Shenton House

Statement of Significance

The place is associated with the early development of Perth and the prominent figures of Henry Charles Sutherland and George Shenton, and with the development of the University of Western Australia on this site from 1914 and is the oldest building on the University's campus.
The place demonstrates an aspect of the development of domestic architecture in Western Australia.
The place is held in high esteem by descendants of the original owners and is highly valued by the community for its long association with the development of cultural and educational functions.
The place contributes to a sense of place on the Campus at Crawley.
The place housed the Faculty of Engineering from 1914 to 1960, and in 1997 houses the University Chaplaincy.

Physical Description

Shenton House (Crawley Park House) is a two-level former house, originally constructed in stages with the architectural details representative of the time of the particular addition. A single level verandah extends around the east and part of the south sides of the building. Substantial modifications have been carried out, generally in the 20th century during University use of the building. The original farm elements and the extensive landscape to the east have been transformed.

History

The property where Shenton House is currently located was allocated to Captain Mark Currie in 1829 who established a farm. In 1831 Henry Sutherland acquired it and named it Crawley Park after his mother Maria Crawley. The house, Crawley Park House, was constructed in 1846.
In 1875 George Shenton (junior) purchased the property, as well as neighbouring properties to create Shenton Estate. It was extended over time to include tennis courts and a golf course. Many social get togethers were held at the property during George Shenton’s residency.
The State Government purchased the property in 1910 after George Shenton’s death as the government had a policy to acquire land along the river foreshore for public recreation.
In 1911 the University of Western Australia was incorporated and Crawley Park was chosen as the permanent location of the campus for the University in 1914.
Shenton House housed the Faculty of Engineering, from 1914 to 1960. The name Shenton House was informally used for Crawley Park House and was formerly adopted by the University Senate in 1963.In 1988 the Centre for Aboriginal Programmes (now School of Indigenous Studies) moved into the building. In 1997 it was used for the University Chaplaincy.

Integrity/Authenticity

High level of integrity.
Moderate level of authenticity.

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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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.