The Randwick District Historical Society presents:
The Federation House Revealed: How it Really Came to Be
Join Mark Sabolch for a free history talk exploring the origins of the Federation period house in Sydney.
As Australia looks ahead to the 125th anniversary of Federation in 2026, this is the perfect time to rediscover the charm and significance of the Federation house – a defining feature of our national heritage. These much-loved homes are more than beautiful architecture; they are living reminders of a moment when Australia was shaping its identity.
Come along for an illustrated talk that explores the origins of the Federation period house in Sydney and traces its evolution from the ornate Victorian Italianate style. Learn how the social and cultural changes of the 1890s helped create a uniquely Australian architectural expression.
Art critic and former Glebe resident Bernard Smith first coined the term ‘Federation’ to describe this style, replacing the misleading ‘Queen Anne’. His insight helped redefine how Australians saw their own built environment and their place in history.
About the speaker
Mark Sabolch is a member of the Ashfield and District Historical Society and author of Hawthorne Canal: The History of Long Cove Creek. Recently, Mark has been researching the origins of the architectural house styles prevalent in Sydney’s inner west.
Event Details
When: Saturday, 21 February 2026 at 1.00 pm.
Where: Lionel Bowen Library, 669-673 Anzac Parade, Maroubra, NSW 2035.
Admission: Free. Bookings are essential. Book online.
For more information: randwickhistory@outlook.com
Presented by the Randwick District Historical Society in collaboration with Randwick City Library.
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