Darkan Hotel

Author

Shire of West Arthur

Place Number

02702

Location

4 Coalfields Hwy Darkan

Location Details

Lot 3

Local Government

West Arthur

Region

Wheatbelt

Construction Date

Constructed from 1906

Demolition Year

N/A

Statutory Heritage Listings

Type Status Date Documents
(no listings)

Heritage Council Decisions and Deliberations

Type Status Date Documents
(no listings)

Other Heritage Listings and Surveys

Type Status Date Grading/Management
Category
Municipal Inventory Adopted 27 Mar 1997 Category 2
Statewide Hotel Survey Completed 01 Nov 1997

Statement of Significance

The place is significant on the following grounds: The hotel has played an important role in the community as a meeting place and venue for social events. A fine example of a country hotel, it makes a significant contribution to the streetscape and the architectural heritage of Darkan.

Physical Description

Located on one of the lots surveyed off the Burrowes’ farm. It was built of local stone and opened on 5 November 1906. It was described at that time; “The most prominent building is the Darkan Hotel, belonging to Mrs. Francis, who has spared no effort in making it most comfortable in every way. It is built of stone, and comprises 14 large rooms, seven of which are bedrooms, whilst the dining room measures 25 feet by 16. There are two bathrooms and three parlors for the convenience of travellers. Everything is up-to-date. There are two pianos, and the furniture is first-class throughout. Verandahs almost surround the building, and there are other conveniences such as a six-stall stable, wash house, large tank etc.” (1) Alterations have taken place over time, but the original building is still the hub of the hotel. A major brick extension to the SE corner of the old hotel in the 1960’s resulted in the bar being enlarged and now faces the Coalfields Highway. Prior to this there were two smaller bars facing east.

History

Over the 101 years of operation the hotel has had many owners and licensees.

Integrity/Authenticity

Modifications: Some brick Extent of original fabric: Most

Condition

Good

References

Ref ID No Ref Name Ref Source Ref Date
J Bird; "West of Arthur". pp 200-205, 210
"Southern Argus". 3/11/1906
"Southern Argus". 4/5/1907

Place Type

Individual Building or Group

Uses

Epoch General Specific
Original Use COMMERCIAL Hotel, Tavern or Inn
Present Use COMMERCIAL Hotel, Tavern or Inn

Construction Materials

Type General Specific
Wall STONE Other Stone
Roof METAL Corrugated Iron
Wall BRICK Common Brick

Historic Themes

General Specific
OCCUPATIONS Hospitality industry & tourism

Creation Date

05 May 1989

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Approved

Last Update

01 Jan 2017

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.