The old Blackler house in Buca has retained virtually all the original architectural features including the gate-house that may have been built partly as a defensive feature at a time when bandits ruled the countryside. However according to descendant Valerie Neild, it was built for the benefit of her grandmother who was a rather good artist and wanted to make use of the outdoor light (a pre-requisite for artists). The roll-over shows the gardens that have lost some of the former glory.
image courtesy of Humerya Birol Akkurt
image courtesy of Humerya Birol Akkurt
image courtesy of Humerya Birol Akkurt
The proof that this Blackler house was established by Francis Chipman Blackler who insribed in initials and date of 1855 on the grotto wall by the garden gates of this property.