Located within historic Gaulton Street, shaded by leafy Elm trees, "Huntingdon" is a beautiful example of provincial Georgian architecture. On a level allotment of approx 999sqm and within walking distance to the retail and restaurants of Castlemaine, the Mill Complex, the train station, and the beautiful Castlemaine Botanic Gardens, this is a property of both cultural and heritage significance.
"Huntingdon" commenced life as two cottages in the 1860s as part of William Ryan's Star Brewery. Ryans ran the brewery from 1869 until a fire destroyed it in 1876. It was after this that the cottages then merged into one.
Its artistic life commenced when Alice Bale, a preeminent Australian still-life painter who came to prominence within the art world in the 1920s and 30s had "Huntingdon" as her country residence and studio from 1925-1955. Beth Sinclair, the first female to be a director of any public art gallery in Australia, lived at "Huntingdon" after her tenure as Director of the Castlemaine Art Gallery.
With street frontage, the exterior architecture is striking. Period features continue throughout the interior. The layout consists of a large central hallway, formal lounge with the original fireplace, two bedrooms with built-in robes, main with french doors leading to the front verandah. A formal dining room with an original fireplace leads into the spacious country-style kitchen with a raked ceiling. With views to the garden, it features an induction cooktop, a gas Welburn combustion stove, an additional 900 electric oven, dishwasher, and storage. Completing the interior is a family bathroom with a spacious step-less shower, a study/ home office, and to the back of the house the laundry and an additional toilet. Improvements include carpet in all living areas, gas ducted heating, and a split system.
The expansive garden features a beautiful mix of planting, both native and European, with large established trees providing the framework. Backing onto Barkers Creek and walking tracks, the property features off-street parking with two garages as well as a shed.
With its rich cultural and artistic heritage, stunning architecture, large garden, and proximity to central Castlemaine, "Huntingdon" is a rare find, one to love and paint yourself into its next chapter.
