We are very lucky that Jarvisfield is now a Golf club and so, can be accessed by the public. The cache is located near the entrance and not within the grounds of Jarvisfield. However it is defineitely worth a drive down past the dam and the greens to have a look at the beautiful old building. If you do go in for a look, make sure you note the old barn/stables nearby the main 'former' residence as well.
The name and location of 'Jarvisfield' has historic connections to the first white settlement of the area. The village known today as Picton was originally called 'Jarvisfield', by Captain Henry Colden Antill when first granted land in 1822 by Governor Brisbane. Captain Henry Colden Antill came to Australia with the 73rd Regiment. In 1822 the Captain was given a grant of land in Picton which he built a small cottage on. I have been unable to locate the small cottage as yet. Later his eldest son John Macquarie Antill built a larger home. This home still stands today and is heritage listed. This building now houses the club house for Antill Park Country Golf Club. As the eldest son, John inherited Jarvisfield in 1858 and in 1864 built a new homestead there for the family. In 1875, from imported stock, he established the 'Ayreshire Stud' which made Jarvisfield famous. John and his wife Jessie, who died at Jarvisfield, are buried on the Jarvisfield Estate in the Antill Family vault, which is discussed further in one of my other caches.
The property is said to be haunted by 3 ghosts. A little girl – has crossed over since – 12 yrs old who apparently spent 181 yrs in the house – an old man who had been holding her there for company and another unknown.
Weird occurances reported in the property are;
- A change in atmosphere. Dark and quiet and not very welcoming.
- Feeling ill when entering particular rooms.
- Hearing loud noises from empty rooms and doorways.
- Doors closing/slamming on their own with no evidence of a breeze.
- The Jukebox in the games room coming to life and playing music.
- EMF detectors spike.