Learn more about Meroogal
Discover the history of Meroogal, the people who lived there, and the collection still held within the walls of this historic property.
Subjects range from the practical, like how to make the best 'Meroogal sponge’, to transcripts of Tottie Thorburns’ diaries (1888-1893 and 1895-1896) and very personal stories of loss and heartbreak during World War I, and glimpses of the house’s interiors. You’ll also find details of the family’s library and pictures collection in the Caroline Simpson Library catalogue.
Interiors of Meroogal
Pictures catalogue
There are 130 historical images of Meroogal, its interiors and residents available on the Museums of History NSW pictures catalogue.
The library at Meroogal
The original library at Meroogal has almost 400 books, magazines and other reading materials which date from the late 18th century to the mid-20th century. Many of these items are associated with former residents of the house and show evidence of their use. This collection provides information about literary interests and trends, religious and cultural influences and clues into the inner lives of the people of Meroogal.
Treasures from Meroogal
This assemblage of objects has been drawn from Meroogal’s collection. The selection ranges from family jewels to favourite hats, from pieces of sheet music to children's toys. Each object has been chosen for its capacity to tell a particular story but collectively they speak of love, loss and lives lived.
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Tottie Thorburn's diary
This diary was hand-written between 1888–1893 and 1895–1896 by the youngest member of the family for whom Meroogal was built, Kennina Fanny Thorburn (1865–1956), known to her family as Tottie
Guidebook
The Meroogal guidebook is an inspirational resource containing the history of the house and the family who lived there, as well as many beautiful historical photographs.
Meroogal Women's Art Prize
Meroogal Women’s Art Prize
This biennial prize celebrates the achievements and creativity of women artists in NSW through works that respond to the historic house of Meroogal, its rich cultural heritage and enduring sense of place
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Stories from Meroogal
Reviving an heirloom recipe
Wedged between the pages of an old family cookbook is a manuscript recipe for Meroogal Sponge
Museum stories
Make yourself at home
Meroogal became home to four generations of resilient and resourceful women, whose house was their livelihood as well as their home
A home of their own
A young woman of the Victorian era, Tot Thorburn had suitors and male friends but chose not to marry. She enjoyed a long and happy life with her sisters at Meroogal
Conservation in action: Meroogal external drainage and pathway works
Taking care of Meroogal requires ongoing care and sensitivity. Protecting the historical integrity of the site involves managing the environment around the house to prevent the slow decay caused by moisture.
Conservation in action: Meroogal exterior painting 2025
At Meroogal, the ongoing conservation of the beautiful timber detailing of the Juliet balconies, the bargeboards and fascia boards of the gables, weatherboards and masonry chimneys requires specialist knowledge and skills
Meet the artist – Meroogal Women’s Art Prize 2024 winner Jackie Streit
'Vexations in blue' by Jackie Streit has been awarded first prize in the Meroogal Women’s Art Prize 2024
Celebrating women artists across NSW
The Meroogal Women’s Art Prize, now in its 19th year, was launched on 16 September 2022