About Calthorpes' House
Calthorpes' House is a heritage-listed historic house museum at 5 Mugga Way, Red Hill in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory. Built in 1927 for Harry and Dell Calthorpe and their family, it is preserved as an intact example of 1920s domestic life in early Canberra. Managed by ACT Historic Places, the house retains original furnishings, household items and garden, offering insight into middle-class family life during the city's formative years.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a guided tour of a preserved 1920s weatherboard house with original furniture, clothing, toys, kitchenware and personal belongings of the Calthorpe family. The interior is presented as it was in the late 1920s, with bedrooms, living areas, kitchen and laundry. The surrounding garden reflects 1920s planting. Access is by guided tour only, with small groups led by guides explaining the house, family history and early Canberra context.
Key highlights
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Intact 1927 house with original furnishings and household collection from the 1920s
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Guided tours interpreting the life of the Calthorpe family in early Canberra
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Authentic interiors including kitchen, bedrooms and children's rooms preserved as lived in
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Period garden with 1920s plantings and outbuildings
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