The suburb of Paddington in Sydney's east is probably best known for its Victorian terrace homes. But when agents were called to sell one, they had no idea they would be taking a step back in time. Julia Calixto has more.
The suburb of Paddington in Sydney's east is probably best known for its Victorian terrace homes. But when agents were called to sell one, they had no idea they would be taking a step back in time.
“As soon as I walked in the door, I saw what we see today, which is nothing short of amazing.” said Marc Marano of Oxford Residential.
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Most of the house in Brown Street had been locked up 39 years and accessed only for the occasional dusting of furniture.
In the corner of the sitting room is an old Astor television. There's also a Healing Golden Voice Radiogram, a drinks cabinet, an antique Singer sewing machine and a portrait of a young Queen Elizabeth II.
And all the items have been virtually untouched for decades.
On a buffet cabinet sits a silver tray with six tumblers and a decanter. The silver tray around the glasses is tarnished. But underneath the tumblers, it's shiny and new.
The terrace was bought in 1960 for 2300 pounds. It was then bequeathed to her nephew in 1974.
But he found the three bedroom corner terrace too big and lived in the back two rooms – the kitchen and an adjoining room – which he accessed from Glenmore road.
The agents were called in by relatives of the most recent resident, who has moved to an aged-care home.
Local historian, Janet Morice, has lived in the neighbourhood for years.
She says a lot has changed in Paddington since the 1960s – when people were moving away from the city.
“Out to the new, smart suburbs of Strathfield and Burwood where there were detached houses with gardens and Paddington terraces were regarded as rather dark and dingy.” Janet said.
The house is going to auction in July and expected to fetch 1.8 million dollars.
Although the furniture isn't being sold with the house, it will stay for inspections so people can see what life was like in mid-century Sydney.
