Interactive Timeline
Welcome to the historical timeline of Old Government House and its occupants. Choose a decade from the timeline above to view the events of that period.
A brief summary of the history of Old Government House is as follows:
Pre-colonisation - the site is occupied by the Burramattagal clan from the Durag tribe. Governor Phillip settles NSW and names Rose Hill.
Governor Phillip's house is built and town planning commences but is replaced by Governor Hunter in 1794.
Governor Philip Gidley King succeeds Governor Hunter in 1800, then Governor William Bligh takes office in 1806.
Governor Lachlan Macquarie takes office in 1810 and commences major town planning and Government House extension.
Sir Thomas Brisbane takes office in 1821 and is succeeded by Governor Ralph Darling in 1824. The Observatory, Bathhouses and Native Institution are built.
Govenor Richard Bourke takes office in 1831 and is succeeded by Governor George Gipps in 1838.
Convict transportation ceases, New Government House is built and Governor Charles Fitzroy took office in 1846.
Government House ceases as a Vice-regal residence and is rented out. Parramatta Park is created.
Train line dissects Parramatta Park near the House.
Government House Boarding Establishment occupied the house from 1878 to 1897.
St John's Preparatory School takes residence and a major restoration is undertaken by the Government, and the house is leased to The Kings School.
Parramatta Park is named a National Park.
The house continues to be leased to the Kings School.
Sporting events at Parramatta park started becoming popular.
The house continues to be leased to the Kings School.
The National Trust of Australia (NSW) becomes Trustee of the house.
Parramatta City Council becomes a trustee of Parramatta Park.
Parramatta Stadium was constructed. A permanent conservation order was placed to protect the park.
Dairy precinct is developed. Parramatta Park Trust formed and takes over administration of parklands.
Soft furnishings project is undertaken. Old Government House is nominated for World Heritage Listing.