Link to a bygone era from the comfort of home

History lovers can take a virtual step back in time and experience life in a gold rush-era Hill End homestead thanks to a new online experience by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).

The immersive digital experience allows anyone to explore Craigmoor House, a 148-year-old time capsule filled with the original colonial furnishings and belongings of its original owners, the Marshall family.

“Craigmoor House is the grandest historic residence in Hill End, which boasted 8,000 residents during the 1870s gold rush but was left with only 700 locals when the gold rush ended,” said Learna Benson, NPWS Senior Historic Site Officer.

“When you walk into Craigmoor, there are still bonnets and bags from the Marshall women hanging on hooks on the wall, and an array of books, magazines, glasses and crockery the family used are still in their places. It’s like visiting a home where the occupants have vanished but all of their belongings remain.

“Because these objects are delicate and are undergoing historic collections cataloguing we aren’t able to have physical visitors at present but this new virtual tour opens the door to the home anytime to explore its fascinating historical treasures and learn about life in the 19^th century gold-mining town.”

Craigmoor House is listed on the State Heritage Register and has been conserved by NPWS.