Our Story

The Story of Martindale Hall

Nestled in the heart of the Clare Valley, on the traditional lands of the Ngadjuri people, Martindale Hall is a captivating piece of South Australia’s history. The region, once known as Ngadjuri Country, stretches from what is now Gawler in the south to Koonamore in the north. Today, this area is celebrated for its rolling hills, world-class wineries, and rich cultural heritage.

The caretakers of Martindale Hall respectfully acknowledge the Ngadjuri people, their ancestors, and their enduring connection to this land. This respect for heritage and place is woven into the very fabric of Martindale Hall’s story.

Martindale Hall’s grand construction began in 1879 and was completed in 1880, standing as a testament to the opulence of the era. Built by the Bowman family, who called it home for nearly eleven years, the Hall was later purchased by the Mortlock family in 1891, remaining in their care until 1965.During its prime, the estate was more than just a stately home—it was a vibrant hub of leisure and lifestyle. The surrounding property once boasted extensive vegetable gardens, flourishing orchards, and recreational facilities that were the envy of the region, including a polo field, boating lake, cricket pitch, and even a race track.

Today, Martindale Hall stands as a must-see attraction in South Australia, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore its beautifully preserved rooms, rich architectural details, and stunning grounds. It’s a perfect stop on a Clare Valley itinerary, whether you’re indulging in wine tasting, exploring local history, or simply soaking in the beauty of the South Australian countryside.

Discover Martindale Hall—where history, culture, and elegance come together to create an unforgettable experience in the heart of South Australia.

Family Legacy

Edmund Bowman

Edmund Bowman Jr. was a spirited young man—strong, self-assured, and well-regarded both at home and in society. His younger brother, Charles, born two years later, was his constant companion. The Bowman sons were educated at St. Peter’s College, Adelaide, before continuing their studies at prestigious universities in England. In 1875, Edmund and Charles embarked on their journey together, with Edmund enrolling at Clare College, Cambridge. A natural athlete, he rowed for his college and, within months of his arrival, claimed its silver-gilt athletics cup—a trophy now housed at the National Trust’s Ayers House Museum. Charles pursued history at Exeter College, Oxford, graduating in 1879 with a Bachelor of Arts. Their father had long envisioned a grand estate at Martindale, and Edmund Jr. carried that ambition with him to England, determined to turn the dream into reality.

Adelaide Observer (SA), Saturday 25 December 1880, page 32

‘Among the fortunate young men whose lines have been cast in pleasant places is Mr. E. Bowman, a young South Australian sheep farmer, who has succeeded in to a princely inheritance, and seems to possess the power of administering it judiciously.’

‘Most young men of twenty-three having command of even less than £140,000 in hard cash and real estate to a higher tune would be tempted to lead a life of luxury and ease in other climes; but Mr. Bowman is of a different stamp, and to his credit he has decided to settle in South Australia, where his wealth was made, and continue the pursuit of sheep-farming with vigour and energy, proving that he is of sterling stuff.’

By 1883, the Bowman family had amassed approximately 86,000 acres of freehold land and held leases over some 3,679 square miles in South Australia. However, by the mid-1880s, their fortunes declined rapidly.

In 1890, the English, Scottish, and Australian Bank foreclosed on its loan to the Bowmans, resulting in Martindale Hall and about 9,000 acres of prime land being auctioned. Edmund lost his grand home and the significant acreage surrounding it.

William Ranson Mortlock

In 1891, following the financial decline of the Bowman family, William Tennant Mortlock acquired Martindale Hall, a Georgian-style mansion near Mintaro, for £33,000. This purchase was a wedding gift for his wife, Rosina (Rosye) Tennant, whom he married in January of that year.

The couple continued the estate’s tradition of hospitality, managing its fine merino flock and enhancing the gardens and orchards. William Tennant Mortlock passed away at Martindale Hall on 17 August 1913.

Their son, John Andrew Tennant Mortlock, inherited the estate and further expanded the family’s pastoral interests.

John Andrew Tennant Mortlock

John Andrew Tennant Mortlock (1894–1950) was a man of remarkable vision and influence, leaving a lasting mark on South Australia’s pastoral and cultural landscape. Upon inheriting Martindale Hall after the passing of his father in 1913, Mortlock took the reins of the family estate with a commitment to preserving its grandeur while expanding its pastoral legacy.

A steward of both land and art, he enriched Martindale Hall with a collection of fine artworks and ensured its continued success as a pastoral property. His contributions were not limited to agriculture; Mortlock was deeply invested in South Australia’s intellectual and cultural growth, establishing the Ranson Mortlock Memorial Research Trust in 1936, which focused on advancing soil conservation and regenerative farming practices.

Mortlock’s philanthropy extended to South Australia’s most cherished institutions. His estate, upon his passing in 1950, generously supported the State Library of South Australia, the Waite Institute, and various cultural organizations, reflecting his belief in the importance of preserving knowledge and heritage. In recognition of his profound legacy, the Mortlock Wing of the State Library was named in his honor.

In his will, Mortlock ensured the future of Martindale Hall by bequeathing it, along with its surrounding lands, to the South Australian Government. This act of foresight allowed the estate to remain a testament to his family’s commitment to beauty, sustainability, and culture.

Today, Martindale Hall stands not only as an iconic historical residence but as a tribute to the Mortlock family’s enduring influence on South Australia’s pastoral and cultural legacy.

Martindale Hall Today

Martindale Hall, a State Heritage-listed property since 1980, was gifted to the South Australian Government in 1986. In 1991, it was designated as the Martindale Hall Conservation Park to preserve its historic significance. For over two decades, it operated as a tourism destination, offering heritage accommodation, weddings, and events, while welcoming visitors to explore its grand halls and picturesque grounds.

In 2014, Michael & Sharon Morris – owners of Mintaro Maze put forward their interest in becoming caretakers of Martindale Hall to prevent the halls closure to the public.

They continue to manage the hall today.

Michael & Sharon welcome you to wander the hall and enjoy its remarkable history and grandeur.