TypeAgencyDate Range1973-2000DescriptionThe Colonial Cottage Museum Society was established to obtain a colonial cottage museum for Wellington, which would be an example of early Wellington architecture, decorated in the style of the period and centrally located. The organisation was incorporated as a society in August 1973.
A number of houses were initially considered as suitable to serve as a museum, including the Nairn Street cottage, and the Society also recommended a number of houses for preservation to Wellington City Council. In 1974 it appeared that the Nairn Street cottage might become available, and initially moving it to Bolton Street was considered, then the Society proposed that it should remain on site.
By 1978, the Nairn St Cottage was being prepared as a museum. The Society's role was in starting the initial movement for the cottage, promoting the idea, fundraising, lobbying and working with Council, collecting artefacts to furnish the cottage, and publicity for the cottage. While Wellington City Council provided funding at various times, the work was carried out by the Society.
Management of the cottage transferred to the Wellington Museum's Trust. The Society was wound up in 2000 and became the Friends of the Colonial Cottage Museum, and in 2002 all the assets owned by the Friends were also passed to the Trust.
Colonial Cottage Museum Society Inc. Archives Online, accessed 02/04/2026, https://archivesonline.wcc.govt.nz/nodes/view/7752
