William Kellett, successful merchant, purchased land in Court St. The building of the grand house, Kildallon, began soon after. The name Kildallon comes from the area where William Kellett was born, in Ulster, Northern Ireland.
As the Kellett family home, Kildallon was a social hub.
Photo: A gathering in the garden at Kildallon, William Kellett seated left of centre (circa 1900)
The new Kellett Store was built in Market St (where Big W is now situated). That building burned down in 1971.
Photo: Centenary Celebrations
William Kellett retired, leaving the business to his two sons. He and his two unmarried daughters moved to Sydney.
Photo: A member of the Kellett family in the greenhouse.
The Mudgee branch of CWA leased Kildallon as a hostel so that girls from outlying properties could attend Mudgee High School. The building underwent considerable changes, including filling in the top verandah, in order to accommodate 30 girls.
The Kildallon site was compulsorily acquired by the Department of Education from the Kellett family. The girls’ hostel continued to operate. A brick extension was made off the main building to provide dormitories. The hostel closed in 1980.
The Kildallon site was acquired by TAFE. Over time more buildings were added behind the original residence.
TAFE completed its move to new premises on Ulan Rd. The site was left vacant. Numerous community groups began lobbying TAFE to convert the site to a community centre.
The former TAFE site was sold to Mid-Western Regional Council. Work commenced to refurbish the buildings.
Managed by Mudgee Arts Council, Kildallon currently houses Mudgee District U3A, Mudgee Performing Arts Society, Mudgee Concert Band, Mudgee Readers’ Festival, Cudgegong Camera Club and numerous local music teachers.
Kildallon Education Centre is a community run facility, supporting arts, culture and education in the Midwestern Region.
Copyright © 2023 Kildallon Education Centre | Website by ambercreative
