What if houses could whisper tales of their past? Cloncorrick in Darling Point is one such storyteller. It stands as a testament to Victorian Free Gothic architecture. This heritage-listed house has witnessed generations come and go. It’s a place of local historic significance in Sydney.
Cloncorrick was built in 1884. Sir George Bowen Simpson commissioned the build. He wanted a home reflecting grandeur and style. John Horbury Hunt designed it. Simpson named the house after Cloncorrick Castle in Ireland. His grandfather had once resided there.
Sir George Simpson was born in 1838 near Parramatta. He became a very successful lawyer. Later, he entered politics. He served in the New South Wales Legislative Council. In 1894, he became a judge of the Supreme Court. He was knighted in 1909. Sir George lived at Cloncorrick until his death in 1915.
His wife Martha continued to live at Cloncorrick. She had a keen interest in St Marks Church. After she died in 1933, a memorial plaque honored her and Sir George. It was erected at St Marks Church.
The Simpsons had two children. Sadly, both died young. Their grandson Julian Simpson inherited the estate. He sold Cloncorrick in 1934 to Esther Holt.
Esther Jane Holt was the widow of Walter Henry Holt. He was a wealthy pastoralist. Esther had four children. When she bought Cloncorrick, it was described as a grand residence. It featured wide verandahs and balconies. The house had a slate roof and brick construction. Inside were drawing, dining, and smoke rooms. It also had a sewing room. Upstairs were four bedrooms. The basement contained wine cellars and a kitchen.
Esther’s daughter Sophia lived with her at Cloncorrick. Esther died at Cloncorrick in 1948. She left a donation to St Marks Church.
Herbert William Lloyd became a resident of Cloncorrick. He was a major general. His wife, Meredith, died there in 1952. Herbert continued to live at the house after her death.
Cloncorrick stands as a dominant element in the landscape. It contributes strongly to the area’s character. The house has since been converted into two apartments. Yet, its historical and architectural significance remains. Cloncorrick is a tangible link to Darling Point’s past. It reminds us of the people who shaped its identity.