Rupertswood, the home of the Ashes to open for Open House Melbourne weekend
AUSTRALIA’S summers Ashes campaign might be in doubt, but cricket fans can get to see the birthplace of one of sport’s most famous trophies this weekend.
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THE birthplace of one of sport’s most famous trophies and one of Victoria’s most beautiful buildings will be open to the public this weekend as part of Open House Melbourne.
Rupertswood Mansion will be available for the public to tour on Sunday and is primarily renowned as the first place to witness a handing over of the Ashes urn.
● Woodlands Homestead opens doors for Open House Melbourne weekend
Famously holding the burnt remains of cricket bails, the urn was presented to England captain Ivo Bligh on the Rupertswood grounds in 1883.
Commissioned by landowner Sir William Clarke in 1874, the mansion was the jewel in a glorious estate and included 50 rooms, a tower and a ballroom.
Sir William’s eldest son Rupert christened the estate in his own name when he broke a champagne bottle over the foundation stone.
Salesian College purchased the property in 1927 and it has since been used for administration and functions.
“Take this rare opportunity to build your knowledge about Melbourne’s history, be inspired around the architecture and step back in time,” Salesian College Acting Principal Angela Romano said.
Fans of another sport can enjoy a tour of Woodlands Historic Homestead, with Living Legends, the “retirement home” for such Melbourne Cup winners, Might And Power, Rogan Josh, Efficient and Brew, along with other national and international racing champions.
Living Legends chief executive Andrew Clarke said the homestead, dating back to the 1840s, is one of the earliest standing homesteads built in the Greenvale area.
Woodlands Historic Homestead, 207 Oaklands Rd, is open to the public on July 29-30 from 10am-4pm.
Rupertswood will be open from 1-4pm on Sunday, July 30.
To view the other Open House Melbourne events visit openhousemelbourne.org.
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