RDHS History Talk: The Federation House Revealed - How it Really Came to Be

As Australia looks ahead to the 125th anniversary of Federation in 2026, this is the perfect time to rediscover the charm and significance of the Federation house - a defining feature of our national heritage. These much-loved homes are more than beautiful architecture; they are living reminders of a moment when Australia was shaping its identity.

Come along for an illustrated talk that explores the origins of the Federation period house in Sydney and traces its evolution from the ornate Victorian Italianate style. Learn how the social and cultural changes of the 1890s helped create a uniquely Australian architectural expression.

Art critic and former Glebe resident Bernard Smith first coined the term “Federation” to describe this style, replacing the misleading “Queen Anne.” His insight helped redefine how Australians saw their own built environment and their place in history.

About the speaker: Mark Sabolch is a member of the Ashfield and District Historical Society and author of Hawthorne Canal – the History of Long Cove Creek. Recently Mark has been researching the origins of the architectural house styles prevalent in Sydney’s inner west.

This talk is presented by The Randwick & District Historical Society in collaboration with Randwick City Library.

For more information, contact The Randwick & District Historical Society: 02 9349 3572 or email: randwickhistory@outlook.com

Terms and Conditions:

• Covid-19 Safety Terms and Conditions apply. Follow this link to find out more. Please review them prior to attending this event as these may change with short notice.
• Online bookings are essential.
• If you are unable to attend the event, please cancel your ticket as soon as possible. This will enable others to participate.
• You do not need to be a Library member to attend this event, however library membership is free and you can join online.
• Please arrive 10 minutes early to allow the event to run on time.
• Your attendance at events supported by Randwick City Council may be digitally recorded through photographs and/or video recordings. Images may be used for promotional purposes on council's websites, publications, social media or by newspapers. By attending this session you agree to these terms. If you do not wish your image to be published, please notify staff before the event.