Located in Waverley in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs is ‘Edina’, one of the grandest private houses surviving in Sydney from the late Victorian era. A central feature of the War Memorial Hospital, few people are nevertheless aware that it exists. A historical gem, it is hiding in plain sight.

The RAHS is pleased to provide a rare opportunity for members to have a private viewing of this grand building in a two-hour tour by Michael Waterhouse, author of the new book Family, Faith and Fortune in Victorian Sydney. The Edina Estate.

‘Edina’ was home to three generations of a wealthy, religious family. As well as its glorious exterior and ornamental gardens, many of Edina’s interior features are well preserved. Michael will discuss these and provide insights into the lifestyle of the families, including 24 children, who lived on the estate prior to ownership being transferred to the Methodist Church in 1922.

About the presenter: Michael Waterhouse has held senior positions in the Commonwealth Treasury and as an executive in Westpac and has written extensively on the Australian financial system and on historical subjects, including a book on New Guinea between the Wars. He is descended from Ebenezer and Jeanie Vickery who built ‘Edina’ and has accumulated many photos taken of the estate in the 1890s. He’s a former Chair of Edina Aged Care. Professor E G (Gowrie) Waterhouse of ‘Eryldene’, Michael’s great uncle, was one of the many children who grew up on the estate and he encountered his first camellias there.

Accessibility: Due to the number of stairs, accessibility is limited.