AN ICONIC piece of Manning history is up for sale for the first time since the mid-1800s.
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The three-bedroom Federation bungalow style residence, located at 37 Barton Street in Croki, is understood to be one of the first properties to be bought in Croki and has been in the family for three generations.
The land was bought by the great-grandfather of the current owner in about 1856, and built by his grandfather, a builder, in 1908.
Bob Edwards has owned the property since 1974 (after buying it from his uncle).
After the home was built, Bob said the family lived there for a number of years but moved into Taree so Bob's mother could attend high school.
Since Bob took ownership the property has operated as a share farmer situation and then the land was leased to a dairy farmer.
Set on 60 acres and fronting the river, there is a 110-year history of dairying on the property.
It has been about 12 months since someone has lived in the premises.
Bob and his wife Margaret have mixed feelings about selling, considering the ties to his family.
"We just hope someone will rejuvenate it lovingly to its former glory," Margaret said.
The couple live in Sydney and have been back for the past few months, readying the property for sale.
This residence is a very rare example of the construction type and style and the building is in relatively good condition with many original fittings and even original glass panes (except for one that needed replacing).
Features include a verandah on all sides, high ceilings, a hall archway with rare curved architraves, brick fireplaces and chimneys, original door fittings, machined timber panelling (floorboards plus internal and external walls) and a bull nosed roof, which is considered to be highly representative of the vernacular design of the period (circa 1900).
Australian red cedar and possibly mahogany has been used throughout.
It is good condition but does need work.
The Croki home will be auctioned by Ray White Real Estate, Taree, on April 16.