Harper’s Mansion: The Publican and the Priests

Discover Berrima’s early history and the connections between Harper’s Mansion, the Publican, and the Priests on this special tour, featuring expert talks at three iconic local sites in the village.

Guiding guests between St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, The Surveyor General Inn, and Harper’s Mansion, this tour follows in the footsteps of James and Mary Harper and the 16 priests who resided at Harper’s Mansion between 1836 and 1903.

Begin at St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, a heritage-listed early English Gothic design by Augustus Pugin, built between 1849 and 1851. Historian and author Linda Emery shares the story of this remarkable and rarely opened church – one of the most intact and unaltered Pugin buildings in Australia. Take in its beauty and discover its history and connection to Harper’s Mansion before continuing to The Surveyor General Inn, travelling on foot with a guide or by car past Berrima’s historic landmarks.

Continue through Berrima’s historic streetscape to The Surveyor General Inn, where James Harper became the first licensee in 1835. Joined by local historian and author Chris Thompson, uncover the Inn’s early days and the Harper family’s story – their ambition, success, and eventual decline. Explore the convict-built sandstone inn and enjoy exclusive access to its underground cellars.

A short walk or drive brings you to Harper’s Mansion, set high above the township. Home to James and Mary Harper and their six children, this elegant early colonial Georgian country house is surrounded by charming cool-climate gardens. Here, historian and author Ann Beaumont shares the life and legacy of the Harper family, and the Catholic priests and nuns of the parish who made Harper’s Mansion their home for more than fifty years.

Before departing, relax in the gardens with refreshments and a freshly made sausage sandwich.

Don’t miss this tour where history lingers long after you leave.

Note:

Attendees are welcome to either walk or drive between each location.
Guides will be available to lead any groups wishing to walk between locations.
Only those able to walk for 20 minutes unaided should attempt the walk between each site.