a touch of history…
Who We Are
The original Mill Houses were constructed in 1957 for the employees for the adjoining Feiglans Sawmill, which our family purchased in October 1993. As owner operators we lived onsite in the Mountain Ash House, raising young girls and operating the sawmill until it was destroyed by the 2009 Black Saturday Bushfires. The new houses were rebuilt on the same footprint of the originals some 14 years later and still incorporate elements of the original houses. We proudly operate as a family owned business today.
The original house slab patio from the early 2000s, now an outdoor entertaining area, remains at Woollybutt. Red brick garden borders and the chook house were also saved from the property after the bushfires. Close by to Mountain Ash you can see the original letterbox and petrol bowser which serviced the sawmill driveway.
Beyond the fencing you can see what remains of the working sawmill which was destroyed in 2009. We encourage our guests to look from a distance and appreciate the history of the site, understanding that the timber saws and machines that remain are what makes our location, and our past so special.
Original Mountain Ash House: Circa 1995
Mountain Ash log being put through the Breaking Down Saw
Main Mill Shed & McCashne Burner
Remains of original Mountain Ash House post Black Saturday Bushfires 2009
History
The Historical Charm of Narbethong:
Narbethong, a quaint and picturesque town nestled in the heart of Victoria, holds a rich and fascinating history. Dating back to the mid-19th century, Narbethong boasts a captivating past that has shaped its unique character.
The 1860s led to the establishment of farms, logging operations, and a vibrant timber industry. The area flourished, attracting settlers seeking fertile land for agriculture and logging opportunities.
As time passed, Narbethong transformed into a thriving community, with its own school, post office, and numerous businesses. Today, remnants of its storied past can be seen in the well-preserved heritage buildings, like the local Pub, and the warm hospitality of its residents. Narbethong stands as a testament to the determination and resilience of its early settlers and survivors of the bushfires, leaving visitors enchanted by its history and regeneration.
The Mill Houses:
These houses have a rich history with the workers associated with the mill. Relocating to its current location following the 1939 bushfires from the nearby Acheron Way, the mill was reconstructed on its current site. Devastated again by the 2009 Black Saturday Bushfires, these houses still lay on the original footprint and design from over 60 years ago.
The houses were occupied by timber families, the original mill manager for Fieglans, and our family after purchasing the site in 1993.
Today The Mill Houses offer self contained accommodation, for your home away from home in the historic town of Narbethong.
Main Mill Shed: Circa 1997
Feiglan’s Sawmill Crew taken in 1958
Black Spur Hotel: Circa 1960