Braganza
The National Trust of Australia is a community-based, non-government organisation, committed to promoting and conserving Australia’s indigenous, natural and historic heritage through its advocacy work and its custodianship of heritage places and objects.
Last Saturday, Canowindra was host to over 650 members of the National Trust. Four historic homes in and around Canowindra were open exclusively to these members. These homes included; Braganza, Noogee Lea, Edgecombe and The Old Bank. It was fantastic to see the heritage listed buildings in Canowindra showcasing their plaques on the building face to mark the history of the building and its value to the town.
Sally Wickham, President of the National Trust Central West Women’s’ Committee said “Canowindra was the most fantastic town with co-operation from everybody involved, including the homeowners through to the local businesses and cafes”.
Sally would also like to thank all of the local businesses and homeowners who took the time to prepare lunch for the members, and for providing an accommodating environment for everyone involved. It’s not every day that 650 people walk through your home and all home owners were very inviting and co-operative.
One of the homes visited by the National Trust was Braganza, owned by Gus and Rachel Arnott. Gus and Rachel shared the history revolving around their home which was built in the 1890’s and allowed the members to walk in and capture the heritage of the house. The momentous family home was built by Alfred Joseph Grant for his bride Selina Mary, who later was to produce fourteen children with eleven surviving into adulthood. Gus & Rachel acquired the property in 2003 and have worked hard painting and renovating this part pise, part brick house to bring it back to its original state.
“We had a great day and loved that people loved what we have done with the place”, Rachel said.
By Jessica Jenkins