Oak Lodge

BOOKINGS OPEN AT 12 PM ON THURSDAY, 8 FEBURARY 2024

Architect/s: Unknown (1831-1842)

Builder/s: James & Henry Buscombe. The Buscombes referenced architectural pattern books in designing their buildings.

Oak Lodge was built by James and Henry Buscombe – known as ‘Richmond’s builders’ – who were prominent businessmen and developers responsible for several key local structures in the district. Oak Lodge served as the residence for Henry Buscombe, until purchased by Captain James and Jane Boothe in 1843.

The Georgian-style, two-story sandstone main house, with basement and attic levels, stands as a well-preserved example of Colonial-era architecture. Following the Boothes, Oak Lodge accommodated various owners and tenants, hosting businesses including a doctors’ surgery, Anglican rectory, and a school.

The property maintains a high level of integrity, with visible traces of past alterations, including the markings of a removed verandah. A doctor’s surgery was added to the eastern side in 1900. The outer garden perimeter houses a stable with original pit-sawn timbers, a gable roof and a loft floor, while a coach house was lost to wild winds in the mid-twentieth century. The garden, rich with fruit trees, reveals historical herb beds used by Dr. Clark for medicines.

Sisters Muriel, Constance and Margaret Horsfall purchased Oak Lodge in 1962, residing there for about 30 years before Muriel gifted it to the National Trust in 1998. Managed by the Coal River Valley Historical Society, Oak Lodge offers public access, showcasing its historical significance and maintaining a local history archive.

Open: Saturday 24 & Sunday 25 February 2024, 10 am – 4 pm

Please note this building is now a general open – no tours. We apologies for any inconvenience. 

Access: Enter via steps, building has several levels, including a steep staircase. Please be mindful of trip hazards on the cobbled-stone garden paths, also, slippery when wet.