A famed Western District homestead steeped in Hollywood history will open its doors to the public this weekend.
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Mooramong, near Skipton, was originally built in the 1800s but was transformed into an art deco masterpiece by Hollywood silent movie star Claire Adams, when she moved in with husband Donald “Scobie” Mackinnon.
After meeting in Mayfair, London the couple married just three weeks later, embarking on a year-long honeymoon before arriving in Australia in 1938.
Claire almost immediately set about modernising the Victorian-era homestead into a building straight out of contemporary Hollywood.
Victorian details were removed, replaced with the clean lines of the art deco period, carpets, blinds and other furnishings. The weatherboards on the exterior were rendered over, the swimming pool and its cabana built and a beautiful walled garden created. The pool was the largest in Victoria at the time.
The couple entertained lavishly and soon a visit to Mooramong became one of the favourite pastimes within Western District and Melbourne social circles.
The homestead and extensive gardens will be open on Sunday from noon-4pm.
Visitors will have the chance to also view a 1923-24 model 20 HP Rolls-Royce Open Drive Limousine originally owned by the Mackinnon family.
Purchased new by LKS Mackinnon (father of Donald “Scobie” Mackinnon) direct from the factory in England, this was the first of many Rolls owned by the family.
Entry is $12 per person (free for National Trust members) at the Glenelg Highway gate.