Ever since restoration work began at the over-150 year old building at 1 Lewis Street, Mudgee, locals have been keeping a watchful eye with many wanting to take a peak inside - well on Easter Saturday you'll get your opportunity.
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Built for the 1860s for the Dickson family, who were prominent merchants in the Mudgee district during the era, it last housed Tyrepower prior to going under the hammer in 2016.
David Mort said that part of the reason for holding an open day was that since construction began to convert the former warehouse into apartments, people have been wanting to see what it looks like inside.
It's also a chance to look outward as well, with the second storey windows providing a nice view over parts of the Mudgee CBD.
He added that he's also keen to hear any memories locals associate with the building.
"People around Mudgee always come out with stories like 'my grandfather used to work there', so we'll be very interested to hear any memories of the building as well," David said.
In spirit of 'everything old is new again', you can also see what your rare items are worth, with Antiques Roadshow style appraisals being done for a small donation to the National Trust Mudgee Branch.
They'll be performed by Brian Hobson of the Golden West Trading Post, whose interests are; local and Australian history; Australiana; cars and motorcycles; coins; silver; and ceramics.
Glory Days
An article published in 1864 in the Illustrated Sydney News was full of praise for the then-new local building:
"This establishment is situated...in the rising town of Mudgee and as an instance of the successful results of private energy and enterprise, will bear favourable comparison with similar business premises in any part of the colony.
"We notice with great pleasure the improved style of architecture which begins to obtain in our inland townships, and are glad to see premises which are at once ornamental and durable, superseding the more primitive structures of the interior."
The property is listed as a heritage item under Mid-Western Regional Council's Regional Local Environment Plan.
- 1 Lewis Street, Mudgee will be open to the public Saturday, April 20, 2019, between 9am and 1pm.
[Please note that 1A Lewis Street will not be open].