York & Districts Co-Op & Quarters

Values

· The place is a substantial brick building with an elaborate, rendered façade in the Federation Free Classical style. Details of the façade include an arched, recessed verandah and native motifs.
· The place has landmark value for its size, location on a corner block and elaborate style, thus making a significant contribution to the Avon Terrace streetscape.
· The place has associations with the development of the York area since the 1860s.
· The place has associations with the establishment of the Edwards merchant business, which was established in 1868, and which continued to operate from the site up to as late as the 1930s.
· The place has associations with the York Co-operative which have operated from the building since the 1950s.

Physical Description

The place is a two storey brick rendered building with a parapet frontage to Avon Terrace. The frontage features four arches with a recessed verandah at first floor level. The original verandah over the path at front floor level has been replaces with a cantilevered awning. There is a double storey verandah to the sides which is covered by a hipped roof. There are extensive additions to the rear.

History

The Edwards family general merchandise and produce business was founded in 1868 by William Edwards. After his retirement the business was inherited by his two sons, Charles and Kenneth. The brothers were together for 15 years before the partnership was dissolved in 1892, with Charles carrying on management. The building located in Avon Terrace appears to have been constructed in several stages. The oldest section – the rear section with the hipped roof and timber double verandah – is said to have been built in the 1880s/1890s. The later two storey elaborate rendered façade was completed by 1901. Charles Edwards was involved for many years as a councillor of the York local government; becoming first involved in 1877. He served as mayor in 1889 and 1898 – 1900, after several years in the eastern states. He was also in partnership with Mr Quigley in a mill in York. The business continued to be operated by his son H. M. Edwards, who was there until at least 1936. In 1956 the York and District Co-operative purchased the building. This organization was formed in 1917. In 2003, they still operate a store from the place.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity- High Authenticity- Moderate

Condition

Sound

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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