Cleveland House

Did Daniel Cooper ever imagine his grand house would become a hospital, a convent, and even a cordial factory? Cleveland House, tucked away in Surry Hills, has witnessed a fascinating array of transformations. This grand two-story stucco building, resting on sturdy stone foundations, whispers tales of Sydney’s vibrant past. Cleveland House dates back to 1823. It was built for Daniel Cooper, a prominent merchant who had once been a convict. The design is attributed to the renowned architect Francis Greenway, showcasing the elegant Colonial Georgian style. Cooper, having earned his pardon and built a thriving business empire, spared no expense. He invested a hefty £4,000 in the construction, a testament to his newfound prosperity. The Coopers moved into Cleveland House in 1825. Their stay was short-lived, however. By 1829, the couple had separated, and the house was rented out to provide income for Mrs. Cooper. Over the years, Cleveland House served as a residence for various families, a school, and even housed a government labor bureau. The rise of industry in the surrounding area, spurred by the construction of Redfern terminus, forever altered Surry Hills. The once picturesque village transformed into a densely populated suburb, and Cleveland House bore witness to this shift. In the mid-1870s, the outbuildings became home to Barrett’s cordial factory. The property then passed into the hands of the Order of the Sisters of the Good Samaritan in 1903. They established a refuge and convent, constructing a four-story building alongside the original house. The refuge later evolved into a home for elderly women. The Franciscan Missionaries of Mary continued this service after purchasing the property in 1946. Later, the NSW Society for Crippled Children transformed the 1904 refuge building into a hospital and clinic. Cleveland House itself served administrative purposes. Today, Cleveland House stands solitary, the outbuildings long gone, replaced by a modern apartment complex. The house’s exterior shows signs of its age. Peeling paint, crumbling columns, and boarded-up windows hint at its storied past. Despite its current state of disrepair, Cleveland House remains a rare survivor. It whispers tales of Sydney’s evolution from a colonial outpost to a bustling metropolis. It is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of a building that has served its community in countless ways.