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Woodbridge, with its iron lace work, parquetry,
polished jarrah, tessellated tile floors, and many
pieces of original furniture, is a rare surviving
example of a grand 19th century home.
The attractive site on the banks of the
Swan River, just east of the historic town of
Guildford, was originally taken up by the colonyís
first Governor, Captain James Stirling. By 1831,
he had built a cottage there, a retreat from
Government House.
The property was purchased in 1883 by
Charles Harper, farmer, politician, explorer,
Anglican chaplain and part owner of The West
Australian newspaper. He proceeded to display his
position and wealth by building the current house.
In 1896, Harper established Guildford Grammar
School in his billiard room, and fourteen years
later the Anglican Church purchased the entire
property - land, building and furniture - for the
school.
Today the house reflects its role as home to
Charles and Fanny Harper, their ten children,
the cook, parlourmaid and housemaid ñ from
the kitchen and working areas to the extensive
entertaining rooms.