Manfred talk and tour showcases contribution to Goulburn

For three researchers, including a retired architect, Manfred’s sheer range of work remains as alive today thanks to sturdy construction and conservation.

David Penalver, wife Daphne and Linda Cooper have studied the architect’s work over the past 12 years. On Saturday they will present an illustrated talk on his contribution to Goulburn’s built heritage, followed by guided walks.

Mr Penalver, formerly an architect himself, said Manfred worked on everything from grand houses, cottages, shops and emporiums, even modest additions to homes.

“He was here at the peak of Goulburn’s boom and everyone wanted his work,” he said.

“From my point of view, it’s his beautiful craftsmanship (that’s impressive). Today the collection has a whole series of drawings that would grace the walls of any home.”

Mr Penalver said accompanying instructions were not overly detailed and Manfred largely trusted his builders and tradesmen to work off the drawings.

Edmund Cooper Manfred was born in England and came to Sydney with his family. His father, who died when Edmund was four, was also an architect, Mrs Penalver said.

He came to Goulburn at age 14 in 1879, possibly with Saint Saviour’s Cathedral architect, Edmund Blacket. Manfred became the clerk of works for that project and later opened his own firm. He was active in Goulburn’s life and at one time was also general manager of the gas works, a business he turned around.

He designed well into his old age and his son, HC Manfred continued in the practice. 

The Penalvers and Mrs Cooper have undertaken extensive research on his work. The practice documents of Manfred and Son have State significance and will be digitised and conserved, thanks to grants.

Mrs Penalver said for many years the plans were stored in a rear shed at HC’s home at 114 Bradley Street. The house has been designed by his father in 1881 for Annie Ross. In more recent years the plans been housed at Saint Clair, where despite damp problems, the documents have survived “remarkably well” intact. They have since been moved from this environment for conservation.

Mrs Cooper said Manfred tended to work with the same tradesmen and builders, who in turn applied the architect’s trademark features to other structures. This led to misconceptions about the buildings Manfred actually designed. Today, the trio believe it’s a source of pride to many that he designed their homes.

“His legacy is rare,” Mrs Cooper said.

Saturday’s talk will be held at the Goulburn Soldiers Club at 10.15am for a 10.30pm start. The event is free. It will be followed by two different walks – Church Hill, behind Saint Saviour’s Cathedral, where Manfred designed many grand homes, and the West End, around Bradley, Cowper and Hurst Streets. The cost of these is $10 per person, including guide book. Bookings should be made by emailing gdhsevents@gmail.com, with subject line – ‘Manfred.’