A single-storey, symmetrical, double fronted rendered nineteenth century villa with a hipped slate roof. The house has two chimneys with rendered stacks and moulded caps. The original verandah has been removed, and the windows flanking the central entrance have been altered. The front fence has also been removed.
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.
Owners
1868-1887: Mary Ann Wilson. Mrs. Wilson had been married to Thomas Wilson of Tyrone, Ireland, where he died. Mrs. Wilson emigrated to Melbourne with her four daughters in 1864 aboard the Tudor.
1887-1888: Charles Manning, hotel keeper, previously of Murchison and Rushworth. He also owned 88 and 90 Hotham Street, East Melbourne.
1888-1892: Jane Eliza Manning, widow
Occupier:
1877: Annie Marie Doake, wife of G.H. Doake. She died at the house in this year. Her relationship to the Wilson family, owners at the time, is unknown.
City of Melbourne Rate Books, La Trobe Ward, 1868, No. 1510 (earliest entry)
Argus, 9 July 1877, p.1; 19 Nov 1887, p.1; 17 Sept 1892, p.2
Unassisted Inward Passenger Lists to Victoria 1852-1923 online through PROV website: http://www.prov.vic.gov.au/indexes/Index_search.asp?searchid=23
Inventory in the Will of Mary Ann Wilson 36/439. PROV VPRS 28, P0002, 235
Inventory in the Will of Charles Manning 37/903. PROV VPRS 28, P0002, 248
