“The Briars” is a stunning residence with strong local history. It was acquired by local solicitor Edward Jones Tucker in 1883, with extensive additions and redecoration about a quarter of a century later. EJ Tucker is well known in the region as local patron, several times Strathalbyn mayor and as the longest practicing solicitor in the state at his death in 1939. He rode his horse to district court ranging from Yankalilla to Meninge, undoubtedly making good use of the early built historic stables at the rear of the property. He is buried at the family estate at Sandergrove. The Briars passed to EJ’s son Howard Erskine Tucker in 1940, and remained the Tucker family residence until purchased by the current owners in 1993.

The Federation style front extension had no expense spared with fastidious attention to decorative detail influenced by Art Nouveau style. This style is evident in the extensive leadlight around the solid cedar front door and in the three sets of French doors, tiled fireplaces and ornate woodwork. The remainder of the house was redecorated contemporaneously. The wallpaper (Morris style in areas) and unique friezes remain in situ.

The property, set on approximately 1580m2, currently presents as a five bedroom home all with fireplaces and oversized timber windows. The walk-in robes to three of the bedrooms would have been incredibly avant-garde in the 1800′s.

The north facing study is a pleasant reading-room with timber French doors opening to the wide verandah, easy access for a home office.

Servant bells in the front rooms speak of a time gone by. The main board located just outside the kitchen is now silent. A service bench located in the hall adjacent the walk-in linen cupboard conjures notions of behind the scenes work folding laundry or serving meals.

Slate flooring is a feature of the slightly upgraded kitchen, where the wood stove remains, although not in working order. A lovely little paneled window opens to the rear yard.

The large cellar, ideal for wine and food storage is reached by steps just outside the kitchen.

On the grounds, the hand hewn timber slabs and hand-made nails of the coach house pay homage to the very early architecture of the region and probably pre-date the formal building. Cobblestone flooring and thatched roofing are testament to pioneering settlement. This incredible piece of history remains functional.

A magnificent solidly built house of substantial proportions, the structural and decorative integrity of The Briars has been maintained. There have been no walls removed or internal remodeling but as part of its maintenance and protection the house has had the roof, wiring (underground three phase) and plumbing replaced and updated.

It is unusual for a house of this proportion to avoid the interval layers of mission brown or the ubiquitous thick white plastic paint of previous fashions.

This sale truly presents a rare opportunity.