“Experiment in self-sufficiency” Ruse called it. This is Experiment Farm Cottage. It is more than just a building. It represents a pivotal moment in Australia’s colonial history. We are standing on the lands of the Burramatta Dharug people. This site marks the first land grant in Australia. Governor Phillip made it to former convict James Ruse in 1790.
Ruse had worked on the Government Farm at Rose Hill. In 1789 he requested land from Governor Phillip. He wanted to farm for himself. The Governor granted him one and a half acres. It was an experiment in self-sufficiency. By 1790 Ruse had successfully farmed wheat and maize. He also established a kitchen garden. He proved a new settler could feed his family. They could also shelter with little assistance. Phillip kept his word. He granted Ruse 30 acres of land.
Later, Surgeon John Harris purchased the land in 1793 for £40. The Indian-style bungalow you see today is thought to have been built around 1835. It is one of Australia’s oldest standing properties. Conrad Martens featured it in an 1837 sketch and watercolour.
The cottage reflects the home of Surgeon Harris. It features pieces from the National Trust’s collection. They showcase early colonial furniture. It is the largest collection of its kind in Australia. In 2000, the National Trust landscaped the grounds. They used early paintings and plant catalogues. They recreated an authentic setting for Experiment Farm Cottage. In 2023, additional work restored the view to the creek.
Experiment Farm Cottage opened as a house museum in July 1963. It was the first of its kind dedicated to Australian colonial furniture. It became a blueprint for house museums across Australia.
Harris, born in County Londonderry, Ireland, had a varied career. He spent at least ten years in the Navy as a surgeon’s mate. He sailed in New South Wales in his own 21-foot wherry. He served as an officer in the New South Wales Corps. He also functioned as a lawyer. As a public servant, he was head policeman. As a naval port officer, he was a tax man and a government spy. He displayed skills as an architect and design engineer. He oversaw construction of the government schooner “Integrity.” He also built the Sydney Court House. Harris constructed the first two-story verandahed house in the colony. He imported deer from India as hunt quarry.
The cottage’s form originated in Bengal, India. British officers used these dwellings while on service there. They incorporated offices into the plan. Builders used traditional Indian strategies to respond to climatic conditions. The bungalow as adopted by the British was characterised by a pitched thatched roof. It had a verandah and a raised base platform.
The property remained in the Harris family until 1921. The land was then subdivided. This created the suburb of Harris Park. The National Trust acquired the site in 1961. The Women’s Committee raised the funds. Experiment Farm Cottage was the first property the National Trust acquired. They restored and furnished the cottage. It was then opened to the public.
Experiment Farm Cottage stands as a reminder. It marks early colonial life and agricultural innovation. It also reflects the ambition of a new colony. Take a moment to appreciate the stories held within these walls. Consider the lives of those who shaped this place. Their experiment changed Australia.