When Amanda Stelcova began photographing heritage homes and their vintage doors in inner Sydney in 2019, she embarked on a journey to explore the rich residential history of the city. After facing a debilitating neurological illness that affected her ability to work as a former Performing Arts teacher, Stelcova found solace in walking the streets of suburban Sydney. Photography became a therapeutic hobby, allowing her to discover vibrant doors and the stories behind them.
“I set off on short walks in different parts of Sydney photographing on my phone – looking for the most colourful old doors and houses I could find,” Stelcova shared in an interview. She described how these door-finding missions offered a momentary distraction from her overwhelming symptoms and depression. Today, her Instagram account, Doors of Sydney, boasts over 21,600 followers, forming a community eager to learn about the historical narratives tied to each door.
Stelcova’s photographs capture charming homes across Sydney’s diverse suburbs, including Paddington, Surry Hills, Newtown, and Redfern. What starts as a colourful entrance often leads to intriguing stories about the lives of past residents and the evolution of these neighborhoods. “Walking Sydney’s streets and documenting the city’s residential doors and houses has somehow brought me closer to the beating heart and the indomitable spirit of the people who live here,” she explained.
Community Connections and Historical Discoveries
Stelcova’s journey from hobbyist to historian has revealed much about Sydney’s architectural heritage. Her work involves extensive research, often delving into archives such as Trove and The Sand Directories to piece together the past. For instance, she recently connected with a local resident, Jim Quayle, who painted his newly purchased terrace in a rich shade of green to complement a neighboring bright pink house. This kind of interaction exemplifies how her project fosters community engagement and appreciation for local history.
The stories Stelcova uncovers are not solely cheerful; some delve into darker aspects of urban life. “Some of my favourite stories behind these homes and doors have involved magic gin pills, poisonous cigars, the night men of Sydney, illegal gaming houses and money lenders, as well as tragic stories of backyard abortions, the bubonic plague and extreme hardship,” she noted.
One striking example includes a terrace house in Redfern, built around 1900. During this time, the area saw its share of “furious riding” offences, a term used for reckless horseback riding. Stelcova recounted the case of Morgan Flaherty, who was fined for dangerous riding past this residence, illustrating how these homes have witnessed the ebb and flow of local law and order.
The Impact of Historical Narratives
Another notable story involves a home in Balmain, known as Liliwill, which was built in 1905 by Neil McIntosh. After posting about the unique cast iron filigree awning, Stelcova received feedback from architects who suggested the awning was likely added later. Tragically, McIntosh’s daughter, Jessie, died under mysterious circumstances shortly after, raising questions about the home’s past. Such narratives reveal the intertwined fates of families and their homes, enhancing the stories behind the doors.
In another instance, Stelcova highlighted a charming terrace house in Paddington, which bore witness to outbreaks of the bubonic plague in the early 1900s. One resident, Michael M’Hale, not only survived the plague but also endured a shooting incident while working as a night watchman. His remarkable resilience adds depth to the home’s history, showcasing how personal stories are woven into the fabric of these neighborhoods.
Stelcova’s commitment to documenting Sydney’s past has resonated deeply with her followers. One user expressed a personal connection to the Woolloomooloo area, stating that the community spirit there is something “money can’t buy.” This sentiment reflects the broader impact of Stelcova’s work, as it not only preserves history but also fosters a sense of belonging among residents.
Through her lens, Amanda Stelcova continues to unveil the hidden histories of Sydney, one door at a time, transforming a simple hobby into an exploration of community, resilience, and the enduring narratives that define urban life.
