Many years before Bridge Street was named, it was the site of Sydney's first Government House and was the abode of first Governor of New South Wales, Captain Arthur Phillip.

It was built under the direction of James Bloodsworth, a convict builder responsible for the construction of most of the colony's buildings between 1788 and 1800.

After the initial completion the house was of two stories in height, contained six rooms and was the hub of the colony for 56 years.

It was here on 4 June 1789, that Governor Phillip and his guests celebrated the birthday of King George III.

[5] In March 1899 workmen installing a telegraph tunnel discovered a copper plate wedged between two stones.