Carrick Hill is inviting Adelaideans to see the historic Springfield estate in a whole new light this May, with a series of chilling Friday night events set to bring crime, scandal and candlelit atmosphere to the grand old house.
As part of the South Australia History Festival, the much-loved heritage property will host two curator-led evening talks exploring art world mysteries and public scandal, before wrapping up the month with an after-dark candlelight tour through the House Museum.
From a talk unpacking the enduring speculation linking artist Walter Sickert to Jack the Ripper, a compelling thread for Carrick Hill, where works by Sickert form a major part of the collection, to a deep dive into the unsolved 1930 murder of Mollie Dean and its connection to artist Colin Colahan, the program leans into the darker, more intriguing corners of history.
The crime talks will be led by curator Dr Ellen Whitton, giving you the chance to step inside Carrick Hill and explore stories where art, myth, reputation and true crime live.
For those looking for something a little more atmospheric than analytical, Carrick Hill by Night on Friday 8 May offers the chance to wander the historic house by candlelight. A tour guide will lead you through flickering rooms and the mood of an English country estate brought to life after hours.
Carrick Hill Director Heather Croall AM says, “This year’s History Festival program at Carrick Hill invites audiences to experience history in new and unexpected ways, from fascinating curator-led talks to atmospheric evening events inside the House Museum.”
“We’re delighted to open the doors after hours and share these stories in such an intimate setting. We encourage visitors to make a night of it — begin with a thought-provoking event, then enjoy dinner at Rozelle’s and take in the unique atmosphere of Carrick Hill after dark.”
Visitors can do exactly that, with pre-dinner drinks and dinner available at Rozelle’s from 5pm to 9pm, making these Friday night events the perfect choice for a night out with a little extra atmosphere.
The program begins on Friday 8 May with ‘Walter Sickert, Jack the Ripper?’, a talk examining the long-running fascination with the artist’s alleged connection to the infamous Victorian killer. While the evidence remains inconclusive, the story continues to grip audiences and reveals just as much about society’s obsession with mystery as it does about the past. The evening doesn’t stray away from Sickert’s Carrick Hill connection, as a mainstay in the historic estate’s art collection.
On Friday 15 May, ‘Colin Colahan & the Unsolved Murder of Mollie Dean’ turns to one of Australia’s most compelling unsolved cases. The talk explores how Mollie Dean’s murder became a media sensation, how artist Colin Colahan was drawn into public suspicion, and how rumour and scandal helped shape cultural memory around the case.
On Friday 8 May and Friday 29 May, guests can experience Carrick Hill by Night, with guided candlelight tours through the glowing interiors of the historic home. These are already selling fast.
Each event takes place at Carrick Hill House, 46 Carrick Hill Drive, Springfield.
Tickets are $25 for the talks and $30 for the candlelight tour.
Whether you’re coming for the unsolved crime, the art world intrigue or the candlelit atmosphere, Carrick Hill promises a Friday night in May with a thrilling, captivating edge.
Carrick Hill’s May After-Dark Series
Walter Sickert, Jack the Ripper?
Colin Colahan & the Unsolved Murder of Mollie Dean
Carrick Hill by Night
Carrick Hill is also open throughout May, with the House Museum, gardens, bushland and shop open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 4:30pm. House tours can be booked in advance online or through the Gift Shop, and visitors can make a day of it with a meal at Rozelle’s or a light lunch at the Kiosk. For Mother’s Day, guests can also enjoy Champagne & Scones at the Kiosk before exploring the House Museum.
On Saturday, 16 May at 3pm, be sure to book for Morris Mania, a special talk by Hadrian Garrard from the William Morris Gallery in London.
And the Friends of Carrick Hill Quiz Night is on 22 May.
