The Ridge, Newcastle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Ridge |
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The Ridge or Hillcrest Hospital in Merewether
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| Location | 21 Hillcrest Road, Merewether, New South Wales, Australia |
| Official name: The Ridge; Hillcrest Hospital | |
| Type | state heritage (built) |
| Designated | 2 April 1999 |
| Reference no. | 313 |
| Type | Hospital |
| Category | Health Services |
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The Ridge is a special old house located at 21 Hillcrest Road in Merewether, New South Wales, Australia. It was once known as Hillcrest Hospital. This building is very important because of its history. It was officially added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register on April 2, 1999, which means it is protected.
Contents
The Story of The Ridge
How It Was Built
The Ridge was built in 1861. It was built for Edward Christopher Merewether and his wife. Edward Merewether was a very important person in Newcastle. He was the General Superintendent of the Australian Agricultural Company. His wife's family owned a lot of land in the area. This area is now known as Merewether.
From Home to Hospital
Later, The Ridge became a hospital. It was used as a hospital for mothers and babies. The Salvation Army ran this hospital. By the late 1970s, the hospital was no longer in use. In the early 1980s, some people wanted to knock the house down.
However, the government of New South Wales stepped in. They decided to protect the building forever. They issued a special order to make sure it could not be demolished. After that, the house was bought by private owners. They worked hard to fix it up and make it beautiful again.
What The Ridge Looks Like
The Ridge is one of the most important buildings in Merewether. It is special because of its connection to the Merewether family. It is also important because it was a hospital run by the Salvation Army.
The house sits high up on the Merewether ridge. It has a steeply pitched gable roof. This makes it stand out. Even today, with many large modern houses around, The Ridge is easy to spot. It also has interesting rooms inside that show its history. In 2006, the building was reported to be in excellent condition.
Why The Ridge Is Protected
The Ridge was officially listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register on April 2, 1999. This listing means the building is recognized as a significant part of history. It is protected so that future generations can learn from and enjoy it.
