Reckitt & Colman Building Facade

Statement of Significance

Historically significant for associations with the Samson family. The facade contributes to the highly intact streetscape of Federation Free classical buildings. Rare example of a structure originally constructed as a façade. The place is of social significance as evidenced by its classification by the National Trust.

Physical Description

Single storey façade only intact, has a zero setback from the pavement. The façade features arched openings (blocked) from engaged pilasters and a decorative parapet with highly decorative pediments.

History

Cliff St in the 1850s was a busy thoroughfare connecting the sea front jetty with the river. Many businesses were located along the route. The street was paved in 1858 with hand-tolled Yorkshire flagstones by sappers of the Royal Engineers. The job was completed by private contract after the sappers were needed elsewhere. Apparently, convicts were not skilled enough for the job. To meet the expense, dog licences, poundage fees and fines were raised by the Town Trust.
The Liebler Building façade is part of former buildings of Lionel Samson and Co, the oldest existing firm of merchants in the state. Lots 7 & 8 Cliff St were owned by John Lewis in 1880, as mixed commercial and residential use. New owners in 1881 were Mason and Liebler, and rates records refer to new buildings incomplete on Lot 8, and a house, occupied by Mason and Liebler. Lot 7 has a shop. In 1882 the ownership changes to Mason and Samson and remains thus until 1890 when owners are entered as Elias Solomon and Lionel Samson. At some time between 1890 and 1895 a facade was constructed in front of stone cottages already on the site.
The cottages were demolished in 1967 but the facade was retained. The facade was classified by the National Trust in 1974. In 1980 the southern wing of the facade was demolished.

Condition

Fair.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This data is provided by the City of Fremantle. While every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of this data, the City of Fremantle makes no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and disclaims all responsibility and all liability (including without limitation, liability in negligence) for all expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damage) and costs which you might incur as a result of the data being inaccurate or incomplete in any way and for any reason. Under no circumstances should this data be used to carry out any work without first contacting the City of Fremantle for the appropriate confirmation and approval.