Former Presbyterian Manse

The cottage at 999 The Parade, Shelford (formerly The Leigh) was built on land once permanently reserved for the Free Presbyterian Church and it appears to have been the first Presbyterian manse. The first Minister, Rev. Alexander Simpson arrived in 1856. The Leigh Presbyterian Church was built in 1859 but on another parcel of land, on the main road, donated by the squatter, George Russell of Golf Hill and is positioned at the entrance to his homestead. Russell was one of the most successful, important and influential squatters in Victoria, and a natural leader of the Scottish Presbyterians who had settled the Western District. Simpson went on to become the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Victoria. A new manse was built higher on the same hillside in 1871, where Simpson lived until his death in 1883. The cottage was the home of Peter and Harriet Bath and family for over forty years until the early 1970s. The single-storey brick cottage is vernacular in style although with an interesting 'frieze' in brickwork at the eaves line. There is an attic storey in the roof and a substantial skillion at the rear. A later timber skillion may date from after 1971. The cottage remains intact, has a high degree of integrity and is in good condition.

How is it Significant?

The cottage at 999 The Parade, Shelford is of historic and architectural significance to the Golden Plains Shire.

Why is it Significant?

The cottage is of historic significance as the first Presbyterian manse in Shelford. It has direct historical associations with two of the most important Presbyterians in colonial Victoria, George Russell and the Rev. Alexander Simpson. It has further historical associations with the Bath family. The cottage is of architectural significance for its early vernacular form and use of materials.

Group

Religion

Category

Presbytery/Rectory/ Vicarage/Manse