Newstead House

“The oldest surviving home in Brisbane.” That’s quite a claim to fame, isn’t it? And here it stands before us: Newstead House. Newstead House started its life in 1846, as a much smaller, simpler home. It was built for Patrick Leslie, a Scottish settler. However, he didn’t stay long. Newstead House was soon snapped up by Captain John Wickham, his brother-in-law. Wickham was a prominent figure, serving as the Police Magistrate and Government Resident. Over the years, Newstead House has seen its fair share of residents. One notable occupant was George Harris, a merchant and Member of the Queensland Legislative Council. He and his wife, Jane, called Newstead House home for an impressive 27 years. During their time, they transformed the house into the grand Victorian-style residence you see today. In 1898, Newstead House faced a near-death experience. The Lysaght Brothers, known for their iron and wire fencing, bought the property with plans to demolish it and build a factory. Thankfully, an agricultural downturn put those plans on hold, and Newstead House was spared. Finally, in 1918, the Brisbane City Council stepped in and saved Newstead House from any future threats. Today, Newstead House stands as a testament to Brisbane’s past. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives and times of the city’s early European settlers.