Experiment Farm Cottage
Experiment Farm cottage stands on the site of the first land grant in Australia, made in 1789 by Governor Phillip to the former convict James Ruse. By 1791 Ruse had successfully farmed the 30 acre site as an experiment in self-sufficiency, proving that a new settler could feed and shelter his family with relatively little assistance to get started.
The Indian-style bungalow there today was built by Surgeon John Harris, who purchased the land from Ruse in 1793 for £ 40. It is thought to have been built by c1835. It is one of Australia’s oldest standing properties and features in an 1837 sketch and subsequent watercolour by Conrad Martens.
The house is furnished to reflect the home of Surgeon Harris, with simple but elegant pieces from National Trust’s collection of early colonial furniture, the largest of its kind in Australia. In the year 2000, the National Trust landscaped and planted the immediate grounds, using evidence from early paintings, plant catalogues and photographs to recreate, as far as possible, an authentic setting for the cottage. Guided tours are available, and a permanent display in the cellar tells the story of the site in all phases of its occupation; Indigenous and colonial to the present day.
Activities
Guided tours, occasional special events.
Admittance by guided tours only.
Please not photography is not permitted inside the cottage.
Experiences
A friendly welcome awaits before you explore this simple but elegant cottage and embrace its occupants’ stories. The relaxed atmosphere and fine colonial furnishings take you to a time of colonial pioneering and development. Experiment Farm Cottage is part of an historical precinct which includes Hambledon Cottage (1824), Elizabeth Farm (1793) and the Queen’s Wharf, all within easy walking distance of each other.
Facilities
Parking, space for picnics in landscaped grounds with expansive views. Weddings photographic shoots.
Children
Children love exploring the life of Ruse’s family, learning about self sufficiency (hands on planting), Harris’ role as a colonial surgeon and the workings of an early colonial household. The cottage garden is a hands-on sensory garden.
Education tours:
Experiment Farm Cottage runs education programs for primary, secondary and tertiary students. Each program focuses on different aspects of the curriculum. The programs are designed to maximise student learning outcomes.
The Thief, the Farmer and the Surgeon:
- Stage 1: Families Past and Present
- Stage 2: British Colonisation; Places: Then and Now and Tomorrow.
- The Thief,the Farmer and the Surgeon (TFS) $ 7.00
- General Education Tour $ 5.00
- Two programs at Experiment Farm Cottage and Old Government House $ 10:00
We can tailor tours to suit your needs (with prior consultation).
Accessibility
Wheelchair users and people with limited mobility
Entry to the house is through the side gate to the courtyard. Portable ramp access to the ground floor of the house is available. All main rooms are accessible except the cellar, which has steep stairs. Electric wheelchairs cannot be used due to narrow doorways. Rear courtyard is accessible by steps.
Blind and visually impaired
Braille and audio tours are not currently available.
Guide/hearing dogs
Guide dogs are welcome. Please contact the property for handling requirements.
Deaf and hearing impaired
No induction loops are fitted in this house.
Parking
Bus parking is available on the eastern side of Ruse Street (entry via Alice Street). Car parking is available on the western side of the property. Pathway is not sealed; assistance may be required.
Accessible toilets
There are 2 toilets on site, but neither is wheelchair accessible. The nearest wheelchair accessible toilets are at the Historic Houses Trust property, Elizabeth Farm, a short distance by car from Experiment Farm Cottage, a 15 minute walk.
Sensory details
The gardens offer many scents and tactile experiences. School programs include replicas of clothing to try on and items to touch.
Getting Here
9 Ruse Street, Harris Park (See Parramatta Walking map)
10 mins walk from Harris Park Station, Parramatta Station or Parramatta Wharf.
Parking available in Ruse and Alice Sts. Bus parking available in Alice St.
View Larger Map
BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Take the train from Sydney’s Central Station (approx 30 minute journey) to Parramatta Station – or catch the River Cat from Sydney’s circular Quay (approx 1 hour journey). Walk – about 15 mins from Parramatta Station.
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