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Habbies Howe Homestead

Location Dropmore Road,, DROPMORE VIC 3660 - Property No B0038 File Number B0038 Level National

[1/2] B0038 Habbies Howe Homestead [2/2] B0038 Habbies Howe Homestead

Statement of Significance

Habbies Howe Station was established in 1842 by Gideon Stewart and is named after a district close to Edinburgh. The house was erected c.1840s and is constructed from locally made bricks and locally sawn timber. It is said to be designed along the lines of an Indian Bungalow and comprises a main wing flanked by service wings grouped around an open rear courtyard. The main wing has a central hall with octagon shaped principal rooms and is encircled by a vernadah.
This is one of the finest homesteads in Victoria and survives from early times. It is notable for its associations with the Stewart family who pioneered the area and owned the property until 1906. The homestead's plan is most unusual and provides a superb series of interior spaces which were once connected by open arches. The house epitomizes a vernacular design totally sympathetic to Australian climatic conditions. It is surrounded by fine gardens. The shearing shed is an esential feature of the complex.
A bathroom has been incorporated into part of the encirling verandah and passageways now connect the three wings. Additions have been made to one of the rear wings and the other rear wing has recently been reconstructed.
Classified: 05/11/1964.