Convict-built pub seeks new innkeeper

The Old Hamilton Inn will be sold under the hammer. Picture: Supplied

It’s an opportunity that doesn’t come along every day. And one best suited to someone with a passion for history.

Howell Property Group agent Nick Hay has listed The Old Hamilton Inn for sale, along with an adjoining large brick barn.

He described them as “survivors of a bygone era” and an opportunity to restore a piece of Tasmanian colonial history.

However, it will be a project that will come with its challenges. The barn needs a lot of work, and the home — the former inn — will also need attention.

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No.7 George St, Hamilton.

No.7 George St, Hamilton.

No.7 George St, Hamilton. Picture: Courtesy of the property owner

“It has caught the eye of a few people from Hobart and others from interstate,” Mr Hay said.

“There is a scarcity of this type of historic property.

“But it will be a Restorations Australia-style project.

“In many rooms, the old inn features original wallpaper, original horsehair plaster, and a cobblestone bathroom/washroom.

“Working with Heritage Tasmania’s guidance and recommendations will be key.

“A Heritage assessment plan is available with the property.”

Set on 6146sq m of land, The Inn provides accommodation of three to four bedrooms, a separate kitchen, and a bathroom with a claw-foot bathtub.

No.7 George St, Hamilton.

No.7 George St, Hamilton.

No.7 George St, Hamilton.

The Inn was built around 1834 by convicts for John and Elizabeth Collins.

It has also been known as Langdon’s Pub — named after an early owner — The Hamilton Inn, and the Old Inn.

From October 1835 to October 1939, Henry Benjamin was licensee and after that it was bought by the Langdon family.

It operated as an Inn for about 80 years, finally ceasing to operate as a hotel in 1914.

No.7 George St, Hamilton.

No.7 George St, Hamilton.

Mr Hay said it became a private residence shortly after.

“According to local sources, Walter and Ethel Sonners took possession of the property and lived there for close to 60 years,” he said.

“The Sonners family, Walter and brother, George, ran a carting business and used the barn next door as a depot.

“Their horse-drawn transports were primarily employed in carting goods down to meet the railway at Macquarie Plains.

“But with the arrival of the motor vehicle, the barn was no longer needed as a stable, and it found a newer role as a substantial poultry house.”

No.7 George St, Hamilton.

No.7 George St, Hamilton.

While the campaign is only in its early days, Mr Hay’s hunch is that the property will be purchased by an interstate-based history lover looking for a significant restoration project.

“It will be someone who is excited about the opportunity to restore these historic buildings, to become the next custodian and give the buildings new life,” he said.

No.7 George St, Hamilton will be sold at auction on October 25, at 2.30pm. To obtain a set of auction conditions, contact Howell Property Group.

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