously where Azariah would meet to discuss business with other business men of the day or perhaps relax with them while enjoying an after dinner port and cigars. 3 window bay alcove adds style, light and character while the intricate design of the pressed metal ceiling and glowing wide Canadian pine floorboards are enchanting
Grand dining (38.25 sq m approx). This is a magnificent room with classic features of the Edwardian era. Superlatives fail to describe its opulence and impressiveness. 4 window bay alcove with ornate columns plus white marble fireplace, timber floors and impeccable original ceiling makes this a gracious and spectacular room. It has been the setting for many dinners with friends and family and ensures lasting memories for those who have experienced its magic. Dinner parties for as many as 32 guests have been comfortably accommodated in this lovely setting
Guest bedroom is large, luxurious, welcoming and private with white marble fireplace and stylish marble ensuite which assure a memorable and comfortable stay in this significant heritage home
Large study with inspiring views of gardens and with timber floors and ample room for file storage is a practical and appreciated feature
A kitchen to envy was designed by the current owner who loves to cook and entertain friends and family on a generous and often grand scale. Black butt floors compliment the impeccably designed white 2 pack cupboards with granite bench tops adding a rich appearance. Top of the range appliances include Miele dishwasher and impressive Blanco gas stove with 5 burners (including one for sizzling plate and wok). The stove is fitted into the area occupied by the original wood burner stove and the black wrought iron vent covers have been retained as a feature. Ample room for a 6 setting meal area allows a relaxed venue for family meals. Large scullery with automatic lights is beautifully fitted out for storage and extra food preparation areas.(Almost a second kitchen)
Laundry has 2 pack cupboards with Caesar stone bench tops and internal plumbing. Adjacent to this is a fully marble SR., WC and vanity.
Remarkable under floor wine cellar awaits your collection.

Upstairs Accommodation:

Once again the dimensions of the upstairs landing/hallway in true Edwardian tradition is best described as a sitting hall with ample room for easy chairs, a writing desk and perhaps bookcases to create a library/reading area. It has access to return verandah and enjoys splendid views.
Drawing room, (approx 39 sq metres) is impressive. The sheer size allows for a large sitting area plus room for a 6 person dining setting. Once again the ornate ceilings are a feature as is the white marble fireplace. The latter possibly indicates that this is the room that the womenfolk in the early 1900’s would have enjoyed an opportunity to talk about their families, be supportive to each other, swap recipes and catch up with the happenings (even gossip) of the day away from the hearing of the men.
Master bedroom, (approx 39.sq metres), is the ultimate retreat. Typical of bedrooms of the era it is suffused with light from the 3 window bay alcove which also affords a lovely outlook over the grounds. White marble fireplace and exquisite ceilings add a romantic touch and the restful décor soothes. Surely to have been envied by Deborah Thomas, Azariah’s wife, there is now a large, well designed walk through robe and an exceptional marble ensuite with porcelain fixtures
The remaining 2 upstairs bedrooms are substantial doubles in size, one featuring marble fireplaces and one has floor to ceiling wardrobes. All have a subtle fresh décor and quality furnishings.
The main marble bathroom is the place for some serious personal pampering. The shower recess is almost double the standard size while the original freestanding bathtub (stamped Aug 1902 UK) is the absolute highlight. Its impeccable restoration and graceful lines are to be admired and a long soak in its depths to be a desirable past time.
Adjacent to bathroom is a separate WC with quality porcelain fixtures and original zinc ceiling.

Location:
Maitland is a place of significant New South Wales history, gentle character and 21st century prosperity. Many fine heritage buildings define its past and are desirable residences today, places where you can touch history and enjoy a special environment with your family and friends. These grand homes such as “Bryn Glas” rarely grace the market but when they do ensure buyer interest

An easy 20 minute walk from “Bryn Glas” finds you delighting in the shops, cafes, restaurants, library, fine art and antique stores, theatre and Maitland Regional Art Gallery.
Maitland Railway Station is in short driving distance and also a pleasant walk away. Being an XPT stop, it provides easy, fast and affordable access to Sydney and interstate.. Within 20 minutes you can access the Sydney Freeway and in just 2 hours road travel be in Sydney savoring fine performances at the Opera House.

Hunter Valley pleasures are easily reached from “Bryn Glas”:

35 minutes to Newcastle with its fine beaches, University, museum, art galleries, shopping and restaurants.

15 minutes drive brings you to Morpeth, the historic river port of early Maitland
20 minutes from the sensory and culinary delights of Pokolbin Vineyards.
Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie and spectacular Barrington Tops are within an hour’s scenic drive
Newcastle airport with numerous regional flights and also those to Sydney and Melbourne direct is just 30 minutes driving time and ensures the holiday traveler or business person has easy access to an efficient and quick means of travel’.

Comments:
The renovation of “Bryn Glas” over the last 6 years has been one of excellence, practicality, sensitivity and respect. All services from wiring to water pipes have been updated and 4 split system air conditioners provide summer comfort. Original windows have been re hung, roof restored, verandah boards renewed, floorboards buffed and fresh paint applied. Any restoration required has been done by a true craftsman, one of revered old artisan skills & sense of perfection and Bryn Glas glows with his touch in 2008.
The original ornate ceilings, elaborate dado and marble fireplaces are in impeccable condition and combined with the stunning Canadian Pine floors and new décor sensitive to the innate charm and period of the home; create a gracious character of sheer beauty throughout. A grand home, a fine example of Edwardian era perfection restored, treasured and maintained by the current owner in the 21st century.

Only four owners in 105 years shows the appeal of this fine residence and the reluctance all have had to relinquish its sheltering beauty. The new owners will relish the tranquility, gracious beauty, luxury and seclusion of “Bryn Glas” and consider themselves most fortunate to be its custodians in the 21st century