Saumarez Homestead
This ten-hectare grazing property was first inhabited by British settlers led by Henry Dumaresq in the 1830s. Today it includes an elegant, extensive, fully furnished Edwardian homestead, built between 1888 and 1906, and 15 farm and other buildings dating up to 1910, with their collections of early farm equipment.
The property takes its name from the Dumaresq estate in Jersey in the Channel Islands . For five years after settlement, Saumarez with its well supplied store, tools,
clothing and basic food was the last stopping point for settlers moving north ‘beyond the boundaries’. After Dumaresq’s death the property was sold to H A Thomas, whose family lived in the original slab homestead overlooking Saumarez Creek. From the 1850s, Thomas augmented the size of the estate with land purchases from the government. In 1874 the property was sold to Francis White, whose eldest son, Francis John White took over its management, spending his life developing Saumarez and its associated holdings into one of the largest and most successful rural properties of New England.
Today the visitor to Saumarez can see a rural property little changed from the time when there was a workforce of many families whose skills made the homestead almost self-sufficient. Most of the food was grown, harvested or slaughtered on the property. Trees were felled to provide wood for cooking, heating and building. Water was pumped from the wells or the creek. Transport was supplied by station-bred horses, shod from the on-site blacksmith’s shop with its leather bellows and anvil. Wool and stock were transported by train.
Experiences
Take a guided tour through the White family’s 30 room Edwardian mansion complete with original furnishings. Stroll through Mary White’s garden, with its Edna Walling style cottage garden, the picking garden and the lawns. Visit outbuildings complete with 19 th century tools and equipment. Allow at least half a day to see this extensive property, and experience 19 th century pastoral life.
Facilities
Guided tours for casual visitors and bus tours by appointment. The Saumarez Centre is popular for weddings, celebrations, small conferences and meetings. Lunch and other refreshments can be booked. Café. National Trust Gift Shop. Parking.
Children
School groups welcome. Special educational programs available for all ages.
Getting Here
New England Highway, Armidale 2350
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