Lime Kiln Group

Child Places

• 06357 Lime Kiln - Stone Walled
• 06356 Lime Kiln - Brick Lined

Statement of Significance

The Lime Kilns located at Howatharra have some scientific value and could assist in understanding the use of the place and the lime burning process. The place has some historic significance given it was established to provide lime for local building work in the district.

Physical Description

Situated in a paddock approximately two kilometres west of the North West Coastal Highway, the site consists of the remains of four purpose built vernacular lime kiln structures. Accessed via a rough track over hills and valleys and across paddocks, the kilns are only visible on close proximity inspection. Two kilns are located on the side of a limestone outcrop hill facing east and the other two are located down a valley to the east in a former paddock currently contoured and planted out with plantation trees. All four kilns are utilitarian structures, with the basic form determined by the requirements of the lime burning process. Hillside Kiln 1 comprises a circular brick kiln with a diameter of approximately 2 metres, situated predominantly below ground. The external lining of the circular form is curved steel plate, and the interior is lined with bricks and stone. The kiln is in a ruinous state filled with debris and the top of the wall is damaged and deteriorated. Hillside Kiln 2, located several metres to the east down the hill, consists of a pile of random limestone and could possibly be the remains of a vent for Kiln 1. Valley Kiln 3 comprises the remains of a square or rectangular stone structure predominantly below ground level, with only 2-3 random stone courses above ground level. The pit surrounded by the stone walls is in-filled with debris. Valley Kiln 4 is also of stone construction, several metres in length with stepped ends and approximately 1 metre in height. The stone wall extends below ground level with an open pit to the front (west). Several openings along the back (east) wall appear to be vents to assist with the function of the kiln.

History

The four lime kilns are located on Victoria Location 5663, land which was originally held under pastoral lease with the first freehold title being issued in 1918 to Edward Norman Hester and Henry Edward Carey of White Peak Station. They held the title together until 1941, when it was transferred to Carey who retained ownership until 1954. It was during Hester and Carey’s ownership that the lime kilns are known to have been in operation. A lime kiln is marked on a 1926 Lands & Survey plan. The kilns are not of a large commercial size and therefore are believed to have been used for domestic purposes. Various sources indicate that the kilns were operational through the 1930s, 40s and until 1952. (Source: HCWA Assessment Documentation P13670)

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Low

Condition

Poor

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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