Dreaming of a Great Kingdom? You might find a piece of it here at Mahratta. This grand estate stands as a testament to Sydney’s rich history. Mahratta began its life as part of a land grant to Thomas Hyndes. He was an emancipated convict.
Let’s step back in time to 1838. Governor Darling granted Hyndes 260 hectares. Hyndes worked the land and supplied timber to the colony. Later, John Brown bought the land for its timber. His expanding interests earned him the nickname “The Squire”.
In 1912, Gerald Allen purchased part of Brown’s land. He renamed it Mahratta after a sheep station. His grandfather had been an overseer there. The name Mahratta actually comes from the Sanskrit term Mahā Rāṣṭra. It means “The Great Kingdom or Nation.” Allen transformed the property into a Federation home. Architect Arthur Palin oversaw extensions and upgrades.
Then, in 1925, Allen hired garden designer Paul Sorensen. Sorensen laid out the 8-hectare garden. It featured a sunken rose garden and croquet court. Exotic trees were planted. These included Himalayan cedars and maples.
In 1930, Sir James Joynton Smith acquired Mahratta. He was a member of the NSW Legislative Council. He also owned the Carrington Hotel in Katoomba.
The Field family purchased Mahratta in 1939. T.A. Field demolished the old house in 1940. He then built the current mansion in 1941. Douglas S Agnew designed it in the Art Deco style. The curved staircase is a prime example of this.
After completion, Field brought Sorensen back. Sorensen extended the original garden design. He added a curving red gravel driveway. He also planted dawn redwoods and Japanese maples. These frame the entrance to Mahratta.
After Mr Field died, the Bank of NSW bought Mahratta in 1960. It became a training college for senior officers. Sorensen continued to develop the grounds. He maintained them to a very high standard.
Notably, the bank constructed the Abercrombie wing in 1964. This provided residential space.
Since 1990, the School of Philosophy has owned Mahratta. They use it for courses and events. The Friends of Mahratta was established in 2010. They raise funds for the property’s care.
Today, Mahratta stands as a heritage-listed site. It features a blend of architectural styles. Its gardens showcase Sorensen’s design expertise. The house and gardens are a testament to different eras. You can see Art Deco influences and classical elements.
Take a moment to appreciate the diverse trees. Notice the Himalayan cedars and Queensland firewheel trees. They are a part of Sorensen’s vision. Also, consider the meticulous care given to the gardens over the years. It maintains Mahratta’s cultural significance.
Mahratta remains an iconic landmark. It reflects Sydney’s history. It also embodies the vision of those who shaped it. As you leave Mahratta, remember its layers of history. From convicts to bankers to philosophers. Each has left its mark on this remarkable place.