Part 6/9:
The current site of Cook’s Cottage in Melbourne is a structure initially intended as a tribute to Cook’s family history in England. The cottage was brought to Australia in 1934 by a wealthy philanthropist, Russell Grimwade, who carefully dismantled and reconstructed it brick-by-brick. Interestingly, most Melburnians and visitors are unaware of its origins or significance, and it has become more of a niche curiosity rather than a celebrated landmark.
Mertton criticized Melbourne’s claim, suggesting that the cottage’s limited recognition diminishes its value. She also pointed out that the only real attention it garners today is from those attempting to "rewrite history" or engage in protests, rather than from engaged visitors interested in learning about Australia’s colonial past.