In 1823 John Eales was granted 2100 acres on the Hunter River 4 miles east of Morpeth and six convicts were assigned to him. Here he cleared the land for crops and built a slab hut. He named his estate Berry Park.
Fast forward to 2021 and Berry Park/Duckenfield is one of the most sought after fringe rural areas in the Hunter Valley. The stunning "Berry House" (built by John Eales and occupied by 3 generations of his family up until 1972) stands proudly today as a fitting tribute to the foresight of this early settler, his achievements are well documented, being the subject of many a historian's accounts of the early Hunter Valley pioneers.
Fastidiously restored and maintained by the current custodians who have enjoyed the envied lifestyle of our early gentry with the befitting modern comforts one would expect in such a fine residence. Built of hand crafted sandstone , John Eales chose the perfect site on the flood free, lush, north facing gentle slope overlooking the fertile farmlands and mountains beyond.
The residence sits stately on the parklike grounds of 1.208ha enjoyed from the wide wrap around verandah, draw yourself away from the entrancing views to venture inside to the rooms of grand proportions with 14ft ceilings, ornate cedar timberwork, elegant hallway, marble fireplaces, original floorboards and each room having peaceful, rural views across the adjoining farmlands. Attached by a slate roof walkway the servants quarters is a statement in itself with original fuel stove, 2 cosy bedrooms and fully self contained.
The solid sandstone barn stands so proudly in the dam paddock and the subject of many a historical photo, still intact with carriage house, stables and stable hands loft.
This property is steeped in Hunter Valley History set in the most idyllic location so handy to Morpeth, Newcastle, Maitland and the Sydney Expressway yet enjoying the privacy, seclusion and tranquility of being a million miles from anywhere.
This is a rare and exciting opportunity to acquire such a property, with location, history and excellent original condition to so many of the exquisite features of our treasured Georgian homes in the Hunter.
Whilst all care has been taken preparing this advertisement and the information contained herein has been obtained from sources, we believe to be reliable, PRDnationwide Hunter Valley does not warrant, represent or guarantee the accuracy, adequacy, or completeness of the information. PRDnationwide Hunter Valley accepts no liability for any loss or damage (whether caused by negligence or not) resulting from reliance on this information, and potential purchasers should make their own investigations before purchasing.
