Corrigin Railway Precinct

Child Places

• 08190 Railway Water Tank, Corrigin
• 24783 Corrigin Railway Station

Statement of Significance

The precinct is significant in representing the critical role of the railway in the development of Corrigin. The site of the railway turntable represents the workings of the railway transport system, and has historical significance as the site of a tragic accident. The site of the Baltic camps is significant in representing a different way of life, a different culture and nationality demonstrating a diversity of Corrigin's development

Physical Description

The railway precinct comprises a number of sites and remaining structures which constitute the main elements of the railway operation.
Baltic camps: Railway reserve cnr Connelly Parade and Dry Well Road Railway workers cottages: Railway reserve near the old wheat bins. The cottages were made of railway sleepers constructed vertically.
Railway turntable
Railway ramp and loading equipment
Railway sales yards
Original CBH Bins

History

The railway line connected to Corrigin in 1914. As with most wheatbelt towns, the advent of the railway line signals an impetus to development. The Corrigin Railway was instrumental in the progress of Corrigin, and although the original Railway station was burnt down and replaced, the railway tank stand is a lasting landmark and reminder of the railways.
The cottages were provided for the railway workers as the construction of the railway line pushed forth. There was separate accommodation for single workers and married workers. In 1914, Paddy Connelly senior and his family stayed in one of the three family cottages there at the time.
Bulk grain handling revolutionised the storage and transport development of the wheat industry.
Baltic camps: After World War Two, and during the 1950s the Federal Government's Immigration Policy facilitated the New Australian immigrants, referred to as "Baltics" in Corrigin, due to the European region of their origin. The site was their home for up to three years. They lived in primitive conditions in corrugated iron huts or in tents. Many of the 3 metre square huts had tents attached. There was accommodation for families and single men. They had to cart water from small holding tanks. They stayed in the camp until they could afford to buy their own home (the Australian dream). They worked very hard for their future.

Condition

Precinct

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.