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With thanks to Will Jones and Q1 Choi.
The Old Rectory is believed to be the oldest surviving stone house in Kyneton, having been commissioned by the Church of England in 1850.
It was first occupied in 1851 or 1852, before the construction of St Paul’s Church was completed in 1856. A number of services were conducted at the rectory, including the first registered wedding, on January 10, 1855.
The large walnut tree in the garden is thought to be of similar age to the house.
Whilst the rectory’s architect is unknown, Georgian features, which include a symmetrical facade, sash windows, French doors onto the verandah and a fan light above the front door, combined with a lack of cornices and ceiling roses internally, suggest the plans came from Sydney. A subsequent red-brick extension was the work of architect William Douglas.
The rectory, which stands on the corner of Ebden St and Piper St, was sold by the Church in 1945. A major renovation was undertaken by the current owners under architect supervision in 2016.
The Old Rectory is listed by the National Trust of Victoria, which notes its rarity as a building that pre-dates both the separation of Victoria from the colony of New South Wales in 1851 and the Victorian gold rush.
It is now operating as luxury whole-house short-term accommodation.
✍️ Will Jones
📅 Booking enquiries can be made via the Old Rectory website or Airbnb.
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