Cuttening Homestead & Outbuildings

Statement of Significance

Cuttening has high historic significance as one of the first out-stations established in the district. Although considerably altered, the main house remains evidence of how the property has developed over time. The wells, silos and second house are further evidence of the workings of the property over the years.

Physical Description

Located south of the Kellerberrin townsite, Cuttening consists of the main house, wells, silos and a second house. Stables and a weatherboard house have been removed. The main house has been significantly altered and extended over the years, especially in the 1950s. The walls are a combination of the original rendered stone and mud with later brick/concrete block additions. The original corrugated iron roof has been replaced with a tiled roof. The house is in good condition but has low integrity given the many modifications which have taken place over the years. The property has two stone-lined wells, one immediately south of the house and one north of the shearing shed. Immediately north east of the house are two concrete silos approximately 40 ft in height. Timber ladders attached to the side extend to the top of the silos where only the timber roof supports remain in place. There are openings to the south side of both silos. The silos are in poor condition but still have reasonably high integrity. The second house at Cuttening is situated to the south east of the main house. It is a small house (c 1930s) of concrete block construction, the roof of which has all but collapsed. It consists of four rooms, the rear walls of which have collapsed. The place has two chimneys.

History

In 1865 two York residents, Messrs J.H. Monger and R. Hardey, established out-stations at Cuttening, Mooranoppin and Nanyerine, all being within a few miles of Kellerberrin. Unfortunately their sheep grazing venture proved unsuccessful as they overestimated the carrying capacity of the runs and consequently suffered heavy losses of sheep. In 1868 the property was taken over by Mr Helms, who was succeeded by Messrs C. and H. Foss three years later. These two young Englishmen stayed at Cuttening for ten years before the property was taken over by Mr S. Hogan. He built the stone house which is still on the property, although considerably modified. In 1888 Messrs D. and R.S. Luke purchased Cuttening and instigated a large programme of improvements on the property, including fencing and clearing. However they were forced to leave following low wool prices and bad seasons. (Article by B.W. Leake, Countryman, 17/8/1950, p20-21) Cuttening was then passed into the hands of the J.H. Monger Estate, from whom it was purchased in 1902 by J.D. Hammond. {Eastern Recorder, 8/2/1929, p7 & Battye Library PR8679/KEL2, article by B.W. Leake, 1929) Since 1972 Cuttening has been owned by E.K. & P.I. Doncon & Sons. Please note there are some discrepancies between dates in different sources.

Integrity/Authenticity

Modifications: New roof to house.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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