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In a codicil to his Will, Thomas Walker expressed a wish that 100,000 pounds be set aside for the building and maintenance of a convalescent hospital on twelve hectares of the estate
at Rocky Point. A competition was held for the design of the hospital and from 33 entries the design of John Kirkpatrick of Sydney was selected. This original decision was overturned and the firm of Sulman
and Power was commissioned to design the hospital. The major partner of the firm, architect John Sulman, was to marry Anne Masefield in 1893.Construction began in 1891 and the original amount was quickly spent,
so an additional 50,000 pounds was contributed by Joanna Walker, Eadith Walker and Anne Masefield. The building was made of brick and sandstone with elaborate carvings, marble fireplaces and fine masonry.
Italian masons were brought to Australia specifically to work on the building. It was officially opened on 21st September 1893. |
