Market Garden Site (Lines)

Statement of Significance

The site is significant due to its association with the horticultural industry in the district and with pioneering families.

Physical Description

The vineyard and orchard was between the homestead and Robinson Road and to the west
of the house. The only remnants are two large almond trees on the road boundary fence.

History

Joining the 'ten mile' reserve on Robinson Road was the farm of Oscar Lines. He took his bride, Nell Douglas, after their marriage in 1910 to his new house at 'Robinson Run' - a two roomed galvanised iron humpy with almost a flat roof. Lines had been born at Reedbeds S.A. where his grandfather (also Oscar John) had been farming since 1838. Young Oscar's father Arthur was a surveyor on the overland telegraph line as well as surveying pastoral leases in the Northern Territory and in northern W.A.

Development with clearing, fencing and dam sinking took place along with a ten acre orchard of almonds and fruit trees. Growing fruit and vegetables appeared to be a main source of income for the Lines family. The fruit and vegetables were loaded in the Model T Ford car, and so would begin the long trip to Wagin or Katanning. The produce was sold to the greengrocer's shop and on the way home, an overnight stop would be made at Boyerine or Moojebing (if going to Katanning). Lines also sold Zante currant vines and in January 1929 was advertising tomatoes for sale at 9 shillings per case.

Oscar Lines was one of the old timers who was never pressed for time, whether it was taking produce to market or with his farm work. Often it would be early in the afternoon when he'd stop to camp on his return from town. His sheep were almost pets and he'd shear two or three a day and there would be a sheep with all lengths of wool running together. The sheep would be laid in a hollowed out log while Oscar clipped the wool off them.

Integrity/Authenticity

site only

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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