Warrawong

Statement of Significance

• The place has aesthetic value as a demonstration of a simple expression of the Inter War California Bungalow style executed in rendered brick. • The place has historic value for its association with the development of Darlington in the Inter War period. • The place has historic value for its association with the Saw family who were significant in the establishment and development of Darlington and its community.

Physical Description

The available visible evidence relating to this place indicates it is a single storey rendered brick structure with a terracotta tile gabled hip roof. The windows and doors appear to be timber framed with the windows arranged in groups of three casements. The sloped site has stone walls creating terraces which is consistent with the low wall on the front property boundary. A garage is located close to the property boundary and it is constructed in the same style and materials as the residence. (Note: This place as not accessed as part of this assessment)

History

This brick stucco house was built by contractor S. Cresswell for Walter Willilam Saw (1898- 1971), son of William Allnut Saw who owned Holmesdale and was on a part of his father’s subdivided estate. Walter married Alison Gaze (1998-1986) daughter of Frederick Owen Gaze who was cofounder of Ezywalkins Store and in WW1 was the Egyptian Commissioner of the Comfort Fund. Walter and Alison Saw relocated to Peppermint Grove in 1929. For a number of years Frederick and Constance Gaze lived in the house with Constance holding fundraising events at the property. When Frederick died in 1932 Constance placed a dedication plaque in his honour at St Cuthberts and donated the church’s first bell in 1934. The naming of the property appears to be attributed to Charles Albert Kendall Manager of the Ford Motor Company during his brief ownership. In 1960, Robert Charles Jennings purchased the property where he was serving at his last school, Darlington Primary, before retiring. He was one of the WW1 soldiers retrained as teachers after the war. He was awarded a Military Medal for his bravery as a stretcher bearer recovering wounded men while under fire at Passchendaele in 1918. Aerial photographs of the place since the mid 20th century indicate that the place has undergone no significant change in its form or extent since that time. It is clear however that the place was originally located in a generous lot with formal gardens and minimal buildings adjacent.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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