Guildford Court House and Gaol (Fmr)

Child Places

• 23545 Guildford Gaol

Statement of Significance

The buildings are fine examples of colonial architecture largely built by convict labour;

The place forms an important part of the streetscape of Meadow Street;

The place is aesthetically linked to a civic precinct which dates from the early colonial period;

The place is integral to an understanding of the early settlement and development of Guildford; and

The buildings are closely associated with Richard Roach Jewell, the Colonial Clerk of Works.

Physical Description

Guildford Court House is symmetrical in design with central recessed verandah and well proportioned vertical sash windows with 12 panes. Local clay brickworks is in Flemish bond in near original condition while roof is sheeted in iron. Court House was probably originally shingled. Low brick wall defines perimeter of the property.

In 1878 former Perth public office clock was moved to Guildford and placed centrally on Court House roof. Court House forms part of finest row of colonial buildings in the town.

Guildford Gaol consists of two moderately sized rooms, passage and four cells with loft above, constructed from local clay bricks, some two feet thick in parts. Brickwork has since been painted white and original shingled roof replaced with iron.

Original section of the gaol was built in 1841 and is flanked on both sides by additions made in 1866. More cells and a police station once were in front but were demolished.

Situated adjacent to Court House and forms part of finest row of colonial buildings in the town. Gaol was used as lock-up until Court House closed in 1960s.

History

Current Court House replaces an older one which was too small for purpose. New building was constructed partly by convict labour and partly by private contractors. 'The building was described at the time as "plain but substantial" and was opened in January 1867'. Court House is important early building from colonial period. It was closed in 1960s.

Construction of Gaol commenced in 1840 at request of the Government Resident of the Swan District, Thomas Yule, who complained to the Governor that the three public houses selling beverages by the gallon caused riotous and drunken behaviour in the town. Guildford Gaol was a desirable alternative to commitment to Fremantle Gaol at considerable public cost in travelling expenses.

Integrity/Authenticity

High

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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