The cairn was presented in recognition of the group awarding Marthaville the Hunter Valley Heritage Award in 2014.

Marthaville was built in the 1880’s by George Brown of Laguna, and is now the oldest sawn timber home in Cessnock.

Named after George’s wife Martha, the building still retains many of its original piers, as well as three of the rooms containing original fireplaces and cedar mantelpieces.

Research Academic at the University of Newcastle, Dr Julie McIntyre spoke at the unveiling about the history of the homestead and vineyards planted by the Browns, which have left a lasting impact on the wine industry in this area.

“It will be of great interest I’m sure to people who come to Marthaville to consider the ghost of vines past here as a part of their journey through wine country,” she said.

Mayor Bob Pynsent said it was a great pleasure to celebrate a significant part of the Cessnock heritage.

Brian McGuigan of the Hunter Valley Living Legends believes the homestead exemplifies the family connection between agriculture and the City of Cessnock.

“Marthaville is situated on land where some of the earliest Cessnock district vineyards were and as such, it represents a tangible link between today’s Pokolbin vineyards, the town of Cessnock and the viticultural heritage of the area,” he said.

“It’s incredible to think that over 100 years ago our forebearers started a wine industry in this area and to be where we are today is just phenomenal.”

“We have the most fantastic district in Australia.”

Shirley White from Marthaville said she was so happy to see so many people gather to celebrate the award.

“It’s absolutely wonderful for us to see this response,” she said.

“It’s just an absolute honour for the vignerons to acknowledge Marthaville.”

Ms. White unveiled the cairn, and many descendants of the Browns were in attendance on the day, including George and Martha Brown’s granddaughter and great-grandchildren.