History

Rose Cottage was originally a part of Tuggeranong Station. Richard James Harris (1830-1904) built the two heritage listed cottages in the early 1870s of pisé (rammed earth).

They are one of the earliest examples of pisé constructions in the ACT and one of the few open to the public. Rose Cottage is therefore important as a glimpse into pioneer life in the region and as evidence of early construction techniques.

Margaret Harris (nee Murphy 1840-1918) planted the Kurrajong trees that still remain on the property and may have planted roses at the front of the first cottage.

This may be the origin of the name Rose Cottage or it could be that Mary, wife of Richard Harris (Junior) was interested in building up her rose garden. The property then known as Sweet Hills Estate, stretched for 2000 acres (809.37 ha) however today Rose Cottage Estate is only 3.9 ha.

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