This attractive home at 372 Mountain Road, Lepperton, was constructed for Mrs Caroline Ellis McTaggart in 1894-95, and was ready for occupation on her return from a trip to England in early 1895.
The home is nestled amongst a remnant of lowland forest, and was constructed by well known New Plymouth builders W. F. Brooking and Robert Coleman, who were also presumably the architects. The design of the home was modelled on that of 'Numantia' at Fitzroy.
In February 1894 the Taranaki Herald published a rich description of the home. It was described as single storey, with 13 rooms and various offices and cupboards; a feature of the exterior was the veranda running along the front and western side of the building. Inside, the rooms were finished with a selection of stained and varnished timber, including oak, mahogany and Kauri. A large Luke and Sons range heated a high pressure boiler which supplied hot water on tap to the bath, kitchen etc. Furniture was especially imported by Mrs McTaggert, and matched the colour of the stained panelling.
Messrs Okeys, Arnold and Earp were the painters, Mr E. Howell was responsible for the roofing and plumbing, with Messrs Russell and Son responsible for constructing the chimney's, drains, and tanks.
Mrs McTaggart died in May 1909, and is buried in Lepperton Cemetery.
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