Mural in Bridge View Inn

Mural in Bridge View Inn

When the Rylstone and District Historical Society purchased the building in 1967 no one was aware of the existence of the mural.

The painting on the wall was rediscovered during restoration work in the 1980’s. At that stage the mural’s origin was unclear.

In 2010 the Historical Society engaged art specialists from International Conservation Services to investigate. They found an aged, faded, cracked and damaged mural at risk of further deterioration or permanent loss, and recommended conservation and restoration. With funding assistance from the NSW Government, an appeal set up by the National Trust, and huge support from the local community, the Historical Society was able to employ International Conservation Services to undertake the work during 2012 and 2013.

Research shows that the allegorical figures in the mural are all associated with drinking and with love - racy but appropriate imagery to decorate the walls of a Victorian hotel in an era of booming gold fields.

Ref: Virginia Hollister