Visit & History of Rocky Vale Villa and the Beebe Family

Historian, author and past President of the National Trust Branch, Mike Butcher, will provide us with a short history of the house and the Beebe family in the 19th century. The visit to Rocky Vale Villa and the story of English stonemason William Beebe Snr who built it from local quarried sandstone and granite over a period of 20 years from the early 1870's is both entertaining and interesting.

The residence is testament to the skill and perseverance of its builder, who died the year the house was completed (1891). Beebe' stonework is found at cemeteries throughout the Bendigo area. The property is also associated with two of Beebe's sons, William and John, who were also local stonemasons and architects, with John eventually forming a partnership with noted Bendigo architect, William Vahland; and William later becoming Mayor of the City of Bendigo (Criterion H). Rocky Vale Villa is a rare local example of a substantial two-storey stone house built in the picturesque Gothic Revival mode. It is protected by a Greater Bendigo Council heritage overlay, however, its recent story needs to be told . It is hoped that members of the Beebe family and the Gray family can also add to its known history.
A house that is rarely seen but so many admire its photographs.

The property is not accessable to everyone as you will need to walk in over rough ground. You will need to leave your car at the properties entrance so make sure you wear walking shoes. There are no facilities and is not recommended for children and people with mobile difficulties. Directions- It is located at 7 Wicks Road Maiden Gully and is on the corner of Marong Road. (0447473674 for info)

Bring a folding chair as there are no seats.