Corrigin Roads Board office, (former)

Parent Place or Precinct

08202 Corrigin Town Centre Precinct

Statement of Significance

The place is significant in representing the beginnings of the role of the Roads Board in the development of Corrigin. The architectural style is a fine example of civic architecture of the period, and use of local materials is significant. The place contributes to the streetscape and the character of Corrigin town. The place demonstrates changing ways of life through the various functions that have taken place.

Physical Description

The classical frontage is balanced with the entry to one side. The entry is defined by pilasters, decorative parapet with the name embossed. The arched entry space is replicated by the two balanced window openings on the street front. The front of the building is rendered and painted a light colour. The place is constructed of local stone and local Corrigin bricks.

History

The area of Corrigin was originally under the jurisdiction of the Greenhills Road Board, then the Dangin Roads Board. After settlers began arriving about 1906, progress associations formed and lobbied for separate representation. In 1913, the Kunjin Road Board was formed and meetings took place in Kunjin, although after 2 or 3 meetings they moved to Corrigin in 1914. The move to Corrigin signalled a change of name, venue and division into six wards; Kunjin, Bullaring, Kurrenkutten, Dondakin, Kondinin (later Wogerlin) and Central The Kunjin building was moved to this site. In 1923 the inaugural Chairman of the Roads Board, Coulson Murphy, laid the foundation stone for the Roads Board office. The previous weather board and iron office became a storeroom for fox tails and ears, and later the poison shed. The new secretary room and Boardroom was opened on 15 October 1923 by the Minister for Works, WT George.
In 1961, Roads Boards throughout the state changed their status and name. The newly constituted Shires extended their responsibilities beyond roads and infrastructure maintenance, to include community facilities and services. In 1963, the Corrigin Shire constructed new premises and the Roads Board office was vacated. The place was utilised as a Doctor's surgery for some time. In 1970, the Corrigin Historical Society was formed, and subsequently opened the Museum in 1972. The former Roads Board Office continued to be the Museum until 1983, when a new pioneer museum was constructed. At various times the place has remained vacant. Other uses have been as a storeroom for the Corrigin Entertainers, and the Kenos Youth Club meeting venue. About three years ago the place was opened as a coffee shop, and it continues to operate.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Intact or Redeemable
Authenticity: High Degree

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.