Customs House and Sub-Collector's Residence, Broome

Parent Place or Precinct

26193 BROOME MUSEUM/CUSTOMS HOUSE/SAILMAKERS SHED/MUSEUM RESERVE

Child Places

• 00303 Broome Historical Museum
• 26925 Sub-Collector's Residence (fmr), Broome
• 00303 Broome Historical Museum

Values

10(a) Importance in demonstrating the evolution or pattern of Western Australia’s history;

Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome is closely associated with customs operations and the movement of goods in Broome during a period in which the town was a significant port in Western Australia. Occupied by the Commonwealth Customs Department from c.1906 to 1979, the place reflects the growth of industries in the region, in particular the prominent pearling industry based at Roebuck Bay from the early 1900s (historic value).

10(b) Importance in demonstrating rare, uncommon or endangered aspects of Western Australia’s heritage;

Customs House is a rare example of an off-form concrete building, constructed pre-1900 and built to withstand cyclones, of which only a few remain in the North-West region (rarity value).

Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome comprises the only remaining elements of a substantial rail, store and customs group which developed in Broome from c. 1897 (rarity value).

Though it was a common practice to locate customs facilities in one complex, Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome includes a relatively intact residence built specifically for the Sub-Collector of Customs. The former Sub-Collector’s Residence is one of a few extant examples of its type that remains associated with other customs facilities, and is the only known example constructed in the North-West Bungalow style and in this region (rarity value).

10(c) Potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of Western Australia’s history;

Customs House, through its function as the Broome Historical Museum since 1981, is a valuable educational and tourism site, providing information about the local area and region, as well as the pearling industry, customs operations, and events of World War II in Broome, through extensive archive collections, research and interpretation of historic material (scientific value).

The form and construction of Customs House can reveal through detailed investigation information on the use of off-form concrete in the design of buildings pre-1900, particularly when used to address the tropical climatic conditions of the North-West region in Western Australia (scientific value).

10(d) Its importance in demonstrating the characteristics of a broader class of places;

Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome reflects the common practice in regional or isolated areas of locating all customs related facilities in one complex, being the public Customs House and private Sub-Collector’s Residence (historic value).

Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome contains design elements and materials used in the construction of both primary buildings to address the tropical climate of Broome. The Sub-Collector’s Residence incorporates functional elements for shading, screening, and ventilation, common for buildings in tropical climates, and Customs House is an off-form concrete construction, built to withstand cyclones (aesthetic value).

10(e) Any strong or special meaning it may have for any group or community because of social, cultural or spiritual associations;

Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome is valued by the local and wider community and visitors for its former associations with the Broome pearling industry, with the former Customs House particularly celebrating this history with its function as the Broome Historical Museum since 1981. The place forms part of a recognisable historic precinct, comprising other heritage buildings associated with the early development of the town in close proximity to the Broome foreshore and Chinatown, contributing to the community’s sense of place (social value).

10(f) Its importance in exhibiting particular aesthetic characteristics valued by any group or community;

Customs House is an early example of the use of off-form concrete and is a rare pre-1900 construction method in Western Australia. Its relatively large scale forms a prominent feature in the landscape setting that demonstrates association with customs operations and the pearling industry that operated from Roebuck Bay and the former tramway. Closer inspection of the extant fabric reinforces this industrial use with the utilitarian material expression of the concrete (aesthetic value).

The Sub-Collector’s Residence is an important contribution to the cultural environment through its unique local vernacular architectural style of a light framed timber construction raised above ground with its roof generously extending to shelter the verandahs. The extant fabric of the Sub-Collector’s Residence has a significant connection to the adjacent Customs House, with both buildings demonstrating modifications to address the tropical climate (aesthetic value).

Although built for industrial use, Customs House displays moderate features of the Federation Bungalow architectural style as a free-standing, single-storey structure with deep verandahs and broad roof planes (aesthetic value).

10(h) Its importance in demonstrating a high degree of creative or technical achievement;

Customs House demonstrates innovation and experimentation in its building construction. The early use of off-form concrete is a technical accomplishment for its time (aesthetic value).

Statement of Significance

What is significant? Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome comprises the Broome Historical Museum, located within the former Customs House (c.1897), and a North-West Bungalow style dwelling, constructed for the Sub-Collector of Customs (1911/1912). Elements that contribute to the significance of the place include (but are not limited to): • The original off-form concrete structure of the former Customs House, now operating as Broome Historical Museum and referred hereafter as Customs House, and its surrounding verandah with cast iron columns displaying moderate features of the Federation Bungalow architectural style through its simple massing, use of deep shady verandahs, and broad roof planes. • The North-West Bungalow dwelling originally constructed as the Sub-Collector’s Residence, demonstrating a strong vernacular expression with its light framed timber construction, roof generously extending to shelter the verandahs, narrow linear planning with windows on all sides, and being raised above the ground. • The close proximity between the Customs House and the Sub-Collector’s Residence, and also the wider context of Roebuck Bay, which reinforces their association with customs management and the movement of goods in and out of Broome. • The tropical plantings, including the established Moreton Bay fig trees to the south of Customs House and the Mango Tree to the east of the Sub-Collector’s Residence, which contribute to the setting of Broome. Elements that are of secondary significance include the administration and archive buildings (c.1980s) associated with the operations of the Broome Historical Museum at Customs House. The half open shed and fibreglass swimming pool (both 1990s) to the east of the Sub-Collector’s Residence are also of secondary significance for their contribution to the setting and demonstrating continued use of the building as a private residence. Elements that do not contribute to the significance of the place include (but are not limited to): • The remaining outbuildings and structures to the south and west of the Customs House including the gazebo structure, ablution block and old WC. • The steel sheeting enclosing the original verandah of the Customs House and timber boarding encasing the cast iron columns. • The kitchenette located to the north-west of the Customs House. • The small overhang extension to the south-east of Customs House to accommodate a museum exhibit. • The bedroom and laundry building addition (c. 2012) to the east of the Sub-Collector’s Residence. • The steel cyclonic shutters, and kitchen and bathroom fit-outs to the Sub-Collector’s Residence. • Modern Fencing. How is it significant? Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome is of historic, aesthetic, social and scientific value and satisfies the following factors relevant to cultural heritage significance: A. importance in demonstrating the evolution or pattern of Western Australia’s history; B. importance in demonstrating rare, uncommon or endangered aspects of Western Australia’s heritage; C. potential to yield information that will contribute to an understanding of Western Australia’s history; D. importance in demonstrating the characteristics of a broader class of places; E. strong or special meaning it has for any group or community because of social, cultural or spiritual associations; F. importance in exhibiting particular aesthetic characteristics valued by any group or community; H. importance in exhibiting particular aesthetic characteristics valued by any group or community. Why is it significant? Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome is of historic value for its association with customs operations and the movement of goods in Broome during a period in which the town was a significant port in the state. Occupied by the Commonwealth Customs Department from c.1906 to 1979, the place reflects the growth of maritime trade and industry in the region, in particular the prominent pearling industry based at Roebuck Bay from the early 1900s (Factor A). Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome is of aesthetic value, as a prominent feature in the landscape, and forming part of a recognisable historic precinct close to the Broome foreshore. A demonstration of customs facilities in tropical climates, the construction of the Sub-Collector’s Residence includes modifications to the standard architectural styles to address the climatic conditions. Customs House is also an early extant example of the use of off-form concrete wall construction pre-1900 in Western Australia, built to withstand cyclones, of which only a few examples remain in the North-West (Factors D and F). Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome has social and scientific value, with considerable importance to the local and wider community and visitors for its association with the Broome pearling industry, contributing to the community’s sense of place. Operating as the Broome Historical Museum since 1981, Customs House is a popular tourist and education site, celebrating the history of the region through extensive archive collections, research, and interpretation of historic material (Factors C and E).

Physical Description

Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome is a small building complex associated with historical customs operations in Broome comprising the Customs House (c. 1897) and the Sub-Collector’s Residence (1911/12) in the North-West Bungalow style. Siting Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence is located on a rectangular flat site to the eastern side of Broome in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Overlooking Roebuck Bay, it is nestled between Robinson Street to the west and Hamersley Street to the east. The former Customs House is the most dominant structure on the site, positioned to the north-east corner with its entry point on the northern boundary. An associated ablution block, administration, and archive building are located to the west, and there is a landscaped area to the south. To the east of the building, on the ground surface, are what appears to be remnants of concrete footings of a former goods shed that existed on the site. Separated by a boundary fence to the west and to the south of the administration and archive buildings is the former Sub-Collector’s Residence. The former Sub-Collector’s Residence is a smaller structure and is accessed from Robinson Street to the west. On entering the site there is a small driveway and back yard. Other structures within this property boundary include a modern bedroom and laundry building to the east, built c.2012, and an open shed and fibreglass swimming pool towards the eastern boundary, built c.1993. Customs House The former Customs House is a rectangular single storey building characterised by its perimeter verandah and concrete walls bearing the imprints of its formwork. Although built for an industrial use, the building has a somewhat domestic presentation showing influence of the Federation Bungalow architectural style as a free-standing, single storey structure with deep verandahs, and broad roof planes. The layout of Customs House is of simple configuration with one main room, accessed from the front (north) verandah. The surrounding enclosed verandahs are accessed via two central door openings to the south and west walls. There is an additional door opening to the east wall, but it is currently not is use as it is blocked by museum displays. A kitchenette and storeroom has been formed to the north-west corner of the enclosed verandah. Sub-Collector’s Residence The Sub-Collector’s Residence incorporates functional elements to address the tropical climate. This is demonstrated through the building’s light framed timber construction, the roof generously extending to shelter the verandahs, its narrow linear planning with windows to both sides enabling cross ventilation, and being raised above the ground to permit cooling air flow. Like the former Customs House, the former Sub-Collector’s Residence is also of simple layout with a front and rear verandah accessing two central rooms of a living room and kitchen. These are the original rooms of the house, of equal size, and separated by a dividing wall with an opening to the eastern end. A single flat panel timber door provides access from each verandah. To the north and south of these rooms are later alterations that have created additional rooms within the footprint of the original verandah. To the north are two bedrooms of equal size and to the south is a single larger bedroom and shared bathroom accessed from the rear (east) verandah.

History

The Yawuru people are the traditional owners of the lands and waters in and around Broome (Rubibi) since the Bugarringarra (the time before time). The Yawuru, Djugun, Ngumbarl, Jabirrjabirr, Nyulnyul, Numanburr, Warrwa, Bardi and Jawi people, often collectively referred to as Goolarabooloo, the Salt-Water People, lived virtually undisturbed along the Dampier Peninsula until the 1850s. The establishment of the pearling industry in the region led to many Aboriginal men and women being forced into working on pearl luggers as divers (‘blackbirding’). Following the disruption of their way of life, those who were not working in the pearling industry settled permanently on stations, missions or in new town sites. Pearling and Customs in Broome Western Australia’s first pearling fleet originally operated from the harbour town of Cossack, established in 1868. Pearling beds were first discovered near Roebuck Bay north of Cossack in the 1870s. Roebuck Bay became the site of several pearling camps, occupied by Malaysian crew members of the pearling luggers and the European owners of small pearling boats. The townsite of Broome was gazetted in 1883 and the following year Broome was declared an ‘outport’ for customs collection, later becoming the principal cargo port in the North West. The export of pearls and shells and the import of other goods in and out of Broome was regulated by the Customs Service. Before Federation, each Colony had their own separate Customs organisations. Western Australia regulated its own customs from the beginning of the Swan River Colony. Varying officials, including Government Residents, Resident Magistrates, and Sub-Collectors of Revenue and Customs were responsible for enacting customs legislation. From 1901, the Western Australian Customs Department came under the control of the Commonwealth Department of Trade and Customs. The Commonwealth later established a Works Department in Western Australia in 1926. The golden age for pearling in Broome was between 1900 to 1913. Along with pearls, pearl shells were in demand as a valuable material used for buttons, jewellery, and other ornamentation. More than 2000 men were employed in the industry at this stage, of which approximately 1700 were Japanese or Malaysian immigrants. Aboriginal men and immigrants from the Philippines, Timor, and the Macassar Islands were also recruited as pearl divers and boat crew. The Asian population lived in the area known as Chinatown, the main business and commercial district of Broome. Skippers, also known as pearling masters, were white. Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence The first Customs Shed in Broome was constructed in 1889 on the corner of Dampier and Napier Terrace, near Streeter’s Jetty in Chinatown. The timber framed and corrugated iron building included an office for the Sub-Collector and the Tidewaiter. It was used as the Customs Office, Bond Store and Queen's Warehouse until 1903, when it was vacated by the Customs Department and returned to State ownership as the site could no longer accommodate the increased volume of goods. The construction of Mangrove Point Jetty in 1897 resulted in further development of the northern end of Broome. A tramway was built from the Mangrove Point Jetty through the town to Streeter’s Jetty, and ran along the foreshore, where several goods sheds were established along the Robinson Street frontage. The Customs Department leased an existing timber and iron building owned by pearling company Newman Goldstein & Co for use as a Customs Office on the southern half of Lot 271 Robinson Street, before purchasing it outright in 1906. It was initially planned to build a new Customs House and Bond Store, however, the estimated construction cost was almost double the amount of purchasing the existing Customs Office. In 1907, a sailmaker’s shed was constructed on the adjacent Lot 272, south of the extant Customs House. In 1910, the Customs Department required additional storage space and later purchased the northern portion of Lot 271 for £800 from Newman Goldstein & Co, including a concrete General Store and outbuildings, consolidating all Customs operations onto the one site. The new customs store, which was constructed c. 1897, had concrete walls and floors and sash windows protected with iron bars, and concrete verandah floors. Though it has not been specified, it is likely the building was constructed of concrete to withstand the tropical climatic conditions, such as cyclones. This building, now the Customs House (now known as Broome Historical Museum), operated as the Broome Bond Store, later named the Customs House and Bond Store, by the Australian Customs Service from 1910 to 1979. The former timber and iron store became the King’s Warehouse. In August 1911, a contract was awarded to M.A. Smith for a total of £596-9-0 to construct a residence for the Sub-Collector of Customs. The Sub-Collector’s Residence was built on the Robinson Street side of Lot 271 and comprised two main rooms with wide surrounding verandahs partly partitioned to form a kitchen and two sleepouts. The following Sub-Collectors lived at this residence in Broome; H.W. Huggins (1910-1914); W.H. Lovegrove (1914-1917); L.S. Ogilvie (1918-1920); E. Pickett (1920-1926); C.P.S. Rich (1928-1930); F. Lee (1934-1935); W.L. Hosket (1936-1938); W.R. Lawson (1940); Acting customs officer R. Hayes (1947); and A.D. Pilmer (1949). By 1912, the Commonwealth Trade and Customs Department facility in Broome comprised the Bond Store (the concrete Customs House) and the King’s Warehouse (the timber and iron building), both purchased from Newman Goldstein & Co, and the Sub-Collector’s Residence, all located on Lot 271. An additional Goods and Customs Shed located on the adjacent tramway goods yard was also a part of the customs facility. There is little documentary evidence on the operations of the Broome customs facility between 1910 and 1940. There was a decline in customs operations during the First World War, though there were improvements in the 1920s. Better quality synthetic pearl buttons and a decrease in prices for pearl shell saw a decline in the pearling industry during this time, though cattle had become an important industry. A meatworks was established and became a major employer of Broome residents. During the Second World War, the pearling industry ceased operations following the Japanese air raid in March 1942 and the subsequent evacuation of Broome. During this time, the Sub-Collector’s Residence was used for army accommodation before being leased to private tenants between 1945 and 1947. By the late 1940s the Sub-Collector’s Residence and King’s Warehouse required considerable repair and maintenance works to the timber work in the interior, verandahs, and roof. In 1949, when the building was being repaired, the Customs offices were relocated to the concrete Bond Store, then known as the Customs House and Bond Store. The Sub-Collector’s Residence was the primary residence for the Sub-Collector until 1956 when the Customs Department built a new staff residence on Anne Street. The original Sub-Collector’s Residence on Robinson Street was later occupied by a clerk. By 1959, the timber and iron Queen’s Warehouse (previously known as the King’s Warehouse ) had been damaged by termites. After failing to sell the building, the warehouse was demolished, which left the concrete Customs House and Bond Store and Sub-Collector’s residence as the two remaining Customs buildings on Lot 271 at this time, what is now Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome. The demand for pearl shell declined in the post-War years and by 1960, customs staff were employed in the repatriation of pearling employees. In the mid-1960s, construction began Deepwater Point, with the intention to accommodate more ships than Mangrove Point Jetty. A Petroleum Products warehouse was established at this new site as the beginning of a new Customs facility. The main exports from the port during this time were meat in cartons, tallow and pearl shell. The new Customs Office officially opened at Deepwater Point, now known as Kennedy Hill, in 1979. Broome Historical Museum In 1977, the Broome Historical Society enquired about using the former Customs House as a museum to display their collection. Customs House was later purchased by the Shire of Broome in 1979. Premier Sir Charles Court officially opened the Broome Historical Museum at Customs House on 16 August 1981 during the annual Shinju Matsuri Festival (Festival of the Pearl). In 1984, restoration works were undertaken to Customs House including replacing roof battens, re-sheeting the roof and rebuilding an internal wall. The Historical Society received grant funding in 1985 to upgrade the grounds, including installing a pergola and seating, security fencing, and painting. In 1986, Lot 271 was subdivided to create separate lots for the Sub-Collector’s Residence and Customs House, becoming Lots 3 and 4 respectively. The Broome Historical Society continues to operate its museum at Customs House and has expanded into the adjacent Lot 240 (71 Robinson Street), forming a historical precinct. Some exhibits within the Museum include Aboriginal People, the Pearling Display, World War Two in Broome, and Domestic Life, with a Research Area that includes the Historical Society’s photograph collection. On Lot 240, the Museum occupies the adjacent Sailmaker’s Shed, displaying an exhibition on sail making in the early 1900s, and the Rae Val Annexe, formerly a mess hall for Public Works Department employees when the Port of Broome was constructed, that was relocated here by the Historical Society, now displaying Tramway information and the McDaniel Shell Collection. The Sub-Collector’s Residence was sold into private ownership in 1981 and was purchased by the Shire of Broome in 1986. The Shire then sold the property to one of its employees in 1992, who then installed a steel outbuilding and a fibreglass swimming pool. Ownership changed throughout the 1990s and 2000s. A new fibrous-cement dwelling was constructed on Lot 3 c.2012, adjacent to the Sub-Collector’s Residence. In 2017, the Shire of Broome again purchased the Sub-Collector’s Residence where it is currently used for staff accommodation. In 2022, the Shire of Broome began preparing a Draft Local Planning Strategy for the Chinatown/Old Broome Precinct, which Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome sits within a designated area proposed for community/civic use. The proposed strategy will be similar to the currently used Old Broome Development Strategy (2014) and Chinatown Development Strategy (2013) but aims to better integrate the Chinatown and Old Broome precincts and will provide more focus on design through building design controls.

Archaeology

Archaeological Potential Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome is located in relative proximity to the foreshore, and has been the subject of several severe weather events associated with the tropical climate. In addition, redevelopment of the site over time, including the installation of a below ground pool and the extension to the former Sub-Collector’s Residence, suggests that there is low potential for intact archaeological deposits associated with the operations of Customs House or the Sub-Collector’s Residence to be present at Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome.

Condition

As a complex, Customs House and Sub-Collector’s Residence, Broome is overall in fair condition. The condition of each element is discussed below. Condition – Customs House The former Customs House is in a fair to good condition with the main roof and wall structure in a reasonable state of repair. Apart from isolated areas of the verandah, there is no evidence of cracking or structural movement to both internal and external fabric. There are no signs of any water ingress and dampness. Internal finishes, fittings, and corrugated wall cladding enclosing the verandah are showing signs of general wear and tear. Condition – Sub-Collector’s Residence The former Sub-Collector’s Residence is in a fair to poor condition with timber repair works required throughout. Finishes and fittings are generally showing signs of overall wear and tear.

Uses

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Sub-Collector's Residence (fmr), Broome

Parent Place or Precinct

27015 Customs House and Sub-Collector's Residence, Broome

Statement of Significance

• Customs Residence (fmr), Broome forms part a substantial rail, store and customs group that developed during the pearling heyday of Broome’s development; • Together with Broome Historical Museum (Customs House (fmr); Queen's Warehouse) and the Sailmaker’s Shed (fmr), Broome, Customs Residence (fmr), Broome is valued by the local and wider community for its former associations with the Broome pearling industry. The individual places are located in proximity to the foreshore and contribute to the community’s sense of place. • Customs Residence (fmr), Broome is closely associated with customs operations in Broome between 1910 and 1959. The proximity of the former Sub-Collector of Customs residence to the former Customs office and other outbuildings (Broome Historical Museum) is representative of the common practice of locating all Customs related public and employee facilities in the one complex in regional or isolated locations. • The design and materials used in the construction of Customs Residence (fmr), Broome are representative of the local vernacular response to the tropical climate.

Physical Description

Custom's Residence is a timber and fibre sheet construction raised dwelling built in a North West bungalow style. The house faces west on Robinson Street and is separated from the street by a timber fence. The house has a concrete path leading to the front timber steps which have timber handrails. There are casement windows along all sides of the house including the the front facade with decorative timber awning shutters above the windows. A section of the back verandah remains open to the backyard with two metal cyclonic shutters, lattice barrier and timber steps leading to the backyard. A separate addition was built c2012 which houses a laundry and extra bedroom as well as a solar panel installation on the roof. A slab out the back is made with old shell grit concrete - which is where the outhouse or a rainwater tank was located.A fibreglass pool is installed in the SE corner of the block and a shed (built from old railway tracks) and chicken pen are situated in the NW section.

History

The Yawuru people are the traditional owners of the lands and waters in and around Broome (Rubibi) since the Bugarrigarra (the time before time). The establishment of the pearling and pastoral industries in the region led to many Aboriginal men and women being forced into work as divers (‘blackbirding’). Following the disruption of their way of life, others settled permanently on stations, missions or in new town sites. The export of pearls and pearl shell, used in button making, jewellery and ornaments, and the import of other goods in and out of Broome was regulated by the Customs Service. In Western Australia, management of customs — duty levied on imported goods — was originally under the control of the State governor and managed by the Customs Department. After Federation, it moved into the remit of the Commonwealth Department of Trade and Customs. Customs leased an existing building for use as a Customs Office on the southern half of Lot 271, Robinson Street, before purchasing it outright in 1906. In 1910, the Commonwealth purchased the northern portion of Lot 271, including the former General Store and outbuildings and consolidated all Customs operations onto the one site. From 1910 to 1979 the former General Store operated as the Broome Bond Store, later Customs House and Bond Store, by the Australian Customs Service. The building was subsequently converted to a museum by the Shire Council in 1981. In 1911/12, a residence for the Sub-Collector was constructed on the Robinson Street side of Lot 271 for the cost of £596-9-0. Customs Residence (fmr), Broome comprised two main rooms with wide surrounding verandahs partly partitioned to form a kitchen and two sleepouts. The following Sub-Collectors resided in Customs Residence (fmr), Broome; H. W. Huggins (1910-1914); W. H. Lovegrove (1914-1917); L. S. Ogilvie (1918-1920); E. Pickett (1920- 1926); C. P. S. Rich (1928-1930); F. Lee (1934-1935); W. L. Hosken (1936-1938); W. R. Lawson (1940), Acting customs officer R. Hayes (1947); and A. D. Pilmer (1949). When a new Customs Office was established elsewhere and the former Customs House passed into Shire ownership, Lot 271 was subdivided to create separate Lots for the Customs House and the Customs residence. Customs Residence (fmr), Broome was sold into private ownership in 1981.

Uses

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Sailmakers' Shed (fmr), Broome

Condition

The stumps have deteriorated and some have collapsed or subsided. The roof sheets are rusted. There is considerable evidence of loose and damaged sheets, some repairs, and graffiti.

Uses

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Parent Place or Precinct

26193 BROOME MUSEUM/CUSTOMS HOUSE/SAILMAKERS SHED/MUSEUM RESERVE

Statement of Significance

Sailmaker’s shed (former) is of considerable significance for associations with the pearling industry by means of repairing and making sails for the pearl lugger fleet.

Physical Description

Sailmaker’s shed (former) is a single storey steel framed shed clad with horizontal corrugated iron. Gabled roof, ledge and brace doors. The words ‘C. BAGGE sailmaker’ are still discernable on the end wall (corrugated iron) facing Roebuck Bay. Adjacent transportable donga, and extensive rectangular footing layout in the front north west corner of the site.

History

Situated immediately north of the Bondstore/Customs House was the sailmaker's shed. It is also situated in close proximity to the foreshore where it was handy to the luggers during lay-up season, and the tramway for transport of sails. The building has been used as the Naval Cadets training centre and shared the site with the Public Works Department depot and pumping station. Sea cadets still use the building.

Integrity/Authenticity

Modifications: Minimal alterations to accommodate various uses.

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Broome Pioneer Cemetery

Uses

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Statement of Significance

The cemetery is significant for its connection with well known people in Broome and in the history of the North, such as Matthew Forrest and Pemberton Walcott. It is attractively sited and of interest to tourists.

Physical Description

The cemetery was established before 1884 - this is the date of the earliest marked grave, that of Mattew Forrest, a brother of Lord Forrest. It is located on a small promontory and has become an interesting piece of landscape in the midst of an area of tourist activity

History

Assessment 1983 Construction (approx) 1883 - 1884

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Statement of Significance

Broome Pioneer Cemetery is significant as an important historical record of seafaring and explorer pioneers and associations with Broome from 1883 to present day. The palisades and several headstones are of aesthetic importance for their design characteristics. The cemetery is picturesque on a promontory overlooking Roebuck Bay.

Physical Description

Broome Pioneer Cemetery comprises 11 graves and a number of memorial plots and commemorative sites. The pioneer graves have headstones and two graves have palisade surrounds. Installation of plaques around the site is adhoc. Retained banks of the promontory. Palisades and headstones restored in 2007.

History

The first graves on the site were of men who had died at sea. The first burial took place in 1883, the same year that Broome was gazetted as a town. Pemberton Walcott (1883), Inspector of Pearl Fisheries, Sub-Collector of Revenue and an Officer of Customs; pearler Matthew Forrest (1884) brother of John and Alexander Forrest and pearler Edward Cokayne Chippindall (1886). The cemetery was gazetted on 20 April 1890. Although there is another public cemetery in Broome, over the years, various members of old Broome families have been buried or their ashes interred at the Pioneer Cemetery and memorials have been erected. During the bombing of Broome by the Japanese on 3 March 1942, between 70 and 100 Dutch refugees from Indonesia died when the fifteen flying-boats they were occupying were sunk. They were buried in a mass grave beside the Pioneer Cemetery and after the war were disinterred for burial elsewhere. A plaque marks the place of the original grave.

Integrity/Authenticity

High degree High degree

Condition

Good

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Buccaneer Rock

Historic Themes

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Statement of Significance

Buccaneer Rock in Roebuck Bay is a landmark of considerable historic significance for the associations with early explorers in Roebuck Bay, particularly William Dampier..

History

Buccaneer Rock in Roebuck Bay is named for William Dampier, although Dampier did not actually enter the Bay. He first visited the coast in 1688 and careened his ship the Cygnet in King Sound. In 1700, sailors from his ship the Roebuck came ashore just south of Roebuck Bay in search of water.

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Flying Boat Wreckage Site

Uses

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Statement of Significance

Flying Boats wreck remains are of exceptional significance in representing Broome’s role in the war effort, the tragedy of the attack, and in demonstrating the vulnerability of Western Australia during World War Two.

History

During the bombing of Broome by the Japanese on 3 March 1942, fifteen flying-boats were sunk. The boats comprised five Dorniers, four Catalinas of the Royal Netherlands Navy, two RAF Catalinas, two US Navy Catalinas, and two Short Empire aircraft, one operated by the RAAF and one by Qantas. The boats were ferrying Dutch national refugees from Indonesia south to Perth. They had stopped in Broome overnight to refuel and were loaded waiting take-off when attacked. Between 70 and 100 Dutch refugees died when the boats were sunk. They were buried in a mass grave beside the Pioneer Cemetery and after the war were disinterred for burial elsewhere. The remains of the flying-boats can only be seen a few times a year on particularly low tides. The Maritime Museum is currently considering a dive heritage trail.

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Tram Line

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

• The site of the former Tram Line has historic value for its association with a peak period of commercial activity in Broome in the first half of the 20th century. • The site of the former Tram Line has historic value for its association with the pearling and livestock industries which helped to establish and develop Broome and the surrounding region. • The heritage trail established in 2016 which follows the path of the former tram line has social value for visitors and members of the local community for demonstrating links between places within the town site. • The former tram line has social value for members of the Broome community for its association with past activities and practices which were widely known and experienced until 1966.

Physical Description

There is no evidence of the former tram line in the majority of its former route linking the two jetties. There are remnants of tram tracks and siding within the Broome Heritage Precinct which is the location of the former Customs House and Sailmakers Shed. The remnants are located to the east of the former Sailmakers Shed and consist of two stone and concrete tram/rail sidings, the slab of the former Fisheries Inspector’s Office and the slab of a former Good’s Shed.

History

The Broome Tramway ran from the old Broome Jetty to Chinatown (1.6 kms) to the location of Streeter’s Jetty. Originally it was a 2ft (600mm) gauge and was completed in 1896. The rail was converted to 3ft 6inches (1050mm) in 1908 and the original horse drawn carriage was replaced with a small steam engine. The tram tracks were damaged during WWII, consequently in 1948 the line to Chinatown was removed but the spur line around the jetty and the meatworks was retained. A diesel engine replaced steam in 1949 and it remained operational until the closure of the old jetty in 1966. The tram lines were gradually removed from the streets of Broome after this period. The tram was an essential service for delivering goods to and from the port. Pearl shell and animal carcasses were all loaded on to the tram for shipment and in return, the goods brought by ship were unloaded onto the tram for delivery into town. The tramway that ran between the jetties traversed the edge of the foreshore along Hamersley Street, south of Anne Street, where the remains of a siding, goods shed and the Fisheries Inspector’s Office still remain near the Old Customs House, now the Broome Museum. In 2016, a self-guided walking trail was launched in the Broome town site from Streeter’s Jetty in Chinatown to the site of the Old Jetty at Town Beach. The trail includes 13 historic locations roughly along the route of the former train line.

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McDaniels' Foreshore Camp and Trees

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Parent Place or Precinct

16869 Roebuck Bay Foreshore

Statement of Significance

• The site of the McDaniels’ Camp has historic value for its association with the workers in the pearling industry who lived at this location. • The site of McDaniels’ Camp has historic value for its association with the type of accommodation which was available to workers in the mid-20th century and the degree of control exercised by the pearling companies over their workers. • The site of McDaniels’ Camp has social value to the Broome community for its association with a past way of life that is remembered by many still in the community.

Physical Description

There is minimal evidence of the former structures at McDaniels Camp apart from a few timber stumps on the Roebuck Bay foreshore. The Tamarind Trees (Tamarindus indica) still evident on the site are believed to originate with the residents of the camp.

History

The Roebuck Bay foreshore area opposite Bedford Park, approximately between Anne Street and Saville Street, is the area where pearlers and many Asian workers lived. The pearling camps also included shell-sorting sheds; boat building facilities and the quarters for the lugger crews and workers. Aboriginal families also camped along the foreshore working and living with the Asian workers. The camps were roughly designated by which fleet the workers were employed by. The former McDaniels camp was located in the area between Louise and Guy streets and housed the workers of the McDaniels family who operated a pearling fleet in Broome from the 1920's. Daniel McDaniel and his wife Phyllis married in 1915 and the couple had two sons. Following the death of Daniel McDaniel in 1956, Phyllis and her sons continued the fleet until the 1960's. The camps were simple timber structures built on stumps and roofed with corrugated iron. Because of their proximity to the shore the high tides often came under the houses. The Tamarind trees planted by the Asian divers in the campsite were used for cooking and the trees remaining on the foreshore are evidence of the former campsites. Aerial photographs indicate that the majority of the campsites on the foreshore were removed in the early 2000's.

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Roebuck Bay Foreshore

Child Places

• 26421 McDaniels' Foreshore Camp and Trees

Uses

Creation Date

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Child Places

• 26421 McDaniels' Foreshore Camp and Trees

Statement of Significance

The Roebuck Bay foreshore between Streeter's Jetty and the site of the Mangrove Point jetty is significance for associations with pearling and the development of Broome.

Physical Description

Foreshore landscape.

History

The Roebuck Bay foreshore between Streeter's Jetty and the site of the Mangrove Point jetty has been proposed as the site of a jetty-to-jetty walk to highlight Broome's pearling history. The foreshore area in Chinatown was the site of pearl sorting and packing sheds while the foreshore further south was dotted with pearling camps. The area was also the place where the luggers were pulled up for overhaul during the lay-off season. It has been said that at the height of the pearling industry it was possible to walk from jetty to jetty without getting your feet wet by stepping from lugger to lugger. The tramway that ran between the jetties traversed the edge of the foreshore along Hamersley Street, south of Anne Street, where the remains of a siding, goods shed and the Fisheries Inspector's Office can still be seen near the old Customs House (Broome Museum). Another feature of the walk is the mangroves. There are eleven different mangrove species growing in Roebuck Bay, seven of which are found along the foreshore south of Anne Street. The majority are Avicennia marina, while the dark patches indicate Rhizophora stylosa. The mangroves protect the shoreline from erosion and provide a haven for many sea creatures and birds. Roebuck Bay is a major stopover for migratory waders.

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Streeter & Male Group of Stores

Parent Place or Precinct

00291 Chinatown Conservation Area

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Parent Place or Precinct

00291 Chinatown Conservation Area

Physical Description

Streeter and Male Buildings comprise two buildings; 2 Short St (cnr of Dampier Terrace)- 3 gabled buildings including the original timber framed store-on stumps. It features two of the original Broome chutes. One tenancy restored in 2000; 4 Short Street- single storey concrete structure with double storey at rear - restored in 1973.

History

Streeter and Male Buildings a rare example of a commercial premises in which the early use of concrete was a response to the tropical climate.

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Statement of Significance

The buildings are significant by virtue of their unbroken association with the pioneering pearl fishing family and for the contribution the make to the townscape. Part of a group of essential character elements in Chinatown

Physical Description

Three single storey timber framed buildings with corrugated iron roof and walls. New shopfronts, metal awnings and windscoops removed

History

Information from Assessment July 1982 The group of three timber framed and corrugated iron stores of the Streeter & Male family. The business was commenced in the 1880's by E.W. Streeter, a London gemstone dealer. He was joined in the 1890's by Arthur Male whose descendants still live in the town and run the store. Modification sus as new shopfronts, metal awnings and air conditioners in replacement of wind scoops are to be regretted but do not destroy the strength of the group.

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Walangari Broome Sober up Centre

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The post office building is significant for the post office function, associations with the site, and its distinctive architecture.

Physical Description

Single storey timber framed and fibro clad building with a an expansive frontage. The low pitched gable roof has projecting eaves and is distinctive.

History

The post office was constructed on the site in 1963, replacing the former post office and associated facilities. In the 1990s the post office function was relocated to Carnarvon Street and ATSIC applied the site for the use of Aboriginal people in the region.

Integrity/Authenticity

Modifications: Some Renovations.

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Master Pearlers House (fmr)

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Master Pearlers house (former) is significant for the long association with Broome’s pioneering pearl industry, and a good representation of early 1900s Broome residence.

Physical Description

A single storey timber framed structure with horizontal corrugated iron wall cladding with vertical clad shutters to the surrounding verandahs. The hipped roof is also clad with corrugated iron and the verandah is at break pitch. There is a separate two-storey section fronting Stewart Street.

History

Master Pearlers house (former) was reputedly owned and occupied by a Master Pearler. In 1910, Mr E.M. King Bardwell owned the place, and in 1924, the Scott brothers. It was at one time a boarding house. During the ownership of Laurie Ocean, it was known as Arthur Flats. In 2003, it was a bed and breakfast facility.

Integrity/Authenticity

High degree High degree

Condition

Good

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Captain Archer's House (fmr)

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Captain Archer's House (former) is significant for the association with pearling pioneers and industry.

Physical Description

The rear (frontage) is symmetrical with central concrete steps accessing the building that is raised on round concrete stumps. The entry is further emphasized by a central gable feature. The single storey timber framed structure has vertical corrugated iron wall cladding. The perimeter verandahs are shuttered above the dado wall that is slanted outwards at floor level.

History

Emily Archer, was the wife of Thomas Archer, one of four Archer brothers, the other three being John, Reg and Douglas. John formed a partnership with Otto Blackman and ran eight pearling luggers between about 1901 and 1909. Thomas and Emily arrived c.1910, sailing the new lugger Eleanor from Fremantle, and Reg and Douglas joined them in Broome shortly after. Reg worked as a shell opener for his brother and Douglas worked in the offices of Streeter and Male, as well as operating the lugger Eva. John left Broome in 1916, and Reg, Douglas and Thomas all died between 1917 and 1919. Emily Archer and her four children, John, Kenneth, Reginald and Dorothy, continued to operate a pearling fleet until 1925, after which the family moved to Perth. Their house was later used by French pearl buyers, who operated in the town for three months each year. Ken Archer returned to Broome and ran pearling luggers from 1954 to 1964 in conjunction with German firm Kulenkampff & Co.

Integrity/Authenticity

High degree High degree

Condition

Good

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Kennedy Family Home

Child Places

• 02908 Haynes Family Home

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Child Places

• 02908 Haynes Family Home

Statement of Significance

Bardwell residence (fmr) is significant for the associations with Beresford Bardwell, who together with his brother, were prominent pearling identities in Broome. It is a fine representative example typical of early 1900s residences located in an expansive tropical setting.

Physical Description

A single storey timber framed structure with horizontal corrugated iron wall cladding. The hipped roof is also clad with corrugated iron. Verandah under main roof.

History

The residence was the home of Beresford Bardwell. Beresford was the younger brother of Bernard Everett Bardwell. They were born in Melbourne in the 1880s. Beresford followed Bernard to Broome and the brothers went into pearling together. They owned three luggers, one named Phyllis, for their sister, who later came to Broome and married Daniel McDaniel. Beresford married Marjory Missingham and they had two sons. Both brothers served in World War One. As well as pearling, Beresford was the Broome wharfinger. When the price of pearl shell collapsed in the mid 1930s, Beresford moved to Perth for his children's education and remained there. He died in 1964. Later owners include Jim Kennedy and Tracey and Larry House.

Integrity/Authenticity

INTEGRITY High degree AUTHENTICITY Moderate to high degree Modifications: Extensive renovations

Condition

Good

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Child Places

• 02908 Haynes Family Home

Statement of Significance

The place is significant as a typical example of the "Pearl Masters" Home, especially as its structural form is largely in original condition.

Physical Description

The building is a single storied, timber framed structure, with corrugated iron cladding on the walls and roof. It is sheltered from the road by a well developed stand of trees, and the surrounding garden is typical of Broome's ornamental vegetation.

Condition

In fair condition.

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Tolmer Family Dwelling

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Tolmer Residence (fmr) is significant for the associations with pearling master Captain Lee, and the Tolmer family. It is a representative example typical of late 1890s residences located in an expansive tropical setting of old Broome town.

Physical Description

A single storey timber framed structure with horizontal corrugated iron wall cladding. The hipped roof is also clad with corrugated iron. Verandah under main roof lattice infill above asbestos dado verandah surrounds.

History

The residence was originally owned by Pearlmaster Captain Lee in the 1890s. It was occupied by the Tolmer family from around 1900.

Integrity/Authenticity

High degree Moderate to high degree

Condition

Good

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Dwelling

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Hospital dwelling (former) is of some significance for the association with the hospital and provision of staff housing.

Physical Description

A single storey timber framed structure. The gable roof is also clad with corrugated asbestos sheeting.

History

This residence was constructed for the occupation of the secretary of the Broome Hospital, some time after 1954. It came under the control of the Government Employee Housing Authority in 1964, following the establishment of the Authority under the Government Employees Housing Act of that year and provided housing for doctors and later, engineers. The object of the Authority was to 'improve and provide adequate housing for Government employees in country districts'. The Authority gradually took over the management of housing for a number of Government departments.

Integrity/Authenticity

Modifications: Some Renovations

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Pa Norman's House, Broome

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Pa Norman’s Residence (former), is significant for the associations with the Norman family who were prominent in pioneering the pearling industry. It is a fine representative example typical of early 1900s residences of the prosperous pearling period and demonstrates the tropical architectural style that typifies Broome architecture of that period.

Physical Description

The single storey timber framed structure is clad with horizontal corrugated iron walls. The hipped roof is also clad with corrugated iron. Verandah under main roof. Mostly obscured by the lush tropical garden, typical of Broome. Extensive renovations

History

Hugh Davis Norman was born in NSW in 1857. He married Margaret Robison in 1884 and went into partnership with her father, William, who was involved in pearling on Thursday Island. They expanded into Western Australia in 1887, becoming the second largest company after Streeter and Male. In 1912, Robison & Norman built a large general store in Dampier Terrace. At that time their fleet comprised 28 boats. Hugh Norman was aware of the dangers involved in diving and sought to reduce them. He dived himself to check the safety of the equipment and he studied medicine, with some of his mixtures being used for many years. Hugh Norman was a founding member of the Pearler's Association, serving as president for several years. He received the Commission of the Peace in 1905 and was Mayor of Broome in 1909-1910. Hugh and Margaret Norman raised seven children. One son, Edgar (Ted) de Burgh Norman also took up pearling. In the 1960s the place was the residence of the meatworks manager.

Integrity/Authenticity

High degree Moderate degree

Condition

Good

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Statement of Significance

Typical example of the "pearl Masters" home and its structural form in largely original condition.

Physical Description

Single storied, timber framed structure, corrugated iron cladding on walls and roof, double timber sun screens. The surrounding garden is typical of Broome's ornamental vegetation

History

Assessment June 1983

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Captain Goldie's House (fmr)

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Captain Goldie's House (former) is significant for the association with the pearling industry. It is typical of an early dwelling with subsequent alterations.

Physical Description

The place has an expansive frontage and is set in lush tropical gardens. A single storey timber framed structure with horizontal corrugated iron wall cladding; lattice dado with shutters above, the place has a hipped roof that is also clad with corrugated iron. Extensive renovations.

History

Captain John Louie Goldie arrived in Broome in 1912 as a pearl cleaner, valuer and buyer. He fought at Gallipoli, and spent time in England recuperating from war wounds. In 1916, he married Doris Sprang, daughter of Fred Sprang, senior partner in C. E. Heinke & Co, manufacturers of diving suits and hard hats. On their return to Perth they brought the first decompression chamber for Broome, which Fred Sprang had donated on behalf of the company. Louis Goldie successfully pearled in Broome, and was a member of the Road Board 1928-1939. His family lived in England for several years in the 1930s, before returning to WA for boarding school in Perth. Louis and Doris Goldie retired to Cottesloe after being evacuated from Broome during World War Two, and Louis died in 1950, aged 62.

Integrity/Authenticity

High degree High degree

Condition

Good

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Dornier Aero Engine

Parent Place or Precinct

03592 Bedford Park Precinct

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Pearl Diver's Decompression Chamber

Parent Place or Precinct

03592 Bedford Park Precinct

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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