Tenterfield Saddler

It was a public holiday. So we couldn't go inside, but worthwhile visiting anyway to see a piece of Australian history

Went here a few days ago and had a look around when we were there one of the ladies told us all the interesting history associated with the saddler.Most known from the Peter Allan song Tenterfield Saddler. The song was written about his saddler grandfather George Woolnought who owned the saddlery from 1908-1960.The song highlights the central role played by the traditional tradesman and his place of work in the life of Tenterfield in that time.Originally the building was constructed as a residence in 1860 by Sir Stuart Alexander Donaldson from Tenterfield station.I then become a saddlery in 1870 by saddler C H Pavel. In 1874 it was sold to the Australian Joint Stock Bank until it reverted back to a private home 1895-1887.The next saddler to own the property was Dan Edgar he had a client who turned out to be the famous poet and author Banjo Patterson. Banjo Patterson married Miss Alice Walker from Tenterfield station in 1903.In 1972 the cultural architectural and social significance of the Tenterfield Saddlery was recognised by the National Trust Australia. Today the building is a retail outlet for leather goods and as a tourist attraction for the town.

What an amazing window into the life and time of George Woolnough, the grandfather of Peter Allen. Apparently expressions of interest have been requested to purchase, not only the building and it’s contents, but the trademarked name “Tenterfield Saddler” Of this 153 year old business. I appreciate there is value in the brand, however I feel that it would be better if someone bought the whole deal and just protected the history and value of the museum that it is, rather than try and capitalise on the name to perhaps the demise of the museum.I’ve added a photo of a sign displayed in the museum. I believe this to be a quality statement.

I’ve not as yet visited the Tenterfield Saddler which is the subject of an iconic song and an integral part of our national heritage. The iconic site however, is definitely on my wish list.The Tenterfield Saddler is the grandfather of the renowned Australian, Peter Allen. Peter was a legend performer and song writer.The gentlemanly Sadder centres around a quaint family tale. It’s a tale not to be missed as is illuminates one of Australia’s finest showmen.Overall Tenterfield is a beaut rural town with lots of interesting sites and activities.

So lucky it was open, normally when we drive through it’s cloyGreat walking through historyStaff were so informative, about the building history & people who worked there & famous people.Loved the old machineryIf you get a chance to visit do so

Nice place to stop and learn about the history of this place. It was 4pm and closed on the day we visited. However, I peaked in through the windows and saw the old saddles, and read up on some info in the windows.

Traveling through Tenterfield with one purpose - to visit Tenterfield Saddler. Visited during advertised opening hours, but it was definitely shut! Very disappointing as we had planned our visit around opening hours. There was no sign indicating when it was reopening, so we missed out on visiting.

A great little museum with a variety of history from saddlers to Banjo Patterson and Peter Allen. Totally enjoyed bringing back saddler memories for me.

Great local history experience.

It is located off the main road and is not open. You can only view through the window