Warrawong

Statement of Significance

• The place has aesthetic value as a demonstration of a simple expression of the Inter
War California Bungalow style executed in rendered brick.
• The place has historic value for its association with the development of Darlington in
the Inter War period.
• The place has historic value for its association with the Saw family who were significant
in the establishment and development of Darlington and its community.

Physical Description

The available visible evidence relating to this place indicates it is a single storey rendered
brick structure with a terracotta tile gabled hip roof.
The windows and doors appear to be timber framed with the windows arranged in groups of
three casements.
The sloped site has stone walls creating terraces which is consistent with the low wall on the
front property boundary. A garage is located close to the property boundary and it is
constructed in the same style and materials as the residence.
(Note: This place as not accessed as part of this assessment)

History

This brick stucco house was built by contractor S. Cresswell for Walter Willilam Saw (1898-
1971), son of William Allnut Saw who owned Holmesdale and was on a part of his father’s
subdivided estate. Walter married Alison Gaze (1998-1986) daughter of Frederick Owen
Gaze who was cofounder of Ezywalkins Store and in WW1 was the Egyptian Commissioner
of the Comfort Fund.
Walter and Alison Saw relocated to Peppermint Grove in 1929.
For a number of years Frederick and Constance Gaze lived in the house with Constance
holding fundraising events at the property. When Frederick died in 1932 Constance placed a
dedication plaque in his honour at St Cuthberts and donated the church’s first bell in 1934.
The naming of the property appears to be attributed to Charles Albert Kendall Manager of the
Ford Motor Company during his brief ownership.
In 1960, Robert Charles Jennings purchased the property where he was serving at his last
school, Darlington Primary, before retiring. He was one of the WW1 soldiers retrained as
teachers after the war. He was awarded a Military Medal for his bravery as a stretcher bearer
recovering wounded men while under fire at Passchendaele in 1918.
Aerial photographs of the place since the mid 20th century indicate that the place has
undergone no significant change in its form or extent since that time. It is clear however that
the place was originally located in a generous lot with formal gardens and minimal buildings
adjacent.

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.