May Gibbs's 'Nutcote Cottage'

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9953 4453

Description:

The 1930s home of famous illustrator and author May Gibbs (1877-1969), best known for her Snugglepot and Cuddlepie children's books, is one of those enchanting museums that deliver surprises the more you delve into her story. She is one of the country's best-loved authors, having first been published at 12 years of age, and who continued working into her 90s.
Nestled on the lower north shore amid a rambling, harborside garden brimming with native flora, the house come museum is a living replica of Australiana between the wars, with its original hardwood jarrah floors, cedar joinery, fine period furniture pieces and large balcony arches framing the bay.
Commissioned by Gibbs and her husband, the architecturally designed residence was completed in 1925, and includes a studio cottage (at the author's request).. A foundation later saved the house from being demolished, and after a conservation order was placed on the property, North Sydney Council eventually purchased Nutcote and restored it to its 1930s glory.
Gibb's childrens' books were but one element of her artistic output, which also included portraits, caricatures, cartoons, comic strips, newspaper columns and illustrated postcards. Examples of her work, including easels and writing desks, populate the museum.
For a change of scene from the city or Eastern Suburbs attractions, a short 15-minute ferry trip across the harbor to Nutcote will reward in continuous and surprising ways.

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