Historical information

The Argus, 27 September 1867 p4 - MARRIAGES: NICHOLSON—SWINDELLS.—On the 12th inst., at Christ Church, St. Kilda, by the Rev. D. Seddon, John, eldest son of the late Hon. W. Nicholson, to Gertrude Sarah, youngest daughter of the late James Swindells, Esq., of Manchester. No cards. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/5779002
Barham House was built in 1850 by Edward Bernard Green (1809-1861) a successful land speculator. It was a magnificent residence built in the regency style to the design of architect John Gill and set in landscaped grounds of nine acres and included an ancient Swiss cottage. When Green died in 1861, his executor was his neighbour, William Nicholson (1816-65) who owned Fernleigh immediately to the north in Grey Street, but actually lived in Barham House during his time as Premier of Victoria 1859 - 1860 until his death in 1865. In 1866 Richard Twentyman purchased Fernleigh from the Nicholson Estate and a year later he married Nicholson's widow, Sarah. Both remained at Barham House until June 1870. In 1871 the building was substantially remodelled and re-named Eildon. It is one of the larger surviving 19th century houses in Melbourne.

Physical description

Black and white photocopy of invitation, wedding breakfast menu and envelope

Inscriptions & markings

(handwritten) Original in possession of Lady Johnston.
(handwritten) Gerty's marriage?
Invitation: Mr and Mrs Twentyman request the pleasure of [unclear] Johnstone's Company at Breakfast on Thursday the 12th at 1 o'clock.
Miss Swindells
Mr John Nicholson.
Ceremony at Christ Church St Kilda, at 12, Noon
Barham House, Grey Street, St Kilda Sept. 2nd. 1867
The favour of an early answer is requested
Menu: Déjeuner Barham House, St Kilda, 12. September, 1867. Menu items listed on following page
Envelope: [unclear] Johnstone Esq Care of J C Johnstone Esq Sunbury