This old building, as seen through the huge gate at the entrance to the property is part of a
complex of buildings known as the "Lancer Barracks".

These structures form the oldest continuously used military barracks on the mainland of Australia.
They were erected on the orders of Governor Macquarie to replace earlier barracks in Parramatta
town. Commenced in 1818, they were completed in 1820, the architect was Lieutenant John Watts of
the 46th Regiment. They were to stand in an area of 3.25ha, and were designed for a company
(approximately 100 officers and men).

They served as a barracks for British regiments stationed here in convict days. Some of the men
would have served under Wellington in the Napoleonic wars.