Historic property Rainham has wowed locals and historians. Originally settled as a mixed dairy and wheat production area, Rainham has long played an important part in the history of agriculture in the region. The complex famously hosted the district’s first flour mill. This beautiful landmark exemplifies its important place in their young city’s birth and economic growth.
Originally owned by the accomplished seaman and respected leader of the colony, Thomas Raine, Rainham passed into his ownership upon construction in 1832. At just 18 years old, Raine famously guided a stricken ship through the treacherous waters of the Great Barrier Reef. When he arrived in Sydney, he was greeted as a national hero. As the decades wore on, per his own account, he succumbed to personal challenges, including his own fight with depression.
A Glimpse into History
Rainham was constructed almost entirely on the backs—and the blood—of convict labor. It eventually became the residence of Thomas Raine, his wife Fanny, and their 10 children. The house itself is a striking building. Some think that Raine’s children were buried on the property—which adds to the historical significance of the property. It’s no surprise that James Boyd bought Rainham in 1855. It subsequently passed out of private ownership, becoming an inn where gold prospectors could stay. The legacy continued through the Boyd family, until 2012 when Rick and Suzy Miller bought the property.
What we have seen of the Millers’ approach to Rainham has been marked by a profound restraint and respect for the wellspring of its history. They’ve consciously decided to keep the house as-is, preserving elements that can help tell its story.
“We’ve always felt the idea of having it more like an Irish or Italian historical home where they leave them alone and do the barest amount of change that the house can actually cope with,” – Mrs. Miller
The property remains largely intact with extraordinary original technology on display. It features an ancient windmill and six convict-hewn wells, each one filled with crystal clear water. This intentionality with preservation speaks to the Millers’ dedication to honoring the legacy of Rainham while creating a liveable home.
Community Reactions and Heritage Preservation
The Millers have found it difficult to communicate their vision for Rainham to the public.
“It can be a little bit tricky for people to understand what we’re trying to achieve,” – Mrs. Miller
What makes Rainham special in Maskill-Dowton’s experience is that it isn’t unique.
“As corny as it sounds, it’s really unlike any other property in 22 years of doing real estate that I’ve really come across,” – Grant Maskill-Dowton
The Millers were almost giddy with excitement when they showed us their newly acquired property, remembering the childlike excitement of diving into its splendorous deep history.
“What they’ve done with it to make it habitable yet to maintain its history is unbelievable,” – Grant Maskill-Dowton
Rainham has been made into a real home, imbued with memories. Proud stewards of this highly valued bit of local history, the Millers appreciate being part of the community.
“We were so excited … We sat on the steps of the carillon in Bathurst drinking it from paper cups,” – Mrs. Miller
It’s easy to see what’s made living in Rainham such a blessing to the Millers. They look back on their time there with appreciation and a commitment to conserving its legacy for future generations.
Reflections on Life at Rainham
Mrs. Miller obviously has a rich emotional connection with the challenges Thomas Raine encountered. In her moving portrait, she recounts the difficult challenges he faced in the last days of his life.
“It’s been a good life, we have been very, very happy living in this beautiful house,” – Mrs. Miller
That link to Rainham’s exciting history only serves to inspire their determination to uphold that explosive story for future generations.
“I think he was eventually beaten by the climate and the death of some of his family,” – Mrs. Miller
This connection to Rainham’s past strengthens their resolve to keep its story alive for future generations.
