Maijidin Homestead

Statement of Significance

Notable as being part of a very early selection and an early homestead prior to the turn of the
century.

Physical Description

Situated 3kms south of Williams on the west side of the Albany Highway. Part of the Maijidin
homestead is a very early stone construction with many later additions. It was originally two rooms
for living quarters and stable attached.

History

Some time prior to 1890 the original crown grants 'E' and 'P' had become the possession of the late
Thomas Gull and was known as Maijidin. It is uncertain just where the other brothers, Harold and
Wilfred Gull, resided. Both could have lived at Maijidin, or one could have been residing there and
the other living at Boodyhole. These brothers were keen racing men with some of their racehorses
figuring prominently at meetings held at such centres as Narrogin, Wagin Lakes, Arthur River,
Quindanning, Wandering as well as locally. They also took an active part in local affairs. For a
period the three brothers were simultaneously members of the Williams Roads Board. (1)
About 1897 the brothers left Williams and later the Maijidin estate was subdivided into convenient
size blocks for immediate sale. During 1903, Ned Gillett took up his abode at Williams where he
purchased the homestead portion of the Maijidin estate. (2)
Another prominent local family to settle on the old estate were the Ford brothers, Frank and Fred
who in February 1903, selected block 11 containing 218 acres, a part of Maijidin estate situated
opposite Gregory's Weij. at the 104 mile peg on Albany Road. This block had to be cleared with the
result that no income was received from the farm before 1905. The initial crop was cut for hay.
Fred Ford could see few opportunities at Williams and returned to Victoria. Frank Ford was more
determined and battle^! on; later acquiring a portion of Cornwall Estate including Millbrook and
then another property from John Playle situated on Clayton Road. (3)

Integrity/Authenticity

Modifications: Some additions
Extent of Original Fabric: All

Condition

Good

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.