House

Statement of Significance

The place at 96 Brunswick Road has cultural heritage significance for the following reasons: The place reflects the typical dwelling of a rising middle class that emerged from the commercial and service industries that developed around the port of Albany in the latter part of the 19th century particularly when Albany was the main port for Western Australia and popular holiday resort. The place is one of many associated with sea trade and port affairs in Brunswick Road and the eastern end of Stirling Terrace. The place has landmark and aesthetic value as a fine example of Federation Queen Anne style residence, set on a prominence on the lot and with its well-presented though austere landscape which provides sweeping views from the street. The place is associated with the Wardell Johnson family who were well-known as early British settlers to Albany and with strong associations to St John’s Church in Albany and the local civic and social life.

Physical Description

Some of the notable features of this place include: • Asymmetrical form, hip and gable roof with street facing projecting gable bay • Located on an elevated site set back on a large Lot • Stone and iron front fence • Formal landscaping of pleasure garden at front with expanse of grass and garden beds close to house Some modifications of this place include: • Zincalume long sheet roof The following is an extract from a REIWA advertisement in 2015 Ornate fireplaces and plasterwork, Federation archways, jarrah floors and high ceilings are classic features of the gracious home. And while it has been carefully maintained with modern fittings and fixtures installed where necessary, its original integrity has not been compromised. The design is classic 1800s with the wide entry hall and beautiful drawing and formal dining room, and spacious elegant master suite with views and built-in robe. The separate remodelled country kitchen is virtually the size of the drawing room, offering ample room for a banquet style table. There is endless storage and bench space and a commercial-sized stove. The sweeping passage past the kitchen also contains three big bedrooms, including one with a lovely extension, which could be an office, playroom, sunroom or extra bedroom. The rear of the home features a combined modern bathroom and laundry, second bathroom and two toilets. Additions and alterations were carried out in 2016. A shed and carport to the west of the house was demolished and rebuilt. The lean to the rear of the house was demolished and a new bathroom/laundry and alfresco added.

History

Alexander Moir was the owner of Lot 372 at least from 1888. The Rate Book entry for 1890 shows this Lot as still being land only. In 1897 the Lot is owned by F W Johnson and there is a house indicated as present. Frank Wardell Johnson was the son of the Reverend Wardell Johnson who was rector at St John’s Church in Albany from 1873-1898, having retired from this position only a year before he died. Frank was one of ten children. Frank became a customs officer and was also choirmaster St John’s. He married Grace Moir. Mrs Wardell Johnson periodically advertised for a general servant for her home in Brunswick Road. In 1903 the residence advertised to Let – described as 6 rooms, pantry, bathroom, wash house and stables. Frank and Grace left Albany in 1904 and moved to Claremont in Perth.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Authenticity: High/Moderate

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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