Bishopscourt

In the heart of East Melbourne, an elegant mansion stands as a testament to time and tradition. Bishopscourt has witnessed the ebb and flow of Melbourne’s history since 1853. Bishopscourt is the official residence of the Anglican Archbishop of Melbourne. It’s also the last intact urban estate within the city. The story of Bishopscourt begins with Bishop Charles Perry, Melbourne’s first Anglican Bishop. He arrived in 1848 and initially resided at the Southern Cross Hotel. He then moved to a cottage on Superintendent La Trobe’s property. The government allocated funds and land for a bishop’s residence in 1848. Construction of Bishopscourt began. The design was a collaborative effort by architects Newsom & Blackburn, drawing inspiration from Rosedale homestead in Van Diemen’s Land. However, the gold rush and the Black Thursday bushfires significantly delayed the project and inflated the cost. The bluestone walls were left exposed due to budget overruns. The Perrys finally moved into Bishopscourt in late 1853. The house featured a charming Italianate tower and a verandah overlooking the sprawling lawns. It was a “roomy and comfortable” dwelling, offering a welcome respite from the scorching Australian summers. Bishopscourt’s garden was designed in the Gardenesque style, featuring a beautiful array of trees, some dating back to the late 1800s. These include English Elms, a Port Jackson Fig, an Italian Cypress, Monterey Cypresses, a River Red Gum, and Dutch Elms. From 1874 to 1876, Bishopscourt served as Victoria’s Government House. It was home to Governor Sir George Bowen and Acting Governor Sir William Stawell. In 1902, the house underwent significant renovations and expansions, including the addition of the red brick wing in the Queen Anne style. This expansion featured the chapel, dedicated to St. John the Evangelist. The chapel was enriched with donations from various bishops, symbolizing the collective effort and devotion to this sacred space. Bishopscourt has seen several restorations throughout the years, ensuring its preservation for generations to come. Today, it remains a vital center for the Anglican community in Melbourne. It stands as a symbol of faith, resilience, and the enduring legacy of Melbourne’s past.