Flats

Statement of Significance

Flats, 58-60 Stirling Street, a two storey brick and iron house has cultural heritage significance because it is a rare example of a Federation era apartment block, it has landmark qualities and it contributes to the aesthetic and precinctual qualities of Stirling Street.

Physical Description

Flats, 58-60 Stirling Street is a two storey brick and iron building constructed c1915 with 1952 alterations. The walls are painted brick. The roof has two gables, and a flat section centrally over the stairway access. Windows and doors are not original. The ground floor has a skillion roof verandah supported by posts and brick pillars.

Queens Gardens reserve area is at the rear of the property.

History

Stirling Street formed the northern boundary of Governor Stirling’s grant Location 26 of 100,000 acres. The street was first developed during the 1850s when several lots were granted to the Enrolled Pensioner Guards.

The date of construction of Flats, 58-60 Stirling Street is not known. No entry could be found for the lot in the 1899 Rate Book and there are no rate books for the 1906 to 1920 period. The flats were certainly built within this timeframe, as they were on record as existing in 1921. Construction is therefore estimated as c1915.

The two properties on Lot 5 were recorded in 1921 by the estate of J Blythe. They were occupied by Mrs McCall, a teacher, and James Hough.

By 1941, No 58 was owned and occupied by Mary Ann White and No 60 was owned and occupied by Joy Reading. In 1951, No 58 was owned and occupied by Arthur and Alice Blake. During the year, they moved to Mount Lawley and let the flat to tenants. At this time, No 60 was owned by Mary Duce and occupied by W Larsson before Mrs Duce moved in.

The COB Building Register records building activity on pt P5, Stirling Street on 5.12.1952 when additions were made to brick flats owned by A. Blake at a cost of £2100. £650 of additions and alterations had been carried out for the same property on 21.1.1949. It is assumed that these entries refer to 58 Stirling Street. [A. Blake also erected a T/Fibro Refreshment Kiosk in nearby Queens Gardens on 15.9.1954 at a cost of £960].

In 1959, Mr and Mrs Blake were advertising for tenants at the tariff of £10/17/6 per week.

Integrity/Authenticity

The building has had some additions made to the rear of the premises.

Condition

Exterior: Appear well-maintained.

Uses

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.