Take a glimpse into the history of domestic interiors and artefacts of houses in the Eurobodalla.
This wonderful exhibition uses the collection from the historical Presbyterian Manse in Moruya, and MDHS historical collections as a touch-stone to rediscover the domestic life of families in local homes.
Peter Freeman, local heritage architect and author , recognised the significance of this humble but elegant Georgian cottage built in 1865, and restored the former manse as part of Sydney Living Museums’ Endangered Houses Program. Peter wrote a book The Wallpapered Manse, about the restoration of the home , its finishes and its treasures. The book was released in 2013, and was shortlisted for the 2014 NSW Premier’s History Community Awards, a considerable achievement in the field of community history.
The exhibition, full of exquisite wallpapers from the 1860s through to more the modern designs of the 1930s; as well as linoleum from the same early time through to some very familiar ‘modern’designs’, is a real snapshot into interior decoration through the decades from the late colonial period onwards.
These artefacts, together with the considerable domestic collection held by the Society, help tell the story of domestic life in Moruya.
This exhibition, which opened on 18 March, has been extended and will now close on 30 April. If you haven’t already seen the exhibition make sure you do. It is well worth the visit!
Group bookings
Group bookings are available. Groups will be guided by local architects, Peter Freeman and Tonique Bolt. Morning or afternoon teas (using recipes from our cookbook collection) are also available at an extra cost. The cost/group will be determined by the number in the group and if catering is required.
If you are interested in making a booking for your group or society please :
1. Contact The museum’s curator on secretary@mdhs.org.au
Please mark the subject line: Manse Group Visits
OR
2. Complete and submit this online EXPRESSION OF INTEREST.

Mr Freeman has brought to life the story of the early Presbyterian church and its characters, such as the Reverend J D Murray, whose photo appears in the Bay Post’s online photo-gallery, along with snippets of wallpaper and historical buildings.















Behind the scenes
The collection team:






The following three recipes were taken from cookbooks from the early 1900s. The recipes from Sarah Anderson’s book were made and eaten at the opening. PS The coconut ice was a real favourite for many!
Downloadable recipes:
Please download a recipe by clicking on its name
Sarah Anderson’s Coconut Ice Recipe
Sarah Anderson’s Paradise Cake Recipe
Carolyn James’s Chocolate Nut Cake Recipe
If you haven’t seen the exhibition please make sure to find the time!
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