Note: as at 3rd Apr 2017 this marker post is due to be replaced by an extensive research article including images of the stained glass window (but please don’t hold your breath waiting).

The Launceston Examiner, Tasmania, Saturday 8th August 1868, page 2.

“FROM LAUNCESTON TO ST.GEORGES BAY. (By H. T. D., in the Australian Journal)”.

“….another half hours drive brought us to the residence of J. Steel, Esq, whom we were bent on visiting. On a gentle slope, about a half mile from the sea, stands the mansion of our host, known as Thompson Villa. The exterior of the building produces a highly picturesque and pleasing effect. The style is Italian, with projecting roof. The principal rooms open onto a wide veranda, the design of which, as also the balcony, is decidedly ornamental. The interior fittings are of the best character, the entrance hall being divided by Corinthian fluted columns, with pilasters and Corinthian cornice; and well lighted up by a beautiful ornamental stained glass window, which I recognised as the handiwork of our enterprising fellow colonists, Messrs. Ferguson, Urie and Lyon, of North Melbourne…”

Thompson Villa is now known as Enstone Park near the town of Falmouth on the east coast of Tasmania, 202km south east of Launceston. It was built by William Steel’s nephew in 1867 for £1740. After WW1 it was named ‘Enstone Park’ by L. J Steel who lived in the house until his death at the age of 102 in 1968. The property is now owned by the Enstone Park Pastoral Company Pty Ltd.

Refer to comments below regarding the existence of this window.

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