Two Houses

Statement of Significance

The semi-detached pair of dwellings at 157-159 Palmerston Street are a fine example of Federation Cottages that contribute to the quality and diversity of Palmerston Street.

Physical Description

A one storey semi detached pair of dwellings with iron hipped roofs and bullnose verandahs supported by turned timber posts. The houses are red brick laid in the Flemish Bond pattern. Chimneys incorporate brick corbelling. Setback from front boundary with lawn and gardens. None apparent

History

This section of Palmerston Street is situated in the area immediately north of Lake Henderson. Market gardening activities were carried out on the bed of Lake Henderson after it was drained in the early 1870s, and the surrounding areas developed early. European gardeners were followed by Chinese market gardeners who operated until the early 1920s. In the meantime the 1890s gold rush brough a huge influx of prospectors to the State, many of whom became permanent settlers. This area's proximity to the City made the area attractive to settlers but the excessive demand caused a tent city to develop in nearby Hyde Park. Continuing demand for housing led to several new subdivisions. This one which covered the area between Randall, Bulwer and Palmerston streets with Myrtle Street running through the middle east-west, was carried out in 1891. The subject semi-detached pair at 157-159 Palmerston Street was constructed on part of Perth Town Lot Y240 in 1903. The owner at time of its construction was Pat Cleary. According to Wise's Post Office Directories, in 1903 No. 157 was occupied by Mr M. Luber, a storekeeper; No. 159 was not listed but in 1925 the residents were Thomas A. Brown and Mrs W. Lester. In 1949, the last year of the Directories, the residents were Thomas O'Brien and Mrs Stearn. The City of Perth building licence cards indicate that owner A. Perroni applied for a licence to reconstruct a portion of the original building in brick and No. 159 was extensively modernised around 2000 by its architect owner. It was subsequently advertised for sale at between $529,000 and $549,000.

Integrity/Authenticity

Intact

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.