The Parsonage

The Parsonage building front

Style

Victorian Italianate dwelling

Year started

1884

Year renovated

1997

About The Parsonage

ln March 1883, the Wesleyan Church purchased the lot on which The Parsonage stands. The minister, Reverend Davis, moved in during February/March 1885.

The building cost £2,000 and David Hartland, one of the stonemasons engaged in the construction, lived in the nearby Westward Cottage whilst undertaking the project.

The Parsonage was the family home of the minister, a hostel for lay preachers and visiting clergy, and an administrative office for the circuit, the area covered in the ministry of the church. 

The building's original presentation was to Devlin Street with a formal garden. However, the gradual development of Devlin Street as a major transport route required road realignment and widening that eventually turned the building's presentation towards Turner Street.

The Wesleyan Church sold The Parsonage following the establishment of the Uniting Church. The RTA, now part of Transport for NSW, purchased the property ahead of works to construct the Victoria Road Underpass in Devlin Street. ln 1992, it was no longer required and offered for sale.

The City of Ryde purchased it and undertook urgent remedial works, including:

  • stabilising and waterproofing the external fabric including the roof
  • removing poorly constructed extensions
  • rectifying fire and vandal damage
  • reconstructing verandas
  • and restoring the interior staircase.

It is now used by Macquarie Community College and International School of Music Ryde.

Location

12 Turner Street, Ryde 2112  View Map

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