Romney Lane Homestead - a rich family history

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​The house and farm are of historic significance in the Manawatu region. 

Alex Perry and his wife Maree purchased 900 hectares of the bush covered land in 1877, shortly after the Manchester block opened up. They lived in the original one room slab whare & cleared the land for farming until they were able to build the present homestead well before the turn of the century.  This Homestead was built from heart totara, a native NZ timber, milled at Cheltenham. The total cost of the house was five hundred pounds. 

Alex and Maree Perry endeavoured to develop the farm and establish their Romney sheep flock however Mrs Perry was left in 1894 with 9 children and an underdeveloped farm after Mr Perry's sudden passing.  From all historical accounts Mrs Perry tackled it all on her own very courageously and lived at the property her entire life.   After Mrs Perry’s death, the block was divided into three and the late S J Strahan purchased the homestead block.

The land has now been lovingly cared for by two generations of the Strahan family, with Ian and Steph Strahan, along with their three daughters, continuing the tradition today. Ian’s father, Sam Strahan, a celebrated All Black, also called this farm home.
   
‘Romney Lane’ or ‘Ram Alley’ was a colloquial term used in the early days to describe Kimbolton Rd, between Cheltenham & Kiwitea. The area was well renowned for its ability to produce top quality stock as the land was so fertile, therefore many farmers set-up Romney (sheep breed) studs.

​Romney studs on both sides of the Strahan/Johnston family have produced the foundation of the farming operation today, Romney lane Homestead aptly reflects our rich farming family history. 

​​“Straight to the pool room”

Another interesting part of the homestead's history lies in the pictures and jersey hanging in the Pool Room.
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The late Sam Strahan, Ian's Father lived at the homestead most of his life. He was a huge fan of rugby and farming which is reflected here. He was an All Black from 1967-1973, he played 45 games and 17 tests including the famous 1970 tour to South Africa.  If you are a fan of NZ rugby you’ll enjoy the many pictures & books in this space. 

Click to enlarge