Provenance

Various Parties

Purpose/Function

Reference, Research, Information

Arrangement

Arranged by Secondary Values (value of records to users)

Content

‘Turinville’ is regarded as the first house to have been built in Kew. It was first built in 1846 by J. W. Cowell, whose fortunes from local hotels helped fund the first foray into what is now Boroondara. Originally located in Willsmere Road, it now sits in Barnard Grove. It was held in the possession of the descendants of Cowell until being purchased by Archibal Smart who extended the early residence. The home, heritage listed, is noted for its unique and era-defining architecture. The file includes: articles regarding the history and real estate history of Turinville, a real estate notice regarding the property, and correspondence between the Kew Historical Society and the Boroondara Council regarding its heritage status.