June 26 - July 2, 2011: Issue 12 

La Corniche, Bayview

Prior to the large edifice at Mona Vale named 'La Corniche' there was a home of the same name that later became a tea-room and guest rooms of the same name at Bayview, the destination of visitors after a long ride out from the city, and local alike. It was owned and run by one H Rainaud who was also was the owner of a restaurant run at the larger La Corniche at Mona Vale later on. His wife, Hedwig, may have run the La Corniche tearooms and boarding  house from 1906 on while her husband worked at Mona Vale by September, 1911. Hedwig purchased the property from Emma Morrison after September, 1908.

The word Corniche is French for 'a road hugging the coast'. Three famed corniche roads of the Côte d'Azur in the French Riviera run between the sea and mountains from Nice eastward toward Menton. They are known as the Corniche Inferieure (or Basse Corniche) along the coast, the Moyenne Corniche slightly inland, and the Grande Corniche along the upper cliffs.

'La Corniche' Bayview 1907 (Figtree Flat). c1906 Rainauds’ Drumtochty In 1905-6 Henri and Hedwig Rainaud take over Drumtochty and set up a restaurant and accommodation house. In December 1905 Henri Rainaud advertises that he is applying for a certificate authorising the issue of a Colonial Wine License for a house situated at Church Point, Bay View. (SMH 23 December 1905 P.14).

Bayview – Drumtochty and Ripley – First class Accom., French cuisine, ev. home con.  H. Rainaud”  (SMH 24 March 1906 P.6) {*Ripley is a house to the east of Drumtochty}

APPLICATION FOR A COLONIAL WINE LICENCE To the Licensing Court of the Metropolitan LICENSING District -I, HENRI RAINAUD, of Church Point, Bay View, do hereby give NOTICE that I desire to obtain and will at the next Quarterly Licensing Court, to beholden at Central Police Court, Sydney, on the 18th day of January, 1906 apply for a Certificate authorising the issue of a Colonial Wine License for a house situate at Church Point, Bay View, assessed at a rental of £50 a year Dated the 21st day of December, K15 HENRI RAINAUD, Restaurant Proprietor, Church Point Bay View. Advertising. (1905, December 23). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14739538

BY ORDER OF THE EXECUTORS THE ESTATE OF THE LATE MR. WILLIAM JOSEPH BAKER. ONE OF THE MOST CHARMING SPOTS AROUND SYDNEY. CHURCH POINT, PITTWATER.

A pleasant Motor or Coach drive from Manly, through delightful and varied Scenery. SPLENDID SUBDIVISION BLOCK OF ABOUT 30ACRES, PRACTICALLY A WATER FRONTAGE, with LARGE FRONTAGE to the MAIN ROAD, adjoining La Corniche, the well-known Accommodation House of Mons. Rainaud, and the old Public School, now the Property of Mr. Lesslie.

The LAND is Fenced, and the improvements comprise old W.B. COTTAGE, with Iron Roof, containing Verandah, Hall, 6 Rooms, Kitchen, 2 Room's off, detached Stables, Shed, etc. There is an old Orchard of various Fruit Trees, and the Land is mostly nicely grassed, and divided into Paddocks. The Property is let on Lease till 1st July out to Mons. Rainaud. THE VIEWS ARE SUPERB, and embrace Pittwater, Scotland Island, Newport, etc In the hands of a Capitalist for the building of week-end Cottages as on Investment, or for Subdivision purposes, the sale of this Property OFFERS EXCEPTIONAL CHANCES. Numerous overtures have been made to the Trustees to sell portions of about 1 acre. TITLE TORRENS. Plan at the Salerooms. HARDIE and GORMAN have received Instructions to sell by Public Auction, at their Salerooms, 133 Pitt-street, at 11.30 o'clock on WEDNESDAY, 7th OCTOBER, 1908, The above-described Property at Pittwater. Advertising. (1908, September 19). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 22. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15010463

The Rainauds had a terrible experience at La Corniche with one of their Summer boarders and by September 1911 had moved to Mona Vale, naming that premises La Corniche as well due to the success they had had at Bayview-Church Point;

GEORGE LAURI'S DEATH. Sydney, January 11. The circumstances in connection with the death of George John Lowe (George Lauri), who was found with his throat cut at Bayview on Tuesday last, were investigated by the coroner this afternoon. Marietta Constance Lowe, widow of the deceased, said on January 5 her husband was sitting on the verandah of the boarding house, and the witness was inside making a bed. The witness heard the deceased call, 'Marie, come here quick. Look, look.' The witness replied, All right, dear, I'll be out in a minute.' He repeated, 'Come quick and look at it.' She went out and saw the deceased leaning over, and blood was flowing from a wound. She thought at first that the blood was only from his nose, but when he turned she saw the razor. The witness called, and Madame Rainaud came out. The deceased then ran into the room and closed the door and called out, 'Keep them away. Don't let them come in. He then opened the door and fell outwards into her arms saying, 'Forgive me. I could bear this life no longer.' The witness asked him, 'Why did you do it?' He replied, 'Forgive me. I thought you might not love me.' 

The deceased asked them to lay him down, saying, 'Marie, I have always loved you.’ The witness said her husband had suffered from loss of memory since their visit to Colombo in June. He had been suffering from hallucinations for some time, and had an idea that men were always following him about to club him. On one occasion he came in and said that men were waiting for him at the fence. The deceased a good many times had expressed his intention of taking his own life. When his memory, returned after lapses of this kind he would say, 'This cannot go on any longer. I am sure I am going mad. Sooner than this I -would cut my throat.’ He had also said to her, 'Why don't you give me poison?’ The witness did not think her husband was bad enough to be shut up. He was 48 years of age, and was an actor by profession. Originally he was an architect. The Coroner found that the deceased had died from hemorrhage, caused by a wound in the throat, Self-inflicted, whilst the deceased was of unsound mind. GEORGE LAURI'S DEATH. (1909, January 16). Chronicle(Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954), p. 41. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article88290698

Photo:George Lauri / Talma Studios, 374 George St., Sydney and at Melbourne [ca. 1905] Incrsiption: "To his dear old pal Goodie" [i.e. Goodman] - top edge of mount, "In loving memory" - lower edge of mount, "La Corniche Pittwater Jan 5th 1909 48 years 10 months old" - reverse of mount. Image no: a4219049. Courtesy State Library of NSW

EVIDENCE BY HIS WIFE,  ‘OFTEN THREATENED TO KILL HIMSELF. 

The Acting City Coroner (Mr. Stephen Murphy) held an inquiry this afternoon at the Manly Police Station into the circumstances attending the death of George John Lowe (professionally known as George Lauri), who was found with his throat cut, at Renaults' Tea Gardens, Bay View, on Tuesday last.

Dr. Thomas, of Manly, said about 10 minutes to 12 on Tuesday last he was called to Bay View. 'When he arrived there he saw Geo. Lauri there. He was then quite dead, and had been for about half-an-hour. He had a gash across the front of his neck, which on investigation witness found that it had cut across the left jugular vein. The cause of death was hemorrhage from the wound, which was, in witness’ opinion, self-inflicted. He could not have lived more than 15 minutes after the wound was inflicted. Witness bad known deceased for some time. Marietta Constance Lowe said she resided at Bay View, Pittwater. About a quarter to 12 on Tuesday last, her husband, who was better known as George Lauri, was sitting on the verandah of Renault's boarding house. Witness was in a bedroom close by. She beard him call out, 'Come here, Marie, quick. Look! Look!' Witness replied, 'All right. I’ll be there in a minute' He again called out, 'Come quick. Look.' Witness went out and saw him bleeding, and at the time thought he was only bleeding from the nose, but on going closer she saw that his throat was cut. He was holding a razor and witness ran to Mme. Renault for assistance. Her husband ran into the bedroom and locked the door. After some time became out and died in witness' arms. Just before he died he said, 'Forgive me, I thought you said you did not love me and couldn't live any longer.' While in the room he kept calling out, 'I love you, Marie.' Her husband had been troubled with his memory ever since June last, when be went to Colombo. 

On New Year's Day he ran away to the bush at Bayview, and returned home with his clothes dirty. Witness asked what was the matter, and he replied, 'The men that are always following me were up there.' A few days previous to this he returned home, and told witness that his dog which he used to take walking with him, had rescued him from four men who were following him. The night previous to his death, he was afraid to go into the house, as he thought men with clubs were waiting there for him. He had often expressed the intention of taking his life, as he thought he was going mad. He was 48 years of age, and was born in London. He had been an architect, but subsequently took to the stage. Witness and deceased had about £100 in the bank in their joint names. While he was following his occupation as an actor, he could not sleep; but since his retirement from the stage he had slept a great deal better. Deceased had been under several brain-specialists for some time. 

Mme. Hedwig Renault, a boarding-house keeper, at Bay View said she had known Lauri, for almost seven weeks, while he was staying at her place. Witness saw him sitting on the verandah, smoking his pipe, shortly after 12  o’clock on Tuesday last. After going inside, witness heard him calling out, 'Marie Marie. 'Shortly after she heard Mrs. Lauri calling out, and witness, who went out on to the verandah, saw Lauri bleeding from a gash in the throat. He had a razor in his hand, and on seeing Mrs. Lauri and witness ran into the bedroom,' calling out, 'Go away. Don't let them, do it.' Shortly after Lauri fell out from the door on to his wife's neck. He lived about 15 minutes. Witness heard Mrs. Lauri say, 'What did you do it for?' and he replied!; 'I could not live any longer.' He also said he loved his wife. He never drank anything but milk while staying at Bayview. Witness had heard deceased say that men followed him about to try and catch him. 

Constable Hewitt, stationed at Mona Vale, Manly, said that about 3-20 p.m. on Tuesday last, Dr. Thomas called at his residence, and told witness that George Lauri had committed suicide at Bayview. He went to Bayview, and saw deceased lying on a bed at Renault's boarding-house. He had a large gash In his throat. Mme. Renault handed him the razor (produced), and told him that it was found In a pool of blood near where Lauri had been sitting. The Coroner returned a verdict of suicide while of unsound mind. Inquest on George Lauri. (1909, January 11). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article113348638 

Love doesn't end when a life does:

LAURI-In loving memory of our dear husband and father. George Lauuri, who died January 5, 1909, at La Cornich, Bay View, Pittwater. Inserted by Marie and George Lauri. Family Notices. (1915, January 5). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15550314

ONE OF THE MOST CHARMING SPOTS AROUND SYDNEY CHURCH POINT, PITTWATER. SPLENDID SUBDIVISION BLOCK OF ABOUT 30 ACRES, PRACTICALLY A WATER FRONTAGE, with LARGE FRONTAGE to the MAIN ROAD, adjoining La Corniche, the well-known Accommodation House of Mons. Rainaud, and the old Public School, now the Property of Mr. Leslie.
The LAND is Fenced, and the improvements comprise old W.B. COTTAGE  with Iron Roof, containing Verandah, Hall, 6 Rooms, Kitchen, 2 Room's off, detached Stables, Shed, etc. There is an old Orchard of various Fruit Trees, and the land is mostly nicely grassed, and divided into Paddocks. The Property is let on Lease till 1st July out to Mons. Rainaud. Restr. THE VIEWS ARE SUPERB, and embrace Pittwater, Scotland Island, Newport, etc
Advertising. (1908, September 19). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 22. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15010463

The Allen Family, wealthy Sydney solicitors and politicians, frequented this place taking members of the Dangar Family with them, notably Leonard Dangar who settled as a pastoralist inland. They also visited La Corniche at Mona Vale when the Rainauds leased this building from September 1911 and continued to eat meals at La Corniche at Bayview in October as well.

After the fire at La Corniche Mona Vale, in January 1912, the Rainauds started a new venture in town:

About 10 years ago there arrived In Sydney Monsieur Rainaud, a French genius in the art of cooking, with a knowledge of the needs of the inner man and woman that was (second to none as far as Continental training) and experience were concerned. He conceived the idea of opening a Rotisserie Parisienne in the centre of the city to supply meals to people living at any reasonable distance from his establishment. But the tremendous possibilities of the thing did not appear to "grip" at the moment. The people were only just awakening to the problems of home life. Now they are fully awake. To get a decent meal in Sydney at a reasonable price, hot and hasty and tasty from the fire, is sometimes difficult. In August it will be easy. Sydney is to have its Rotisserie Parisienne. M. Rainaud has gradually been evolving his plan. 


During his period of service as head chef to Governor Sir Harry Rawson, and later when he was presiding over the culinary delights of La Corniche at Bayview, this French artist in food was thinking out the details of his scheme, and now it is almost an accomplished fact. An elegant shop in Culwulla-chambers, at the corner of King and Castlereagh streets, will be the distributing centre. This shop will be fitted up as a palatial, comfortably-furnished lounge. No meals will be served on the premises but ladies will be able to go there, see the menus, and order what they will need in their households day by day. There will be a wide range from which to make choice. All that, is best and, most inexpensive will be there. All that is reasonable in price will be there. Dainties from all parts of the world will be available as the liners bring them into Port Jackson, and all Australia's delightful products In meats, and game, and vegetables, and fruit, as well as the confections in pastry and ices that the best French chefs and experts can devise, will be procurable in a bewildering variety. A feature of the new Rotisserie Parisienne will be the old English spit, where the game and joints will be roasted in full view of the public. M. and Mme. Rainaud guarantee that the appetising odors that this branch of the business will give off will be the finest advertisement possible. Special boxes have been constructed to contain the, hot viands and to retain all their spiciness and tastiness. FEED THE BRUTE (1913, July 13). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 20. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229686457 

Years later the property was placed on the market again:

BAYVIEW, BAYVIEW, PITTWATER.PITTWATER. PITTWATER. AUCTION SALE. ON THE GROUND, at 2 30pm, SATURDAY, 15th JANUARY, 1921.

The well known Estate, situated between BAYVIEW and CHURCH POINT, with only the Road between it and the waters of PICTURESQUE PITTWATER, PICTURESQUE PITTWATER, has been Subdivided into 25 LIBERAL LOTS, 25 LIBERAL LOTS, all having EASTERLY ASPECT. On three of the lots are Cottages.

La Corniche, a roomy Bungalow, with spacious verandas, 4 rooms, and offices. Killarney, containing 2 rooms, kitchen, bathroom, etc. And A small Cottage, on Lot 2, with two rooms and verandah. Advertising. (1920, December 18). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 16. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16880473

REAL ESTATE AUCTION SALES. PITTWATER.  ESTATE OF LA- CORNICHE. ESTATE OF LA CORNICHE. ESTATE OF LA CORNICHE. AUCTION SALE. ON THE GROUND.AUCTION SALE. ON THE GROUND. SATURDAY NEXT, at 2.30.  This picturesque subdivision Is situated, between BAYVIEW and CHURCH POINT,. and/ comprises  -26 BEAUTIFUL LOTS. and three Cottages. KILLARNEY. ‘LA CORNICHE. ' and another.  A frequent Motor Bus Service connects with all Trams from Manly at Narrabeen. TORRENS TITLE.  EASY TERMS. One-tenth Deposit. Balance by 13 quarterly payments. Interest at 6 per cent. RAINE AND HORNE 70 PITT-STREET. AUCTIONEERS. Advertising. (1921, January 8). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 17. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article28090155

Messrs. Raine and Horne, in addition to the sale already mentioned of the former office of the London Bank of Australia, report the following:-Several lots, La Corniche Estate, Bay View, at auction, £718; REAL ESTATE. (1921, January 22). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16884949

Soon afterwards the Rainauds moved to a still famous place:

Rainauds, of Lilianfels CONDUCT PLUM HOSTEL.

The Darleys, the Vickerys, and the Kemps are three names that will ever be linked with picturesque "Lilianfels." From the last-named occupants, the old home, with all its early-day traditions, passed into the hands of the speculator, and, in keeping with the onward march of democracy, what was once the exclusive right of the few will, in future, be the happy home of the many. Fact is, "Lilianfels" has been leased as a fashionable hostel, and is now under the auspices of Madame and Mons Rainaud, so well and favorably known in the life of the city. The historic house has been renovated and re-furnished throughout, the transformation allowing for 16 bedrooms, all furnished from O'Callaghan's emporium in Pitt-street. Judged by early bookings, the accommodation will need doubling at an early date. On Friday evening, about 20 townsmen accepted the hospitality of the new hosts, and enjoyed a Rainaud dinner, which is the last word in culinary art. The company included several cityites, and Messrs. J. S. Henderson, Capt. T. Whateley Rose, R. V. Smythe, B. H. Hogben and others. In the words of welcome and good wishes that followed, the Sydney-siders were complimented upon the modern appearance of the hostel and the essence of optimism was the keynote of every utterance. Capt. Rose being particularly happy in his tribute. In her response, Madame Rainaud voiced a sincere thanks for the good wishes extended: "I have just opened, and already I feel at home. And my bookings! Well, they are most encouraging. I hope to do well in Katoomba. I love its beauty and, by present company, I like its people I will give my home-friends the best to make them happy, and will also do my bit (as the dear boys say) to help in the progress of the town." The gathering, which was a very happy one, then retired, wishing Madame and Mons every prosperity In their now home. The advent of Rainauds and the opening of such a first-class hostel Is a distinct advancement for the district. Rainauds, of Lilianfels (1922, December 8). The Blue Mountain Echo (NSW : 1909 - 1928), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article108231481

December 21. 1924, at Katoomba. Henri, adored husband of Madame Rainaud, aged 61 years. R I.P. AND: RAINAUD-December 24. at Katoomba, Henri, late of La Coniche, Bayview, Pittwater, life-long friend of Wilfred and Lilian ROSS and Marie Lloyd. R.I.P. Family Notices. (1924, December 25). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16194091

Mons Rainaud Passes - CHEF TO SIR HARRY RAWSON.

Henri Rainaud is dead. In the midst of all the festivities he passed peacefully away at his 'Lillianfels" home on Xmas Eve, after an illness of less than a fortnight. The body was quietly removed to Wood, Coffills' parlours, thence to Manly, where it was laid to rest in the Catholic portion of the seaside cemetery, Rev. M. A. Sheehy officiating, Short as was the notice, scores of wreaths (many from prominent cityites) showed that the old chef was not forgotten — even in the midst of life and laughter of Christmas time.

Coming to New South Wales as chef to Sir Harry Rawson, Mons Rainaud soon established a reputation as a chef right out of the ordinary. Tempting offers enticed him from Vice-Regal service, and his name soon became a household word in the City, his fame spreading to all States. Mons and Madame made money —  lots of it— and the name "Rainaud" was without peer in the restaurant business. 

About three years ago, Mons and Madame took over "Lillianfels," at Echo Point, where they have housed hundreds of City friends In old-time style, adding to their clientele daily. The severance is a sad one for Madame, and general sympathy is extended to her in the bereavement. The late Henri Rainaud first saw the light at Vaucluse, In beloved France, and he had passed his 61st milestone when the end came. Mons Rainaud Passes (1925, January 2). The Blue Mountain Echo (NSW : 1909 - 1928), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article108840605


Lillianfels - circa 1946 - Visit Lilianfels by George Repin

Hedwig passed away in 1948 - aged 94!

RAINAUD -The Funeral of the late Madame HEDWIG RAINAUD of 11 Oak Street Narrabeen will leave our Chapel, Belgrave Street Manly This (Saturday ) Morning at 10 o clock for Catholic Cemetery, Manly. Wood Coffill Limited, Sydney and Burwood. Family Notices (1948, October 23). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 30. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18093417

Of note - when you don't own what you owned:

RESTRAINING USE OF NAME. . Andrew and another v Rainaud.

This was an application on behalf or the plaintiffs in the suit of John Andrew and John Vrachnas against Hedwig Rainaud to restrain by injunction the defendant, her servants, and agents from carrying on the business of restaurant keeper in such a way as to resemble their business; and In particular, that the defendant, her servants, and agents be restrained from trading as a restaurant keeper under the name of "Rainaud's Restaurant."

Mr. Feez. K.C., and Mr. E. W. Street (instructed by Mr. T. J. Purcell) appeared for the plaintiffs; and Mr. Weston (instructed by Mr. Aubrey Halloran) for the defendant.

Plaintiffs set out in their statement of claim that they were the proprietors of the "Restaurant Rainaud" at 180 King-street, Sydney, where they carried on the business of restaurant keepers, which business was well known to the public as "Rainaud's." They had recently ascertained that in January last the defendant commenced to trade as a restaurant keeper at 17 Darlinghurst-road, Sydney, under the name of "Rainaud's" Restaurant.

His Honor said that, assuming that the defendant had nothing more to say than appeared in her affidavits, he had come to the conclusion that she had deliberately set out to catch portion of the plaintiffs' trade. He thought the defendant must be restrained from using as at present the expression "Rainaud's Restaurant," and from using any other expression that would lead the public to believe that her business belonged to the plain-tiffs. He, therefore, granted an injunction till the hearing of the suit, costs to be costs in the cause. In order to enable the defendant to make any necessary alterations in the name of her business, he would suspend the operation of the order for a week. IN EQUITY. (1927, April 9). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article28055529

Pittwater -Removal after purchase of the old La Corniche at Bay View Pittwater a weatherboard cottage of seven rooms Mr J D Ryan 15 Castlereagh street. CONTRACTS. (1929, December 24). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16612878

References

Altona, Peter and Gould, Sue. Samuel Morrison - Teacher. April 2012.

 From The Mort Family Album, Image 131. H.Rainaud's restaurant La Corniche, Digital Order No. a1780131, from State Library of NSW: A note scribbled at side of this photograph says " Renaud - after his Restaurant in Macquarie Street - Morts Rooms-Chambers'.

Sunday 5th of February 1911; 'Leaving La Corniche'; from  Album 56: Photographs of the Allen family, 1 December - 30 April 1911. Courtesy State Library of NSW.

Fig Tree Flat La Corniche Bayview circa 1900 - 1910
Fig Tree Flat (Capes Flat), Bayview circa 1900 - 1910

Further Reading:


Advertising (1898, August 6). Le Courrier Australien (Sydney, NSW : 1892 - 2011), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article167811620

Dangar Island: http://www.dictionaryofsydney.org/item/286

SYDNEY, Wednesday 26th of April, 1917- The death of Mr Henry Carey Dangar, M.L.C., occurred early this morning at his residence, Grantham, Potts Point, in his 87th year. Mr Dangar was born at Port Stephens on June 4., 1830 His father, Henry Dangar, who came to Australia in 1822, at the age of 23 years, was destined to play an ímportant part as an Australian pioneer. For six years he was occupied in survey work in the Hunter River district. He laid out the original plan of Newcastle or Kings- town, as it was then called. His son, the   late Mr. Henry Carey Dangar, was educated at Cambridge, where he took the M. A. degree, and was in 1854 called to the bar.   Returning to Australia, he followed pastoral pursuits, which his father had begun. For nearly half a century he was prominently identified with the turf of this State as breeder and owner of racehorses and for over 47 years was a member of the commit- tee of the Australian Jockey Club. All   other healthy forms of sport also claimed Mr. Dangar's interest. For years he was commodore of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron, and vice-president of the council of the National Rifle Association. Mr. Dangar was for years one of the best known and most respected public men. He sat in the Parliament of New South Wales for over forty years. His life was a full one, and a busy one and in this country he saw  many wonderful changes. Few men had a richer store of reminiscences. In 1865 he married Miss Lucy Lamb, daughter of Commander Lamb R. N. His  wife and daughter Mabel pre-deceased him, but a large family remains -four sons and six daughters. From: DEATH of MR. DANGAR, M.L.C. (1917, April 26). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article1613432

* Allen Family Album notes lunching there on Sunday 3rd of September, 1911.

Photo Attributions: From the Mitchell Library, State Library of NSW:
a3286059, a3286050  a106166h, a2883064h  Caption Album 50: Photographs of the Allen family, May 1909 - 12 October 1909 .  La Corniche, Bayview, ca. 1907, 

La Corniche Church Point.pdf La Corniche Church Point.pdf
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AUSTRALIAN SCENES AND SKETCHES 
BY THE EDITOR. 
III.— A MOUNTAIN HOME : LOVELY LILIANFELS. 
'There is only one Lilianfels in Australia,' was the somewhat commonplace remark the writer made as he accomplished the tour of the exquisitively laid- out grounds and enjoyed the series of views from the picturesque outlooks within the enclosures of the home. One cannot but regret that such a position' should have been alienated to private possession by a short sighted Government. Like the foreshores of the Harbour, the rims of the mountains should have been reserved as national assets and have been beautified -with taste and skill for .the enjoyment and benefit ?of citizens of all ranks and degrees. The situation of Lilianfels is so unique that the short-sightedness of parting with it cannot but be a. matter of surprise, as well as regret. But that feeling is tempered with ?one of pleasure that it should have fallen originally into the hands of a citizen, of the taste, refinement, and public spirit of the late Sir Frederick Darley, and then have been made by him. a thing of beauty to add to the enjoyment of -the thousands of tourists who annually ' pass: by its gates oil their way to Echo Point,- and who from that spot turn and look upon ' the pretty home,' and tastefully laid-out grounds, and the glorious blooms that' make Lilianfels an added attraction in a visit to Katoomba. To those who are favoured with the entree of the home itself and with the opportunity of doing the circuit of its paths, and revelling in the view from its outlooks, the pleasure is immensely enhanced. Lilianfels, as a residence, does, not boast of any special architectural merit. It is simply a large, comfortable cottage, well-verandahed, and standing on a site unique so far as the outlook is concerned. 

Designed internally solely with a view to comfort and accommodation, it is all that can be desired from the standpoints of domestic enjoyment and scenic pleasures. But it has historic associations that will increase in value as the years go by. Sir Frederick Darley, when disposing of the property before his departure from Australia, sold on the basis of 'walk out, walk in,' and it is on that basis that the present proprietor has entered into possession. Hence, in the entrance-hall is a valuable collection of photographic views of the various Government Houses that have 'been occupied since the foundation of the State of New South 'Wales. Beginning with a wattle and dab humpy — for it was little better — in which Governor Phillip first held his court on the slopes of 'Sydney Cove, the collection includes the cottage at 'Rose-'hill,' standing at the end of a long avenue of trees Heading to the hill-top, on which that vice-regal resilience stood; also, the later Government. House in Parramatta Park, and the venerable building still standing at Windsor, which served as the country residence a century ago. Completing the group is the photograph of the stately pile overlooking Farm Cove in which Sir Frederick Darley presided during his many terms of office as Lieutenant-Governor. It is -only recalling history not very remote to remind the reader that just prior to Federation there was a fairly general feeling that Sir Frederick should have been promoted to the position of Governor-in-Chief— a position for which his high character, his great attainments, and his stately physique eminently fitted him. As Chief Justice also, Sir Frederick Darley had a long and distinguished career, and it is not to be wondered at that one of the rooms at Lilianfels is sacred to the infirmary of the occupants of the chief judicial seat of the State. Early Chief Justices are  represented by the photos of Sir F. Forbes. Sir Alfred Stephen, and Sir James Martin are also in the collection, whilst the photograph of Sir Frederick in full insignia of office completes the series. In the same room is part of his Library; also the desk at which he sat and at' which doubtless he wrote many of his learned judgments, with portfolio and blotting pad, just as he left them, after many years of use. 

Another interesting room in Lilianfels is that occupied by the present King and Queen on their visit in 1901. Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of York were the guests of Sir Frederick and Lady Darley at their picturesque mountain home, and were assigned one of the upstairs rooms as their sleeping apartments. The room remains, in its furniture and appointments, as it then was. The furniture of the room is solid and comfortable, without being unduly ornate and expensive. The bedstead is hung with tapestry of a bluish shade, and an upholstered lounge at the foot of it affords all the comfort possible in a limited area To one's mind there involuntarily occurred comparisons between this royal couch and bedstead and those that are shown the visitor to Holyrood Palace and Hampton Court. The advantage in freshness is, of course, with Lilianfels; but centuries of history gather around the faded hangings and the musty coverlets that once provided comfort and warmth to Queen Elizabeth, James the Sixth, Queen Mary, and other royalties who occupied the rooms at Hampton Court, or slept within the precincts of Holyrood Palace. 

Best of all, at Lilianfels, is the view on which royalty must have gazed with mingled feeling of awe, of wonder, and of delight; as from the window of the sleeping apartment it looked out upon the majestic and ever-changing scenery of the Jamison Valley and the circle of mountains arid crags that guard. and define its boundaries. What views there are from the outlooks that are within the Lilianfels enclosure, and to which the. present kindly hostess ,of the home courteously conducts the visitor. Let us stand upon one and survey the scene. In front lies the Jamieson Valley, so named after one of the early Surveyors-General of New South Wales. Densely wooded, with a little clearing here and there; undulating in every part, and with a brooklet making music as it meanders along its , course ; and with crags and peaks of varying outline and form the scene is one that needs the pen of a poet or the brush of an artist to do justice to it. Moreover, it is never twice the same. The contour of hills does not change, the crags are there in all their weird, suggestiveness; the depths below and the distances beyond are always though inspiring. Yonder are the Three Sisters, beyond them is the familiar figure of 'The Emu.' on the rocky ramparts of the King's Tableland; in front stated Mount Solitary, with the figures that are pointed out on its shelving front; also, the Ruined Castle. Underneath runs the Federal Pass, probably 1000ft. below, it tourist track connecting the Leura and the Katoomba Falls, traversed during the course of a year by; thousands of interested pedestrians. But sunshine arid 'shadow, cloud and mist, haze and gloom, lend their aid to produce a variety of effect that give charm to the scenery, making it an occasion of ever-fresh and heart-satisfying delight. Now, it may be a fleecy mist; anon a purple haze; and yet again the golden glory of' the setting sun, transfiguring and glorifying the whole scene. William Wordsworth appeals to one amid such surroundings when he sung: - ''' The sounding cataract Haunted me 'like a passion; the tall rock, The mountain, and the deep, and gloomy, wood, Their, colours and their forms were then to me an appetite'.

Or let us wind our way along the hillside, a rustic footpath underneath, until we reach the double-decked lookout, specially named in honor of the first proprietress of Lilianfels, 'Lady Darley 's Lookout.' A jutting rock forms the platform; strong iron guards, securely, driven, into the sandstone, afford the necessary sense of security, as one stands on the dizzy heights, and looks down, into the depths below, and out to the fair and entrancing scene beyond. From this vantage ground, Echo Point may be seen; Mount Solitary is yonder; the Valley stretches far. But to the right are the sheer, cliffs of Katoomba Falls; the Orphan Rock in lonely grandeur; the Sphinx, more eternal and inscrutable that its Egyptian namesake. Underneath is a luxuriant undergrowth, in which tree ferns, mountain ash, and other specimens of a subtropical flora lend their charms to produce an ensemble rich and satisfying to the lover of color and natural beauty. On the day of our visit the vista was especially fine, with all the tints and shades of colour that seemed to wreathe the crags, to fill the valleys and to glorify the sky; and one thought of Wordsworth's experience when he sings: — Of all that is most beauteous imaged there In happier beauty. On another occasion it was our privilege to view the panorama as the sun was setting. With what a glory and splendour the rays of the departing day seemed to invest every aspect and feature of the scene. And a passage of Ruskin came to mind, when in his magnificent prose poetry he wrote — 'It is the poetry of nature! It is this which uplifts the spirit within us, until it is strong enough to overlook he shadows of our place of probation, which binds link after link the. chain that binds us to materiality, and which opens to our imagination a world' of spiritual beauty and holiness.' For the enjoyment and inspiration of the scenes thus inadequately described, the writer is indebted to the charming courtesy of the present hospitable proprietors of Lilianfels, Mr. and Mrs. A. A. Kemp. AUSTRALIAN SCENES AND SKETCHES (1914, September 19). The Methodist (Sydney, NSW : 1892 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article155444318 
LILIANFELS HOUSE, KATOOMBA.

La Corniche at Bayview threads collected by A J Guesdon, 2011.