Historical information
Jocelyn Hall indicated in notes that the gentleman could possibly be an estate agent. This was confirmed by a grandson of the original owners. (REF: Email 1/8/2020) The original photos is thought to have been a publicity photo for the real estate agency.
Carl Theodore Offszanka (1874-1944) was born in Germany. He is listed in electoral rolls at 44 Guildford Road from 1915, occupation furrier, with his wife Ida (nee Schade, 1882-1963), also born in Germany. They were married in Victoria in 1908. In later electoral rolls at the same address are Erna Helena (b 1913; d 1996) and Maria Eliese (b 1910; m Benedict Francis Rieusset in 1936). Both daughters are listed as typists. Also listed is Bernard George (b 1914; d 1987) who in later electoral rolls is described as a process worker. He served in the AIF in the Second World War. Not listed is Carl Bernard b 1909.
The Offszanka family lived at 44 Guildford Road from 1913 until post-1980; they came to Surrey Hills from Richmond. Their home was called 'Westfalia' (ref: 1919 electoral roll), presumably after the region in NW Germany. It is not known when Carl and Ida migrated from Germany.
This home has had a 2nd storey added to it in late 1990s.
According to a family descendant (REF: Email 1/8/20 from grandson) Carl Theodor Offszanka purchased the home in 1913 for £616. He also purchased the adjoining vacant block of land at 42 Guildford Road and ran a large orchard on it before later selling it. This appears to have been between 1920-1930.
The family continued to occupy the house until after 1980 when Erna Helena and Bernard George are listed in the electoral rolls. Our property register lists Erna Helena Offszanka as the last member there. She died on 5 May 1996.
Significance
The Offszanka family occupied this home from its beginning for over 70 years. Such long-term occupancy by one family is unusual.
Physical description
Black and white photo of a ? dark-stained timber Edwardian home at 44 Guildford Road, Surrey Hills. A hooded buggy is located in the rough driveway at the side of the house. A gentleman in a hat and with a moustache is seated in the buggy. A tall building can be seen in the far distance and a street leading up the hill from Canterbury Road.
