Investigating the estate

Archibald Clunes Innes, a former army officer, took up land near Port Macquarie in 1830. Using the latest technology, he set about building a vast property where he could lavishly entertain the colonial gentry and manage his business interests. The estate expanded to include a house, stable complex, workers’ accommodation, a home farm and brick-making facilities.

By the 1840s Innes was deeply in debt but he continued to borrow money to fund his extravagant lifestyle. In 1852, almost ruined, he left Lake Innes for paid employment at Nundle and later Newcastle.

Following his death in 1857, the property passed through family hands, before being sold in 1879. In 1905 bushfire swept through the property, reducing the buildings to ruins. From 1993 to 2001, archaeological investigations were carried out to learn more about the experiences of the people who lived on the Lake Innes Estate.

Use the hotspots to learn more about the archaeological investigations at Lake Innes Estate.