The oldest sawn timber home in Cessnock was awarded the Hunter Valley Heritage Award in 2014. 

The award and cairn will be presented to the Marthaville Management Committee.

Marthaville Homestead, circa 1885, was recognised by the Hunter Valley Wine Living Legends Group.

Brian and Fay McGuigan sponsored the award. 

“Marthaville is on land where some of the earliest Cessnock district vineyards were and, as such, it represents a tangible link between today’s Pokolbin vineyards, the town of Cessnock and the viticultural heritage of the area,” Mr McGuigan said. 

“It is very pleasing to be able to acknowledge this valuable heritage asset, which is now owned and maintained by Cessnock City Council.” 

The award honours the history behind Australia’s oldest commercial wine region. 

Marthaville is at 200 Wollombi Road on the fringe of Cessnock CBD. 

It was built by George Brown after he married Martha Jones. 

Mr Brown planted a vineyard on the estate and was a significant identity in Cessnock. 

He was a builder, sawmiller, civil magistrate, district coroner and councillor and became a successful coal prospector. 

Marthaville Homestead, now known as Marthaville Arts and Cultural Centre, retains many of its original piers and its timber shingles can be spotted under the eaves of the galvanised roof. 

It was restored by the Marthaville Preservation Society in the 1980s in conjunction with Cessnock City Council. 

“It is a beautiful old homestead and a landmark in Cessnock,” mayor Bob Pynsent said. 

Marthaville is open on Friday and Saturday from 10am to 4pm. 

Descendants of George and Martha Brown and those involved in the ­preservation activities at Marthaville are ­welcome to attend the presentation of the cairn.