Mongoola was built around 1882 for John Chard, the then District Surveyor and his wife Annie Markham, daughter of Dr Thomas Markham, one of the first doctors in Armidale. Markham Street is of course named in his honour.

The house faces north toward the CBD and the entrance was originally from the corner of Mann and Faulkner Streets in a sweeping driveway up to the home. Some remnants of that driveway edging still exist in the yard. The stables were located on the corner of Faulkner and Reginald Avenue(lane).

The home would have been originally constructed as a 3 bedroom residence with associated out-buildings. Initial and very sympathetic extensions were undertaken in 1900 and again in 1937.

Further extensive renovations of Mongoola began in 1984 with new electrical wiring, iron roof, ornate ceilings, carpeting, stripping back of cedar architraves, mantel pieces and doors. The 4 original fireplaces remain as do the chimney pots. Subsequent owners have continued the renovation process including a complete internal repaint, new curtains throughout and a Farmers kitchen and European appliances and stone bench tops to produce the magnificent house we see today.

The house comprises 4 bedrooms, drawing room, dining room, lounge room, large country kitchen and 3 bathrooms. In addition, there is a fully self contained guest suite with a kitchen, lounge room and bedroom. Further, ducted reverse cycle air-conditioning and heating, selected underfloor heating and a back to base alarm system have all been installed.

The extensively landscaped grounds of more than 1/2 acre include many rare and unusual plants. The magnificent palisade fencing with automatic gates is a real feature. The gardens offer many opportunities for privacy and outdoor entertaining. An automated watering system has been installed. The property also offers multi car garaging with auto doors and a workshop.

Properties like “Mongoola” are rare and tightly held. The opportunity to secure one of Armidale’s most desirable residences should not be missed by anyone seeking an historic home of grand proportions.