Our Treasures: Whangarei Museum acquires unique family pieces for Clarke Homestead

Afternoon tea on the verandah of Glorat circa 1935. Photos/Supplied

Throughout the country, Heritage New Zealand has helped to preserve and open many significant historical sites, structures and noteworthy houses to the public.

Several well-known 19th century wooden dwellings are among the impressive property portfolio managed by Heritage New Zealand, the country's lead heritage agency, which cares for them on behalf of the country.

Unlike these trust properties, Glorat, built in 1886 as a family home for Dr Alexander Clarke and situated at Heritage Park in Maunu, was purchased from the Clarke family by Whangarei Museum and Heritage Trust, therefore being solely responsible for the protection and upkeep of this Grade II listed property.

Owning a graded heritage property not only involves caring for the building itself and grounds, but also preserving the interior of the home which includes hundreds of precious artefacts and heirlooms.

One of the Victorian style balloon back children's chairs donated by a Clarke descendant.

Although many large pieces of furniture and chattels belonging to the Clarke family were retained in the home, many artefacts have since been introduced into the homestead.

At the time they were being deemed suitable for display, but ultimately having little or no association with the Clarke family. Over time, these items have rarely been differentiated, becoming part of the intrinsic story available to the public.

In furnishing Glorat in the past, the museum has relied on the generosity of its many benefactors, however, it has recently acquired heirlooms from Clarke descendant Beverly Tanner (nee Brett), which were originally from the family home.

This is an exciting acquisition, as not only has the museum acquired unique family pieces but also some anecdotal information to accompany these prized possessions.

Among the items gifted by the grand-daughter of James McLean Clarke, are a pair of Victorian style balloon back children's chairs upholstered in rich red velvet, which have been passed down through the generations.

The donor recalls these pieces of furniture being in the parlour of the homestead as a child when staying at Glorat, possibly having come from England on the ship when Dr Clarke and family voyaged to New Zealand.

Another heirloom donated was a green Crown Ducal perforated salad bowl with resting plate, made in England by A G Richardson & Co Ltd who were notable for their high-class trade in dinner and table wares.

This salad dish also evokes childhood memories for the donor, recollecting how she often walked down the old track at the front of Glorat to the creek to pick watercress for their salad which was later served in this bowl at the luncheon table.

Visitors today could be forgiven for thinking the family has just popped out for a while and find it a charming and intimate place to visit. The house reflects how the family lived and grew during their lives there, creating a meaningful and lasting experience.

Glorat is one of the few survivors from the time when Whangarei was in its formative years, and the long association of one family – the Clarkes – with the house further enhances its interest and attraction.

Although the homestead features notable treasures displayed in an historic setting, it is anticipated that authentic family pieces such as those recently donated will re-instate the integrity of the interior rooms, revealing more about the history of Glorat and its denizens.

■ Natalie Brookland is collection registrar, Whangarei Museum at Kiwi North.