Overview

Open to view is the well known 1870’s Grossmann and Brough Houses featuring new exhibits in the Costume Display Room, the Cecily Mitchell Room and the upper level hostel area of Brough House.

Focusing on the Grossmann Edwardian period, find exquisite fine silk and lace gowns worn at the wedding of Alfred Stanley Challen and Olive Mary Probert at Brixton Hill, Surry, England on 29th April 1905 before they emigrated to Australia and lived in High Street, Newcastle. The couple had three daughters Olive Donald, Constance Earp and Lily Carr. Grossmann and Brough Houses would love to hear from any descendants. This paid one hour tour begins at 10.30am, with the final tour finishing at 3.00pm.

In Brough House, return to the period from 1919 to 1969, when the hostel was home during weekdays for students of Grossmann Girls’ High School who lived out of the immediate Maitland area. Take a walk back in time and inspect the communal shower area, which has many toiletry items from that era. A wide range of supporting photographs and storyboards are on show on the ground level. This is a free exhibition, but donations would be greatly appreciated to assist with the maintenance of these wonderful Victorian residences.

In the lovely garden area, homemade refreshments and Mrs Beckett’s Kitchen preserves are available for purchase.

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