Experiment Farm Cottage, located at 9 Ruse Street, Harris Park, City of Parramatta, Sydney, Australia, is a heritage-listed former farm and residence that now serves as a house museum. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into Australia's past, showcasing one of the country's oldest standing residences, built around 1834. The cottage is situated on the site of Experiment Farm, Australia's first European farmstead, which was established through the country's first land grant.
In 1789, Governor Arthur Phillip chose James Ruse to conduct an experiment to determine how long it would take a man to become self-sufficient. Ruse was granted a piece of cleared land, along with assistance for clearing additional land, and was provided with two sows and six hens. After 15 months, Ruse had successfully become self-sufficient, marking a significant moment in Australia's history that is commemorated at Experiment Farm Cottage.
In 1963, the National Trust of New South Wales opened Experiment Farm Cottage as Australia's first house museum. The museum focuses on Australian colonial furniture, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the country's colonial past. The cottage is furnished with colonial pieces, providing an authentic representation of the period.
History & Anthropology Historic house Agriculture
#12 History & Anthropology in Sydney #9 Historic houses in Sydney #17 History & Anthropology in New South Wales #2 Agriculture museums in New South Wales #11 Historic houses in New South Wales #49 History & Anthropology in Australia #3 Agriculture museums in Australia #33 Historic houses in Australia
9 Ruse St, Sydney
No exhibitions in Experiment Farm Cottage have been found.
Experiment Farm Cottage has 1 rating.
Experiment Farm Cottage in Sydney, Australia offers visitors a glimpse into early colonial life. This historic site, located in Parramatta, is significant as the first land grant in Australia. The cottage, built in the late 18th century, showcases period furnishings and artifacts. Visitors appreciate the well-preserved architecture and the opportunity to learn about Australia's agricultural beginnings. The gardens surrounding the cottage are pleasant for a stroll, though some find them modest in size. Guided tours are available and often praised for providing informative historical context. However, some visitors note that the experience can be brief and may not engage younger children for long. The site's historical importance is clear, but the limited scope of exhibits may leave some wanting more. Overall, Experiment Farm Cottage provides an educational experience for those interested in Australian colonial history, though it may not appeal to all visitors equally.
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