Ivy Cottage is believed to have been constructed around 1838, by James Hamilton who was a storekeeper and wine merchant in Campbell Town and was originally called “Dry Cottage”. It was purchased by Dr Adam Turnbull in 1871 for 325 pounds and remained in the Turnbull family until the late 1940’s. Dr Turnbull was born at “Bacclough Place” in Edinburgh in 1803. He obtained his medical degree and then married Margaret, who was the daughter of the Post Master General of Scotland, on October 12th 1824. They travelled to “Van Diemans Land” on the City of Edinburgh arriving in Hobart Town on April 13th, 1825. He was soon chosen to be the private secretary to Governor Arthur and he acted in a similar capacity to Governor Sir John Franklin, with whom he enjoyed a warm lifelong relationship. Dr Turnbull performed great service to Tasmania. His work was meticulous and for many years despatches to the Imperial Government were written by him. He had, however, outspoken views on the transportation of convicts to “Van Diemans Land” and it was those views which led to his dismissal from Government and the loss of his pension after 20 years service.

Campbell Town has many attractions. You can visit Gallery 81 an art gallery with the artist in residence, The book cellar and book overflow shop where you will find an amazing collection of books for sale, stroll along the convict brick trail on High St, stop for a coffee at the many restaurants/cafe. Visit the retail shops and take a 10 minute drive down the highway to the delightful town of Ross.