Born in India, in 1795... Died Cheltenham, England, 1869
The house, built in 1840 for the Sturt family, was one of the earliest brick homes in the district. It was constructed in two stages. The red brick portion was completed first and housed the main living areas while the white stuccoed section known as the nursery wing afforded a bedroom for his sons (3) and kitchen/laundry areas for the household.
It has been said that the spirit of Captain Charles Sturt still visits his old, South Australian home from time to time and with each visit comes the scent of white roses. He is said to visit the study and dressing room.
Unfortunately, we did not have the pleasure of his company today during our visit to the cottage. There were the mandatory squeaky floor boards and the musty odour of age (no roses) that naturally comes from old furniture and furnishings, (the furniture within the house was donated by the Sturt family and originally belonged to Captain and Lady Sturt) but sadly no ghost, at least none that I was aware of?
However, in my humble opinion, if there were to be a sprit that visits this quaint cottage it would be Sturt's daughter, "Missy" Charlotte Eyre Sturt, who was born at the Grange in 1843 and whom, after returning to England with her parents in 1853 yearned to return to her 'home' in South Australia. Perhaps it is her spirit that has indeed 'returned' to haunt The Grange?
| The Grange 1849 |
| The Grange early 1900's |
| "Missy" Charlotte Eyre Sturt |
| The Grange today |
Charles Sturt Museum Jetty St. Grange, South Australia |
Until next we meet
...:)...
blessings
Was lots of fun :)
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