Overlooking the glistening waters of Elizabeth Bay stands Tresco a majestic Victorian Italianate villa. This isn’t just a house it’s a living testament to Sydney’s rich history. Tresco’s story begins long before its construction in 1867. The land was originally inhabited by the Cadigal people. Then in 1831 it became part of a vast estate belonging to Alexander Macleay Colonial Secretary of New South Wales. He built Elizabeth Bay House a grand mansion on the property. Macleay’s financial woes led to the estate’s sale. Macleay Point was subdivided in 1865. Thomas Rowe a prominent architect and builder secured lot 48. He designed and built Tresco completing it in 1868.
Rowe was no ordinary architect. He was an alderman on the Sydney City Council the first mayor of Manly and a founder of the Institute of Architects in NSW. His name lives on in Rowe Street Sydney. Rowe resided in Tresco until 1876. He named his sons after famous figures including Christopher Wren Rowe and Leonardo Rowe showing his sense of wit. The house itself is a masterpiece. Its sandstone facade boasts a hipped slate roof. Inside ornate cedar joinery graces the 13 rooms. Large living rooms such as the dining drawing and billiard rooms open onto a verandah overlooking the bay. The original design is early Victorian with Italianate features such as the entrance portico.
George Westgarth acquired Tresco in 1880. He made substantial additions including an extensive east wing. He also shaped the gardens creating a summerhouse fernery boathouse and boat pound features still present today. The property’s waterfront location is stunning. The site includes a terraced garden with mature fig trees including three impressive Moreton Bay figs. One of these is a magnificent specimen visible from many points around Rushcutters Bay. The garden also holds a carob bean tree possibly the oldest in Australia. A testament to the time and care that has gone into Tresco.
In 1902 the Crown acquired Tresco. For 94 years it served as the official residence for senior naval officers. During this time the property underwent minor modifications. It was restored in 1991 to 1997. Tresco’s history is intertwined with Australia’s naval past. It served as the official residence of the Flag Officer-in-Charge of the Royal Australian Navy. Today privately owned Tresco stands as a unique blend of history architecture and natural beauty a fascinating piece of Sydney’s vibrant past.