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The Nelson Photo News

 

70

Historic Homes No. 16: "The Cliffs"

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Magazine Point is a well known Nelson landmark, but not so well known is the wonderful old home high above the waterfront - aptly named "The Cliffs". This stately old house has been the home of Captain P. Moncrieff and Mrs Moncrieff since 1921. The house itself is very intimately connected with Nelson's history. It was built, between 1842 and 1845, by Major Matthew Richmond. Major Richmond, as Superintendent of the Southern Division, came to Nelson after the Wairau Massacre in 1843, and after the troubled times ended, he remained here as resident magistrate and superintendent. He later became commissioner of Crown Lands, and until his death in 1887, lived at "The Cliffs". The property was retained by the Richmond family (A. J. Richmond, Matthew's son, and F. H. Richmond, his grandson) until 1921 when it was bought by the Moncrieffs. For a short time it had a very illustrious history during the period of Governorship of Lord Onslow. When in Wellington, Lord Onslow's son contracted typhoid and was sent to Nelson to recuperate. His parents followed him and took up residence at "The Cliffs". The old house is in excellent condition and commands a magnificent panoramic view of Tahunanui, Tasman Bay, and round to the port.