DRAFT Fitzgerald Street Precinct - Heritage...

Heritage Assessment of 23-‐325 & 16-‐334 Fitzgerald Street and 1-‐15 & 12-‐18 Peel Terrace, Northam

Prepared by Annette Green, Greenward Consulting, for the Shire of Northam June 2015

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5.2 FITZGERALD STREET: NORTH-‐WESTERN SIDE

Street # Notes Photograph and Level of Contribution

16 Current use MM Electrical and Data Supplier

Historical Notes

By 1930 the western side of Fitzgerald Street between Peel Terrace and the current railway reserve had been developed with six houses.

An aerial photograph dated 1956 shows that the house at #16 straddled the current site and the modern railway reserve.

The site was redeveloped in the latter part of the twentieth century.

Description Modern flat-‐pan metal shed

(Photo: Shire of Northam, June 2015)

No Contribution This place does not date from the significant phase of development in this area (c.1890-‐1950)

22 Current use Residential

Original use Residential

Historical Notes By 1930 the western side of Fitzgerald Street between Peel Terrace and the current railway reserve had been developed with six houses. Entries in the Post Office Directories and Electoral Rolls show that the house at 22 Fitzgerald Street was occupied by Victor Stone (a butcher) and his wife, Stella, from c.1918 until the late 1950s. In the absence of street numbers the history of the place prior to that time is unclear, but the physical evidence suggests that it was built in the period c.1905-‐1915.

Description This place was designed as a simple brick house, but with facade detailing that raised it above the status of a cottage. Key elements include the symmetrical façade; hipped roof (re-‐clad in the mid-‐twentieth century with metal sheeting pressed in a roof-‐tile pattern); Flemish bond, face-‐brick façade; low-‐waisted entry door with sidelights and highlight; French doors opening onto the front verandah from the two front rooms; and raked verandah (reconstructed in the mid-‐twentieth century).


Little Contribution This place represents the early residential development of the area immediately north of Peel Terrace, but is not of any particular significance within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct. Research undertaken for this report has not identified any other important historical, social or aesthetic values.



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26 Current use Residential


Historical Notes By 1930 the western side of Fitzgerald Street between Peel Terrace and the current railway reserve had been developed with six houses. Entries in the Post Office Directories indicate that early occupants of 26 Fitzgerald Street included Alfred Neale (c.1919-‐1920), James Doherty (c.1921-‐1927) and Henry Watts (c.1929-‐1931). In the absence of street numbers the history of the place prior to 1919 is unclear, but the physical evidence suggests that the house was built in the period c.1905-‐1915.

Description This house was designed with a projecting front wing, typical of many suburban houses of the era. In the mid-‐late twentieth century the external walls were rendered, the windows replaces and the front verandah altered.


Little Contribution This place represents the early residential development of the area immediately north of Peel Terrace, but is not of any particular significance within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct. Major alterations have been undertaken to the finishes and detailing of the main façade, and the research undertaken for this report has not identified any other important historical or social values.

28A Current use Undeveloped


Historical Notes By 1930 the western side of Fitzgerald Street between Peel Terrace and the current railway reserve had been developed with six houses. The house at #28 was demolished in c. 2004.


No Contribution This site does not contribute to the traditional streetscape

30-‐32 Current use

Northam Toyota

Original use Residential and commercial

Historical Notes By 1930 the western side of Fitzgerald Street between Peel Terrace and the current railway reserve had been developed with six houses. An aerial photograph dated 1956 shows what appears to be a residential building on the




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corner, with a vacant site immediately north. These sites had been fully redeveloped with commercial premises by 1960. The c.1960 buildings were demolished in c. 2008, together with another house on the next site to the north, and the combined site fully redeveloped as a modern caryard.

Description

Modern car showroom surrounded by open driveways and car parking areas.


Intersection with Peel Terrace

36 Current use Beaurepaires

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed J Sykes, motor engineer at this address. The physical evidence suggests that the current building was constructed in the mid-‐late twentieth century. Description Functional painted brick building with a flat parapet.


46-‐48 Current use Fenced open air car yard

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed residential development in this area.


58-‐66 Current use Vacant site

Historical Notes The readily available evidence suggests that the building demolished in c.2010 was constructed in the late 1920s for H & H Withnell. Having originally worked as a wheelwright and coachbuilder, Withnell had also moved into the motor trade by the beginning of the 1920s.

Withnell’s garage, c.1930 56

56 Western Mail, 31 July 1930 p 34



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Note: The former use of the site has been recognised by an interpretive artwork and plaque on the street frontage.


68-‐78 Current use # 68 – Dominos # 70 – Red Cross Shop # 74 – Lucky 7 Northam Convenience Store # 76 – Vacant # 78 – Rowland TV and Video Services

Historical Notes The readily available evidence suggests that this row of shops was constructed in the early twentieth century (prior to 1910), but that the existing parapet dates from post-‐1937. In 1915 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants in this area: � James Hannagan � W S Dale, draper & grocer (Beehive Cash

Grocery and Drapery Store) � A J Haines & Co, furnishers � John Fowler, fruiterer

In 1934 the occupants were: # 68 – Edward Jellings, saddler # 70 – W S Dale, “Manchester House” # 74-‐76 – Rogers Bros, Grocers & hardware

merchants # 78 – N R Brew, fruiterer

An analysis of the documentary and physical evidence suggest that this row was built in two parts, and originally had a flat parapet over #s 76-‐78 and three triangular parapets (with decorative caps and urns) over #s 68-‐70. This was altered as a modified and extended flat parapet after 1937.

Description This row of five single story shops retains evidence of the original shopfront design to #70, including the free-‐standing cast iron column that allowed a wide frontage for the large drapery and homewares store that was located here from pre-‐1910 to post 1934 (although a second

A J Haines & Co, c.1910 (the detailing suggests that this is the same building as shown below)

Dale’s Manchester House, c.1934

Roger Brothers Hardware, c.1934 57

57 Western Mail, 27 September 1934 p 6



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recessed entry has been carefully reconstructed as part of the display windows). Shopfronts were usually updated and extensively altered over time and this is a rare surviving example of original detailing of this type. Early timber framed shopfronts also remain to #s 74 and 76, but the other two shopfronts were altered at a later date (removing the traditional recessed entries).

The place now has a continuous flat parapet with varied detailing to the signage panels. A raked verandah extends along the full width of the building (including the two storey shop and residence at #80, see below). At the north-‐eastern end a cream brick wall was erected as a parapet wall for an adjacent building (since demolished). The original end wall (which is visible towards the rear) was constructed in Colonial bond brickwork and has severe fretting to the lower levels.

Streetscape view showing the row of shops in c.1937 58

Shopfront to #70

Shopfront at #76

58 Western Mail, 19 August 1937 p 5S



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Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the very early shopfront to #70 is of considerable aesthetic and historical significance. The shopfronts to #s 74 and 76 are also of significance as good examples of traditional timber framed shopfronts with recessed entries. Little/No Contribution The flat parapet over #s 68-‐70 replaced a more ornate series of three triangular parapets. The shopfronts to #s 68 and 78 and the parapet to #s 68-‐70 have also been extensively altered. The current raked verandah is a modern addition.

80 Current use Northam Kebabs

Original Use William Nind’s saddlers shop

Historical Notes This building had been constructed for William (Billy) Nind by 1902 (when it appeared in a advertisement in the Western Mail). Nind left Northam for a period around 1910 but in 1912 it was reported that: Mr. W. Nind is about to resume business in Northam as a saddler and harness maker. He will carry on business in his own shop, in Fitzgerald street, where he was formerly located. 59

and Mr. W. Nind, who established his business as a saddler and harness maker in Northam 19 years ago [c.1893] has a well assorted stock of goods and he manufactures saddlery and harness of every description to order …. His premises are in Fitzgerald-‐street, opposite the Northam Hotel.60

Nind died in 1923 but, based on the following entry from the Post Office Directory of 1934, it appears that his premises continued to be used as a saddlers shop: # 80 – Robert Harveson, saddler.

W Nind’s premises, c.1902 61

59 Goomalling-‐Dowerin Mail 20 August 1912 p 2 60 Goomalling-‐Dowerin Mail 30 August 1912 p 2 61 Western Mail 25 December 1902 p 71



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Note: The former use of the site has been recognised by an interpretive artwork and plaque on the street frontage.

Description This two-‐storey building was constructed of face brick (now painted). It has a stepped and bracketed parapet, featuring a name plate inscribed with the name “W Nind”. Above this element there is a distinctive horseshoe and horse head motif, reflecting the original use of the building. At the first floor level there are two vertically proportioned windows with wide rendered frames, each decorated with a scroll pattern at the top and a curved under-‐sill panel. These surrounds are original, but the former double hung windows have been replaced. At ground floor level the original large shopfront window has been replaced with a domestic style double hung window and the entrance has also been modified. A raked verandah extends across the face of the building and continues across the adjacent shops. This interprets the 1902 detailing, but the posts are more slender and lack the traditional projecting cornices and plinths.

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the building envelope, the parapet and rendered surrounds to the first floor windows and the Nind Street façade make a positive contribution to the heritage values of the streetscape, as part of the early development of this area (although noting that the authenticity of the place has been diminished by the painting of the former face-‐brickwork). Little/No Contribution The later ground floor shop front and modern verandah are of little/no significance.

Intersection with Nind Street



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82-‐84 Current use # 82 – Tea Tree Sports Massage # 84 – Wheatbelt Safety Wear

Historical Notes The physical evidence suggests that this double shop may have been constructed in the period around WWI. In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: # 82 – Mrs E Taylor, tea rooms # 84 – Dempster’s fruit markets

Description The parapet to this double frontage front rises up as a large curve over each shop (concealing the gabled roofline behind). # 82 has a traditional timber framed shopfront with a timber plinth and recessed central entry #84 has a later flat shopfront with a sliding door to the side entry. A suspended boxed awning extends across the face of the building, and a large advertising panel has been mounted across the face of the awning to #84.

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the curved parapet and the shopfront to #82 appear to retain a high level of authenticity and make a positive contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape. Little/No Contribution The later shop front to #84 makes no contribution to the heritage values of the streetscape.

86-‐88 Current use Fresh Learning for Youth

Historical Notes The physical evidence suggests that this double shop was constructed in the early twentieth century. In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: # 86 – James Triscott & Co, general merchants # 88 – Fred. Cox, bootmaker

Description This two-‐storey building was originally constructed as a pair of shops with flat parapet and a verandah/balcony across the façade. The physical evidence suggests that the original face-‐brickwork may have been tuck pointed, but it is now painted.

Streetscape view showing the balcony/verandah to 86-‐88 Fitzgerald Street in the background, c.1927 62

62 Western Mail 1 Octoberr 1925 p 4S



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The verandah/balcony has been replaced by a suspended boxed awning. At first floor level there are three sets of French doors and one double hung window. At ground floor level the shopfront to #86 has been covered over by a mural, while the shopfront to #88 dates from the mid-‐late twentieth century.

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the overall building envelope and the former doors and windows the first floor make a positive contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape (although the painting of the face-‐brickwork and the removal of the balcony have impacted on the authenticity of the place). Little/No Contribution The later shop front and the boxed awning make no contribution to the heritage values of the streetscape.

90 Current use Number 90 Gallery and Music

Original Use Northam Road Board offices

Historical Notes The Northam Road Board met in new offices in pre-‐existing premises in Fitzgerald Street in March 1913, and they remained in this location for many years (and were specifically listed at 90 Fitzgerald Street in the Post Office Directories of 1928-‐1934). The street front detailing of the existing building appears to date from the late inter-‐war period and it therefore seems likely that the façade was reconstructed as part of the following works (as advertised in February 1937): TENDERS are invited and Close at our Office at Noon on WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 17 for MAKING ADDITIONS to Northam Road Board Offices ….. PARRY and CLIFTON, M's. R.I.A.W.A.63

A tender of £459 had been accepted from Edmondson Brothers by March 1937.

Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the overall building envelope and the detailing of the first floor make a positive contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape (although the authenticity has been reduced to some degree by the painting of the face-‐brickwork). The place is also of particular historical significance as the former offices of the Northam Roads Board. Little/No Contribution The later shop front and the boxed awning make no contribution to the heritage values of the streetscape.

63 The West Australian 2 February 1937 p 1



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Description This two-‐storey building has a flat parapet set over a robust rectangular cornice with dentils. The first floor facade was constructed of face-‐brick (now painted) with five recessed rendered courses framing the paired double hung windows. At ground floor level there is a recessed central entry, accessed by two steps that start at the face of the building. On either side of this there are half-‐height painted textured-‐brick walls with timber framed windows over.

92 Current use Vacant

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: # 92 – R S W Thomas, medical practitioner and Robert J Stewart, chemist # 94 – Robert J Stewart, soft drinks

Based on the physical evidence this shop appears to have been extensively altered in the mid-‐twentieth century.

Description This single storey shop has a flat, rendered parapet and cantilevered boxed awning. The shopfront has a projecting masonry plinth, metal framed windows and a wide, off-‐set, sliding glass door set in a recessed porch.

Little Contribution This place appears to have been extensively altered after the significant phase of development in this area (c.1890-‐1950). However, the restrained detailing and proportions, and the recessed entry, still interpret some of the key characteristics of the traditional streetscape.

96 Current use Tandoori Club Indian Restaurant

Historical Notes Based on the physical evidence this shop appears to have been constructed in the early twentieth century. In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupant at this address: W J O Northey, hairdresser, tobacconist, wine saloon & confectioner. In the same year the shop was advertised as Central Newsagency, Northey Bros., Proprietors. Despite the name, this advertisement (under the a photograph of the building, shown right) described a mixed business: Newsagents, Booksellers and Stationers. Tobacconists and Fancy Goods Importers. Confectioners -‐ only the best brands of local and imported stocked. Authorised Agents for "The West Australian," "The Western Mail,"

Northey Bros’ Newsagents, 1934



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the "Sunday Times" and other West Australian Newspapers. Local Agents for "Batyphone" Wireless Sets, etc. Distributors of the best brands of Australian Wines. 64

Description The parapet to this single storey shop steps up as a central nameplate, which features a curved cap. It is divided into three bays by square pilasters, which retain some evidence of the mountings for four former urn and ball finials. The former face-‐brick finish has now been painted. The shopfront was fully reconstructed in the mid-‐late twentieth century and the original raked verandah has been replaced with a cantilevered boxed awning.

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the traditional form and detailing of the parapet is of some aesthetic and historical significance. No Contribution The later shopfront and boxed awning make no contribution.

98 Current use Avon Computech

Historical Notes There was no separate listing for this address in the Post Office Directories of the period around 1930, which suggests that the site was vacant. The current building appears to have been constructed in the mid-‐late twentieth century. Description This single storey shop has a low flat parapet, and a deep boxed awning. The entry is formed as a recessed rectangular porch.


100-‐108 Current use #100 – Mon Petit Cafe #102 – Northam Jewellery and Repairs #104 – Fresh Food on the Move #106 – Immortal Body Art #108 – Vacant

Historical Notes Based on the physical evidence this row of five shops appears to have been constructed in the early twentieth century In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: #100 – A J Wight, dentist #102 – H W Salt, dressmaker #104 – Vacant

Streetscape view showing the row of shops at 100-‐108 Fitzgerald Street, c.1927 65

64 Western Mail 27 September 1934 p 71 65 Western Mail 1 Octoberr 1925 p 4S



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#106 – Vacant #108 – L E Dreyer, butcher

Description This single story row of five shops has retained the original balustraded parapet (although the pilasters no longer carry the original urns). The form of the awning is similar to the verandah seen in the c.1927 photograph of the place, although the posts have been removed. The shopfronts have also generally retained a traditional form with raked recessed entries. However, all of the shopfront windows have been individually modified over time. The glazed brown tiles, the highlight windows and the shopfronts to #s 102 and 108 provide good evidence of inter-‐war detailing.

Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the overall building envelope, the detailing of the balustraded parapet and the form of the verandah roof make a positive contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape (although the authenticity has been reduced to some degree by the loss of the original parapet mounted urns). The glazed brown tiles, the highlight windows and the shopfronts to #s 102 and 108 also provide good evidence of inter-‐war detailing. Little/No Contribution The modern shop fronts make no contribution to the heritage values of the streetscape.

110 Current use Department of training and Workforce Development – Apprenticentre

Original Use Professional Office

Historical Notes According the Shire of Northam Municipal Inventory this building, referred to as ‘Hailsham Chambers’, was constructed in c.1910. An interpretation of the entries in the Post Office Directory of 1912, suggests that the premises were being used as offices for:

Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, this building is of aesthetic and historical significance.



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− the Northam Club − the Northam Agricultural Society − Elder Shenton & Co Ltd By 1934 it was being used as professional offices by: − R B James & Co, accountants & auditors − Stanley Bertram Connor, Barrister & Solicitor − Byfield & Colless, accountants

During the 1930s advertisements referred to the property as ‘Hailsham Chambers’

Description This single storey building has an elaborate parapet with two broken pediments sitting under a curved and fluted parapet panel. The remainder of the façade is relatively austere, with a central arched entrance flanked by two arched windows, all with raised rendered surrounds. The front wall is rendered with a low plinth and rendered quoins at the northern end. The side walls are Colonial bond face-‐brick.

The building has previously been assessed as being of Moderate Significance for the Shire of Northam and entered in the Shire of Northam Municipal Heritage Inventory (MI Reference #98)

112 Current use Shamrock Hotel

Original Use Farmers Home Hotel (est. c.1866). Remodelled and enlarged as the Shamrock Hotel (c.1890s)

Historical Notes The Heritage Council’s assessment documentation suggests that the present building was constructed in stages from c.1866 to c.1900, and the following newspaper articles confirms that the original detailing of the current main façade dates from 1902: Mr. A. C McCorry, of the Shamrock Hotel, Northam, has just completed extensive additions to his hotel, which now contains over 30 rooms, all well ventilated and lofty, and mostly fitted with electric light. There are single rooms and rooms for families. A balcony 170 feet long affords facilities for promenading and from which a lovely view is obtainable. The water supply is from underground tanks, pumped to an altitude, from which it gravitates through pipes to all parts of the house. The improvements were designed by Mr. Proctor [sic., Henry James Prockter)66, architect, and the work carried out

Shamrock Hotel, c. 1894 69


66 Prockter designed the Northam Town Hall in 1896/97 “and his success with this project led to other commissions in the

town including the Freemasons' Hall, and at least three hotels (1902-‐04)”. Taylor, Dr John J., Henry James Prockter (1863-‐



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by Messrs. Millington and Brabazon to the satisfaction of the owner. Mr. McCorry has a couple of farms, which supply dairy and other produce for the hotel. Butter is made on the premises, a cream separator being used to assist in this work. The yards and stables are up to date, and as Mr. McCorry is well and favorably known good business should result. 67

Like most hotels, various internal and external upgrades were undertaken during the twentieth century, including the removal of the balcony. The extra land that was part of the Shamrock Hotel, Northam site began to be subdivided and sold from around 1913, with the hotel buildings occupying only part of Lots 26 and 27. 68 Description The Shamrock Hotel is a is a large two-‐storey stone, brick and corrugated iron hotel building with an expansive street frontage curved around the bend in Fitzgerald Street. The c.1900 building was designed in the Federation Filigree style, but the major element of this style (the timber verandah/balcony) has been removed. The building has a prominent balustraded parapet, which is divided into bays by wide rendered panels and features two raised triangular pediments. The first floor openings include an irregular layout of windows and former French doors, framed by painted brick quoins. The ground floor has a mixture of rectangular and arched openings (with tuck-‐pointed brick quoins) and a rendered plinth. The first floor façade is rendered, but the render has been removed from the ground floor to reveal the random coursed stone


Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, this building is of aesthetic and historical significance. The building has previously been assessed as being of Exceptional Significance for the Shire of Northam and entered in the Shire of Northam Municipal Heritage Inventory (MI Reference #32) It has also been assessed as being of state significance and entered on the State Heritage Register (Place number 1865)

1941)', Western Australian Architect Biographies, http://www.architecture.com.au/ accessed 26 March 2015. Prockter called for tenders for the additions to the Shamrock Hotel in February 1902.

69 Australian Town and Country Journal, 3 March 1894 p 26 70 Western Mail, 25 December 1902 p 84 67 Sunday Times 5 October 1902 p 3 68 Heritage Council of Western Australia, Register of Heritage Places Assessment Documentation, Shamrock Hotel, Northam

(Place No. 1865), pp 3 & 6 71 Kalgoorlie Western Argus, 5 May 1908 p 22



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120 Current use St John Ambulance Wheatbelt Regional Office

Historical Notes In 1927 the Post Office Directory listed the Shamrock livery stables and a blacksmith for the area immediately south of the Shamrock Hotel. In 1929 the Post Office Directory listed A Picone, fruit & confectionary, at 120 Fitzgerald Street.

Description This single storey building has an Inter-‐War style parapet with a raised curved panel at the centre and a slender moulded cap. The ground floor shopfront is flush with the footpath and is of a late twentieth century style.

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the traditional form and detailing of the parapet is of some aesthetic and historical significance. No Contribution The later shopfront, boxed awning and vertical signage panel make no contribution.

122 Current use Lucy’s Tea Rooms

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupant at this address: Andrew Broom, tailor & mercer Note: Broom was advertising his location as “next Shamrock Hotel” from as early as 1910. This formed part of the extended Shamrock Hotel site and was offered for sale as a separate lot when the hotel was placed on the market in 1927: Lot 1 on Diagram 7638, having a frontage to Fitzgerald street, Northam, of 70.1 links, on which are erected two shops, occupied by Mr. Wm. A Penny, as a stationer's shop, and Mr. A Broom, as a tailor's shop.72

Description This single storey shop has an Inter-‐War style rectangular stepped parapet with a flat recessed panel across the face. The shopfront has been reconstructed in the mid-‐late twentieth century.

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the traditional form and detailing of the parapet and building envelope are of some aesthetic and historical significance. No Contribution The later shopfront makes no contribution.

72 Sunday Times (Perth, WA : 1902 -‐ 1954) Sunday 21 August 1927 p 16



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124-‐128 Current use Guardian Pharmacy

Original use Row of three shops

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: #124 – Miss G Prout, milliner & Mrs M Warner, dressmaker #126 – William Penny, bookseller & newsagent #128 – Miss J McKay, hairdresser

Description This row of single storey shops has a simple, flat, painted-‐brick parapet with a slightly stepped cornice and a recessed parapet panel to each of the three bays. The shopfronts have been reconstructed to reflect the building’s modern use as a single shop, with the entry now occupying the southern bay. A boxed awning runs across the face of the building.

Little/No Contribution The low brick parapet is of a traditional form, but is dominated by the modern shop front and awning, which make no contribution to the heritage values of the streetscape.

130 Current use Simply Spectacles

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed J S Marsh, fruiterer at this address. The parts of this building that are visible from the street were fully redeveloped in the mid-‐late twentieth century.

Description This place has a flat two-‐tone brick parapet, boxed awning and modern shopfront.


132 Current use Civic Video

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed C A Robertson, hardware, at this address. The parts of this building that are visible from the street were fully redeveloped in the mid-‐late twentieth century. Description This building has a high rectangular parapet (without any decorative detailing), a suspended boxed parapet and a late twentieth century style shopfront.




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136 Current use Northam Home Hardware

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: #134 – B P Chidlow, store #136 – Scarterfields, drapers & outfitters

The physical evidence indicates that this site was fully redeveloped in the late twentieth century

Description The primary facades of the current building includes timber-‐framed windows of a traditional style, but the overall presentation of the place is as a purpose-‐built late twentieth century hardware store. Key elements include the barrel vaulted entry statements, curved corrugated sheet parapets and matching bullnose verandahs.

Sketch of Scarterfield’s Drapers and Outfitters, c.193273

Scarterfield’s Drapers and Outfitters on the corner of Fitzgerald and Grey Streets, c.193474

No Contribution This place does not represent the significant phase of development in this area (c.1890-‐1950)

Intersection with Grey Street

138 Current use Northam Optical

Historical Notes When this building was damaged by fire in 1903 it was stated that the shop was originally built some years ago by the John Hunter Boot Company. 75 Other references note that John Hunter & Co, boot manufacturers purchased a site in Northam in 1897, with the intention of erecting a boot establishment. This suggests that the building was erected in the late 1890s. In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed S Weinsberg, Northam Shoe Store, at this address.

John Fielding Boot Emporium, c.1902 76

73 Sunday Times 17 April 1932 p 8S 74 Western Mail 27 September 1934 p 6 75 The Daily News, 15 July 1903 p 1 76 Western Mail 25 December 1902 p 82



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Description This single storey shop has a decorative stepped parapet with four pilasters (which possibly originally supported ball or urn finials), a projecting moulded cap and projecting moulded cornice to the Fitzgerald Street frontage. This returns as a flat parapet with matching pilasters along the Grey Street frontage. The bullnose verandah follows the same general form as that glimpsed in the c.1930 photograph but with different frieze and post details. The shopfront windows to both frontages date from the late twentieth century.

Northam Shoe Stores, c.1930 77

Fitzgerald Street facade

Grey Street facade

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the overall building envelope, the detailing of the parapet to both street frontages and the form of the verandah roof make a positive contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape (with particular reference to the prominent corner location). Little/No Contribution The modern shop fronts make no contribution to the heritage values of the streetscape.

77 Western Mail 31 July 1930 p 32



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140 Current use Good Sammy

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupant at this address: W H Dawson. Visitors and residents of Northam can procure all their requirements in books, literature, stationery, and fancy goods at reasonable rates from W. H. Dawson, 140 Fitzgerald-‐street, Northam.78

Description This single story shop has a flat parapet inset with recessed panels with timber baluster detailing. The face of the parapet has been clad with flat metal sheets, over which sections of moulded timber have been attached to form a triangular parapet, cornice and capping. The shopfront and awning date from the late twentieth.

Little Contribution The parapet includes some traditional elements, but it has been extensively modified and the original detailing is not clear. The shop front and awning are both of a modern design and make no contribution to the heritage values of the streetscape.

142-‐146 Current use #142-‐144 – Comfort Style Furniture and Bedding #146 – The Avon Valley Advocate

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupant at this address: #142 – W Bell Ltd, men’s outfitters #144 – Princes Shoe Store #146 – Eclipse Stores

The parts of this building that are visible from the street were fully redeveloped in the mid-‐late twentieth century.

Description This site is still laid out with three shop frontages, but two of the shops are occupied by a single tenant. The building has a high flat-‐plan metal parapet; cantilevered boxed awning; flush façade; and full-‐height, metal framed display windows.


78 Western Mail 21 September 1933 p 13



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148 Current use Ballantyne Jewellers

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed George Thompson, tea rooms, at this address. The parts of this building that are visible from the street were fully redeveloped in the mid-‐late twentieth century.

Description This single storey building has a high flat-‐plan metal parapet; flush façade; large metal-‐framed display windows; louvered highlights; and a cantilevered boxed awning.


150-‐170 Current use 150 – Bob Davey Real Estate 152 – Bendigo Bank 154 – Northam Skin and Body care Centre 156 –Northam Florist 158 – Harvest Boutique 160 –Rice noodle and Sushi 164 – Northam Central Newsagency 166-‐168 – Everlastings on Fitzgerald 170 – Bruno’s Pizza Bar

Historical Notes The 1934 Post Office Directory listed 11 shops along this section of the street: #150 – B J Pell, auctioneers #152 – Mrs E Pell, refreshment rooms #154 – Miss F Krachler, agent #156 – West End Bakery Depot #158 – Eric Johnston, bootmaker #160 – Donald & Co, butchers #162 – J Arnott, tailor & clothier #164 – Ezywalkin Ltd, boots #166 – V E Sale, hairdresser & tobacconist #168 – Mrs G Bloomfield, fruiterer #170 – J Anast, dining rooms

The readily available documentary and physical evidence confirms that this site was fully redeveloped in the mid-‐late twentieth century

Description This long, single-‐storey building has an integrated parapet and boxed awning with a flat-‐pan metal face. The mid-‐late twentieth century shopfronts have a low plinth, 2 large display windows for each bay and a side entry.

166 Fitzgerald Street, c.1932 79

No Contribution

This place does not date from the significant phase of development in this area (c.1890-‐1950)

79 Western Mail 29 September 1932 p 9



70


174-‐176 Current use Fitzgeralds (vacant)

Original Use Tattersall’s Hotel

Historical Notes This property was first listed in the WA Post Office Directories under the name of ‘Tattersall’s Hotel’ in 1903. Tenders for the reconstruction of the hotel on behalf of John Ryan were advertised by Ernest E Giles, Architect, in April 1906. 80 The new hotel was advertised as follows in November of that year: TATTERSALL'S HOTEL, Northam MRS. M. YOUNG Late Kalgoorlie and Collie, Proprietress. Hotel Newly Erected, 30 Rooms. Splendid Accommodation. Private Sitting and Dining Rooms. All the Latest Modern Improvements. Cuisine Unsurpassed. TARIFF MODERATE.81

Tenders for additions, designed by Herbert Parry, architect, were advertised in Jun 1925.

Description Fitzgeralds has primary facades to both Fitzgerald Street and Avon Street and was originally designed in the Federation Filigree style, with a balcony/verandah along both frontages (now replaced by a suspended boxed awning). The building has a hipped roof and no parapets, with the exception of a small triangular parapet above the truncated corner entry. There are two tall face brick chimneys with projecting rendered caps along the southern (Avon Street) side. The Fitzgerald Street façade is fully rendered, but the Avon Street façade retains large areas of face brick with two string courses to the first floor. Many of the door and window openings have been altered over time.

Tattersall’s Hotel during the 1909 floods 82

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the overall building envelope, and the original detailing along the side (Avon Street) facade make a positive contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape (with particular reference to the prominent corner location). The place is also of some historical significance within its context as one of a number of substantial hotels in that were developed (or redeveloped) in Northam during the first decade of the twentieth century Note: The rendering of the main facades and the removal of the balcony/verandah have diminished its traditional character as a Federation Filigree Hotel.

Intersection with Avon Street

80 The West Australian 22 March 1906 p 1 81 Sunday Times 4 November 1906 p 8 82 Western Mail, 13 March 1909, p 27



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178 Current use Northam Travel

Original Use G. J. Coles and Co., Limited, c.1938 Note: this brought the total number of Coles Stores in Australia to 66.

Historical Notes The construction of these premises were announced in 1937: Work has begun on the erection of premises to cost £3,130, with an additional £2,400 for shop fronts and counters, for G. J. Coles and Co., Limited, at the corner of Fitzgerald and Avon streets, Northam. The site has a frontage of 43ft. 8in to the main street and a depth of 198ft to Avon-‐street. Modern display windows of curved glass on the front and for 20 feet down Avon street will be well sheltered from the heat by a 10ft. cantilever verandah with recessed blinds. Black and cream tiles will lead up to entrances of inlaid terrazzo floors and four plate glass doors. The counters are of a good modern design, being finished in walnut plywood and staybrite steel fitted with bag pockets, recesses and other fittings, for ease of working. A complete set of wall fittings has been designed in similar material to that of the counters. About £160 will be spent on the electrical work, with electric fans 20ft. apart. The whole of the building will be fire-‐proofed with special layers of heat-‐protecting material over the whole of the roof. The architects are Mr. F. G. B. Hawkins, in association with Mr. H. A. Norris, of Melbourne, and the successful contractor is H. Schofield. The shop fronts and counters are being executed by Wunderlich, Ltd., and Arcus, Ltd., respectively. 83

Description The single storey corner store was designed in the Art Deco style and retains a moderate/high degree of authenticity to the primary facades. Key elements include the closely spaced vertical fins at each corner; the high flat parapet bearing nameplates to each street front (originally bearing the word “COLES”); the large shopfront windows with a curved corner detail and signage panels over; and the wide recessed entry.

Sketch of the proposed building, 1937 84

Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, this building is of aesthetic and historical significance. Note: This is a distinctive example of late-‐Interwar shopfront design The building has previously been assessed as being of Considerable Significance for the Shire of Northam and entered in the Shire of Northam Municipal Heritage Inventory (MI Reference #68)

83 The West Australian 10 July 1937 p 4 84 The West Australian 10 July 1937 p 4



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182 Current use Vacant

Original Use Roediger Bros Butchers

Historical Notes A photograph showing this building in 1940 (for an advertisement for Roediger Bros Butchers) shows a traditional early twentieth century shopfront. The detailing of the current shopfront and parapet indicates that the building was replaced or extensively refurbished in the early post-‐war era.

Description This single storey shop has a high flat parapet with a horizontal recess along the top edge. The shopfront was purpose designed for Roediger Bros Butchers and features the name of the firm in lettering over the display windows and entry. The large shopfront windows are metal framed and sit over a high, black tiled plinth. Distinctive yellow panelling frames the shopfront and the rectangular highlights. A suspended boxed awning, clad with flat-‐pan metal sheeting, extends across the façade.

182 Fitzgerald Street, c.1940 85

Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, this building is of aesthetic and historical significance as a distinctive example of an early Post-‐War shopfront design (including the windows, door, signage and tiling). The restrained parapet is of the same era, but does not have the same aesthetic qualities.

85 Western Mail, 25 January 1940, p 15



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184-‐186 Current use Sports First

Historical Notes The readily available evidence suggests that this building was constructed in the early twentieth century, and that it was occupied by W Potter & Co, drapers and milliners, from pre-‐1912 until c.1932. By 1934 the business had been taken over by J H Phillips, draper, and a photograph taken at that time confirms that the building had a full verandah/balcony with iron lace balustrades and brackets.

Description This two-‐storey building has a plain flat parapet, which previously featured a triangular pediment and a horizontal signage panel. As part of the later ‘modernisation’ of the façade, this was replaced by bold horizontal panelling influenced by Art Deco detailing. The primary decorative element of the original design was the balcony/verandah, but this has been removed and the shopfronts are now shaded by a modern bullnose verandah. At first floor level the former set of three French doors have been fitted with wrought iron balustrades and blocked up. At ground floor level the shopfront has a recessed central entry, tiled plinth and columns and metal framed display windows

184-‐186 Fitzgerald Street, c. 1934 86

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, this place is of some historical significance. The rendering of the main facade, the removal of the balcony/verandah, and blocking up of the first floor openings have diminished its traditional character as a Federation Filigree shop. However, the adaptation of the parapet with Art Deco inspired detailing helps to illustrate the resurgence of the commercial area after the Great Depression.

188-‐196 Current use #190 – Commercial Hotel #192 – Elizabeth Men’s Hair Design #194-‐196 – Bloomy’s Florist (occupying two shops)

Original Use Commercial Hotel (1903) Extended to the south with additional bedrooms and three shops (1926)

Commercial Hotel, c.1907 87

86 Western Mail, 27 September 1934, p 6 87 Western Mail, 28 September 1907 p 23



74


Historical Notes According to the Shire of Northam Heritage Inventory, the Commercial Hotel was built by local builder, Michael Cody, a colourful Irishman … [with] considerable business interests in Northam, [who] also owned the Grand Hotel ….. Cotemporary newspaper notices state that the hotel was also designed by Michael Cody. 88 Work had commenced on the new building by July 1902 and it was ready for occupation by March of the following year: 89 It is with much pleasure and confidence that Messrs. BEARD and WELFORD announce the fact that "The COMMERCIAL HOTEL" that palatial and judiciously arranged Hotel in the best position in Northam is now almost complete and ready for occupation. The "COMMERCIAL HOTEL" has been designed to meet not only the special requirements of the commercial community, but of tourists and the particular demands of the people living in the districts. It will be found to be the Leading Hotel of the Eastern Districts of W.A. Full particulars on application. Inquiries from people requiring accommodation invited. COMMERCIAL HOTEL, Fitzgerald-‐st., NORTHAM. Saloon's now open. Rest of the House will be ready soon.

In 1926 the size of the hotel was almost doubled: A contract for about £8,000 for alterations and additions to the Commercial Hotel, Northam. has been let to Mr. W. T. Clarke, and is expected to be finished in about six months. The work necessitates the demolition of cottages on the block adjoining the hotel, and from plans prepared by Hobbs, Smith and Forbes, architects a two-‐storey structure will be erected on the vacant ground. On the street frontage there will be three lock-‐up shops. The increased hotel accommodation will consist of a dining room 43ft. by 30ft, and a new kitchen. The existing dining room will be converted into a lounge, and the present kitchen into a staff dining room. About 20 additional bedrooms will be provided, and the owner is having installed complete lavatory bathrooms, and an upto date septic tank system. The present bar will be enlarged, and the existing building will be improved in several respects. The new

Streetscape showing the Commercial Hotel (at centre), c.1925 91

Commercial Hotel, c.1933 92

88 The West Australian 11 March 1903 p 7 89 The West Australian 14 July 1902 p 7 and The West Australian 14 March 1903 p 5



75


building will measure 56ft. by 88ft. deep, just about doubling the size of the hotel.90

Description This prominent double storey building was designed in the Federation Filigree style in 1902 and extended in a compatible style in 1926. It has an extensive street frontage with a full verandah/balcony, which features a bullnose roof, chamfered posts and iron lace balustrades. The rendered flat parapet is divided into bays by pilasters capped by stucco ‘spires’. The north-‐eastern section of the building incorporates the original 1902/1903 hotel. The south-‐western section was designed as three shops with additional hotel accommodation over as part of the 1926 works. The first floor and upper levels of the ground floor façade to the hotel are constructed of face brick, with face brick dividing walls between the balconies over the shops. A series of traditional doors and windows open onto the balcony. The lower section of the hotel has been rendered up to a moulded stringcourse at door head height This moulding continues as an arched frame around the heads of the doors and windows. Each of the shops has large shopfront windows over a low tiled plinth and traditional raked entry porches. Each of these includes some elements that are consistent with late 1920s detailing. A modern bullnose, single-‐storey verandah projects over the footpath in front of the shops.

Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the overall building envelope, and the c.1926 detailing to the main facade make a positive contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape (with particular reference to the prominent corner location). The place is also of some historical significance within its context as one of a number of substantial hotels in that were developed (or redeveloped) in Northam during the first decade of the twentieth century The building has previously been assessed as being of Considerable Significance for the Shire of Northam and entered in the Shire of Northam Municipal Heritage Inventory (MI Reference #43)

91 Western Mail, 1 October 1925, p 4S 92 Western Mail, 21 September 1933, p 9 90 The West Australian 20 March 1926 p 9



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198-‐204 Current use #198 – Vacant #200 – Hall & Jones Hair Stylists #202-‐204 – Northam Craft Centre (occupying two shops)

Original Use Row of four shops

Historical Notes The physical evidence suggests that this building was constructed in the early twentieth century. In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: #198 – R G Palmer, stationer, newsagent & fancy goods #200 – C M Nixon, photographer Note: Nixon had occupied this shop from before 1912. #202-‐204 – W J Northey, confectioner & tearooms

Description The prominent streetscape element of this row of four shops is the balustraded parapet. Each bay is framed by narrow pilasters with ball finials. On the wall below the balusters each bay also has recessed panel with a moulded rendered frame (which originally framed signage for each shop). The building now has a suspended boxed awning, but originally had a bullnose verandah supported by timber posts with brackets and projecting capitals =. What appears to be an original shopfront remains to #202. This has timber framed display window, square highlights (now painted over) and a raked side entry porch. The other shopfronts have been altered to varying degrees, with two retaining the traditional recessed entry porch.

The north-‐eastern end of 198-‐204 Fitzgerald Street, c.1925 93

Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the overall building envelope, the detailing of the balustraded parapet, the form of the surviving raked entries and the timber-‐framed shopfront to #202 make a positive contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape.

93 Western Mail, 1 October 1925, p 4S



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Little/No Contribution The boxed awning and the modern shop front detailing and finishes to #s198, 200 and 204 make no contribution to the heritage values of the streetscape.

206 Current use Country Realty

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed A S Chidlow, musical instrument, makers at this address. The detail of the present façade suggests that it was built or redeveloped in the post-‐WWII era.

Description This single storey building has a plain flat façade over a modern bullnose awning with a frieze of timber balusters. The shopfront appears to date from the mid-‐twentieth century and has metal framed windows and rectangular recessed entry porch.

Little Contribution The shop front and modern bullnose verandah are both of a modern design and make no particular contribution to the heritage values of the streetscape.

208-‐220 Current use Avon Valley Bread RSN Bird Cameron Wheatbelt Mental Health Services

Historical Notes In 1934 there were 6 shops listed for this area: #208 – Vacant #210 – D H Baker, watchmaker #212 – George Bloomfield, grocer #214 – Vacant #216 – J H Sinclair, butcher #218-‐220 – N C Scott, confectioner and refreshment rooms

In c.2001 the site was cleared and a new group of shops constructed, with five bays and a laneway facing Fitzgerald Street.

Description This single storey building features four shallow arched parapets and a concave awning over full height glazed shopfronts. Three of these arches form a row at the southern end of the frontage, separated from the fourth by a covered walkway, which leads to further suites towards the rear.

No Contribution This place does not date from the significant phase of development in this area (c.1890-‐1950) Note: the scale, articulation and parapet detailing of this modern group of shops is compatible with the traditional streetscape.



78


222 Current use Northam Toy and Bike World

Original Use Northam & District Industrial Co-‐op Society Ltd Store

Historical Notes This building was constructed for the Northam and District Industrial Co-‐operative Society in 1925: TENDERS are invited for the Building and Completing of a NEW STORE for the NORTHAM and DISTRICT INDUSTRIAL CO-‐OPERATIVE SOCIETY, LTD., in Fitzgerald-‐street, NORTHAM.94

Note: This organisation had been established in 1919, with premises in “The Big Store” opposite the Post Office, and operated as a grocery and hardware store.

Description This two-‐storey building has a tiled gabled roof with large timber brackets to the wide street-‐front eaves. The façade is constructed of face brick and is divided into three bays by shallow pilasters that project as arches over the three first floor windows. The central window is a double casement with square panes of glass to the paired highlights. The narrower flanking windows are double hung, with a small upper sash matching the central highlights (all of which feature geometric leadlight detailing). A continuous moulded rendered sill extends as a string course across the full width of the façade. The ground floor has a recessed central entry. This is flanked by large display windows divided into small panes by modern timber mullions. The original building appears to have had a raked awning, although this was partly concealed by an advertising sign in the 1934 photograph. The building now has a bullnose verandah set on plain slender posts.

Northam and District Industrial Co-‐operative Society building, c.1934 95

Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the overall building envelope, and the detailing to the first floor facade make a positive contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape. The building has previously been assessed as being of Exceptional Significance for the Shire of Northam and entered in the Shire of Northam Municipal Heritage Inventory (MI Reference #10)

Little/No Contribution The detailing of the shopfront windows and the verandah does not date from the significant phase of development in this area (c.1890-‐1950)

94 The West Australian 8 August 1925 p 5 95 Western Mail 27 September 1934 p 8



79


224-‐226 Current use #224 – Homestyle #226 – Avon Shearing Supplies and Country Clothing

Historical Notes The style of this building suggests that the building was constructed in the mid-‐late Interwar era. In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: #226 – A J Wight, dentist #226a – Mrs R Delany, refreshment rooms

Description This building has a rectangular stepped parapet with a large central recessed name panel to the raised section and a smaller recessed advertising panel over each of the shops (which would have been originally used for advertising). #224 has a very deep splayed entry porch, which provides large shopfront display windows on either side of the central door. #226 has a mid-‐late twentieth century flush shopfront with a high plinth and side entrance. Both shopfronts are shaded by a suspended boxed awning.

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the parapet and the form of the shop front to #224 make some contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape.

Little/No Contribution The detailing of the shopfront to #226 does not date from the significant phase of development in this area (c.1890-‐1950)

228-‐ 230 Current use 228 – Northam Picture framers 230 – IC Firth & Associates, Insurance Brokers

Historical Notes The physical evidence suggests that this pair of shops was constructed in the early twentieth century. In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: #228 – J E Carter, wine saloon #230 – David Neal, chemist

Description The flat parapet to this pair of shops is divided into two bays by pilasters that have been detailed with a ‘plinth’ and a panelled face. Each of the stepped caps would have originally carried a ball or urn finial. Above the ‘plinth’, each of the parapet bays has three rectangular panels (which may have been used for signage). The place now has a deep boxed awning and flush shopfronts, with entries flanking the central wall.

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the parapet makes some contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape (noting that the pilasters would have almost certainly originally carried stucco ball or urn finials).

Little/No Contribution The detailing of the shopfronts does not date from the significant phase of development in this area (c.1890-‐1950)



80


Intersection with Gordon Place

232-‐236 Current use #232 – The Birdsnest Gallery #234-‐236 – Northam Pawnbrokers

Historical Notes In the period around 1930, the Post Office Directories listed the following premises in this area: #232 – B P Chidlow, grocer #234 – Home Furnishers (Mrs Boom) #236 – C W Phillips, retail butcher

In 1934 the occupants were listed as: #232 – Vacant #234 – George Henry Peters, motor garage #236 – C W Phillips, retail butcher

Note: George Peter’s was still operating a motor garage at # 234 in 1949. In 1954, #236 was the address used in an advertisement for the Northam Machinery Company -‐ which specialised in the sale of, and repairs to, farm equipment (and which had been operating in this general area from the early 1940s). An aerial photograph dated 1956 confirms that the existing building had been constructed prior to that time.

Description This large single storey building has a high, capped parapet that is divided into three bays by plain rectangular pilasters (concealing parapet walls behind). The central bay has a deep recessed entry with metal framed windows and doors. The end bays have large timber-‐framed windows. A suspended boxed awning shades the footpath

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, this utilitarian Inter-‐War facade is of some historical significance as evidence of the continued commercial activity in the Northam town centre during the second half of the Inter-‐War era. The detailing of the façade is consistent with the latter half of Inter-‐War era, and it has some similarities to the former Inter-‐War motor showroom, diagonally opposite at 217 Fitzgerald Street.

Driveway access

240-‐246 Current use #240 – Mighty Mackerel #242 – Burger Ranch #244-‐246 – Central Districts Airconditioning

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: #240 – vacant #242 – vacant #244 – Cyril Rice, bootmaker #246 – Michael Sullivan, tailor



81


Description This building appears to have been originally designed to accommodate 4 shops but now has 3 tenancies; It has a plain flat parapet, which is relieved with a moulded stringcourse. There is a suspended boxed awning along the façade. All of the shopfronts have been modified over time.

Little/No Contribution This building may date from the significant phase of development in this area (c.1890-‐1950) but extensive alterations over time have diminished its contribution to the traditional character of the street.

Driveway access

248-‐250 Current use #248 – Wheatbelt Office and Business Machines #250 – Northam Television Services

Historical Notes The physical evidence suggests that this building was constructed in the early twentieth century. In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: #246 – M J Sullivan, tailor #248 – Mrs A Jolly, second hand dealer #250 – Broomhall Bos, bakers

Note: the word ‘BAKERY’ can still be seen as a faint outline to the parapet over this shop. Frederick Charles Broomhall is known to have been working as a baker in Fitzgerald Street in as early as 1903, but not in this location.

Description This building has a distinctive redbrick parapet, which has curved raised pediments over # 248 & 250 and a taller triangular pediment over #248. Each of these was finely detailed with ornate curved panels of raised brickwork, and separated by small panels of diamond pattern terracotta tiles and vertical panels of scrolled terracotta tiles. Other elements include finely detailed trim including zig-‐zag, scalloped and rope patterns to the stringcourse and caps. Additional flower pattern terracotta tiles can be glimpsed immediately above the awning. The shopfronts have all been altered over time, and what would have originally been a verandah has been replaced with a suspended boxed awning. Note: fretting to the mortar has placed the stability of this brickwork at some risk.

Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the finely detailed parapet makes a positive contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape and is a relatively rare local example of a face-‐brick parapet which has not been painted.

No Contribution The detailing of the shopfront windows and the boxed awning does not date from the significant phase of development in this area (c.1890-‐1950)



82


252 Current use ITP income tax

Historical Notes A photograph used in an advertisement for the adjoining building (#254), dated 1939, suggests that the existing parapet at #252 had been built by that time. In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed Mrs H E Bloxsidge, draper, at this address:

Description This is a small infill shop with a low flat parapet, boxed awning and flush shopfront.

No Contribution The detailing of the shopfront windows and the plain brick parapet of this small infill building do not make any particular contribution to the traditional streetscape.

254 Current use Southern Inland Health Initiative Project Office

Historical Notes The detailing of the parapet suggests that this building was constructed during the Interwar era. In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed Frank Baseden, butcher, at this address.

Description This building has a flat parapet that rises up as a triangular pediment at the centre. A moulded stringcourse runs across the face of the parapet, over a modern bullnose verandah. Note: In 1939 the place had a raked verandah with no frieze; more robust posts; and a raised signage panel along the front edge. The current flush shopfront dates from the late twentieth century, but the side walls (to either end of the shopfront) retain vertical panels of terracotta tiles with a chain and flower design (see below). Both the tiles and the ends of the brick walls have since been painted white.

Some contribution

Façade of 254 Fitzgerald Street in c.1939 (when it was occupied by Eastern Districts Fresh Fish Supply) 96

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the parapet and the patterned terracotta tile detailing makes some contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape.

No Contribution The detailing of the shopfront windows and the modern bullnose verandah do not make any particular contribution to the traditional streetscape.

96 Mirror 11 November 1939 p 18



83


256-‐258 Current use Flooring by Dallimore

Historical Notes The detail of the parapet suggests that this building was constructed during the Interwar era. In 1929 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: #256 – Cecil Throssell, house & land agent #258 – Macrow & Sons, furnishers

The readily available documentary evidence therefore suggests that this single storey building was originally designed as two shops.

Description The capped parapet to this building has a double triangular pediment and an elongated recessed advertising panel, plus a continuous moulded stringcourse (all partly concealed by modern signage).

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the parapet makes some contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape.

Little/No Contribution The shopfront windows and the boxed awning do not make any particular contribution to the traditional streetscape (although the former are of an appropriate form and style).

260-‐262 Current use Essential Personnel

Historical Notes

In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: #260 – Louis R Wallis, fruiterer & confectioner #262 – Acme Laundry

Description This building has a flat parapet, which is divided into two halves by a plain central brick pilaster. Each half features a rectangular nameplate, framed at the top and bottom by bricks that have been laid on the diagonal to create a zig-‐zag pattern. The ground floor has been fully reconstructed as a single shopfront. It has four rendered brick pilasters which frame three shopfront windows and a recessed rectangular entry porch. A bullnose verandah on slender post extends across the face of the building.

Some Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, the parapet makes some contribution to the traditional character of the streetscape.

Little/No Contribution The shopfront windows and the modern bullnose verandah do not make any particular contribution to the traditional streetscape (although the shape of the latter is appropriate).



84


264-‐266 Current use Puslowe Tinetti Funerals

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed the following occupants for this site: #264 – J W Purslowe & Son, undertakers #266 – E McKenzie, cycle agent & motor garage

Based on the physical evidence, the present building dates from the late twentieth century

Description This late twentieth building has been designed using a modern interpretation of traditional forms and materials, including the use of dichromatic brickwork with distinctive horizontal banding. The flat parapet rises up as a central triangular pediment and features a central circular panel inscribed “EST 1906. The entrance, which is offset from the centre, has a masonry bay on the northern side. This area is flanked by two rectangular windows, each with three vertically proportioned panels of glass topped by square paned highlights. This section of the façade is shaded by an ogee verandah. At the eastern end of the building a secondary (lower) parapet with two small triangular pediments frames a double vehicle bay with steel mesh gates to each opening.

No Contribution This building does not date from the significant phase of development in this area (c.1890-‐1950) and therefore does not contribute to its heritage values. However, it has been carefully designed as a modern interpretation of the traditional detailing and materials of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct.

272 Current use Carpark

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed S Paine, bootmaker at this address. The site was fully cleared in c.2008 and is now used as an unsealed carpark


Intersection with Beavis Place



85


298 Current use Shire of Northam Library

Original Use Northam Town Council Offices & Library

Historical Notes This site (which included the town’s first power station) was acquired by the Northam Council in 1906. In 1928 a new building was erected to accommodate the Municipal Chambers & Northam Local Board of Health. In the late 1960s the Council decided to build a new administration centre with council offices and a public library. Plans were prepared by Ivan Iwanoff, architect, and the new library was constructed in 1970-‐71. Stage 2, the council offices, was constructed in 1973-‐74. 97

Description Town Council Offices (fmr) & Library, Northam comprises two free standing adjacent buildings that are the double-‐storey concrete block Town Council Offices, and the double-‐storey concrete block Library, both showing influences of Late Twentieth Century Brutalist style and architect Iwanoff’s distinctive concrete block sculptural design ….. 98

Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Civic and Government Building Precinct, this building is of considerable aesthetic and historical significance. The place has previously been assessed as being of Exceptional Significance for the Shire of Northam and entered in the Shire of Northam Municipal Heritage Inventory (MI Reference #26) It has also been assessed as being of state significance and entered on the State Heritage Register (Place number 10907)

304 Current use In Balance Fitness

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed J J Hogan at this address (the nature of the entry suggesting that it was a residential property). Large sheds had been built on this site by 1956.

Description Metal clad industrial style building with a flat parapet to the street frontage and a sawtooth roof the rear.

No contribution This place makes no contribution to the traditional character of the Fitzgerald Street Civic and Government Building Precinct.

97 Heritage Council of Western Australia, Register of Heritage Places Assessment Documentation, Town Council Offices (fmr)

& Library, Northam (Place No. 10907) 98 ibid



86


306 Current use Brickmart

Historical Notes In 1934 the Post Office Directory listed Charles Birch at this address (the nature of the entry suggesting that it was a residential property). The site was fully redeveloped in the mid-‐late twentieth century.

Description Open corner display area and office for masonry products.

No contribution This place makes no contribution to the traditional character of the Fitzgerald Street Civic and Government Building Precinct.

Intersection with Newcastle Road

322 Current use Avon Bridge Hotel

Historical Notes The Avon Bridge Hotel was established in c.1858 and rebuilt in 186899 and 1906. The original hotel was built by Tom Wilding, an influential character in Northam's history. The hotel, built near the new bridge over the Avon constructed in 1858-‐9, became a focus for Northam people. Wilding was active in organising sporting events which usually culminated at his hotel. The hotel has survived floods, the Temperance movement and lack of patronage over the years, and is still a prominent landmark in the town.100

When Charles Taylor announced that he was applying for a publican’s licence for the premises in June 1886, the hotel was described as including “four sitting rooms and six bedrooms, exclusive of those required by my family”. Few references to the place have been identified from that time until May 1906 when tenders were called for the reconstruction of the hotel: TENDERS are invited until noon, 22nd inst., for PULLING DOWN and REBUILDING the "Avon Bridge Hotel, Northam, for A. E. Lockyer, Esq. Plans, etc., may be seen at the Avon Bridge Hotel after Tuesday next. The lowest or any Tender not necessarily accepted. ERNEST E. GILES, Architect. 101

In October 1906 the hotel was advertised as follows:

99 Western Mail 21 September 1933 p 12 100 Heritage Council of Western Australia, InHerit database entry for the Avon Bridge Hotel (Place No. 1863) 101 The West Australian 12 may 1906 p 7



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AVON BRIDGE HOTEL. J. RODGERS. Newly Erected. FITZGERALD-‐ST., NORTHAM (near Station). 30 Rooms, Newly Furnished. Splendid Balconies. Private Sitting Rooms. Excellent Accommodation, Baths, Stabling, etc. 102

Description This site includes the 1906 hotel and an earlier, abutting, two-‐storey stone building with rendered quoins to the corners and openings (reputed to be part of Wilding’s original development). This earlier building was designed in the Victorian Georgian style and originally had a verandah/balcony across the façade.103 At first floor level there are three windows and the remains of two former doors. At ground floor level there are two doors and three windows. The 1906 hotel is a two-‐storey building constructed of face brick with contrasting rendered stringcourses and window arches. It was designed in the Federation Filigree style and has a ornate timber balcony overlooking Fitzgerald Street. This façade is divided into bays by projecting wings, one of which is designed as a central ‘tower’ element with an arcaded gable over the main entry to the original accommodation area. The truncated corner has an entry to the bar, above which is a scrolled nameplate which reads “ESTBD 1858”. The varied openings have segmental, flat and arched openings with plain rendered surrounds to the heads and raked rendered sills. Overall the façade has a high level of authenticity.

Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Civic and Government Building Precinct, this building is of considerable aesthetic and historical significance. The place has previously been assessed as being of Considerable Significance for the Shire of Northam and entered in the Shire of Northam Municipal Inventory (MI Reference #39)

334 Fitzgerald Street & 6 Gardiner Street

Current use Weston Milling -‐ Northam Flour Mill Historical Notes Northam Flour Mill has been a major landmark and an economic focus for the district for over 140 years. The first mill, built by Joseph Lockyer in 1849, was superseded by a new mill in 1867. Major changes were made and the production process was modernised by James Byfield in 1883, turning it into a profitable venture. The mill also generated the first electricity for the town of Northam. In 1892 the first steel roller plant ever brought to WA was installed and a new steam engine was

Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Civic and Government Building Precinct, this place is of considerable aesthetic (landmark)

102 Sunday Times 28 October 1906 p 3S 103 This verandah/balcony can be glimpsed in a photograph of flood damage in the Western Mail, 13 March 1909, p 27



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used in Byfield's Eclipse Flour Mill (later Snowdrop Flour Mill). Byfield sold out to W Thomas and Co in 1902. Further modernisation and remodelling followed and another name change left the mill as the Standard Flour Mill. The mill has since changed hands a few more times and has undergone further reconstruction over the years. The mill symbolises the importance of agriculture, especially wheat, for both the Town and Shire of Northam . Throughout the 1990’s a number of new additions were added to the complex including, alterations to the factory, new flour bins, salt milling shed, new grain storage solo, new double brick office building, erection of bunkers for bulk storage purposes and the demolition of old timber silos. 104

Description Situated alongside the main Avon Bridge, the Northam Flour Mill is a large complex comprising a number of buildings of different sizes and construction types. Two prominent structures are the four-‐storey building with a curved roof, and the nine tall grain storage silos. Smaller, lower buildings are interspersed. 105

and historical significance. It has previously been assessed as being of Considerable Significance for the Shire of Northam and entered in the Shire of Northam Municipal Inventory (MI Reference #64)

104 Draft review of the Shire of Northam Municipal Heritage Inventory (January 2015) 105 Ibid



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5.3 PEEL TERRACE: NORTHERN SIDE


Intersection with Avon River

3 Current use Northam Isuzu Ute

Historical Notes

An aerial photograph dated 1960 shows this as a vacant site.

Description

Modern industrial style shed



5 See 30-‐32 Fitzgerald Street

Intersection with Fitzgerald Street

1-‐7 See 29-‐35 Fitzgerald Street

9 Current use

Invision Signs and Designs

Historical Notes

Entries in the Post Office Directories indicate that early uses of this site include a confectionary/bakery (c.1921-‐1924) and cordial manufacturing plant (c.1927-‐1932). A newspaper advertisement dated October 1949 (seeking a linotype operator) indicates that it was also occupied as the offices of the “Northam News”.

The physical evidence suggests that the Peel Terrace frontage was fully refurbished in the early post-‐war era.

Description

The main façade is of a utilitarian design with a flat parapet, rendered walls, and plain rectangular openings.

The rear elevation of the eastern half of the building is constructed of English bond face-‐brick and features a well-‐built brick chimney with a decorative brick cap. The detailing of this façade is consistent with a construction date in the early century.



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(Photos: Shire of Northam, June 2015)

Little Contribution Despite evidence that the building was constructed in the early twentieth century, the place does not make a positive contribution to the precinct.

11 Current use Avon Car Upholsterers

Historical Notes George Throssell (snr) opened his first store in Northam in 1862. This store was conducted from, and in conjunction with the business of the Farmers' Home by Mr. Throssell until his trade expanded sufficiently to warrant the establishment of larger premises at a better elevation, which made his business premises immune from the more or less devastating floods that periodically occurred when the Avon River overflowed.106

William J Stewart joined the firm in 1886, after which it was conducted under the name of Throssell, Son, and Stewart. In the following year it was announced that: Messrs. Throssell, Son, and Stewart are contemplating building a large shop in lieu of the small place that now does duty as general store.107

Further newspaper notices confirmed that work on the new two-‐storey shop had commenced by August 1888, but it was not until December 1889 that it was announced that the building was nearing completion: Messrs. Throssell Son and Stewart's new place of business is to be opened in the New Year week. 108

Throssell, Son & Stewart Store, c.1902 114

106 Western Mail 21 September 1933 p 1 107 The Inquirer and Commercial News 26 October 1887 p 5 108 The Inquirer and Commercial News = 22 August 1888 p 6 and Western Mail 14 December 1889 p 13



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This store, which was known as both ‘Northam House’ and ‘The Big Store’, thrived during the gold-‐rushes, offering provisions to both locals and gold prospectors: GOOD ADVICE TO MINERS. No need to encumber yourselves with supplies when THROSSELL, SON, AND STEWART, OF NORTHAM, Can SUPPLY you with EVERY ARTICLE required on a Goldfield. DAILY NECESSARIES AND LUXURIES. TOOLS OF ALL KINDS, And prices to suit all. They also place your goods on Yilgarn Line free of extra charge. PACK, SADDLE, and DRAUGHT HORSES always on hand. ALSO, SPRING CARTS AND HARNESS. 109

The business was purchased by W J Stewart and J B Ackland in 1902, but continued to trade as Throssell, Son & Stewart. The premises, which remained in the ownership of the Throssell family, were “remodeled and enlarged” in 1909110 (although historical photographs show that this did not have a major impact on the main façade). In 1914 the store was relocated to new premises in Fitzgerald Street (opposite the Post Office), but George Throssell (jnr)(commercial agent) and his brother, Cecil Throssell (estate agent and AMP agent), continued to maintain offices in the Peel Street building until c.1920.111 The site was then offered for sale: Purchase of land and Building, of premises, Peel-‐ter., Northam, known as Throssell Son and Stewart's Big Store, 2 Storey Brick Building, floor space 66 x 64, commodious office, stone cellars, very large plate glass windows, show cases, splendid shelving drapery, grocery, iron mongery, fitting, drawers, bins, splendid counters. Attached thereto, large iron bulk warehouse, heavy hardware fixtures, commodious produce store, 6 stall stable, cart shed, all enclosed with 10ft galv. Iron also 1 Brick Cottage. Exceptional opportunity for up-‐to-‐date business man. 90 per cent farmers pass this street. Adjoining land suitable for stock sale yards. Reliable contractors' estimate value of buildings £5,000. 112

Throssell, Son & Stewart Store, c.1907 115

114 Western Mail, 25 December 1902, p 82 109 The West Australian February 1894 p 3 110 The West Australian 15 November 1909 p 5 111 Northam Courier 18 September 1914 p 2 and entries in the Post Office Directories 112 The West Australian 31 July 1920 p 10 115 Western Mail, 28 September 1907, p 26



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After briefly being used by a produce merchant and then a fruiterer/greengrocer, the premises were occupied by Peter Salvaire as a motor garage and general engineering shop from c.1924-‐1930. In 1948 it was reported that two ex-‐servicemen, N Anderson and W Spencer, had started a panel-‐beating service in a shed Northam after they were demobilized and had subsequently “established themselves, with other ex-‐servicemen, in a large brick building in the town.”113 In 1949 their new address was listed in the Post Office Directory as 11 Peel Terrace.

Description

The symmetrical two-‐storey façade is flanked by single storey wings.

Key elements include the: • Flat parapet (retaining evidence of the words

Throssell Son and Stewart) • Stepped central bay featuring a raised curved

name plate (retaining the words Northam House, AD 1862)

• Moulded parapet cornice set above a row of rendered dentils.

• Large first floor window openings with decorative stucco lintels (featuring ‘key-‐stones and a vermiculated finish over later window frames)

• Projecting single storey bays on either side of the main façade. Historical photos show that these were originally face brick with a large arched display window. At some stage the façade detailing to both bays has been extensively modified.

• Central entrance bay, aligning with the raised nameplate (since modified as a shopfront window)

• Verandah set between the two single storey wings (the original verandah, which had an elegant ogee profile roof and timber posts, has been replaced).

(Photos: Shire of Northam, June 2015)

Considerable Contribution Within the context of the Fitzgerald Street Commercial Precinct, this building is of aesthetic and historical significance.

113 Western Mail, 12 August 1948 p 63.



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13-‐15 Current use Elders

Historical Notes

An aerial photograph dated 1956 shows an attached row of four premises with a separate larger building at the eastern end of the block.

Entries in the Post Office Directories these were houses at 13-‐19 Peel these were houses at 13-‐21 Peel Terrace.

The site was redeveloped in the latter part of the twentieth century.

Description

This single storey building has painted block walls to the side and a long glazed frontage set under a boxed awning.



Intersection with Wellington Street



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5.4 PEEL TERRACE: SOUTHERN SIDE


Intersection with Avon River

See 36 Fitzgerald Street

Intersection with Fitzgerald Street

See 39 Fitzgerald Street

12-‐16 Current use Undeveloped site/carpark

Historical Notes

An aerial photograph dated 1956 shows that this area was originally developed with three buildings. One of these was demolished in the late 1950s, and the others in the latter part of the twentieth century.

Entries in the Post Office Directories of the 1920s suggest that these were all residential premises.

No Contribution This site does not contribute to the traditional character of the Fitzgerald street commercial precinct.

18 Current use Northam Auto Electrics

Historical Notes

An aerial photograph dated 1960 shows this site as part of the original railway reserve that ran parallel to Fitzgerald Street.

The present building was constructed after the railway line was diverted away from the main street in the late twentieth century.

Description

This building is of a simple utilitarian design, with a brick shopfront to a steel workshop.



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DRAFT Fitzgerald Street Precinct - Heritage...

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