John and Elizabeth Macarthur: The First Residence

Site History.

The first part of the Camden Estate was granted to John Macarthur in 1805. During his absences from NSW, his wife, Elizabeth Macarthur was responsible for the management and development of the property. When visiting Camden, she first lived in the “small miserable hut”, as described during a visit in 1810 by Governor Macquarie. Later, in 1815, her residence there was described as a cottage, suggesting expansion or replacement of the original building. In 1821, Belgenny Cottage was constructed as their main residence at Camden. Nonetheless, a painting by Conrad Martens, dated to 1835-1836, and an estate plan of the 1840s show the potential site of the original buildings. At Camden, we can see the progression from humble hut to country house, the goal of all English gentlemen, even when transplanted to the Antipodes. At Camden we can visit the later residences, including Belgenny Cottage (1821) and Camden House(1834), but the site of the first humble dwelling does not survive. The initial test-excavation will seek to identify the exact location of the original hut or cottage. The recovery of occupation material will assist in dating the building sequence and provide a glimpse of the lifestyle of the occupants, together with the usage of the buildings.

(Sourced from Edward Higginbotham & Associates Pty. Ltd. Excavation infomation sheet)

To view more infomation regarding the site of the Macarthurs' first residence, please follow the link the the Belgenny Farm webpage.

A short history is also available about the site, with maps of the site as well as a Conrad Martin watercolour painting, Strength of Spirit: pioneering women of achievement from First Fleet to Federation, which outlines the scenic area in which the Macarthurs took residence.

 08-08-25 Pamphlet 01-1.doc Please feel free to read the pamphlet about the "small miserable hut"