Ewelme Cottage

Tucked away in the leafy suburb of Parnell, Auckland, Ewelme Cottage offers visitors a rare glimpse into 19th-century colonial life. This beautifully preserved historic house, built in 1863, is a time capsule of early Auckland, with nearly all its original furnishings and artifacts intact. Stepping through its doors feels like stepping into the past, making it a must-visit for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone curious about New Zealand’s colonial heritage.

A Historic Gem: The Story of Ewelme Cottage 📜

Ewelme Cottage was originally built by Reverend Vicesimus Lush and his wife Blanche. Designed in a charming English cottage style, the home has remained in the family for over a century, passing through generations before being gifted to the New Zealand Historic Places Trust (now Heritage New Zealand). What’s truly unique about Ewelme is that the majority of its contents—from furniture to personal items—are original, offering a deeply authentic view of 19th-century colonial life in Auckland. 🏠✨

Step Inside: A Peek into Victorian Colonial Life 🎩

1. Authentic Interiors
   As you walk through the cottage, you’ll see rooms frozen in time, complete with the original furniture, books, and even clothing of the Lush family. The sitting room, with its lace curtains and hand-carved chairs, reflects the Victorian style, while the bedrooms retain a simple yet charming elegance. Even the smallest details, like vintage china in the kitchen or handwritten letters on desks, give you a tangible connection to the past. It’s like being transported into the everyday life of a 19th-century Auckland family. 🛏️📚
2. The Library
   One of the highlights of Ewelme Cottage is its remarkable library, which contains over 2,000 original books—many belonging to Reverend Lush himself. The collection includes religious texts, classic literature, and personal journals, providing insight into the intellectual and spiritual life of the family. For book lovers, this room is a fascinating treasure trove! 📖📚
3. Gardens with a History
   Surrounding the cottage is a lovely heritage garden, carefully maintained to reflect the style of the Victorian era. Walking through the garden, you can imagine the Lush family tending to their flowers and fruit trees, which still bloom today. The peacefulness of the garden adds to the cottage’s charm, making it a perfect spot to relax after your tour. 🌷🌳

Architectural Charm: A True Colonial Cottage 🏡

The architecture of Ewelme Cottage reflects its colonial roots, with simple wooden construction, a steeply pitched roof, and charming sash windows. The house is built from local timber and designed to maximize natural light. Its size and design were typical of homes built by middle-class settlers in the 19th century. Walking around the outside, you can appreciate how the cottage blends into the lush, green surroundings of Parnell, making it feel like a true hidden gem in the middle of the city. 🪟🌳

Living History: The Lush Family Legacy 👪

Reverend Vicesimus Lush, the original owner, was a prominent figure in early Auckland, serving as a clergyman and community leader. His diaries, which are part of the cottage’s historical collection, provide a fascinating glimpse into the social and religious life of the time. Ewelme remained a private family home for over 100 years, with each generation leaving its mark, yet keeping the house largely unchanged. Today, the cottage is a museum, preserving the legacy of both the Lush family and Auckland’s colonial history. 🖋️🏛️

A Unique Visitor Experience 🎟️

Ewelme Cottage is open to the public for tours, offering a unique opportunity to see a historic home that has remained almost entirely unaltered for over 150 years. Knowledgeable guides are available to provide insights into the family’s history, the architecture, and the artifacts on display. The cottage also hosts special events and heritage days, allowing visitors to experience colonial life through re-enactments and hands-on activities.

Tips for Visiting Ewelme Cottage

• When to Visit: Ewelme Cottage is open to visitors on Sundays, or by appointment during the week. Check the Heritage New Zealand website for any special events or guided tour schedules. 🗓️🏡
• Getting There: Located in Parnell, the cottage is just a short drive or bus ride from Auckland’s city centre. It’s close to Parnell Rose Gardens and other local attractions, so you can make a day of exploring the historic area. 🚗🌹
• What to Bring: Bring a camera to capture the charming interiors and exteriors, but be respectful of the fragile artifacts. 📸

A Journey into Auckland’s Past 📜

Visiting Ewelme Cottage is like stepping into a different time. With its beautifully preserved rooms, fascinating artifacts, and charming Victorian garden, it offers an intimate glimpse into Auckland’s colonial past. Whether you’re a history lover or simply looking for a quiet, educational escape, this hidden gem in Parnell is well worth the visit.