Doncaster Templestowe Historical Society: John Read - Morialta

Morialta - 81 Serpells Rd.,Templestowe.

John Read, orchardist, was the first owner of this house built on land secured from his father, James, a pioneering orchardist in the area. In 1861, James Read purchased land in the Carlton Estate Subdivision of Unwin's Special Survey from Robert Campbell.(280)
A subdivisional plan of the Survey shows Read's large Templestowe property bounded by Williamson Road, Foote (now Reynold's) Road and Church Road extending down across Serpells Road.(281)
James Read reputedly planted the first orchard in the district.(282) Rate records show that from 1863 Read was the owner of a farm on the property, a very modest cottage judging by its valuation.(283)
By the 1870s, this was joined by a larger house. At this time, James was in partnership with his son, John(284) The second house is most probably the present timber cottage at 76 Serpells Road.
In 1873, the Reads Cemetery Road farm and garden had the substantial valuation of 70 pounds.(285) An 1874 map showed Read's Lot 1B owned by Reed and Lacey.(286). In fact, Read sold the eastern section to Lacey in 1861.(287)

By 1875, two houses and gardens were rated on the Reads Cemetery Road property. James lived in the smaller house and his son in the larger.(288) Early district rate records often listed as garden what was later described as an orchard. The Read orchard listed for the first time in 1882 may, therefore, have an earlier date. It was worked by James son, John.(289)
By 1888, John was the sole owner of the farm and over 38 acres of land in Cemetery Road, Templestowe(290)
Of local significance. as an example of a simple timber cottage associated with James Read, pioneer district fiuit grower, typical of the housing built by fanners and orchardists, but becoming increasingly rare within the municipality.

277 Doncaster Shire RB 1916-17 Templestowe Riding No.475.
278 Pers. comm. Brian Mullens and Hazel Poulter.
279 Shire of Doncaster and Templestowe RB 1925-26 Templestowe Riding No.544 (NA V 35 pounds).
280 RGO Search 10612 (vide 485).
281 Plan of Subdivision of the Carlton Estate. The property of R. Campbell. Compiled by D.Halliwell 7 July 1933.
282 Irvine Green, The Orchards of Doncaster and Templestowe. p. 7.
283 Templestowe District Board RB 1863 No. 137.
284 Templestowe District Board RB 1872 Nos. 190,191.
285 Templestowe District Board RB 1873 Nos.214, 215 .(combined valuation).
286 Plan of Bulleen, Plan 526 B, 1874.
287 RGO Search 10612.
288 Shire of Bulleen RB 1875 Templestowe Riding Nos 96, 234 (NA Vs 20 and 50 pounds). 289 Shire of Bulleen RB 1882 Templestowe Riding.No.89.
290 Shire of Bulleen RB 1888 Templestowe Riding No. 110

Doncaster and Templestowe Heritage Study Additional Research Carlotta Kellaway - July 1994 -
http://www.manningham.vic.gov.au/file/26136/download. Pg. 43

Morialta 81-83 Serpells Rd Templestowe - Jellis Craig Real Estate

- an Enviable Lifestyle in the Golden Mile
Combining the Victorian charms of yesteryear with a distinct modern warmth and stylish functionality, this spectacular heritage c1873 block fronted residence hosts a lifestyle families dream of. Historically one of the original farmland homesteads, this unique Templestowe abode exudes character, with elegant verandahs flowing around the home. Comprising formal Lounge Dining (OFP), Library and gourmet country Kitchen/Family domain displaying dishwasher/double ovens and marrying with a fabulous undercover alfresco area and pool for endless family pleasure. Guests can be entertained in a multitude of Living domains including Rumpus/Billiards room replete with wetbar and OFP. Exceptionally accommodating with 6 air-conditioned Bedrooms, BIRS (2 with balcony access) a retreat and 2 studies plus 3.5 bathrooms. Master luxuriously appointed with spa ensuite and dressing room. Proudly offering nearly 2 acres of beautifully nurtured gardens with equestrian paddock and stable ideal for agisting horses and training in your private surrounds (accessible from Mt View Road). Perfectly positioned for Serpell Primary, Doncaster Secondary College and private education. Moments to The Pines and Westfield Doncaster Shopping Centres. Close to Templestowe Village cafes, Ruffey Lake Park, buses and freeway. Additional comfort afforded by GDH, split system cooling, OFP x 3, polished floors, security system, 2 car garage, double carport and OSP.