Commercial Building

Statement of Significance

The place has historic and aesthetic significance as an example of an Inter-War Stripped Classical style factory building constructed in 1927. It is a rare surviving example of a factory building remaining in East Perth.

Physical Description

A two storied, red brick building with pitched corrugated iron rood, small pained steel framed windows and pediment brick parapet to the street facade.

History

Although East Perth was included on the plan for Perth from earliest surveys, the area remained substantially undeveloped until the period of expansion that accompanied the gold rush. Part of the area had been designated for cemetery purposes which probably detracted from its attractiveness for settlement. In 1884 East Perth has a population of 600 in 112 houses set amongst fruit and vegetable gardens and paddocks. By 1894 the population had more than doubled to 1300 residents and 245 houses and by 1904 it had increased to 6000 occupants’ of 1066 houses. The East Perth Primary School was planned in 1894 as a response to the needs of the growing population. East Perth developed as an industrial area in the mid-late nineteenth century when brickworks were established in the area. Later an abattoir and the gas works were amongst the industries established. The presence of industries provided employment but also reduced the general attractiveness of the area for residential purposes. Despite this some grander homes were built in prominent locations in the area. Like Northbridge, the character of the area changed though the twentieth century as the population varied as a result of migration. The 1948 Metropolitan Water Supply Survey plan shows that there is a combination of factories and houses along the south side of Brown Street between Glyde Street and Jewell Street. The building at No. 87 has 1927 in the gable façade, suggesting its date of construction. From 1935 the Post Office Directory lists the place as Western Hat Manufacturing Co. (Then No. 83.) The business was still operating in 1949. State Records Office catalogue search suggests it was a State operated company, and their archives will reveal more history on this company and the building. It was possibly a government-run industry established to provide employment during the 1930s Depression, similar to the State Saw Mills, and other ventures. More research is required. It is a two-storey red brick and iron, double gabled factory built in the Inter-War Stripped Classical/Functionalist style, with small paned steel framed windows and a pediment brick parapet to the street façade. A 2017 real estate advertisement online shows internal features remain such as a timber staircase, and office spaces on the upper floor.

Integrity/Authenticity

Low level of integrity. High level of authenticity. Substantially intact.

Condition

Good

Uses

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

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