Fairholme

Statement of Significance

Fairholme is a fine example of a mansion designed in the Federation Queen Anne architectural style incorporating fine examples of Art Nouveau decoration in the stained glass windows and the carved fireplace surround in the ballroom;

Fairholme is associated with wealthy pastoralist Charles Smith, who built it in the early 1900s, and with renowned philanthropist Nathaniel Harper, who purchased Fairholme and adjacent Earlsferry in 1950 for the purpose of establishing the Nathaniel Harper Homes; and

Fairholme contributes to the group of highly significant historic buildings and to the historic environment of the Guildford town site.

Physical Description

Fairholme (c.1901-1912) is a much larger single storey brick and tile dwelling constructed in the Federation Queen Anne style of architecture. The front façade is symmetrical with its front door flanked by corner bay windows set at 45-degree angles to the façade. The various wings behind are arranged in an asymmetrical manner. The tuck-pointed red clay bricks are embellished with stucco swags under the windowsills and rusticated quoins. There is a verandah, which surrounds the front half of the building on three sides. Double casement windows are used throughout with the exception of the casements in the bay widows.

History

Fairholme House was built for Mr Charles Smith, a wealthy & successful pastoralist who owned extensive properties in the north-west and Murchison areas. Smith was known as the 'Cattle King'. The building has also been used by the Disabilities Services Commission.

Integrity/Authenticity

High

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.