Old Cromwell Town

"Saving Cromwell's Heritage"

The construction of the Clyde Dam and subsequent filling of Lake Dunstan in the 1980's brought major changes to Cromwell. Gone were two wild rivers... but there is now a beautiful new lake with many shoreline amenities. Acres of orchards were lost. .. but Cromwell has since become the fruit and wine centre of the south. Cromwell's original commercial area was drowned... but there is now a pleasant new town centre with modern facilities.

However, the old town centre with its historic bridge has not been forgotten!

Old Cromwell Incorporated was formed to do something positive about this loss, and the result is a splendid reminder of days gone by! While there is a lot of work yet to be done, many of the original town buildings have already been either restored or reconstructed . History lives on! And authenticity is the key word ... have a close look at the workmanship.

Nowadays, Old Cromwell Town is home to local craftspeople and a cafe. Enjoy a stroll around this historic precinct located at the end of Melmore Terrace. A great place to find that special memento of you r holiday. Open every day, entry is free.

The Central Otago Farmers Market is held here every Sunday from November to Easter. Enquire at the Information Centre about various other events held during the year.

And the bridge? It's still there, under 11m of water! There is a rum our that a Mk I Zephyr is still parked on it. Did you bring your SCUBA gear?

Victoria Arms Hotel

Bought in 1874 by James Stuart, who was licensee until 1899 when he died. His wife took over the licence. This building, previously called just Victoria Hotel, was established in 1899. On Melmore Terrace, it was known in latter years as the "Top Pub" because of its location. Current licensees are Murray and Claire Stuart .

The Masonic Lodge

Built by W. Grant in 1901 on a section donated by James Stuart of the Victoria Hotel.

Cobb & Co. Store

Part of a stables complex built in 1966. The Australian firm expanded into Central Otago under Mr. H. Craig. Several coaches carried people, mail, supplies and gold throughout the region as far as Dunedin.

Murrell's Cottage

Edward Murrell lived in Cromwell for 41 years before retiring to Christchurch in 1920. He was a member of the Hospital Committee for 20 years, a Borough Councillor for 25 years (including 9 years as Mayor). He was a watch-maker and a tooth-puller.

The Mud Brick Cottage

This cottage is NOT from the main street of Old Cromwell. It is representative of the Mud Brick Cottage built in the Cromwell area. This building contains 2500 mud bricks, made locally. Each brick is 300 x 140 x 140 in size.

London House Stables

Previously sited behind London House. The building was moved and reconstructed by PEP workers in 1985.

London House

Sherwood and Co (1880-85), O. Henry (Merchant), Belfast Stores, Talboys (Drapers), Jelley Brothers (Drapers), John Ferris Furniture, and Bob Howard Electrical used this building.

Jolly's Grain Store

Built pre-1880. D. A. Jolly was a respected businessman, a Borough Councillor, Mayor, and a member of many local bodies and committees. Originally a seed and grain store, it was subsequently used as a stock agent's office and later still, a medical centre. Jolly's had branch stores at Bannockburn, Tarras and Wanaka.

The Argus

The print shop, like Wisharts, was water-powered. It was established in 1869 and demolished in 1949. Later, Mansor's draper shop was built on the site.

Captain Barry's Cottage

Captain Jackson set up as a butcher in 1863, selling meat at $6 per pound. The citizens of Cromwell acknowledged this by awarding him a gold watch in 1864. Subsequently, he had a chequered career... financial difficulties, a period away from Cromwell, return as an auctioneer, elected as Mayor (1866) despite his flamboyant character and somewhat controversial dealings.

Behrens Barn

Heinrich Behrens was a wheelwright and coachbuilder. When war broke out in 1914, Behrens returned to his native Germany. A unique feature is the wooden louvre windows.

General Merchant

This building is drawn as we plan to reconstruct it (as it was in 1915). At this time, it was owned by the Stumbles family. Previously, it was owned by Kerins from whom Stumbles bought it. Later still, it was owned by Theo Toms, then by Colin Edgar and most recently by Alan Dick.

Additional information

Contact details:

• web: www.oldcromwell.co.nz
• email: oldcromwell@xtra.co.nz
• address: Old Cromwell Incorporated, Melmore Terrace, CROMWELL 9310