Mulberry Hill (Langwarrin South, Victoria) facts for kids
Mulberry Hill is a special old house in Langwarrin South, Victoria, Australia. It's known as a "heritage-listed" place, which means it's important to history. This house was the home of a famous writer named Joan Lindsay and her husband, Sir Daryl Lindsay. They lived there from 1926 until 1984. When Joan Lindsay passed away, she gave Mulberry Hill to the National Trust. The National Trust looks after important places. Today, you can visit Mulberry Hill because it's open to the public.
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The Story of Mulberry Hill
Mulberry Hill is a two-story house. It is made of wood, called weatherboard, and has a roof made of tiles. The house started as a small cottage built in the 1880s.
Designing the House
Daryl Lindsay first started to design the house himself. He used the old cottage as a base. The front rooms of the cottage became his art studio. Later, in 1926, the Lindsays hired a well-known architect named Harold Desbrowe-Annear. He helped them finish the house. He designed it in the "American Colonial" style. This style often includes classic, simple shapes and designs.
Life at Mulberry Hill
The Lindsays lived happily at Mulberry Hill for many years. However, during a tough time called the Great Depression, they faced money problems. The Great Depression was a period in the 1930s when many people lost their jobs and money. Because of this, the Lindsays had to rent out their house. They moved to a simpler home in Bacchus Marsh until their money situation got better.
A Famous Book is Born
After their financial problems improved, the Lindsays moved back to Mulberry Hill. It was here, in 1967, that Joan Lindsay wrote her most famous book. It was called Picnic at Hanging Rock. This book became very popular and was even made into a movie.
Mulberry Hill Today
Sir Daryl Lindsay passed away in 1976. Joan Lindsay lived at Mulberry Hill until she died in 1984. She wanted the house to be looked after for future generations. So, she left it to the National Trust. The National Trust is an organization that protects important historical places and natural areas. They now own and care for Mulberry Hill. Visitors can explore the house and learn about the Lindsays' lives.
