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	Sydney Architecture Images- Western Suburbs Experiment Farm Cottage
architect	John Harris
location	9 Ruse Street Parramatta
date	1798
style	Old Colonial Georgian
construction	stone
type	House


James Ruse was granted land here by Phillip in 1791, the first convict to be granted land. He developed Australia's first private farm. In 1793 he sold it to Surgeon John Harris (after whom Harris Park is named). Harris built the cottage on the site in 1834. Special thanks to http://camwest.pps.com.au/heritage/index.html
Experiment Farm Cottage is a charming colonial bungalow built by Surgeon John Harris in the 1830s. Its furnishing is based on an 1838 inventory and includes many important pieces of Australiana. The site was first occupied by convict farmer James Ruse in 1789 and was the first land grant made in Australia. Opening Hours: Tues - Friday 10.30am to 3.30pm, Sun/Public Holidays 11am to 4pm Cost: Adults $5.50, Children/Concession $4, Family $14 Joint ticket with old government house, Parramatta: Adult $10, Concession $7, Family $22 Phone: (02) 9635 5655
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 the 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 Experiences One of Australia’s oldest standing residences, demonstrating the simple yet elegant lifestyle of a leading member of the early colony. Experiment Farm Cottage is part of an historical precinct which included 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. Disabled. Entry via back door. No disabled access to cellar. Children A range of education and school programs are available, exploring the life of Ruse’s family, basic self-sufficiency (hands on planting) and the workings of an early colonial household. HOW TO GET THERE 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. 9 Ruse Street, Harris Park, Parramatta Phone (02) 9635 5655 or (02) 9635 8149 exfarm@bigpond.net.au
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links	http://www.nsw.nationaltrust.org.au/properties/default.asp