Vienna Cottage
Vienna Cottage is a rare example of an artisan's home of the past century. Built in 1871, it was the home of John and Ann Hillman and their five children. They lived in what was a typical tradesman's cottage, with four rooms in the main building and a detached kitchen and laundry at the back. John Jacob Hillman was a cobbler and later also a village lamplighter. The home was originally run as a dairy, and also produced fruit and vegetables from the small orchard beside the house, which to this day is preserved as a small park called Hillman Orchard.
Although having undergone few renovations and repairs over the years, the house remained in the posession of the original family until 1984, and so retained much of its original character, fittings and furniture. The house was rented out from 1926 the last tenant leaving in 1991, having acted as caretaker from 1984. The cottage had little furniture when purchased and has been maintained "as found". Consequently, no improvements have been made but the slate roof was restored, floor boards repaired and halls not painted but sealed to keep out the moisture.
In 1984 the house was purchased by the National Trust on behalf of the people of Hunters Hill, while the old orchard was bought by Hunters Hill Council. Both were opened to the public in 1988 as part of the bicentenary project.
Vienna Cottage is in the heart of the Hunters Hill peninsula, and within easy walking of many heritage buildings, including Hunters Hill Town Hall (26 Alexandra St), Hunters Hill Congregational Church (1 Ferdinand St.), All Saints Church (cnr Ferry and Ambrose St), Garibaldi Inn (cnr Alexandria and Ferry St), and many other private residences of historic interest.
Within easy driving distance are St Joseph's College, historic buildings at the old Gladesville Hospital, Kelly's Bush, the old ship-repair Dock at Clarke's Point, Hunters Hill High School and Hunters Hill Public School. Many other foreshore sites, such as Woolwich Wharf, from where the Great North Walk starts, Gladesville Reserve, and Boronia Park Reserve, are within the Hunters Hill precincts.
ACCESSIBILITY
Click here to download an accessibility guide
Wheelchair access and people with limited mobility
Wheelchair access is not possible. Access to the orchard is from Alexandra Street by an unsealed path to picnic tables. A guide will meet visitors and explain the history of the property.
Blind and visually impaired
Braille and audio tours are not currently available. Large pritn text on permanant exhibition is available.
Guide/hearing dogs
Guide dogs are welcome. Please contact the property for handling requirements.
Deaf and hearing impaired
No induction loops are fitted in the house.
Parking
Limited parking is available in Alexandra Street; otherwise drop off and pick up, and park in nearby Ady Street.
Gardens
The orchard and picnic grounds are accessible via Alexandra Street and can be used as a leisure area. A side gate from the orchard allows entry to the property. Less mobile visitors will need assistance.
Accessible toilets
None are available on site. Nearest toilets are at Hunters Hill Council Chambers.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Hunter's Hill village
The Hunter's Hill Council's website has a mobility map to plan other activities in the village, or ring the Council on (02) 9879 9400
Monthly talks
Arranged by the National Trust Vienna Management Committee and held at the RSL Hall (Alexandra Street). Book through (02) 9817 2240. Ramp access to the hall is provided through the car park at the rear of the hall.
The National Trust is a charity. The income required to look after and maintain this property and the many others you can look up here on our website comes largely from membership and donation. Please help us care for these properties on behalf of future generations. JOIN NOW and experience the benefits of membership. You can also donate online, just click here.
