Archaeological Assessment of Luna Park, Lot 1259 (DP48514 - Site B) & Lot 1260 & Lot 1260(DP 48514 - Site C)
Archaeological Assessment and Research Design
Luna Park Sydney Pty Ltd
September 2006
Delivering sustainable solutions in a more competitive world
Approved by: Tim Owen Position: Project Manager Signed:
Date: 21 September, 2006 Approved by: Jennie Lindbergh Position: Project Director Signed:
Date: 21 September, 2006 Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd Quality System
This report was prepared in accordance with the scope of services set out in the contract between Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd ABN 12 002 773 248 (ERM) and the Client. To the best of our knowledge, the proposal presented herein accurately reflects the Client’s intentions when the report was printed. However, the application of conditions of approval or impacts of unanticipated future events could modify the outcomes described in this document. In preparing the report, ERM used data, surveys, analyses, designs, plans and other information provided by the individuals and organisations referenced herein. While checks were undertaken to ensure that such materials were the correct and current versions of the materials provided, except as otherwise stated, ERM did not independently verify the accuracy or completeness of these information sources FINAL REPORT
Luna Park Sydney Pty Ltd
Archaeological Assessment of Luna Park, Lot 1259 (DP 48514 - Site B) & Lot 1260 (DP 48514 - Site C) Archaeological Assessment and Research Design
September 2006
Environmental Resources Management Australia Building C, 33 Saunders Street Pyrmont, NSW 2009 Telephone +61 2 8584 8888 Facsimile +61 2 8584 8800 www.erm.com
CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 PURPOSE OF THIS REPORT 1 1.2 THE STUDY AREA 1 1.3 STATUTORY CONTEXT 3 1.3.1 NSW HERITAGE ACT 1977 3 1.3.2 SYDNEY HARBOUR FORESHORE AUTHORITY (SHFA) HERITAGE AND CONSERVATION REGISTER (SECTION 170 REGISTER) 4 1.3.3 SYDNEY REGIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN (SYDNEY HARBOUR CATCHMENT) 2005 4 1.3.4 NORTH SYDNEY LOCAL ENVIRONMENT PLAN (LEP) 2001 5 1.4 OTHER LISTINGS 5 1.4.1 REGISTER OF THE NATIONAL ESTATE 5 1.4.2 REGISTER OF THE NATIONAL TRUST OF AUSTRALIA (NSW) 6 1.4.3 NATIONAL HERITAGE LIST 6 1.5 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 7 1.6 METHODOLOGY FOR THIS ASSESSMENT 7 1.7 LIMITATIONS 8 1.8 AUTHORS 8 1.9 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 8 1.10 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS 8
2 HISTORICAL CONTEXT
2.1 BACKGROUND 9 2.2 EARLY PERIOD PRE 1883 - NORTHCLIFF PHASE I 9 2.3 NORTHCLIFF PHASE II – 1883-1895 (THE ROLLESTON YEARS) 11 2.4 NORTHCLIFF PHASE III – 1898-1907 (THE LEASE YEARS) 13 2.5 NORTHCLIFF PHASE IV – 1908-1925 (THE PAGE YEARS) 14 2.6 LATE PERIOD POST 1926 16 2.7 CONCLUSION 20 2.7.1 SITE B 20 2.7.2 SITE C 20 2.7.3 SUMMARY 22
3 EVALUATION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL POTENTIAL
3.1 GIS ANALYSIS 23 3.1.1 GIS – DISCUSSION 24 3.2 GEOTECHNICAL DATA 25 3.2.1 SITE B 25 3.2.2 SITE C 25 3.2.3 GEOTECHNICAL – DISCUSSION 25 3.3 ARBORIST INVESTIGATIONS 2003 26 3.3.1 ARBORIST INVESTIGATIONS – DISCUSSION 28 3.4 STUDY AREA INSPECTION 29
CONTENTS
3.4.1 SITE B 29 3.4.2 SITE C 30 3.4.3 STUDY AREA INSPECTION – DISCUSSION 32 3.5 CONCLUSIONS - ARCHAEOLOGICAL POTENTIAL OF THE STUDY AREA 33 3.5.1 SITE B 33 3.5.2 SITE C 33
4 ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH POTENTIAL
4.1 PREAMBLE 35 4.2 EVALUATION OF RESEARCH POTENTIAL 35 4.3 ASSESSMENT OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH POTENTIAL - SITE B 35 4.3.1 CAN THE SITE CONTRIBUTE KNOWLEDGE THAT NO OTHER RESOURCE CAN? 35 4.3.2 CAN THE SITE CONTRIBUTE KNOWLEDGE WHICH NO OTHER SITE CAN? 36 4.3.3 IS THIS KNOWLEDGE RELEVANT TO GENERAL QUESTIONS ABOUT HUMAN HISTORY OR OTHER SUBSTANTIVE QUESTIONS RELATING TO AUSTRALIA HISTORY, OR DOES IT CONTRIBUTE TO OTHER MAJOR RESEARCH QUESTIONS? 36 4.4 ASSESSMENT OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH POTENTIAL - SITE C 36 4.4.1 CAN THE SITE CONTRIBUTE KNOWLEDGE THAT NO OTHER RESOURCE CAN? 36 4.4.2 CAN THE SITE CONTRIBUTE KNOWLEDGE WHICH NO OTHER SITE CAN? 37 4.4.3 IS THIS KNOWLEDGE RELEVANT TO GENERAL QUESTIONS ABOUT HUMAN HISTORY OR OTHER SUBSTANTIVE QUESTIONS RELATING TO AUSTRALIA HISTORY, OR DOES IT CONTRIBUTE TO OTHER MAJOR RESEARCH QUESTIONS? 37 4.5 ASSESSMENT OF THE RESEARCH POTENTIAL OF SITES B AND C 37
5 SIGNIFICANCE ASSESSMENT
5.1 PRINCIPLES OF ASSESSMENT 39 5.2 ASSESSMENT AGAINST CRITERIA - SITE B 40 5.2.1 SUMMARY STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE – SITE B 42 5.3 ASSESSMENT AGAINST CRITERIA – SITE C 42 5.3.1 SUMMARY STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE – SITE C 44 5.4 HISTORIC THEMES 44
6 RESEARCH DESIGN AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL STRATEGY
6.1 PREAMBLE 47 6.2 ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH QUESTIONS 47 6.3 ARCHAEOLOGICAL STRATEGY 49 6.3.1 THE NEED FOR AN ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION 49 6.3.2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION 49 6.3.3 METHODOLOGY FOR ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION 50 6.3.4 REPORTING 52
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE 2.1 PHASES OF OCCUPATION RELATING TO NORTHCLIFF HOUSE 20
TABLE 2.2 EVOLUTION OF NORTHCLIFF HOUSE, DERIVED FROM HISTORICAL PHOTOGRAPHS AND PLANS (NOT TO SCALE). 21
TABLE 5.1 SUMMARY OF THEMES RELATING TO SITES B AND C 45
TABLE A.1 RESULTS OF SANDS DIRECTORY SEARCH. ALL DATED ENTRIES WITH NORTHCLIFF HOUSE ASSOCIATION ARE BOLDED. 1
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE 1.1 LAYOUT OF LOTS – INSERT SURVEYORS PLAN 2
FIGURE 1.2 GENERAL LOCATION OF THE STUDY AREA, DIRECTLY EAST ABOVE LUNA PARK ON THE CLIFF TOP 3
FIGURE 2.1 COMBINATION OF 1890-1891 NORTH SYDNEY BLOCK PLANS, SHEETS 6 & 8. SITES B AND C HIGHLIGHTED - NORTHCLIFF HOUSE IN SITE C ON RIGHT. 11
FIGURE 2.2 RAILWAY YARDS PLAN PRE 1925. WITH SITES B & C MARKED. 14
FIGURE 2.3 1930-1940 BLOCK PLAN, SHOWING SITE B & C. SHOWING THE EMPTY NATURE OF SITES B & C. 18
FIGURE 3.1 1890-1891 OVERLAY AGAINST THE 2006 SURVEY PLAN 23
FIGURE 3.2 1925 OVERLAY AGAINST THE 2006 SURVEY PLAN 24
FIGURE 3.3 LOCATION OF ARBORIST TRENCHES CUT INTO SITES B & C AND TRESS, SOME NOW REMOVED 26
FIGURE 3.4 1890-91 PLAN OVERLYING THE ARBORIST PLAN OF TRENCHES CUT INTO SITE C 28
FIGURE 3.5 HYPOTHETICAL METHOD OF FOUNDATION CONSTRUCTION FOR NORTHCLIFF HOUSE 34
LIST OF PHOTOGRAPHS
PHOTOGRAPH 2.1 ABOVE ‘HOLTERMAN’ LAVENDER BAY. 1870. BELOW ENLARGEMENT OF UP OF ‘NORTHCLIFF HOUSE’- PHASE I. 10
PHOTOGRAPH 2.2 CLIFF BEFORE 1893. MITCHELL LIBRARY. NORTHCLIFF HOUSE CIRCLED12
PHOTOGRAPH 2.3 ‘LAVENDER BAY C.1903 WITH BATHS’. VIEW TO SOUTH OF NORTHCLIFF HOUSE WHICH IS AT THE TOP CENTRE OF THE PHOTOGRAPH. 13
PHOTOGRAPH 2.4 THE TRAMWAY ALONG GLEN STREET IN 1924, WITH NORTHCLIFF HOUSE IN THE BACKGROUND CENTRE OF THE PHOTOGRAPH. BELOW, CLOSE UP OF NORTHCLIFF HOUSE AND UNNAMED BUILDING ON SITE B (RIGHT). TAKEN FROM WARNE 1987:111. 15
PHOTOGRAPH 2.5 CLIFF FACE 23RD FEBRUARY 1925. TAKEN FROM STATE RECORDS. 16
PHOTOGRAPH 2.6 THE TRAMWAY ALONG GLEN STREET, 1926. TAKEN FROM STATE RECORDS. THE REMAINS OF NORTHCLIFF HOUSE ARE HIGHLIGHTED. 17
PHOTOGRAPH 2.7 1926 AERIAL VIEW OF THE FORMER SITE OF NORTHCLIFF HOUSE AND SITES B & C. TAKEN FROM STATE RECORDS. 17
PHOTOGRAPH 2.8 1935 VIEW OF LUNA PARK, SHOWING SITES B & C. BOTH SITES ARE CLEARED AND FREE OF BUILDINGS OR DEVELOPMENT. 18
PHOTOGRAPH 2.9 AERIAL LUNA PARK LATE 1940S. SITES B & C CAN BE SEEN WITHIN THE FENCED AREA ON TOP OF THE CLIFF. SITE C CONTAINS THE ‘JACK AND JILL RIDE’ ON THE EDGE OF THE CLIFF. 19
PHOTOGRAPH 2.10 AERIAL LUNA PARK 1980S. SITE B CAN BE SEEN IN USE AS A CAR PARK.19
PHOTOGRAPH 3.1 ARBORIST TRENCH 2, PHOTOGRAPH TAKEN IN 2003 ANNOTATED “OLD SANDSTONE PATHWAY EXPOSED. DEPTH TO ROCK ABOUT 500 MM (SOME DEPTH OF FILL/SOIL UNDER THE PATHWAY).” PHOTOGRAPH TAKEN FROM ARBOCRAFT 2003, SUPPLIED BY LUNA PARK. 27
PHOTOGRAPH 3.2 ARBORIST TRENCH 2, PHOTOGRAPH TAKEN IN 2003 ANNOTATED “LOOKING NORTH… WITH ROOT OF 100MM DIAMETER” PHOTOGRAPH TAKEN FROM ARBOCRAFT 2003, SUPPLIED BY LUNA PARK. 27
PHOTOGRAPH 3.3 SITE B, FACING SOUTH. TAKEN ON THE INTERFACE BETWEEN SITE B AND THE SIEDLER BUILDING. THE HERITAGE FIG TREE , MIDDLE BACKGROUND, IS LOCATED BETWEEN SITES B AND C. 30
PHOTOGRAPH 3.4 SITE C, FACING NORTH, WITH THE HERITAGE FIG TREE BETWEEN SITE B & SITE C. THE METAL FENCE (RIGHT) IS POSITIONED AT SURFACE LEVEL ON GLEN STREET. 31
PHOTOGRAPH 3.5 SITE C, NORTHERN BOUNDARY, FACING EAST. CONCRETE STEP AND UPPER CONCRETE SLAB. 32
ANNEX A SANDS DIRECTORY SEARCH ANNEX B NORTHCLIFF OCCUPANTS BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 PURPOSE OF THIS REPORT
Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd (ERM) was commissioned by Luna Park Sydney Pty Ltd to prepare an Archaeological Assessment and Research Design for Sites B and C, Luna Park, Milsons Point, NSW. Preparation of the Archaeological Assessment and Research Design is a requirement of the NSW Department of Planning Director General’s Environmental Assessment Requirements for ‘Major Project MP06_0106 and MP06_0163 – Cliff Top Sites at Luna Park’ under the bullet point ‘Heritage Impacts’ (8th August 2006). This report has been commissioned to consider the archaeological potential of Sites B and C and provide relevant management recommendations for any archaeological relics that may be located within these two areas. A research design is required to accompany an application for an excavation permit under section 140 of the Heritage Act, 1977.
1.2 THE STUDY AREA
The study area is located on the lower North Shore to the east of Luna Park and is known as “Sites B and Site C, Luna Park”. The study area is also referred to as the “Cliff Top Area”, located directly above Luna Park. Site B and C are identified as Lot 1259 (575m²) and Lot 1260 (464m²) in DP 48514, respectively, see Figure 1.1. These two sites are located at the junction of Glen, Northcliff and Dind Streets, Milsons Point, (Figure 1.2).
Site B is located directly above Luna Park. It is an approximately rectangular block measuring 20 m by 30 m. The Lot is generally flat without any noticeable gradient or slope. It is bound on its western edge by the high sandstone cliff (falling to Luna Park), on the east by Glen Street, to the North a large commercial building and the south by a large Morton Bay Fig tree. This Fig tree separates Site B from Site C. Site C measures approximately 17 m by 26 m and is positioned on the corner of Northcliff Street and Glen Street, which bind its east and north east sides respectively. A second Fig tree defines the southern extent of the Site C. Site C has a slight north to south slope.
Sites B and C themselves are not identified on any heritage registers or lists. However, a number of items surrounding and associated with the two Sites (especially Luna Park) are identified heritage items. In terms of the two Sites the following statutory controls are applicable. The statutory controls that apply to the site are outlined in section 1.3.
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LUNA PARK - SITEPARK LUNA B G L E N S T R E E E E T R T S N E L G title LUNA PARK SYDNEY PTY LTD SYDNEY PARK LUNA SITE PLAN SITE
DIND S T R E E T dwg no. dwg
PSA7463-DA-B01 N O R T H C L I F F S T R E E E T E R T S F F I L C H T R O N Plot date: 15th August 2006 date: 15th Plot 27th June. 2006 June. 27th 1:500@A3
N
Study Area
Figure 1.2 General location of the study area, directly east above Luna Park on the cliff top
1.3 STATUTORY CONTEXT
1.3.1 NSW Heritage Act 1977
State Heritage Register
The State Heritage Register (SHR) is a list of places and items of State Significance made under the NSW Heritage Act 1977 (the NSW Heritage Act). Heritage Council approval is required for works proposed to an item on the State Heritage Register.
The study areas are not listed on the State Heritage Register. A number of heritage items near the study area are listed on the SHR, however none of these are directly associated with the study area.
Archaeological Relics
The NSW Heritage Act affords automatic statutory protection to ‘relics’ that form, or form part of, archaeological deposits. The NSW Heritage Act defines a ‘relic’ as:
any deposit, object or material evidence: (a) which relates to the settlement of the area that comprises New South Wales, not being Aboriginal settlement, and (b) which is 50 or more years old.
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Sections 139 to 145 of the Act prevent the excavation or disturbance of land known or likely to contain ‘relics’ except in accordance with an excavation permit issued by the Heritage Council of NSW (or in accordance with a gazetted exception to this Section of the Act).
Based on the findings of this report, Site C in the study area is known to have a relatively intact archaeological resource associated with the occupation of Northcliff house from the 1870s until the 1920s and is therefore subject to these provisions.
The Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority has delegation from the Heritage Council to approve excavation permits for minor work. Under this delegation SHFA has the authority to issue an Excavation Permit under Section 140 (S140) of the Heritage Act. The statutory time frame for approval of a S140 application is 40 days. A S140 application form can be obtained from SHFA or the Heritage Office website.
1.3.2 Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority (SHFA) Heritage and Conservation Register (Section 170 Register)
Under the NSW Heritage Act, government departments are required to maintain a register of heritage assets under their control or ownership.
With regard to the study area (Sites B & C) no archaeological relics/sites are listed on the SHFA Heritage and Conservation Section 170 Register as individual items. The SHFA standard provisions for the protection of archaeological deposits which could be impacted by work to be undertaken on SHFA land state that:
Aboriginal and European cultural archaeological sites are protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 and the Heritage Act 1977 respectively. Excavation permits may be required. Contact the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Heritage Office.
1.3.3 Sydney Regional Environmental Plan (Sydney Harbour Catchment) 2005
Sites B and C are within the boundary of Luna Park which is identified in the Sydney Regional Environmental Plan 2005, (SREP 2005). SREP 2005 includes provisions for the protection of heritage items, non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal archaeological sites which are consistent with the provisions of the Heritage Act 1977. Clause 58 ‘Development affecting matters of non-Aboriginal heritage significance’ requires the consent authority to inform the Heritage Council “where a development will be carried out on an archaeological site or a potential archaeological site of a relic of non-Aboriginal heritage significance”.
As noted above SHFA has delegation from the Heritage Council to approve excavation permits under Section 140 (S140) of the Heritage Act.
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1.3.4 North Sydney Local Environment Plan (LEP) 2001
Sites B and C are not listed as individual items on the North Sydney LEP. Schedule 3 of the North Sydney LEP lists individual heritage items and includes the ‘former Glen Street Tram Terminus’ (Item 0264), the Glen Street Offices (No 2 and 2A) and Luna Park (Item 0269).
The North Sydney LEP includes provisions applying to heritage items (including ‘relics’). Part 4 ‘Heritage Provisions’ includes the following guidelines, under Clause 47 ‘Archaeological resources’, for the protection and management of archaeological resources:
(1) Archaeological resources objectives The specific objectives of the archaeological resources controls are to
(a) ensure the conservation of archaeological resources, and (b) ensure development does not adversely affect archaeological resources.
(2) Archaeological resources controls Consent must not be granted to development on land that contains an archaeological resource unless the consent authority:
(a) has considered an archaeological assessment that evaluates:
(i) the probable extent, nature and integrity of the archaeological resource at a site, and (ii) the significance of that resource, and (iii) the appropriate management for that resource, having regard to its significance and any statutory requirements, and
(b) has notified the Heritage Council of its intention to do so and taken into consideration any comments received from the Heritage Council within 28 days after the notice was sent.
1.4 OTHER LISTINGS
1.4.1 Register Of The National Estate
The Register of the National Estate (RNE) is a list of important natural, Indigenous and historic places throughout Australia. It is a statutory register established under the Australian Heritage Commission Act 1975, which has now been repealed.
However, the RNE has been retained under the Australian Heritage Council Act 2003 and places included on the RNE are broadly protected under s391A of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (the EPBC Act). This section of the EPBC Act requires the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment and Heritage to consider information included in the RNE when making any decision under the EPBC Act.
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This does not apply to the Luna Park site however as the proposed works do not require approval under the EPBC Act.
The Luna Park Precinct (ID 17944) is identified on the Register of the National Estate (RNE). The Fig and Coral trees associated with the cliff top (and located between Sites B and C and to the south of Site C) are identified on the RNE (ID 17950).
1.4.2 Register Of The National Trust Of Australia (NSW)
The National Trust of Australia (NSW) is a community-based conservation organisation. The Trust has assembled a Register of heritage items and conservation areas through the assessment work of its expert committees. While the National Trust Register has no legal force, it is considered to be an authoritative guide to heritage significance, and the Trust acts a lobby group for heritage conservation to local, State and Commonwealth governments across the country.
Luna Park is classified as a heritage place on the Register of the National Trust of Australia (NSW).
1.4.3 National Heritage List
Luna Park, including Sites B and C, has been nominated for inclusion on the National Heritage List (NHL), under nominations for Lavender Bay, Milsons Point Foreshore, Alfred St South, Milsons Point, NSW (ID 105772) and Luna Park, 1 Olympic Dr, Milsons Point, NSW (ID 105827).
Identification as a Nominated Place on the NHL means that the item or place is under consideration by the Minister's delegate. The nomination either will be or has been referred to the Australian Heritage Council for assessment. The significance or values attributed to the place, in the nomination, are those of the nominator and not necessarily those of either the Council or the Minister nomination
As the place is not yet formally included on the NHL, the relevant provisions of the EPBC Act do not yet apply. As Luna Park is not on Commonwealth land listing on the NHL would need the agreement of the NSW government to proceed.
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1.5 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT
Luna Park Sydney propose to develop Sites B and C for commercial purposes. The project design is shown in Site B Architecturals PSA7463-DA010806 (27th June 2006) and Site C Architecturals PSA7463-preDA_160506 (16th May 2006), drawn by Hassell. This development is to include the following components for each site:
Site B (Northern Allotment)
• 7 level Grade A commercial strata office building - GFA 2,663m²;
• 2 levels of basement car parking to about RL17.7m, accessed via a car lift from Glen St;
• Standard floor plate of approximately 384m² containing three office suites; and
• 2 lifts servicing car park and office levels.
Site C (Southern Allotment)
• 2 level building – GFA approximately 622m²;
• Café/restaurant use building;
• 1 level of basement car parking to about RL21.5m, accessed from Northcliff St;
• 1 lift servicing car park and upper levels; and
• Provision for access ramps and viewing decks to link to proposed Luna Park Cinema Building.
1.6 METHODOLOGY FOR THIS ASSESSMENT
The methodology for preparing an archaeological assessment in New South Wales is defined in the Archaeological Assessments Guidelines, 1996, produced by the NSW Department of Urban Affairs and Planning and the NSW Heritage Office. The methodology used in the preparation of this report are broadly consistent with the guidelines of the NSW Heritage Manual for the assessment of significance and the principals outlined in the Australian ICOMOS Charter for the Conservation of Places of Cultural Significance - The Burra Charter.
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This Archaeological Assessment has been based upon a half day site inspection, historical maps and photographs supplied by the client and Otto Cserhalmi + Partners Pty Ltd, archival research into NSW State Archives and the NSW Sands Directories and communication with local residents.
1.7 LIMITATIONS
This report is limited in terms of its archival research content, imposed by time restrictions. It is recommended that any future studies into the sites include further research of Land Titles and relevant Rates Books for the two sites. However, it is believed that the research undertaken provides a sufficient basis for the Archaeological Assessment and Research Design, where further research would supplement and reinforce the preliminary research.
1.8 AUTHORS
This report has been authored by ERM heritage specialist Dr. Tim Owen. Jennie Lindbergh, ERM Senior Heritage Consultant, provided technical input and advice. This report has been reviewed by Shelley James, ERM Senior Heritage Consultant.
1.9 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
ERM wish to thank Noni Boyd, Tony Maloney, Thomas Ghossein and Phil Naylor for their assistance in collating historical records and providing background history of the study area.
1.10 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS
This report is based on the data contained in the following previously prepared studies:
Godden Mackay Logan. 2002. Heritage Impact Statement and Archaeological Study Luna Park
Coffey. 2006. Commercial Development of Sites B & C Luna Park, Preliminary Geotechnical Assessment
Otto Cserhalmi + Partners Pty Ltd. 2006. Cliff Top Site B Luna Park. Statement of Heritage Impact
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2 HISTORICAL CONTEXT
2.1 BACKGROUND
This history of the study area is based on historical photographs, plans and reports, which have provided a detailed picture of the study area from 1880 onwards. Prior to 1880 specific detail was generally lacking, with only a single piece of photographic evidence providing an indication of historical land use at the intersection of Palmer and Glen Streets.
The history of the study area suggests that it is possible to split the ‘timeline’ into five periods, covering the main events concerning Sites B & C and the ownership of a single house which was located on Site C. The history presents evidence for the occupation of this house which was obtained through an investigation of the NSW Sands Directory; the full list of Sands results is provided in Annex A.1. Two of the occupants appear to have been significant individuals in Sydney and NSW, the full listing of their biographies is provided in Annex B.
2.2 EARLY PERIOD PRE 1883 - NORTHCLIFF PHASE I
Details of the general site history relating to pre-1880 have been presented by Otto Cserhalmi (2006:6); a summary of this early history is presented here.
The development of the area known as Milsons Point and Lavender Bay commenced soon after the arrival of the First Fleet, when resources from the area were collected, such as firewood. Lavender Bay was initially used for mooring hulks and un-seaworthy vessels, which were utilised as prison hulks. The first structures to be built were beehive kilns, which were followed by a smattering of private residences. The north shore area was not accessible by road, so a thriving ferry service became established by the mid nineteenth century, ultimately resulting in Milsons Point becoming a main point of departure for Circular Quay.
The area above Milsons Point was developed as a residential zone from the early-mid 1800s on. A general trend for large Lots occupied by free standing structures/houses existed.
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The earliest photographic evidence of the area dates to 1870 and shows the arrangements of buildings, gardens and roads at Lavender Bay, Photograph 2.1. This photograph, shot facing southeast, shows the steep rise from the water to the developed areas of Lavender Bay. Of interest is a two storey house with a small centrally placed single storey extension to the north elevation (see enlargement of Photograph 2.1). This house appears (based upon the configuration of surrounding buildings, roads and plantings) to be within Site C. It is at the location of what is later named as ‘Northcliff’ house. The configuration of the house in 1870 (referred to here-on as ‘Northcliff’ Phase I) does not conform to the layout of later phases (see below) and may represent the original configuration, which was expanded during the later 19th century.
Photograph 2.1 Above ‘Holterman’ Lavender Bay. 1870. Below enlargement of up of ‘Northcliff House’- Phase I.
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Whether this building was used as a private residence, office or merchants etc prior to 1879 is not known. A search of the Sands Directory revealed no listed occupants for Palmer Street in 1879.
Also of note is the location of Palmer Street (later renamed Dind Street) which can be seen running from east to west from Glen Street, down to the waters edge in front of the ‘Northcliff’ house. The general density of buildings across the cliff slope at Lavender Bay was, in 1870, quite sparse. The intensity of development in this area over the proceeding half a century can be seen in the following maps and plans.
2.3 NORTHCLIFF PHASE II – 1883-1895 (THE ROLLESTON YEARS)
The first plan of North Sydney dates to c.1890 and provides an understanding of the street layouts and standing structures (figure 2.1). Sites B & C are evident adjacent to the intersection of Palmer Street and Glen Street. Site B does not appear to have any development, whilst Site C contains an irregular shaped building, which is later named as ‘Northcliff House’. The plan shows that the house has been modified and enlarged on the configuration shown in the 1870 Holterman photograph. Confirmation that the structures are one and the same is provided in a later 1893 photograph (Photograph 2.2), where the roads, plantings and surrounding buildings all indicate that ‘Northcliff’ had been extended with a new single storey northern extension between 1870 and 1890.
North
Site C Site B
Figure 2.1 Combination of 1890-1891 North Sydney Block Plans, sheets 6 & 8. Sites B and C highlighted - Northcliff House in Site C on right.
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The 1890 plan suggests that the original double storey, east-west, portion of the house was surrounded by a verandah. A new wing to the north elevation appears to replace of the original extension to the north elevation. The L- shaped north wing could have included rooms, which were added over a twenty year period (i.e. between 1870 and 1890), or represent a single building phase.
The plans show that Northcliff House has verandahs on the south, east and west elevations, which all look out onto the harbour and represent the best views.
It is clear from the 1890-91 plan and 1893 photograph that the cliff area had not yet been substantially cleared for the later railway development. Instead it appears that mounds of soil/rock line the bottom of the cliff, possibly signifying the commencement of the clearing process.
Photograph 2.2 Cliff before 1893. Mitchell Library. Northcliff House circled
The first evidence of ownership of Northcliff House is provided by a listing in the 1883 Sand Director for a Christopher Rolleston, who, it is stated, was residing in Palmer Street. Further listings evince that C. Rolleston lived at ‘Northcliff House’, Palmer Street, with his wife Katherine Rolleston between 1884 and 1888. After 1888 Mrs Rolleston is listed as the sole occupier until 1895.
Christopher Rolleston (1817-1888) is first mentioned by Sands in 1858-59 as the Registrar-General, living at Darling Point. In 1867 he became Auditor General moving to Lynthorpe House in Newtown. In 1877 he moved to Beulah House, Campbell Street on the North Shore and in 1882 is still listed as the Auditor General. Christopher Rolleston died in Northcliff House on 9th April 1888 from chronic Bright's disease. Katherine Rolleston is listed as the sole occupier of Northcliff from 1889 to 1895.
Mrs ‘Kate’ Rolleston is listed in the 1858 Sands Directory with an occupation as a dressmaker (at 256 Castlereagh Street). The final listing for Katherine is in 1895 (the next listing for Northcliff is in 1898), suggesting that she either died or moved during this period.
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It is hypothesised that the Rollestons moved into Northcliff House at the end of their careers, possibly in retirement. They both inhabited the house for four years, possibly extending the north elevation with a single storey addition. After Mr. Rolleston died in 1888, Mrs. Rolleston continued living in the house, possibly with her children for a further seven years.
2.4 NORTHCLIFF PHASE III – 1898-1907 (THE LEASE YEARS)
No information has been uncovered regarding Northcliff House for the period 1895-98. However, between 1898 and 1907 a series of occupants are listed in the Sands directory, each occupying the house for two to three years. From 1898-1899 Henry Gullet (listed as a journalist, but was also a significant character in NSW history – refer to Annex B) occupied the house. It was at this time, when residing at Northcliff, that he acted as editor of the Herald during the Constitution campaign of 1898 (his biography states that he gained much credit for the success of the ‘referendum’ next year). He toured England in 1899, at which time he unsuccessfully attempted to retire from journalism. He left Northcliff in 1899.
The next occupant of Northcliff (1900-1901) was Charles Gaden, who was the manager of the Commercial Bank, Sydney. Between 1902-1903 James Moir took up residence (occupation unknown), whilst finally two brothers, Harrie Wood and Fred Wood, used the premises as a home between 1904-1907. Fred Wood is listed as a solicitor, whilst it is possible (but not verifiable) that Harrie Wood is the Harrie Wood who was a mining consultant and public servant. The listed Harrie Wood (1831-1917) retired to Sydney and ‘setup as a mining agent until 1909 (see Annex B).
Photograph 2.3 ‘Lavender Bay c.1903 with baths’. View to South of Northcliff House which is at the top centre of the photograph.
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A photograph of Lavender Bay, taken in 1903, provides a good indication of the layout of Northcliff House (Site C), and verifies that no structure was present on Site B. The configuration of the house during Phase II, shown in Figure 2.1 and Photograph 2.2, remains consistent during Phase III. The clarity of the 1903 photograph highlights the single storey L-shaped north wing of the building, whilst the two storey original portion extends up on the south. This photograph also shows the mature Fig trees to the west of Northcliff House, verifying prior heritage assessments regarding the age of the trees (c.f. Otto Cserhalmi 2006).
The 1903 photograph shows that the cliff line has been cut back, removing the steeply graded slope (as per the 1893 photograph). The railway lines can be seen traversing the flat land platform at the bottom of the cliff. This is the area that later becomes Luna Park.
2.5 NORTHCLIFF PHASE IV – 1908-1925 (THE PAGE YEARS)
The fourth and final phase of Northcliff House represents the potential ownership of the property by a Miss Maud Page, who occupies the house for a period of seventeen years. From 1908-1915 Miss Maud Page is the sole occupant. Between 1916 and 1919 Miss Maud is joined by a W.H. Whale. 1920-1922 see Miss Maud Page and W.H. Whale occupy with De Alba Thomaso. The final years of Northcliff’s occupation, 1923-1925, four residents are listed: Miss Maud Page, W.H. Whale, De Alba Thomaso and D.M.C. Janvrin. Searches have provided no further information with regard to these individuals, their origins or occupations.
Site C
North Site B
Figure 2.2 Railway Yards Plan Pre 1925. With Sites B & C marked.
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A railways plan of pre-1925 provides the layout of buildings and the railway lines along the cliff face, associated with Glen, Dind and Northcliff Streets (Figure 2.2). Comparison with the 1890-91 map (Figure 2.1) shows that the former Palmer Street has been significantly shortened (by the removal of the cliff) and renamed Dind Street. The Sands directory indicates that this name change occurred in 1899, with a brief reversion to the use of Palmer Street during 1906.
The 1925 plan provides evidence that buildings were located on both Sites B and C. Site B contains two small unnamed rectangular buildings, which could be related to the tramway. Site C contains Northcliff House. The layout of Northcliff House appears identical to that shown in the earlier 1890-91 plan, suggesting that Phases III and IV have not included any physical additions to the house.
Photograph 2.4 The tramway along Glen Street in 1924, with Northcliff House in the background centre of the photograph. Below, close up of Northcliff House and unnamed building on Site B (right). Taken from Warne 1987:111.
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A photograph of the Glen Street tramway (constructed to service the Lavender Bay Station c.1924) shows Northcliff House at the end of Glen Street, Photograph 2.4. The layout of the house appears to conform to the 1925 plan, with a single storey L-shaped extension from a two storey larger east-west structure on the south. The very northern end of the building does not appear to have a doorway, perhaps suggesting that this single storey structure was not the house’s main entrance.
The unnamed building, show in the pre 1925 plan, can be seen as a small structure on the right of the 1924 photograph. It is suggested that this building could be a shelter of sorts, perhaps associated with the tramway.
The final photograph of Northcliff House, prior to demolition is taken from the base of the cliff on 23rd February 1925, Photograph 2.5. Between the trees tree of the chimneys and the two roof lines of Northcliff House can be seen.
Photograph 2.5 Cliff face 23rd February 1925. Taken from State Records.
2.6 LATE PERIOD POST 1926
From 1926 onwards no residents are listed for Dind Street in the Sands directory, neither is Northcliff House mentioned again. A photograph from 1926 shows the same view along Glen Street with the tramway running to the north of Northcliff House, Photograph 2.6. The larger rear portion of the house is absent indicating that Northcliff House may have been partially, or entirely, demolished by this time. Evidence provided in a later aerial photograph from 1926 shows the complete removal of all buildings from Sites B & C, Photograph 2.7.
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Photograph 2.6 The tramway along Glen Street, 1926. Taken from State Records. The remains of Northcliff House are highlighted.
From 1926 it appears that Sites B & C served no formal purpose and remained as substantially empty blocks of land. Photographs and plans from the following eight decades (c.f. Photograph 2.7, Photograph 2.8, Photograph 2.9, Photograph 2.10 and Figure 2.3) show that Sites B and C were never developed post 19261. Instead they were fenced off, thus preventing public access and used as car parking space from the 1960s onwards.
Photograph 2.7 1926 Aerial view of the former site of Northcliff House and Sites B & C. Taken from State Records.
1 Additional archival photography held by Luna Park, not shown here, was inspected to verify this fact.
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Photograph 2.8 1935 View of Luna park, showing Sites B & C. Both sites are cleared and free of buildings or development.
Figure 2.3 1930-1940 Block Plan, showing Site B & C. Showing the empty nature of Sites B & C.
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Photograph 2.9 Aerial Luna Park late 1940s. Sites B & C can be seen within the fenced area on top of the cliff. Site C contains the ‘Jack and Jill ride’ on the edge of the cliff.
Photograph 2.10 Aerial Luna Park 1980s. Site B can be seen in use as a car park.
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2.7 CONCLUSION
2.7.1 Site B
The history of Site B is associated with the development of the tramway along Glen Street. The railway plan from 1925 and a photograph from 1924 indicate that a small building was located within the boundary of Site B. This building does not appear to have survived more than a few years and is not considered to be historically significant.
2.7.2 Site C
The history of Site C is primarily associated with the construction, habitation, development and eventual demolition of Northcliff House. The first evidence of a structure on Site C appears in 1870, when Northcliff House is shown in an early photograph. The original construction date for the house has not been established. The configuration of the house appears to have altered during the 1880s, when a single storey addition is built on the north face of the building, replacing the original feature. The house was owned (or occupied) by a series eleven individuals, some of local repute, until its eventual demolition in 1926. Individuals of particular note include Christopher Rolleston (Auditor General), Henry Gullett (a journalist) and potentially, but unverified, Harrie Wood (a mining consultant and public servant).
Table 2.1 and Table 2.2 provide a summary of the phases relating to the occupation of Northcliff House, possible owners and possible configurations of the house, as perceived from historical plans and photographs.
Table 2.1 Phases of occupation relating to Northcliff House
Date Phase Possible occupants Pre 1883 Northcliff Phase I Unknown 1883-1895 Northcliff Phase II – (The Rolleston Years) Christopher Rolleston and Katherine Rolleston 1898-1907 Northcliff Phase III – (The Lease Years) Henry Gullet, Charles Gaden, James Moir followed by Harrie Wood and Fred Wood 1908-1925 Northcliff Phase IV – (The Page Years) Miss Maud Page, W.H. Whale, De Alba Thomaso and D.M.C. Janvrin Post 1926 Late Period None, building demolished
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Table 2.2 Evolution of Northcliff House, derived from historical photographs and plans (not to scale).
Date Plan Schematic Inferred Plan 1870
1890
1893
1903
1924
1925
Following the demolition of Northcliff House Site C was not developed over the course of the twentieth century. The Lot was used to site the top of the ‘Jack and Jill’ ride during the 1940s and as a car park from the 1960. These minor uses do not appear to have impacted the site to any great degree.
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2.7.3 Summary
The history of the study area can be divided according to the particular site. Site B has not been subject to historical development and does not appear to have a rich history. Site C can be associated with the construction and development of Northcliff House. This house stood for at least fifty-five years and was occupied by some significant owners and tenants.
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3 EVALUATION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL POTENTIAL
This chapter details the archaeological potential of the study area. The history of the study area has shown that historically Site B had little use, except a small ‘rail-infrastructure’ building; whilst Site C was the location of the house ‘Northcliff’ for at least fifty-five years. The aim of this chapter is to determine whether the potential exists for any remains relating to either of these two structures (and any associated out buildings) to be present beneath the current surface level of the study area or features.
3.1 GIS ANALYSIS
The 1890-91 and pre-1925 plans of Lavender Bay have been overlaid with the current surveyors plan of the study area, see Figure 3.1 and Figure 3.2. An evaluation of these two figures provides confirmation of the historical configuration of Sites B and C.
Figure 3.1 1890-1891 overlay against the 2006 survey plan
The 1890-91 plan provides a good alignment with Glen, Palmer and Northcliff Streets. These streets appear to have been widened since the 1890s.
Prior to the 1920s, no built items were located within Site B (refer to discussion in the history chapter). This is confirmed in Figure 3.1, which shows Site B as an empty Lot.
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The 1890-91 overlay of Site C (Figure 3.1) indicates that Northcliff House is centrally located adjacent to Dind Street. The house appears to cover approximately 50% of the Site C, where the single storey (1880s) north wing of Northcliff House abuts the northern edge of Site C. The ‘original’ two storey part of Northcliff House is positioned within the centre of Site C (see Table 2.2 for Northcliff House phases).
Figure 3.2 1925 overlay against the 2006 survey plan
The 1925 overlay Figure 3.2) presents the same configuration at Site C as the 1890-91 overlay. Site B differs, with the small building situated in the southeast of Site B (on the right in Photograph 2.4).
3.1.1 GIS – Discussion
The GIS overlays suggest that Site B has the potential for the remains of 1920s building associated with the tramway/railway. Remains of this building could be located in the southeast corner of Site B.
Site C has the potential to yield the remains of Northcliff House and its associated out-buildings.
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3.2 GEOTECHNICAL DATA
Coffey (2006) undertook a geomorphological assessment of soils and bedrock associated with the study area. They based their assessment on a walkover of the site and inferred subsurface conditions, which were summarised onto six cross sections, “three of which are located through or near Site C in the southern portion of the site (cross-sections A, B and C), and three located in the northern portion of the site through Site B (cross-sections D, E and F)” (2006:3). Coffey’s results stated that:
“The above cross-sections highlight the assumed presence of a substantial depth of fill materials at the site. The fill depths are estimated to be generally in the range of 1.5m to 2.5m over most of the site, however maximum depths of approximately 3m are inferred near cross-section F within the central part of the site, and a depth of approximately 4m is inferred to the south of cross-section C (and north of a large fig tree). The depth of fill is assessed to reduce significantly closer to the eastern side boundaries with Northcliff and Glen Streets. The nature and origin of these fill materials is uncertain, but based on surface observations the fill is expected to contain a wide variety of materials, including concrete and bricks, together with ripped sandstone and household rubbish” (2006:3).
3.2.1 Site B
Based upon the Coffey report it can be stated that approximately 4 m of ‘fill’ is present at the northern end of Site B and 3 m in the south, near the Fig tree.
3.2.2 Site C
Based upon the Coffey report and an inspection of the study area (see below) it can be stated that the depth of ‘fill’ within Site C increases steadily from the north to the south of the site (see RLs in Figure 1.1). As Site C has a flat surface level, the ‘fill’ beneath can be described as a wedge shape, increasing as the bedrock slopes downhill (the slope of bedrock can be visually inferred from the slope of Northcliff Street). Therefore the north of Site C (near the Fig tree) potentially has 0.5 m to 1 m of fill overlying the bedrock, whilst the south of Site C potentially has up to 3 m of fill overlying the bedrock.
3.2.3 Geotechnical – Discussion
The implications for a hypothetical archaeological deposit are that within Site B relics would probably be at a uniform depth beneath the current surface level. However, Site C has the potential for a significant differential in archaeological deposit depth, where a hypothetical deposit could be 0.5 m beneath the current surface in the north of the site, but extend down to 3 m below the current surface in the south of Site C.
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3.3 ARBORIST INVESTIGATIONS 2003
In 2003 an investigation of the trees associated with the cliff top was undertaken by Bruce McLeod of Arbocraft. A series of four ‘exploratory’ trenches were cut into Sites B and C to determine their root patterns. The location of the four trenches is illustrated in Figure 3.3 and the outcome of this excavation is displayed in Photograph 3.1 and Photograph 3.2.
It is believed (from consultation with Luna Park) that this excavation aimed to excavate down to the root zone and determine the layout of roots and thus infer the health of the heritage trees. As indicated in Figure 3.3, trench 1 was cut into Site B, trench 2 into Site B and Site C, whilst trenches 3 and 4 were cut into Site C. Each trench appears to have been 0.5 m wide and cut down to the tree’s root zone; it is possible that bedrock was reached in the northern end of trench 2 (outside the study area, between Sites B and C). In some instances (i.e. in trench 2) the arborist’s investigation may have impacted the archaeological resource.
Figure 3.3 Location of arborist trenches cut into Sites B & C and tress, some now removed
A series of annotated photographs from the arborist’s investigations of trench 2 have provided an indication of the depth of soil deposits and possibly the archaeological resource within Site C.
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Photograph 3.1 Arborist trench 2, photograph taken in 2003 annotated “Old sandstone pathway exposed. Depth to rock about 500 mm (some depth of fill/soil under the pathway).” Photograph taken from Arbocraft 2003, supplied by Luna Park.
Photograph 3.2 Arborist trench 2, photograph taken in 2003 annotated “Looking North… with root of 100mm diameter” Photograph taken from Arbocraft 2003, supplied by Luna Park.
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Photograph 3.1 shows the southern extent of trench 2, stretching into Site C. The excavation resulted in the upheaval of several sandstone blocks and soil from the trench. The original size, location and function of these sandstone blocks cannot be determined. The exposed soil deposits may contain historical material, which could range from building rubbish to historical artefacts. Most significantly, at the bottom of trench 2 (0.5 m from the surface) was a sandstone ‘pathway’. The annotated photograph indicated that there was ‘some depth of fill/soil under the pathway’. The exact nature of this pathway is unclear from the photograph, and the possibility exists that the pathway was a section of wall footing.
Photograph 3.2 provides a ‘cleaned’ end section profile of trench 2. The stratigraphic profile within this section is difficult to interpret from the photograph, but does display clear colour differences between the surface and lowest levels. This layering could represent a build up of material over the historical period.
3.3.1 Arborist Investigations – Discussion
The series of trenches excavated by the arborist could have had an inverse impact on part of the archaeological resource contained within Site C. However, the overall size of these trenches is limited, so that any impact would be small scale and is unlikely to have adversely impacted the ability of the site to yield information with regards to Northcliff House.
Figure 3.4 1890-91 plan overlying the arborist plan of trenches cut into Site C
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A GIS overlay of the 1890-91 plan and the location of the arborist’s trenches, Figure 3.4, suggests that perhaps all of the arborist trenches avoided the main sections of Northcliff House (NB the accuracy of the arborist map is not known).
The arborist’s investigations have presented a significant body of information with relation to the subsurface conditions of the study area. Their excavations have indicated that a minimum of 0.5 m of soil is present above the bedrock within Site C. They have also proven that Site C does contain an archaeological resource, although the nature and/or content of this resource have not been proven.
3.4 STUDY AREA INSPECTION
An inspection of the study area (Sites B & C) was undertaken on 11th August by Tim Owen (ERM), facilitated by Phil Naylor (Luna Park) and Thomas Ghossein (Multiplex). The study area was inspected for any evidence of features visible at the surface level and the potential for the two sites to contain a sufficient depth of surface deposits to hold archaeological relics.
3.4.1 Site B
Site B is a flat area, fenced along its eastern boundary thus preventing pedestrian access, Photograph 3.3. It is bound in the west by the cliff. The site is currently used as a car park, a function which appears to have commenced during the 1930s. The surface level of Site B was covered by blue metal gravel, which had been hard packed by long term vehicle parking. Across the extent of Site B there was no evidence of any historical features, footings, foundations etc. An inspection of the cliff edge and the vicinity of the tree revealed a quantity of building ‘rubbish’ (broken brick fragments, glass and metal) and materials associated with the railway, such as the remains of wooden sleepers.
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Photograph 3.3 Site B, facing South. Taken on the interface between Site B and the Siedler building. The heritage Fig tree , middle background, is located between Sites B and C.
An estimate of the intactness of any residual soil deposits in Site B was difficult because of the blue gravel surface. At the edge of the cliff (west edge of Site B) a steeply inclined wide band of vegetation clung to the rock face, suggesting the Coffey 2006 estimate of up to 4 m of fill/deposit is correct.
3.4.2 Site C
Site C is a flat Lot, which abuts the inclined slope of Northcliff Street. The site is bound by high metal fencing and the cliff face. Adjacent to the eastern boundary of Site C was Northcliff Street; comparison of surface levels between this street and Site C allows an estimate of soil depths within Site C. Northcliff Street falls from RL24.36 (in the north) to RL19.95 (in the south), whilst the flat Site C has a mean RL of 22.5.
The contrast of Site C’s ‘flatness’ against the slope of Northcliff Street means that the surface level of Site C, in the northern portion, is two meters below the Northcliff/Glen Street interface, whilst the southern portion of Site C is two meters above Northcliff Street, see Photograph 3.4.
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Photograph 3.4 Site C, facing North, with the heritage Fig tree between Site B & Site C. The metal fence (right) is positioned at surface level on Glen Street.
Site C contains a number of twentieth century features. A flat concrete slab is situated in the northern half of Site C. This abuts a raised concrete platform, which is edged by a concrete rendered brick wall. Two sets of semi-circular concrete steps lead from the lower concrete slab to the upper concrete platform, see Photograph 3.5.
Consultation with local long term resident and former Luna Park service employee Mr. Tony Maloney confirmed that the Site C had been most recently used as a car park. The two concrete platforms were installed during the 1960s, where the semi-circular steps were installed to allow access between the lower car park (Site C) and the upper car park (Site B). Mr. Maloney stated that Site C used to contain a small surface mounted building, which was positioned over the lower concrete slab. This building was used as a workshop where items from Luna Park were serviced.
Mr. Maloney stated that to the best of his knowledge of the general area, which extended back to the 1960, no buildings with footings/foundations had been constructed on either Sites B or C.
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Photograph 3.5 Site C, northern boundary, facing east. Concrete step and upper concrete slab.
It was observed that the cliff face, west in Site C, had been modified with a sizable cut in the sandstone bedrock. This cut could be related to the installation of the Jack and Jill ride in the 1940s, see Photograph 2.9. The installation of this ride could have impacted any archaeological deposit in its vicinity; however, given its position on the edge of the cliff and the possible location of Northcliff House (see discussion below) the possible level of impact of the ride on any archaeological resource can be described as low.
3.4.3 Study area Inspection – Discussion
The inspection of Sites B and C revealed that there are no existing features which appear to have impacted the archaeological resources of the study area i.e. deep foundations. No evidence was visible for service trenches (i.e. sewage, power, telephone etc), but conversely the 2003 arborist trenches (see discussion below) were not visible, thus suggesting that any recent i.e. post 1930 disturbances have been masked by the blue metal surface of the car parks and concrete slabs.
An investigation of surface levels between Sites B and C and the surrounding streets, indicates that Site C has the potential to have a variable depth of soil (between 0.5 m and 3 m) covering its bedrock.
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3.5 CONCLUSIONS - ARCHAEOLOGICAL POTENTIAL OF THE STUDY AREA
The investigations into the archaeological potential of the study area are based upon a GIS overlay of historical plans, a geo-technical investigation of soil depths, a study area inspection and re-interpretation of the arborist’s investigations. Based upon these investigations it is possible to conclude that both Sites B and C have a potential to contain archaeological resources, this is discussed below.
3.5.1 Site B
Site B has the potential to contain the remains of a small building possibly associated with the 1925 tramway and railway, which was located on Glen Street. The integrity of Site B does not appear to have been affected by any post 1930 development and thus if any deposits/foundations associated with this building remain following its demolition, then they have the potential to be relatively intact beneath the current surface of Site B. Given the potential depth of deposits covering Site B it is possible that these, if present, could be to a depth of up to 3 m below the current surface.
3.5.2 Site C
Site C has the potential to contain the remains of Northcliff House and its associated out buildings, gardens, well etc. The site has the potential to yield deposits, archaeological features and artefacts associated with the different phases of the house, and its occupiers from at least the 1870s-1920s. The site has the potential to yield information about the construction and layout of Northcliff House that has not be available from historical research. The site also has the potential to reveal information about gardens which may have been associated with the house. The integrity of Site C, with regards to undisturbed archaeological potential, remains undetermined. However, based on the arborist’s investigations, it seams reasonable to assume that the archaeological resource is relatively intact. Of considerable archaeological merit are the depths of soil covering bedrock within Site C. The investigation has shown that Site C contains an increasingly deep soil profile from the north to the south – a ‘wedge’ shape. It is possible that the natural slope of Site C was historically used during the construction of Northcliff House, where the two storey portion was set below the original northern rooms. The historical investigation (see Table 2.2) suggests that Northcliff House’s roof was higher at the rear, but not an entire storey higher. It is suggested that the southern portion of the house, i.e. the original structure, may have been set on or cut down into bedrock, and the north wing added at the higher Glen Street level, see Figure 3.5 for an indication of a possible construction layout. Such an arrangement would account for the layout observed in the historical photographs.
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Figure 3.5 Hypothetical method of foundation construction for Northcliff House
Archaeological deposits in the north part of Site C could reveal evidence of the single storey phase of the house, with two different building phases, at a depth of up to 0.5 m below the current surface. Deposits relating to any out buildings may also be found. Archaeological deposits within the central area of Site C could reveal evidence of the two storey phase of Northcliff House, with deposits located at depths between 0.5 m and 3 m. Deposits within the south of Site C could expose evidence of the gardens associated with the house, i.e. remains of garden beds, paths, buildings, a well etc.
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4 ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH POTENTIAL
4.1 PREAMBLE
The information provided in the previous sections have been considered and determined that the potential archaeological resources within the study area (Sites B and C) are likely to be relatively intact. In accordance with current heritage ‘best practice’ guidelines the research potential of the archaeological resources at Sites B and C is assessed here to determine the contribution that may be made by the resource to the major research questions.
4.2 EVALUATION OF RESEARCH POTENTIAL
Bickford and Sullivan examined the concept of research potential in an influential paper published, in 1984, and re-defined the potential of an item in terms of Australian historical research. The results of their paper are identified in three questions, each devised to address the ability of the archaeological resources of any site to investigate the scientific potential of the site and how that potential can further current knowledge:
1. Can the site contribute knowledge that no other resource can?
2. Can the site contribute knowledge which no other site can?
3. Is this knowledge relevant to general questions about human history or other substantive questions relating to Australia’s history, or does it contribute to other major research questions?
The assessment of the research potential of the archaeological resources of Sites B and C are addressed here individually as there is no apparent or tangible historical link between the two sites. The sites may also be the subject of separate Development Applications.
4.3 ASSESSMENT OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH POTENTIAL - SITE B
4.3.1 Can The Site Contribute Knowledge That No Other Resource Can?
The archaeological resources of Site B have the potential to yield information with regards to an early twentieth century building, the function of which is unknown. The archaeological resources of the site have the potential to supplement existing knowledge with regards to public transport, tramway and railway infrastructure from the period. This information is unlikely to provide new knowledge that is not available from any other resource.
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4.3.2 Can The Site Contribute Knowledge Which No Other Site Can?
The archaeological resources of Site B have the potential to provide physical evidence for a 1920s building, possibly associated with the railway and/or tramway infra-structure. It is unlikely to contribute knowledge which no other site can.
4.3.3 Is This Knowledge Relevant To General Questions About Human History Or Other Substantive Questions Relating To Australia History, Or Does It Contribute To Other Major Research Questions?
The potential for knowledge gained through an archaeological investigation of Site B is unlikely to contribute to current major research questions. However, the archaeological resources may make a contribution to an understanding of the impact of the development of the tramway and railway on the lifestyles of local residents.
4.4 ASSESSMENT OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH POTENTIAL - SITE C
4.4.1 Can The Site Contribute Knowledge That No Other Resource Can?
The archaeological resources at Site C have the potential to provide new historical information and details relating to Northcliff House and its occupants, known and unknown, who resided at the house during the nineteenth and early twentieth century.
The archaeological resources associated with Site C have the potential to contribute to knowledge concerning the form and layout of Northcliff House, including details of method of construction, modifications over time to the configuration (the phases of additions and demolitions), the size of the house and its function.
The archaeological resources of Site C have the potential to provide information about spatial use within the house, where certain areas may be ascribed as domestic, living or entertaining zones. These resources may provide an indication as to the social standing of persons inhabiting the house during different historical phases and provide an indication as to the changing pattern in social composition of Lavender Bay from the 1870s-1920s.
Site C has the potential to provide information relating to the layout of the gardens associated with the house, their use (i.e. functional, social or both) and thus a connection between the inhabitants of the house and the modification of the landscape surrounding them.
Overall, the archaeological resource of Site C has the potential to contribute knowledge that is not available from any other resource.
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4.4.2 Can The Site Contribute Knowledge Which No Other Site Can?
Site C is one of a number of large houses constructed in the Lavender Bay area. The majority of these houses have been removed and their sites developed. Northcliff House differs in that although removed in the 1920s the site was not redeveloped and thus the archaeological resource has potentially been maintained and conserved. The site has the potential to provide information on a local scale with regard to the nineteenth century landscape at Lavender Bay, particularly in terms of planning, development and building construction.
Archaeological resources associated with Northcliff House have the potential to provide artefacts, the minutiae of everyday life, associated with the individuals who resided at the house, some of whom may be considered significant on a local level.
4.4.3 Is This Knowledge Relevant To General Questions About Human History Or Other Substantive Questions Relating To Australia History, Or Does It Contribute To Other Major Research Questions?
The archaeological resources of Site C have the potential to provide a link between the historical development of Lavender Bay, the history of Northcliff House and the individual owners and residents. The archaeological resources of the Site have the potential to provide knowledge relating to the development of Sydney’s Lower North Shore and nineteenth and early twentieth century life in this region. The archaeological resources of Site C also have the potential to yield artefacts that belonged to significant persons who contributed to the development of NSW and Australia.
4.5 ASSESSMENT OF THE RESEARCH POTENTIAL OF SITES B AND C
The archaeological resources of Site C have the potential to make a contribution to the historical resources and to enhance current knowledge concerning the major research questions associated the development of the Lower North Shore. Questions concerning social standing, phases of construction in response to domestic and social requirements have the potential to be answered by an investigation of the archaeological resources of the site.
The archaeological resources of Site B are unlikely to contribute substantially to current research questions concerning the settlement and development of the Lower North Shore. There is some potential that the resources may make a contribution to an understanding of the impact of the development of the tramway and railway on the lives of local residents; however, it is unlikely that this would enhance information available from other resources.
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5 SIGNIFICANCE ASSESSMENT
5.1 PRINCIPLES OF ASSESSMENT
Heritage sites, objects and places hold value for communities in many different ways. The nature of those heritage values is an important consideration when deciding how to manage a heritage site, object or place and balance competing land-use options. The many heritage values are summed up in an assessment of “Cultural Significance”. The primary guide to management of heritage places is The Burra Charter (The Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of Cultural Significance). The Burra Charter defines cultural significance as: Cultural significance means aesthetic, historic, scientific, social or spiritual value for past, present or future generations. Cultural significance is embodied in the place itself, its fabric, setting, use, associations, meanings, records, related places and related objects. Places may have a range of values for different individuals or groups. In terms of the current research, it is necessary to assess the significance of the potential archaeological resources of the study area in accordance with heritage best practice guidelines. In NSW a foundation for assessing cultural heritage significance has been provided in the NSW Heritage Office publication Assessing Heritage Significance.
An item will be considered to be of State (or local) significance if, in the opinion of the Heritage Council, it meets one or more of the following seven assessment criteria:
• Criterion (a) – an item is important in the course, or pattern, of NSW’s cultural or natural history (or the cultural or natural history of the local area);
• Criterion (b) – an item has strong or special association with the life or works of a person, or group of persons, of importance in NSW’s cultural or natural history (or the cultural or natural history of the local area);
• Criterion (c) – an item is important in demonstrating aesthetic characteristics and/or a high degree of creative or technical achievement in NSW (or the local area);
• Criterion (d) – an item has strong or special association with a particular community or cultural group in NSW (or the local area) for social, cultural or spiritual reasons;
• Criterion (e) – an item has potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of NSW’s cultural or natural history (or the cultural or natural history of the local area);
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• Criterion (f) – an item possesses uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of NSW’s cultural or natural history (or the cultural or natural history of the local area);
• Criterion (g) – an item is important in demonstrating the principal characteristics of a class of NSW’s:
• cultural or natural places; and/or
• cultural or natural environments.
These assessment criteria provide an indication as to the significance of an item, but are not specific to the potential archaeological resources of a site. The dilemma faced by archaeologists and developers is that development can result in the destruction of a finite archaeological resource, which once removed cannot be replaced or re-recorded. Therefore the significance of the archaeological resources needs to be understood as being linked to scientific research value:
A site or resource is said to be scientifically significant when its further study may be expected to help answer questions. This is scientific significance is defined as research potential. (Kerr 1996).
This is equated with Criterion (e) which is understood as also referring to the research value of the item or place.
5.2 ASSESSMENT AGAINST CRITERIA - SITE B
Criterion (a) – an item is important in the course, or pattern, of NSW’s cultural or natural history (or the cultural or natural history of the local area).
Since European settlement Site B has been part of the Lavender Bay/Milsons Point area which played an important role in service provision to Sydney. Commodities provided included water, food and building materials.
At the end of the twentieth century the area was used as a main transport depot, with a sizable railway located to its west. Glen Street was developed during the early twentieth century as a tramway, and Site B can be associated with this development.
Development on Site B appears to have been confined to a small building (function unknown) which may have an association with the 1920s Glen Street tramway.
The archaeological resources of Site B have some potential provide an insight into the development of the local area.
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Criterion (b) – an item has strong or special association with the life or works of a person, or group of persons, of importance in NSW’s cultural or natural history (or the cultural or natural history of the local area).
The archaeological resources of Site B do not satisfy the guidelines for this criterion.
Criterion (c) – an item is important in demonstrating aesthetic characteristics and/or a high degree of creative or technical achievement in NSW (or the local area).
The archaeological resources of Site B do not satisfy the guidelines for this criterion.
Criterion (d) – an item has strong or special association with a particular community or cultural group in NSW (or the local area) for social, cultural or spiritual reasons.
The archaeological resources of Site B do not satisfy the guidelines for this criterion.
Criterion (e) – an item has potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of NSW’s cultural or natural history (or the cultural or natural history of the local area).
Site B has an archaeological potential to contain physical archaeological evidence which related to the 1920s building. This evidence could be considered significant on a local scale and may supplement existing information on the railway and tramway along Glen Street.
Criterion (f) – an item possesses uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of NSW’s cultural or natural history (or the cultural or natural history of the local area).
The archaeological resources of Site B do not satisfy the guidelines for this criterion.
Criterion (g) – an item is important in demonstrating the principal characteristics of a class of NSW’s:
• cultural or natural places; and/or
• cultural or natural environments.
The archaeological remains at Site B have the potential to demonstrate the characteristics of a class of 1920s building. The site also has the potential to be associated with the Glen Street tramway and is thus comparable to other similar Sydney transport development.
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5.2.1 Summary Statement Of Significance – Site B
The value of the potential archaeological resources of Site B, contained beneath the car park level, have the potential to yield relics that could provide new information with regards to the 1920s development of the Lavender Bay area and specifically the tramway along Glen Street.
The potential archaeological resources of Site B have some significance at the local level but this is unlikely to make a substantial contribution to information available from other sources
5.3 ASSESSMENT AGAINST CRITERIA – SITE C
Criterion (a) – an item is important in the course, or pattern, of NSW’s cultural or natural history (or the cultural or natural history of the local area).
Since European settlement Site C has been part of the Lavender Bay/Milsons Point area which played an important role in service provision to Sydney. Commodities provided included water, food and building materials.
The archaeological resources of Site C are associated with the former free standing house, Northcliff House, its’ out-buildings and gardens. This house had a role in the historic development of the local Lavender Bay area.
Criterion (b) – an item has strong or special association with the life or works of a person, or group of persons, of importance in NSW’s cultural or natural history (or the cultural or natural history of the local area).
Northcliff House has an association with two significant individuals in the history of NSW.
Christopher Rolleston, who occupied Northcliff House (1883-88), was a civil servant holding several notable and varied positions in NSW. His work contributed to the orderly growth of responsible government in NSW.
Henry Gullett resided at Northcliff House from 1898-1899 and was the associate editor or editor for a number of Sydney and Australian newspaper during the nineteenth century. In the 1890s Gullett fervently advocated Federation and supported a White Australia, better treatment of Aboriginals and rapid expansion of public works. Appointed acting editor of the Herald during the Constitution campaign of 1898, he gained much credit for the success of the referendum of the following year.
Criterion (c) – an item is important in demonstrating aesthetic characteristics and/or a high degree of creative or technical achievement in NSW (or the local area).
The archaeological resources of Site C do not satisfy the guidelines for this criterion.
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Criterion (d) – an item has strong or special association with a particular community or cultural group in NSW (or the local area) for social, cultural or spiritual reasons.
The archaeological resources of Site C do not satisfy the guidelines for this criterion.
Criterion (e) – an item has potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of NSW’s cultural or natural history (or the cultural or natural history of the local area).
Site C was the site of the former free standing house known as Northcliff House. The house was one of the large private residences in the Lavender Bay area, and the associated archaeological resources have the potential to provide evidence for early-mid nineteenth century patterns of development in the local area. Although the majority of these large residences have now been demolished and developed, the site of Northcliff House has not been redeveloped and has been protected from disturbances by use as a car park since the 1930s.
The archaeological resources associated with the house have the potential to reveal information about Northcliff House, including its mode of construction, configuration and function. There is potential for the archaeological resources, the artefacts of everyday life, to also provide an insight into the domestic interactions and social standing of the occupants of the house.
Criterion (f) – an item possesses uncommon, rare or endangered aspects of NSW’s cultural or natural history (or the cultural or natural history of the local area).
The archaeological resources of Site C do not satisfy the guidelines for this criterion.
Criterion (g) – an item is important in demonstrating the principal characteristics of a class of NSW’s:
• cultural or natural places; and/or
• cultural or natural environments.
The archaeological resources associated with Site C have the potential to provide information which demonstrates the principal characteristics of a large private residence as part of the development of the Lavender Bay area. These resources have the potential to provide an insight into the lifestyle and social standing of the residents and their domestic interactions.
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5.3.1 Summary Statement Of Significance – Site C
The potential archaeological resources of Site C, beneath the car park and concrete slab level, are not a visible aspect of the site’s history and significance, unlike those of surrounding heritage items such as the Fig trees and the Siedler building.
The archaeological resources associated with Northcliff House have the potential to provide considerable information about the development, habitation and eventual demolition of Northcliff House. This potential ranges from information relating to the construction and developmental phases of the House, to details of the lifestyle and domestic interactions of the inhabitants and the arrangement of the gardens and out-buildings. It may be possible to infer information about the social standing of individuals, which could be related to the development of Lavender Bay and the role of Sydney’s Lower North Shore as a residential area beyond the confines of the city.
The house has associations with two individuals who played a significant role in NSW and Australian historical development. The association with these individuals and the potential, albeit in a limited context, to recover personal effects associated with these individuals and their respective works is significant.
The resources have the potential to make a contribution to our understanding of issues associated with the development of the State of NSW. Until these resources have been investigated, the archaeological resources of Site C can be determined, with certainty, to have significance at the local level.
5.4 HISTORIC THEMES
The Australian Heritage Commission (now the Department of Environment and Heritage) and the NSW Heritage Office (now Heritage Office, Department of Planning) have developed historic themes which can be used as a tool to provide a focus for the investigation of the significance of a site at the National, State or local level. The historic themes identified for Sites B and C are:
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Table 5.1 Summary of themes relating to Sites B and C
Australian Theme NSW Theme Local Theme1 Building Towns, suburbs and Planning and development patterns at Lavender settlements, towns villages Bay. and cities Building Land tenure Changing patterns of land use reflecting the settlements, towns needs of residents with different social standing and cities and requirements in the Lavender Bay area. Governing Government and Associations with Federation and the growth of administration orderly government in nineteenth century NSW Developing Domestic life Lifestyle and domestic interactions within a Australia’s cultural large household life Developing Social institutions Henry Gullett can be directly associated with a Australia’s cultural number of NSW and National newspapers. life 1. Local Theme - based on the contribution that the archaeological resources of the site can make to the local area
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6 RESEARCH DESIGN AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL STRATEGY
6.1 PREAMBLE
As the assessment of the archaeological research potential and the assessment of significance for Site C have demonstrated, there is potential for this site to contain a relatively intact resource with the potential to enhance our understanding of the lives and social standing of the residents associated with Northcliff House. Excavation of the site for the proposed development would destroy this significant archaeological resource. Before the development of Site C can proceed an application for an Excavation Permit should be lodged with the Heritage Council of NSW. The Heritage Council requires that a Research Design accompany the application for an Excavation Permit that includes details of the proposed management strategy for the archaeological resources of the subject site.
The archaeological resources of any site are finite and have the potential to provide insights into everyday life that are not available from any other resource. A Research Design therefore proposes questions that have been developed to extract the maximum research value from this fragile resource. In this way the destruction of the archaeological resources is mitigated, in part, by the information gained, and which can make a contribution to the historical record.
This document provides a research design and framework for the historical archaeological investigations which may occur as part of the Luna Park redevelopment of Sites B and C.
6.2 ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH QUESTIONS
The specific research questions for Sites B and C have been developed to focus on the potential ability of the archaeological resources of the site to make a contribution to understanding of the history of the local area. They have been developed to provide a local focus for an archaeological investigation of the site which can be translated to the broader thematic questions concerning the history of settlement, government and everyday life in NSW.
The research questions that the information gained from an archaeological investigation of Sites B and C would contribute to are derived from the following themes and questions:
Research Theme 1: Building settlements, towns and cities - Towns, suburbs and villages — Planning and development patterns at Lavender Bay.
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Research Question 1: Questions regarding the nature of the evidence for any pre-1870s building on the site and early development of the site that may have preceded the establishment of Northcliff House could be answered by the archaeological resources of the site. The information provided could make a contribution to an understanding of the planning and development patterns of the Lower North Shore with large residences beyond the confines of the evolving city.
Research Theme 2: Building settlements, towns and cities — Land tenure — Changing patterns of land use reflecting the needs of residents with different social standing and requirements in the Lavender Bay area.
Research Question 2: Questions associated with how the modifications in size and configuration of the house, over time, might reflect the social standing of its occupants could be answered by the archaeological resources of the site. Associated questions refer to the nature of the evidence for landscaping of gardens and how this may reflect changing fashions during the later nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Research Theme 3: Governing — Government and administration — Associations with Federation and the growth of orderly government in nineteenth century NSW
Research Question 3: Questions associated with the nature of the evidence, if any, for the lifestyle and political activities that have made Henry Gullett, who played a significant part in the 1898-99 Federation process, and Christopher Rolleston, an important figure in the development of orderly government in NSW, could be answered by the archaeological resources at the site.
Research Theme 4: Developing Australia’s cultural life — Domestic life — Lifestyle and domestic interactions within a large household
Research Question 4: Questions to be answered by the archaeological resource concern gender differentiation as revealed by specifically gendered male and female artefacts, as well as social status of the inhabitants of a large household during the nineteenth century.
Research Theme 5: Developing Australia’s cultural life — Social institutions — Henry Gullett can be directly associated with a number of NSW and National newspapers.
Research Question 5: The question to be answered by the archaeological resource is the nature of the evidence, if any, that may be directly attributed to the activities of Henry Gullett and his associations.
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6.3 ARCHAEOLOGICAL STRATEGY
6.3.1 The Need For An Archaeological Investigation
The assessment of Site B’s potential archaeological resource has concluded that an archaeological investigation of this Lot would not be necessary as it is not thought that the Site will yield new or otherwise unobtainable information.
The assessment of Site C’s potential archaeological resource has concluded that an archaeological investigation of this Lot would be necessary prior to the commencement of any development works or site preparation/stripping which has the potential to disturb archaeological deposits or features.
The fundamental aim of the archaeological investigation of Site C will be to recover archaeological information that may be impacted by development; the method of recovery and consequential analysis of the excavation materials and results will addresses the research questions above.
6.3.2 Description Of The Proposed Archaeological Investigation
The archaeological investigation of Site C will need to be tailored to adapt to the potential for altering deposits and soil depths within Site C. The excavation should aim to understand the nature of archaeological resources within Site C prior to fully excavating and recovering archaeological materials from the site’s deposits.
The archaeological investigation should aim to systematically recover and record deposits, features and artefacts from Site C, in a way that is safe and permits appropriate space management of this small Lot. The archaeological process would allow for all excavation areas to be planned and photographed, and artefacts would be recovered and provenanced according to stratigraphical context.
An excavation report would detail the results of the fieldwork and post excavation analysis. The report will address the questions posed by the research design outlined above.
Post excavation construction of the proposed building should include a measure of public interpretation of the archaeological results and possibly the retention of archaeological features and/or unexcavated archaeological deposits.
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6.3.3 Methodology For Archaeological Investigation
The following methodology will allow for the existing surfaces, all archaeological deposits, features and artefacts from Site C to be excavated under archaeological supervision and recorded during the site preparation, i.e. pre-construction through to the full excavation of the entire Lot. It is the aim of the methodology to prepare the site for excavation, to obtain an understanding of the nature of the site and its archaeological deposits through a limited test excavation, and to fully excavate the site to recover all archaeological data that is present.
Archaeological Supervision Of Site Preparation
Prior to any site works, Site C would be cleared of all surface materials, storage containers and debris. The site would be de-activated of any services (water, electric, gas) and confirmation of service locator checks confirmed. The security fence around the site would need to be checked and possibly a secure public viewing gallery installed on Glen Street.
Once the site has been prepared it will be necessary for an archaeologist to supervise the removal of the concrete slab and surface blue metal gravels from across the top of the Site C. This would be undertaken using a mechanical excavator, where excavation would be conducted in a series of grader scrapes until all introduced and non-significant material has been removed from the site. Excavated material would be need to be removed from the site by the client following any appropriate environmental controls that might apply.
Archaeological Excavation Stage 1 - Test Trenching
Once the site had been suitably prepared a test trench would be excavated within Site C in order to investigate the survival and extent of subsurface deposits. This test trench would commence at the centre of the northern boundary of Site C and extend southwards through the site to its southern boundary. It is proposed that the test trench could be excavated by mechanical means (e.g. back-hoe fitted with a flat-edged mud bucket) to cut a trench 1 m wide by ~35 m long across the centre of the site. The trench should be excavated until the top of foundations and/or archaeological remains are uncovered. At this point a small exploratory sondage could be manually or mechanically excavated to determine the potential of the site to yield further intact deposits.
This trench would be used to determine: the presence of archaeological deposits within Site C; the depth of soils and fills at different parts of the site; the depth of the archaeological deposits; the nature and intactness of the archaeological deposits and the comparability of archaeological deposits with historical plans.
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If the test trench reveals archaeological deposits which can be associated with the known history of Site C then open area excavation should be undertaken.
Archaeological Excavation Stage 2 - Open Area Excavation
If the test excavation confirms the presence of intact archaeological features, deposits and artefacts within Site C, open area excavation would be initiated. Excavation would commence with mechanical stripping of all surface non- significant deposits across Site C, using an excavated fitted with a mud bucket. Once the site had been suitably prepared, the open excavation will be aimed at recovering detailed archaeological information about Northcliff House, its occupants, and its associated features, in order to answer the research questions.
This would be achieved through manual excavation of the House and its environment, in a systematic, stratigraphical, feature by feature, room by room approach, commencing at the north of Site C and continuing in a southerly direction. Each room of the house will be divided into a grid of 1m squares and manually excavated. This will ensure that the spatial distribution of artefacts across each room is recorded to reflect the patterns of use in each room. In this way changes in room function or the way rooms are used over time is recorded.
All individual rooms, features, structures etc would be contextually identified and separately excavated. All contexts will be recorded on appropriate forms, and recorded through planning and photography. All artefacts will be identified by context and recorded with site features, in accordance with best practice guidelines for archaeological excavation.
Open area excavation of the site will cease once the lower limits of development impact are reached (possibly in the south of the site), or natural bedrock is cleared and inspected. Original walls/foundations exposed by the excavation will be left in-situ pending possible incorporation into building design, where their integrity makes this feasible.
During the course of excavation all non-significant materials would be removed from the site, so as to allow systematic excavation of the Lot.
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6.3.4 Reporting
The results of the archaeological excavation will be incorporated into a report which will include photographs, plans and sections of all relevant archaeological features. The specialist artefact reports will be appended to the excavation report and summarised in the text of the report. This will result in a synthesis of the historical documentation, archaeological and artefactual evidence to produce a clear interpretation of the occupational history of the house and its immediate environment.
The report will be prepared in accordance with the Heritage Office, Department of Planning, guidelines and standard permit condition on the requirements for report preparation.
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REFERENCES
The Burra Charter. 1999. The Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of Cultural Significance.
Bickford, A., and Sullivan, S. 1984. Assessing the Research Significance of Historic Sites. In S. Sullivan., and Bowdler, S. Editors. Site Surveys and Significance Assessment in Australia Archaeology. Proceedings of the 1981 Springwood Conference on Australian Prehistory. Department of Prehistory. Research School of Pacific Studies. ANU. Canberra.
Coffey. 2006. Commercial Development of Sites B & C Luna Park, Preliminary Geotechnical Assessment. Report for Luna Park Pty Ltd.
Godden Mackay Logan. 2002. Heritage Impact Statement and Archaeological Study Luna Park. Report for Multiplex Constructions Pty Ltd.
Heritage Office, Department of Planning NSW Heritage Manual:
Statement of Heritage Impact (1996)
Assessing Heritage Significance (2001)
Heritage Office, Department of Planning Heritage Information Series:
Interpreting Heritage Places and Items Guidelines (2005)
Kerr, J.S. 2000. The Conservation Plan (Fifth Edition). National Trust of Australia.
Otto Cserhalmi + Partners Pty Ltd. 2006. Cliff Top Site B Luna Park. Statement of Heritage Impact. Report for Luna Park Pty Ltd.
Warne, C. 1987. Pictorial Memories Lower North Shore. Second Edition. Atrand Pty Ltd. Sydney.
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Annex A
Sands Directory Search
A.1 SANDS DIRECTORY SEARCH
A search of entries in the Sands directory for Dind Street and/or Palmer Street, in North Sydney or St. Leonards East was undertaken. Where owners/occupiers were identified at ‘Northcliff’, their movements were traced before and after occupation of the house. All results are listed chronologically. Listings as per Sands Directory, including spelling.
Table A.1 Results of Sands Directory Search. All dated entries with Northcliff House association are bolded.
Year Directory Listing 1858-59 Sands Sydney Commercial Rolleston, Christopher, Registrar-General, Darling Directory Point 1858-59 Sands Sydney Commercial Rolleston, Mrs., dressmaker, 256 Castlereagh street Directory 1867 Sands Sydney Rolleston, Christopher, Auditor General, Linthorpe, Alphabetical Directory Newtown 1869 Sands Sydney Rolleston, Christopher, Lynthorpe house, Wilson st., Alphabetical Directory Newtown 1871 Sands Sydney Rolleston, C., Lynthorpe, Wilson st., Ntown. Alphabetical Directory 1873 Sands Sydney Rolleston, Christopher, Wilson st., Newtown Alphabetical Directory 1877 Sands Alphabetical Rolleston, C. (Beulah), Campbell st, St. Leonards, East Directory (City and Suburban) 1879 Sands Alphabetical No listing under St. Leonards, East for Palmer Street Directory (City and or “Northcliff”. Suburban) 1882 Sands Sydney Rolleston, Chris, auditor general, Beulah, Campbell Alphabetical Directory Street. 1883 Sands Sydney Rolleston, C. Palmer St. Alphabetical Directory 1884 Sands Sydney Rolleston, C. “Northcliff” Alphabetical Directory 1885 Sands Sydney Rolleston, Christopher. Northcliff, Palmer st, St. L., E Alphabetical Directory 1885 Sands Sydney No listing for Gaden Charles Alphabetical Directory 1888 Sands Sydney Rolleston, Christopher, CMG, FRS. “Northcliff” Alphabetical Directory 1889 Sands Sydney Rolleston, Mrs Kate, “Northcliff” Alphabetical Directory 1890 Sands Sydney Gaden Charles W., manager Commercial Banking Co. Alphabetical Directory of Sydney, Ltd. (branch) 744 George st: pr., ‘Elsmere,’ Union st. Victoria 1890 Sands Alphabetical Rolleston Kate Mrs., ‘North Cliff,’ Palmer st. St. Directory Leonards east 1891 Sands Trades Directory No listing under dressmaker or auditor for Rollestons 1892 Sands Sydney Suburban Dind Street. Alfred street to Lavender bay. Directory Rolleston Mrs., “North cliff”. 1892 Sands Sydney Suburban Palmer street (now called Dind street) Off Alfred Directory street 1895 Sands Sydney Rolleston Mrs., Dind st, North Sydney
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Year Directory Listing Alphabetical Directory 1898 Sands Sydney Gullett H. “Northcliff” Alphabetical Directory 1899 Sands Sydney Dind Street. Alphabetical Directory 1 Sykes Frederick, W 7 Gullett H journalist, “Northcliff” 1900 Sands Sydney & Suburban Dind Street. Alfred street to Lavender bay. Gaden Directory Charles, “Northcliff” 1900 Sands Sydney & Suburban Gaden Charles W., manager Commercial Banking Co. Directory of Sydney, Ltd. (branch) 744 George st: pr., Dind st, N.Sydney 1901 Sands Sydney Gaden Charles, “Northcliff” Alphabetical Directory 1902 Sands Sydney Moir James, “Northcliff” Alphabetical Directory 1903 Sands Sydney Moir James, “Northcliff” Alphabetical Directory 1904 Sands Sydney Wood Harrie. J.P. , “Northcliff”. Alphabetical Directory Wood Fred, W. Solicitor, “Northcliff” 1905 Sands Sydney Gaden Charles W., J.P., manager Commercial Banking Alphabetical Directory Co. of Sydney, Ltd. (branch) 744 George st: pr., “Winburn,” Roslyn avenue 1905 Sands Sydney No listing for Page Miss Maud Alphabetical Directory 1905 Sands Sydney Wood Harrie. J.P., “Northcliff”. Alphabetical Directory Wood Fred, W. Solicitor, “Northcliff” 1906 Sands Sydney Dind Street (now called Palmer Street) Alphabetical Directory Palmer Street (late Dind Street) Wood Harrie. J.P., “Northcliff”. Wood Fred, W. Solicitor. 1907 Sands Sydney Dind Street Alphabetical Directory Wood Harrie. J.P., “Northcliff”. Wood Fred, W. Solicitor. 1908 Sands Sydney Dind Street. Alfred street to Lavender bay. Page Miss Alphabetical Directory Maud, “Northcliff” 1909 Sands Sydney Suburban Dind Street. Alfred street to Lavender bay. Page Miss Directory Maud, “Northcliff” 1910 Sands Sydney Page Miss Maud, Dind St, N. Sydney Alphabetical Directory 1910 Sands Sydney Gaden Charles W., J.P., manager Commercial Banking Alphabetical Directory Co. of Sydney, Ltd. (branch) 744 George st: pr., “Tidemere,” Bayview st, Lavender Bay 1914 Sands Sydney South Side. Page Miss Maud, “Northcliff” Alphabetical Directory North Side. Harrison Mrs Martha “Kiora” 1915 Sands Sydney South Side. Page Miss Maud, “Northcliff” Alphabetical Directory North Side. Harrison Mrs Martha “Kiora” 1916 Sands Sydney Page Miss Maud, “Northcliff”, Whale, W.H. Alphabetical Directory “Northcliff” 1917 Sands Sydney Page Miss Maud, “Northcliff”, Whale, W.H. Alphabetical Directory “Northcliff” 1918 Sands Sydney Page Miss Maud, “Northcliff”, Whale, W.H. Alphabetical Directory “Northcliff” 1919 Sands Sydney Dind Street. 34 Alfred to Lavender Bay. South Side. Alphabetical Directory Northcliff street. Page Miss Maud, Whale W.H. 1920 Sands Sydney Dind Street. 34 Alfred to Lavender Bay. South Side. Alphabetical Directory Northcliff street. Page Miss Maud, Whale W.H, De Alba Thomaso.
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Year Directory Listing 1921 Sands Sydney Dind Street. 34 Alfred to Lavender Bay. South Side. Alphabetical Directory Northcliff street. Page Miss Maud, Whale W.H, De Alba Thomaso. 1922 Sands Sydney Dind Street. 34 Alfred to Lavender Bay. South Side. Alphabetical Directory Northcliff street. Page Miss Maud, Whale W.H, De Alba Thomaso. 1923 Sands Sydney Dind Street. 34 Alfred to Lavender Bay. South Side. Alphabetical Directory Northcliff street. Page Miss Maud, Whale W.H, De Alba Thomaso, Janvrin D.C.M. 1924 Sands Sydney Dind Street. 34 Alfred to Lavender Bay. South Side. Alphabetical Directory Northcliff street. Page Miss Maud, Whale W.H, De Alba Thomaso, Janvrin D.C.M. 1925 Sands Sydney Dind Street. 34 Alfred to Lavender Bay. South Side. Alphabetical Directory Northcliff street. Page Miss Maud, Whale W.H, De Alba Thomaso, Janvrin D.C.M. 1926 Sands Sydney Dind Street. 34 Alfred to Lavender Bay. No content Alphabetical Directory under listing. 1927 Sands Sydney Dind Street. 34 Alfred to Lavender Bay. No content Alphabetical Directory under listing. 1928 Sands Sydney Dind Street. 34 Alfred to Lavender Bay. No content Alphabetical Directory under listing. 1929 Sands Sydney Dind Street. 34 Alfred to Lavender Bay. No content Alphabetical Directory under listing. 1930 Sands Sydney Dind Street. 34 Alfred to Lavender Bay. No content Alphabetical Directory under listing.
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Annex B
Northcliff House Resident's Biographies
The following bibliographies have been taken from the Australia Dictionary of Biography Online Edition, http://www.adb.online.anu.edu.au (24th August 2006).
Two known owners and/or tenant, respectively, of Northcliff House, Rolleston, Christopher (1817 - 1888) and Gullett, Henry (1837 - 1914), were listed. A further individual, Harrie Wood (1831-1917) was possibly a Northcliff resident. The full citations for each individual are provided below.
B.1 ROLLESTON, CHRISTOPHER (1817 - 1888)
Photograph B.1 Christopher Rolleston, undated. Image taken from State Library of NSW. Frame order no. : GPO 1 - 09461
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ROLLESTON, CHRISTOPHER (1817-1888), public servant, was born on 27 July 1817 at Burton-Joyce, Nottinghamshire, England, second son of John Rolleston, Anglican clergyman, and his wife Elizabeth, née Smelt. After working in a Liverpool mercantile house he went to Sydney and in 1838 bought land on the Allyn River near Paterson, where he farmed with his younger brother Philip. Lack of success led him to apply, through his father, for a government post and in December 1842 Governor Gipps, seeking only 'persons of very active habits … single men without encumbrance of any sort' as commissioners of crown lands, appointed Rolleston to the frontier district of Darling Downs. His activities as an autocrat on horseback pleased his Sydney superiors and the local squatters. He reported a 'decidedly hostile disposition towards European settlers' among Aboriginals, but later attributed better relations partly to his distribution of blankets, flour and tobacco in winter months. Granted leave of absence to visit England in 1853, he received a silver salver and 125 guineas from the squatters.
On 20 September 1854 at Foller, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, Rolleston married Katherine, daughter of William Leslie, ninth laird of Warthill, and sister of Patrick Leslie formerly of the Darling Downs. In December he brought her to Sydney, reputedly having declined the presidency of Montserrat, in the West Indies, and in January 1855 became the private secretary to the governor- general, Sir William Denison. On 10 December he was appointed registrar- general at a salary of £700 and in 1856 he launched the compulsory registration of births, deaths and marriages, based upon statistical principles introduced earlier in Victoria by W. H. Archer. The details required on the new registration forms put the records among the fullest and most useful in the world. Despite obstacles such as 'the indifference of our public men to statistical knowledge', he reported in 1857 that the new system was 'in easy and quiet operation'. Referring in his second report to persisting 'misapprehension', he argued that 'enlightened persons will not object to the apparent exposure of their family history when satisfied that the only object is the promotion of the public welfare, nor will they think inquiries impertinent which, although seemingly minute and unimportant, have been recommended by the united experience of the ablest statisticians in Europe'.
Influenced by the growing interest in science fostered by Denison, Rolleston joined the Philosophical (later Royal) Society of New South Wales in 1856 and was sometime treasurer, vice-president and president. He delivered papers and occasionally public lectures on the history of savings banks, statistics and sanitation, and contributed monthly figures on the 'Health of Sydney' to its journal. From 1858 his annual Statistical Register was published as a parliamentary paper. In evidence to a parliamentary select committee that year he recommended reforms in land title registration similar to those of R. R. Torrens and, after the 1862 Real Property Act, the new system devolved upon him.
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On 10 November 1864 Rolleston became auditor-general at a salary of £900. When the Audit Act was amended in 1870 his office became responsible to parliament alone and he asserted vigorously his duty 'to maintain a check upon the expenditure of the Government'. Though he retired in 1883 he was appointed in 1887 to the royal commission of inquiry into the civil service.
Capital acquired under his marriage settlement and his connexion with the Leslie family and vice-regal circles helped Rolleston in his financial dealings. From 1860, with Louis Hope and Alfred Denison, he acquired extensive runs in the Leichhardt district of Queensland centred upon his head station, Springsure, near the present town of Rolleston. He was a director of the European Assurance Society, the Mercantile Bank of Sydney and the Australian Gaslight Co. and vice-president of the Savings Bank of New South Wales. A magistrate from 1842, he was active in public affairs. He was superannuation fund commissioner, president of the 1869 imperial royal commission into alleged kidnapping of natives of the Loyalty Islands, a trustee of the Australian Club and an official trustee of the Australian Museum. A prominent Anglican layman he was on the Sydney diocesan synod. He also devoted much time to charity and was chairman of the Government Asylums Board for the Infirm and Destitute and a committee- man of the Institution for the Deaf and Dumb and the Blind. In 1872 he was elected to the Senate of the University of Sydney vice W. C. Wentworth. That year he sought in vain to become agent-general in London. In 1875 he was on the commissions for the Philadelphia International and Melbourne Intercolonial exhibitions, and next year attended Philadelphia as a representative commissioner.
Rolleston's career in the civil service was notable for his steady devotion to duty and his avoidance of political controversy. His work contributed to the orderly growth of responsible government in New South Wales. He was made C.M.G. in 1879. A pillar of the colonial community, he died on 9 April 1888 of chronic Bright's disease [a serious kidney disorder] at his home, Northcliff, Milsons Point, Sydney, survived by his wife and four of their six children and was buried in the Anglican cemetery, Willoughby. His estate was sworn for probate at £16,763.
Select Bibliography
Historical Records of Australia, series 1, vols 21-26; Reports of Registrar-General and Auditor-General, Votes and Proceedings (Legislative Assembly, New South Wales), 1856-83; Royal Society of New South Wales, Proceedings, 22 (1888); Town and Country Journal, 7 June 1879, 14 Apr 1888; Australasian, 14 Apr 1888; W. H. Archer papers (National Library of Australia); Leslie letters (State Library of Queensland); Henry Parkes letters (State Library of New South Wales); manuscript catalogue (State Library of New South Wales); run registers (Queensland State Archives); private information.
Author: Chris Cunneen
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Print Publication Details: Chris Cunneen, 'Rolleston, Christopher (1817 - 1888)', Australian Dictionary of Biography, Volume 6, Melbourne University Press, 1976, pp 55-56.
B.2 GULLETT, HENRY (1837 - 1914)
Photograph B.2 Henry Gullett, 1910. Image taken from the State Library of Victoria. Image Number: a15491
GULLETT, HENRY (1837-1914), journalist and politician, was born on 20 January 1837 at Newton-Bushell, near Teignmouth, Devon, England, eldest child of Henry Gullett, stonemason, and his wife Isabella, née Keats (who was a cousin of the poet). He was educated at sundry schools in London and the provinces, wherever his father found work, then did odd jobs and assisted his father. The family reached Melbourne in the Emigrant on 29 April 1853. Henry junior spent the next three years working as a mason and a goldminer, and in 1856 went to his father's small farm at Mount Macedon.
An omnivorous reader, Gullett sailed for England in July 1861 in a fruitless search for a literary career. He returned to Melbourne in February 1863 and was employed as a court reporter on the Argus by Edward Wilson. He represented the paper in Ceylon in 1869 and on his return to Melbourne next year became a sub-editor. At Williamstown on 25 November 1872 Gullett married his first cousin Lucinda (d.1900), née Willie. That year he became editor of the Australasian; his wife, under the pseudonym 'Humming Bee', contributed to its women's pages.
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In 1885 Gullett became associate editor of the Sydney Daily Telegraph, in which he had acquired an interest. In June 1890 he and its editor, F. W. Ward, now a close friend, resigned over the question whether the directors or the editors should determine policy. Gullett moved to the Sydney Morning Herald as associate editor. A free trader, he absorbed the ideas of his friend Sir Henry Parkes on Federation and combined them with his own belief in the iniquity of new States, outlined in his pamphlet, Tropical New South Wales (1887). In the 1890s Gullett fervently advocated Federation and supported a White Australia, better treatment of Aboriginals and rapid expansion of public works. Appointed acting editor of the Herald during the Constitution campaign of 1898, he gained much credit for the success of the referendum next year.
After his return from a tour of England in 1899, Gullett tried to retire from journalism but in 1901 was induced to edit the Daily Telegraph. By February 1903, when he finally retired, he was the largest shareholder in the Daily Telegraph Newspaper Co. Ltd, and remained a director until he was nominated to the Legislative Council in 1908. He attended regularly but he was nervous of making 'extempore speeches'; his only legislative contribution was the Defamation Amendment Act of 1909.
Gullett found writing difficult and his journalism was subdued and reflective. He had a literary outlet for his scholarly inclinations in the Shakespeare Society of New South Wales; its president in 1904-11, he published two booklets, the Making of Shakespeare and other papers (1905) and the Study of Shakespeare (1906). He was an enthusiastic member of the Sydney branch of the Royal Astronomical Society, a vice-president of the New South Wales Institute of Journalists and a director of the Mutual Life & Citizens Assurance Co. Ltd in 1908-14.
Placid and usually methodical, Gullett was rather dapper in appearance and enjoyed his large home and garden, Hindfell, Wahroonga, where he entertained often but quietly. He died there on 4 August 1914 and was buried in the Anglican section of Gore Hill cemetery. He was survived by four daughters including Dr Lucy Gullett and Amy, who married T. W. Heney, his successor at the Herald; Sir Henry Somer Gullett, was a nephew. His estate was valued for probate at £137,831. The Art Gallery of New South Wales holds his portrait by Julian Ashton.
Select Bibliography
C. B. Fletcher, The Great Wheel (Syd, 1940); R. B. Walker, The Newspaper Press in New South Wales, 1803-1920 (Syd, 1976); Daily Telegraph (Sydney), 5 Aug 1914; Sydney Morning Herald, 5, 15 Aug 1914; Henry Parkes letters (State Library of New South Wales); Henry Gullett papers (State Library of New South Wales).
Author: G. N. Hawker
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Print Publication Details: G. N. Hawker, 'Gullett, Henry (1837 - 1914)', Australian Dictionary of Biography, Volume 9, Melbourne University Press, 1983, p. 137.
B.3 WOOD, HARRIE (1831-1917)
WOOD, HARRIE (1831-1917), miner and civil servant, was born on 12 February 1831 at Kensington, London, son of William Alexander Wood, imperial public servant, and his wife Margaret Eleanor, née Hall. He arrived in Melbourne in the Admiral in November 1852, declined a position offered by Lieutenant-Governor La Trobe, and became a miner on various alluvial goldfields. In 1855-57 he worked in the Ballarat mines, and on 15 April 1858 he was appointed clerk of the new Ballarat Mining Board with salary of £150. In June 1861 he proposed to J. B. Humffray, commissioner of mines, a new system for administering surveys and claim registration and on 23 September 1861 he became district mining registrar for Ballarat. His recommendations on administrative reforms were almost wholly supported by the report of the 1862 royal commission on the gold fields. Wood was a founder of the Ballarat School of Mines in 1870 and was secretary of its first council and an honorary councillor. He also actively worked for the district hospital and the benevolent asylum.
On 27 October 1873 Wood was appointed to the New South Wales new Department of Mines with a roving commission to organize its administration. His reports of 1873 and 1874 criticized the procedures for surveying and registration of claims, and he made detailed suggestions for conducting the department and a school of mines. He was also anxious to amend the law to facilitate co-operation between capital and labour ventures unsuited to either individual miners or large companies; he hoped to remove existing antagonism between these groups. Helped by a private letter to (Sir) Henry Parkes from his friend Angus Mackay, Victorian minister of mines, Wood was appointed under-secretary for mines on 1 September 1874. Some politicians and civil servants alleged that the appointment of this 'new chum' was a 'scandalous abuse' by the government and would demoralize the civil service, but his capable and innovatory work soon silenced his critics. Wood's department grew steadily and acquired wider responsibilities in the next twenty years, with sheep and stock affairs, forests, rabbit extermination and public parks being added at various times. In 1891 it was reorganized as the Department of Mines and Agriculture and his responsibilities covered agricultural matters and the new Hawkesbury Agricultural College; in 1894 water conservation, irrigation and drainage were included.
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Wood served under twenty ministries and was untouched by recurring mining investigations and scandals. He was sympathetic, perhaps over generous, to his staff and protected them against outside pressure; his resulting lax control was criticized by the 1889 and 1895 royal commissions into the civil service. Opposed to an independent public service board, he told the 1895 commission that 'so-called political patronage' was not a problem, claiming that his ministers had never failed to adopt his staff recommendations. He retired on 5 March 1896 and set up in Sydney as a mining agent until 1909.
Wood was a member of the board for opening tenders for runs from 1880, a New South Wales commissioner for the Colonial and Indian Exhibition, London, 1886, and for the exhibitions in Adelaide in 1887 and Melbourne in 1888, and was chairman of the Prospecting Board. He had been a member of the Royal Society of New South Wales from 1873 and a foundation member in 1883 of the New South Wales branch of the Geographical Society of Australasia. He wrote on gold-mining in Victoria and New South Wales, revealing a fine grasp of detail and an independence of judgment on technical, legal and administrative matters; he contributed a major appendix, 'Notes on the Ballarat Goldfield' for R. Brough Smyth's The Gold Fields and Mineral Districts of Victoria (1869); and wrote two reports on gold-mining leases in New South Wales, 1873 and 1874; and Mines and Mineral Statistics of New South Wales, prepared for the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition, 1876.
Wood suffered from arteriosclerosis for ten years: he died of heart failure on 18 September 1917 at Cremorne, and was buried in the Presbyterian section of Gore Hill cemetery. He was survived by four sons and two daughters by his wife Ellen (Helen) Dalrymple, née Beattie, whom he had married at Carlton, Victoria, on 1 July 1868.
Select Bibliography
W. B. Withers, The History of Ballarat, 1st ed (Ballarat, 1870); Votes and Proceedings (Legislative Assembly, Victoria), 1862-63, 3 (10), 1871, 1 (10); Votes and Proceedings (Legislative Assembly, New South Wales), 1874, 1, 869, 1891- 92, 4, 1055, 1894-95, 3, 55; Sydney Morning Herald, 23 June 1874; Illustrated Sydney News, 14 Nov 1874; Town and Country Journal, 26 May 1888, 21 Mar 1896; Henry Parkes letters (State Library of New South Wales).
Author: Bruce Mitchell
Print Publication Details: Bruce Mitchell, 'Wood, Harrie (1831 - 1917)', Australian Dictionary of Biography, Volume 6, Melbourne University Press, 1976, pp 432-433.
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