Did you know about the Royal Bull's Head Inn? This incredible heritage site, located in Drayton, Queensland, is a true gem of Australian history!
Dating back to the 1840s, this charming inn has witnessed the changing times and is a living testament to the past. It served as a vital stopover for travellers and was a hub of activity during the early settlement days.
The Early Days of Drayton
In the early 1840s, the Darling Downs saw its first European settlers, known as squatters, establishing pastoral runs. It was during this time that William Horton, an ex-convict, recognized the need for a place where travelers could rest and refresh themselves in this burgeoning settlement. In 1847, he embarked on an ambitious project - the construction of an inn that would stand out for its quality and hospitality. The town was then known as "Drayton."
From Drayton to the Royal Bull's Head Hotel
Between 1858 and 1861, the inn underwent a series of improvements, earning its new name, the Royal Bull's Head Hotel. These upgrades included the addition of a billiard room, complete with a first-class Thurston table, and the construction of new stables. The establishment was not merely an inn; it was a complex featuring a cottage, stables, a butcher's shop, a kitchen, and a paddock for horses behind the hotel, offering a range of services to visitors.
Tragically, William Horton passed away in 1864, and his inn's furnishings were sold at auction in 1865. Subsequently, the hotel passed through the hands of several businessmen who continued to manage the establishment.
The Lynch Family Era
In 1879, a significant change occurred in the inn's ownership. Thomas Price Horton, the son of William Horton, sold the inn to Richard Stephen Lynch, a saddler, and his wife Sarah Neale. Under the Lynch family's stewardship, the Royal Bull's Head Inn was transformed into "The Terrace," serving as their private residence. For over 90 years, the Lynch family cherished this historic building as their family home.
Moreover, the Lynch family also managed the Drayton Post Office within the premises for a remarkable six decades, adding another layer to the building's historical significance.
The National Trust of Queensland's Preservation Efforts
The passing of time took its toll, and in 1973, the last surviving son of the Lynch family, Alan Campbell Lynch, left this world. This marked a turning point in the inn's history. The National Trust of Queensland stepped in, acquiring the building to ensure its preservation for future generations.
Today, the Royal Bull's Head Inn serves as a living museum, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the early days of Queensland's European settlement. It's a place where history comes to life, revealing the stories of pioneers, travelers, and the Lynch family who called this place home for generations.
I highly recommend you visit this beautifully preserved historic site where you can step back in time and experience the ambiance of the 19th century. Explore the authentic architecture, wander through the lush gardens, and soak in the rich heritage.
My Personal Experience
I've had the privilege of exploring this exquisite gem on multiple occasions, and each visit leaves me enchanted. The captivating blue wallpaper in the main bedroom never fails to mesmerize me. On one occasion, I even had a vivid vision of a woman with her hair elegantly tied in a tight bun. I've come to believe that this apparition may have been none other than Mrs. Lynch, who called this place home for an astounding 90 years. The history and stories woven into the walls of this remarkable place continue to unfold with each visit.
I have a vivid recollection of another instance when I found myself seated on the bathroom floor, immersed in a session that relied solely on my intuitive senses. During this session, a surge of emotions swept over me, resulting in a tightness in my chest and a nauseating sensation, accompanied by a deep, overwhelming sadness. It was as if I were grappling with a profound question: "What have I done?" This poignant experience seemed intricately connected to the energy of "The Chinaman," who tragically ended his own life by ingesting throat lozenges soaked in strychnine. His lifeless body was discovered in an upstairs bedroom, leaving behind a lingering aura of sorrow.
Through my research and discussions with fellow investigators, I've uncovered a roster of spirits that reside within the walls of this historic building. They are the echoes of a bygone era, each with a unique story to tell:
The Lady in the Night Dress: This spectral figure was first documented in 1908 and is believed to be Sarah Horton, the wife of the inn's original owner, William Horton. Her presence lingers, a reminder of the inn's early days.
The Three Drovers: Tragically, these three individuals met their untimely end after inadvertently consuming tobacco contaminated with arsenic. Their restless spirits now find solace within these walls.
The Young Man: A tragic fate befell this young soul as he lost his life with a throat-cutting incident on the inn's ground floor. His presence still lingers, telling a story of violence and sorrow.
The Baby in the Well: Over the years, numerous reports have surfaced about the haunting cries of a baby emanating from the vicinity of a disused well at the back of the inn. The mystery of this spectral infant continues to captivate and mystify.
These spectral residents form a tapestry of history, their stories intertwined with the inn's own narrative. Their presence serves as a constant reminder of the rich and often tragic history that has unfolded within these historic walls.
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