Axlegrease Homestead (ruins)

Statement of Significance

The site remnants are notable for their connection with an early pioneering family of the district

Physical Description

Located about 150 metres south of the Quindanning Road, about 6h kms from Williams. Little remains of the homestead - except a pile of rubble and the main fire place / chimney which has been protected by a creeper; the house, was still standing in 1971 as the reference from 'The Williams' published in that year indicates he (Edward Lilley) constructed a dwelling. The material used was stone and pug. This house, although showing signs of dilapidation, can still be seen beside the Williams-Quindanning Road near a point where the Darkan Road branches off about four miles west of Williams township. (1)

History

Originally built by the Lilley family, prominent in the early affairs of Williams. The unusual name was given by other local settlers in jest after a mistake by the local store. For the sake of convenience in storage and travel, butter was then packed in round tins similar to those in which was packed axlegrease used in carts and wagons. A careless counter-hand had packed among the Lilley's stores a five pound tin of axlegrease instead of butter. The discovery caused much mirth at the time and when the incident was later recounted the place was always referred to as Axlegrease, where they used axlegrease rather than butter on their bread. (2) Edward Lilley had previously held pastoral leases near Williams (in conjunction with his brother George) from 1874. (3) In 1878 he secured the lease previously held by Daniel Hegarty of 6,000 acres which was situated to the west and north in relation to Tarwonga with the Perth-Albany Road forming its eastern boundary. (4)

Condition

Ruins

Uses

Creation Date

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Last Update