Tasmania is renowned for the rich heritage of historic buildings but even by Tasmania’s standards the Manse, built in the early 1840′s from convict bricks in Old Colonial Regency style, the architectural style is rare and significant. The notable building is single storey with a hipped roof, subtle pilasters and horizontal banding on the faade, three multi-paned windows and a dormer window. Unusual for the period, the building is sited well back from the road providing a front garden and privacy for the residence. The original fifteen paned windows are generous and well positioned and throw wonderful light into the well proportioned rooms.
Enter by the six panel Cedar side door with fan light and the impression is one of harmony and originality; it is the perfect property to showcase a treasure-trove of early furniture, artwork and collectables. The accommodation is generous with an elegant sitting room, lounge and adjoined dining room, separate kitchen with access to the original cellar, two double bedrooms (one bedroom is currently being used as a library) and a bathroom. Upstairs are two double bedrooms, recently upgraded bathroom and storage area. The property has been upgraded to provide modern comforts within the heritage framework while maintaining a simple rural aesthetic.
The property sits on the original grant of 4262 square metres with a mature garden to the rear of the home and falls away in a gentle sloping paddock to the Green Ponds Rivulet. There is an old stable in the paddock and sheep that belong to a neighbour graze the area. Kempton is approximately 40 minutes north of Hobart.
The Manse was built for Reverend Joseph Beazley, the first minister of the Congregational Church in the Green Ponds area before the township was named Kempton. Letters were found at the property along with other correspondence including minutes of meetings and tickets to local social events. Copies are available.