Maylands Lodge

JUST TURN UP, NO BOOKINGS REQUIRED!

Architect: Henry Hunter (1885-1887)

‘Maylands’, designed by renowned architect Henry Hunter, was built between 1885–87 for merchant John Pearce. Described at the time as “an imposing and stately edifice” in the Victorian Italianate style, it featured ornate stained glass, detailed cornices, and innovations such as gas chandeliers, electric bells, and a plumbed tank room. Around 70 tradesmen and contractors contributed, including P. Cronly (builder), Frederick Skeels (joinery), and Paton Bros. (ornate cornices).

The Pearce family lived there until 1910, when John’s widow Ellen sold the property. In 1912 it passed to Spencer Brownell of the well-known Brownell Bros. department store, whose family remained until 1924. It was then exchanged for the Hobart Girls’ Industrial School, which relocated from Davey Street. From 1924–45, around 36 girls at a time were trained in domestic work before the school transferred ownership to The Salvation Army in 1945.

John Pearce, remembered as cheerful and community-minded despite disability, was a warden at St John’s, New Town. His stamp collection funded a stained-glass memorial window at the church after his death in 1910.

Maylands remained a landmark of Tasmanian architecture and community life. After decades of institutional use, it was purchased in 2016 by the Gardner family, who undertook an 18-month restoration. Alan and Hazel Gardner, with sons Mark and Daniel and their partners, restored the property to its former grandeur — a labour of love and a tribute to the house’s rich history and craftsmanship.

Open: Saturday 8 November, 10am-2pm

Note: Shoe must be removed when visiting inside this house