Description
A very rare map showing the Sydney Harbour coast line from Darling Harbour to Elizabeth by Sir Thomas Mitchell (1792-1855). The maps focus is on the land grants and estates at Elizabeth Bay given to: Judge Wylde, Dr. Douglas, Busby, A.B. Sparks, Jn. Stephen, A.M. Baxter, W. Balcombe, Smith & Barker and A. Mcleay.
In 1826, Governor Darling granted 54 acres of land around Elizabeth Bay to his Colonial Secretary, Alexander Macleay, who conceived of building the finest house in the colony on a site with vistas across Sydney Harbour. Whilst plans for Elizabeth Bay House were made in 1832, its commencement was delayed until 1835 and then was not habitable until 1839. This delay was probably a result of the large expense incurred by Macleay in landscaping a celebrated garden. It was often referred to in colonial times as “the finest house in the colony”. `
Collections:
National Library Australia: Bib ID274974
State Library NSW: Call Number: Z/ Ca 83/ 7
