Audrey House, Ranchi

Audrey House, one of the oldest buildings in Ranchi. is now a part of the Governor’s Residence. This 160 years old building was built in 1854 by Captain Hannyington, Deputy Commissioner of Chotanagpur (1850-1856). Before the Raj Bhawan came into existence, this building was an extension of the Governor’s secretariats during the time when Ranchi was the summer capital of undivided Bihar.

This historical building is a heritage property of the Government and was in need of restoration work to make it re-functional. The site has been chosen for work under the Jharkhand 13th Finance Commission Conservation & Restoration Projects along with 23 other sites. A large section of the building remained locked up for years. The campus is filled with trees and wild vegetation. The old wall was made of sun dried bricks by laying it with horizontal bamboo frames and mud-lime mortar, and presently not in good condition. Work actually started in 2011 after a Detailed Project Report was drawn up by INTACH. Structural strengthening is one of the major works that has been done. A part of the wooden floor was also restored. The old tiles on the roof were replaced with new one and old wooden purlins and rafters were consolidated. Parapet railings got exchanged. There was a total over hauling of services and landscape work. The electrical, air conditioning has been done anew, and landscaping of the surrounding open area was carried out with cobbled pathways, lawns, open air amphitheatres, etc. The restored building has been inaugurated by the Honorable President of India Mr. Pranab Mukherjee on January 10th, 2016.