Catherine McAuley Centre

Child Places

• 23830 St Vincent's Foundlings Home
• 23680 Benedictine Stables (fmr)
• 23830 St Vincent's Foundlings Home
• 23834 Olive Trees, Barrett Street
• 23834 Olive Trees, Barrett Street

Statement of Significance

This is a most important building from and historical point of view, as a relic of the Benedictine community in the area and a link with New Norcia. It is highly regarded by the City of Subiaco which takes its name from this original Benedictine settlement, even though outside its boundaries. The primitive construction, probably the work of members of the community is also of interest.

Physical Description

This is a three roomed building of rubble and stone with a brick chimney at one end and brick surrounds to some doors and windows. It has a shingle roof covered in some sections with CGI.Two of the rooms are unlined with rafters and shingles exposed and interior walls roughly plastered and whitewashed. The room with chimney is lined and has a fireplace with mantlepiece. The condition of the building is not good, though basically sound. Windows are broken, woodwork of doors and windows deteriorated and mortar gone from between the stones.
The building dates from the time when the Benedictines lived on the site and gave the area the name of Subiaco. A three storeyed monastery and chapel were built between 1858 and 1859. A winery and operating theatre were also included. It is thought that the building we are considering would have been the winery. Its subsequent use when first the Christian Brothers and later the Sisters of Mercy were in charge is not known.

History

Assessment 1980

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.