Kindly donated to the FIMNT by the Estate of the late Mr. Patrick Davy
The original Admiralty Cottage was constructed in 1899 for Mr. George Hayes, the Civil Engineer for the Naval Depot situated to the west of The Narrows. Crafted in England and assembled in the Government Paddock, this building marked the establishment of the Naval Depot on the Islands.
In 1905, the Falkland Islands Government (FIG) purchased the house. Over the years, Admiralty Cottage served various purposes, including being used as a hostel for nursing staff. Unfortunately, the cottage suffered damage twice due to fires, the first caused by peat falling from an open fire and the second due to a malfunctioning thermostat control unit in the fridge.
In 1990, as plans were made for the construction of a new senior school and leisure centre, the decision was made to clear the land occupied by Admiralty Cottage. Subsequently, it was put up for sale, and Terry Peck became its new owner.
Mr. Peck later acquired a permit to relocate the cottage, dividing it into two flats on a plot of land south of the Stanley Arms. The building underwent renovations, including cladding it with timber shiplap and re-roofing it with Decra tiles on felt. Ultimately, the house found its new home at 2 John Biscoe Road under the ownership of Mr. Patrick Davy.
In 2000, planning permission was granted for Mr. Davy to extend the building, further enhancing its functionality. Admiralty Cottage remained in the possession of the Davy family until 2022 when it was generously donated to the Falkland Islands Museum & National Trust by the Estate of the late Mr. Patrick Davy. The original intention was to renovate the building, honouring Mr. Davy's wishes that it be leased to generate funds for the National Trust. Additionally, a section of the cottage would provide accommodation for visiting specialists to the islands.
However, upon commencing the restoration works in 2023, it became evident that the building was beyond repair. Consequently, a decision was made to undertake a new construction project. The new Admiralty Cottage stands as a testament to the memory of Mr. Patrick Davy.
Information: The Jane Cameron National Archives. For more information and historical photographs, please visit their website.
