The Browne family welcome you and your family to take a step into the pages of history.
Maranup Ford, the property, has been owned by the Browne family since purchased as a freehold from the crown in 1898. There are currently 3 generations of the family living on the property.
The homestead has always been at the heart of Maranup
The main Blackwood River crossing, for traffic going from the Warren (Manjimup) to the port of Bunbury, was at the Maranup Ford, until 1862 when the bridge was built in Bridgetown. Maranup Ford has always been a district hub with a school established in the 1920s and evensong church services held in the homestead since 1918.
The main homestead was built in 1917, using bricks handmade onsite. Hospitality has been offered in the Homestead for visitors since the 1920’s. Many post war immigrating families began their Australian adventure at Maranup Ford in The Schoolhouse and some of these visitors are still in contact with the Browne family today.
Your hosts, Hugh & Melva Browne, have lived in the Homestead most of their married life. Hugh & Melva are both keen gardeners and actively participate in running the farm and accommodation.
Hugh is the grandson of the original settler and they are always willing to share a wealth of local knowledge and assist guests during their stay at Maranup Ford.