Blacksmith Shop/Butcher's Shop

Statement of Significance

The site is important for its association with one of the town's earliest businesses.

Physical Description

The site is on the north side of the hotel and was almost attached to that building.

History

William Playle was in the employ of George Vagg, blacksmith, during 1877. The situation of the
blacksmith's shop was described as being in close proximity to the hotel.
By 1882 the little village could boast of having at least two balcksmith shops. Playle who had
previously worked for Vagg, decided to commence business on his own account. He secured the
Government contract for the shoeing of police horses for the year 1882. His blacksmith shop and
residence were situated on the west side of the Albany Road and almost opposite the old
Agricultural Hall. A pomegranate tree, still growing, marks the exact location of his habitat. (Site
No. 26)
About 1906 Frank Ford commenced a butchering business in a corrugated iron building situated
beside the Williams Inn. Due to summer heat these premises proved unsuitable, he then moved
into a room in Millbrook and, at a later period, he erected a butcher's shop in Brooking Street.
Besides supplying town requirements, he also travelled among many new settlers with a cutting
cart. This was a welcome service to many of the settlers whose farm development had not, at that
time, reached a stage where they were able to run sheep. (2)
During 1909 the Western Australian Bank commenced operations in premises leased from George
Brice and situated beside his Inn. This bank later constructed their own premises in New Street.
(3) and apparently the building was put to another use as a photo of the hotel in about 1912 has a
"bootmaker" sign on this building next to the Hotel. (4)

Condition

Site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

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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.