The house first appears in the Rate Books in 1868 when it was described as a brick house with seven rooms, pantry and bathroom, valued at 86 pounds. Thereafter it was described as six rooms. It was originally owned and occupied by Mrs. Mary Ann Wilson (widow of Thomas Wilson), who lived there until her death in 1887. At that time two unmarried daughters, Eva Elizabeth and Emily, were living with her. The Inventory attached to her probate papers tells us that property was known as Fintona Villa. It was noted that "this property is contracted for sale to Mr. Charles Manning of South Melbourne for One Thousand Two Hundred and Fifty pounds." Charles Manning died the following year, leaving the house to his wife, Jane Eliza. His inventory described the house as containing five rooms, a kitchen, pantry and cellar. The house was subsequently let to tenants. It was advertised for sale on behalf of Manning's estate in 1892 when it was rented at 27s 6d per week.