The Carcoar Hospital building is one of the earliest colonial hospital buildings in Australia, and holds a unique and important place in our history. Built to the design of renowned Colonial Architect, Edward Gell, it was completed and occupied in 1861.
A Museum dedicated to the medical & hospital services is being developed, with the building itself as the main exhibit. Built of 80,000 hand-made bricks, laid in 'English Bond', it has single-story wings with a central double-story section. The outer walls of the upper story are shingled, and the roof, pitched at 55 degrees, is of shingles, now covered with corrugated iron. The chimneys' are an interesting feature. Nails were hand-made and window glass hand-poured (several still exist), floors throughout are 6" hardwood and original fittings are cedar.
There have been alterations and additions to meet the needs of later eras, but the original building remains basically intact, and is slowly being returned to original design. Inspections are by appointment and dedicated "Open Days".
Hospital services have ceased, but the building continues to be used for health-related services via a doctor's surgery, aged-care services and community services.
The original 'Male Ward' is available for hire for suitable functions and is an ideal venue for training and education-type seminars. Catering can be arranged. Hire of the “Male Ward” can be negotiated with the Manager and the Uralba Board.
