A Family Home
In 1890 John Buxton (1852-1934), a leading estate-agent in South Melbourne, purchased a large block of land on Beaconsfield Parade in Middle Park, which at the time was an unsettled area, covered with tea-tree and wild flowers. He built a spacious home on solid bluestone foundations for his growing family and named it “Hughenden”, after the family home of the British Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli. The home was designed in Italianate/Federation style and as you can see from the photos here taken from the beach in front, this “family” home is magnificent, it’s massive and an ornately decorated building.
A Clubhouse
After the death of John Buxton this most substantial and commandingly designed of houses to have been built along Beaconsfield Parade was offered at a public auction and on 7th December 1938, the Melbourne based Danish Club Dannebrog (founded in 1886), made the successful bid. After some 6 months of renovations, on 5th July 1939 the Danish Club moved in and for many years thereafter, this building became known as The Danish Club.
Over the years whenever I’ve visited Port Phillip Bay in Melbourne I’d frequently have lunch at the Danish Club. It used to be a favourite place for lunch and the classic Danish dishes it served were just fantastic. Having spectacular views of Port Phillip Bay, it was great dining at this magnificent, nearly 130 year-old venue. I wanted to share some photos of the amazing Danish dishes served there but now sadly I cannot because…
A Family Home Again
In many ways sadly the Danish Club sold the “clubhouse” for $12m and moved to Denmark House in the center of Melbourne. The old clubhouse was turned into a luxury private residence by the richest woman in Victoria. Can you imagine this as a family home? It’s massive with amazing views over Port Phillip Bay!!!