For the first time in 165 years, the historic Hunter Valley homestead property Bickham has been sold. The property at Blandford, near Scone, was offered for sale by the Malone family. The grand homestead was progressively built during the mid-1800s and completed in 1875.
The property boasts seven bedrooms and four bathrooms, with grounds including a tennis court and an in-ground pool. The 133-hectare grazing property features a winery, 4 kilometres of Pages River frontage, and a stocking rate of about 70 cows and calves. Elements of yesteryear include a slaughterhouse, a blacksmith, old cattle stalls, dairy, and a stone cemetery.
The homestead and buildings were originally part of Bickham Estate, which was over 4,856 hectares. The estate was established by John Cory in 1835 and had been in the Wright family since 1856. Co-vendor Sophie Malone, whose connection to Bickham dates back to 1931, expressed sadness at letting it go but hoped new owners would respect its history.
Co-selling agent Angus Patterson said the property was sold after a five-week expression of interest campaign. He would not disclose the selling price but had quoted $2.7 million prior to sale. The property was purchased by a young Sydney family passionate about historic homes, who intend to undertake a sympathetic restoration of the homestead and ancillary structures, including the stone cemetery.
Archivist Bill Oates from Armidale visited the property and called it a hidden jewel of the New England. He emphasized the importance of preserving the property's history, noting the Wright family dynasty's significance. The new owners plan to engage with the local community and schools for periodic access.
