Bank of New South Wales (NSW) (fmr), Northam

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Westpac Bank has aesthetic and architectural significance, representing the Inter-War Free Classical style, and contributes to the streetscape of the main commercial street of Northam. It has social significance, having provided banking services to the local community since 1891 when Mr James Mitchell (later Sir) was the first manager of the Western Australian Bank branch in Northam.

Physical Description

Westpac bank is a double storey masonry construction. It has an imposing front elevation with the tall classical pillars creating the image of solidarity usually associated with larger financial institutions. The parapet wall is adorned with stucco and the upstairs balcony has a solid balustrade.

History

The arrival of banks around the turn of the century was significant in transferring Northam from a barter to a cash economy and to provide finance for both rural and activities. The Bank of New South Wales opened a branch in Northam in 1909 in rented premises. In 1915 the Bank of New South Wales moved into these newly constructed two-storey premises with manager's quarters attached, constructed at a cost of £2,713.1.3 In 1927 the building was altered and renovated to accommodate the increased business following the amalgamation of the Bank of New South Wales with the Western Australian Bank.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate to High degree Authenticity: Moderate to High degree

Condition

Good

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Commonwealth Bank, Northam

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Commonwealth Bank has aesthetic and architectural significance, representing the Interwar Stripped Classical with its overwhelming vertical scale and imposing presence in the main commercial street of Northam. It has social significance, having provided banking services to the local community since 1934, and represents associations with depression employment programs, and the transitional style of architecture applied to rural branches of the bank.

Physical Description

This two-storey bank building was constructed in 1934 with art deco and neo-classical influences. It features two tall fluted columns, which rise two storeys and create the impression of an imposing scale. The main facade is symmetrical, and ornamentation is concentrated at the top of the building, again creating a grand impression

History

Commonwealth Bank of Australia formed in 1911 under a government Act that gave a Federal government guarantee. Until that time, all banks had been privately owned. In 1931, the State Savings Bank amalgamated with the Commonwealth Bank and soon after that was elevated to branch status in Northam. Plans for the bank changed several times in 1933 and 1934 before completion at a cost of £4840. During World War Two the bank was a ration outlet. Post war boom in Northam resulted in extensions in 1951.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate Authenticity: Moderate

Condition

Very Good

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Northam Post Office & Quarters

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Northam Post Office building has aesthetic and architectural significance as an imposing example of a Federation Free style, characteristic of many public buildings of the period. Its distinctive design responds to the corner and has a strong visual impact in the streetscape of the main commercial street of Northam. It has social significance as a central focus, and has a sense of place, for communication for residents of the Northam district.

Physical Description

The one and two storey red brick building addresses the corner site, with the two storey residential section facing the secondary street. The single storey post office facades are ornate with gabled pediments with ornate stucco features and round window motifs. The roof line is irregular, with various sections. The building features mortared string courses throughout and ornate arched windows on the Fitzgerald Street facade. Two verandahs are supported by substantial mortared columns. A clock tower with a cupola style roof, and a large chimney topped with four terracotta pots feature on the roof.

History

This Post Office was built in 1909, replacing the earlier building in Hawes Street. The clock was moved from the old building in 1909, into the clock tower where it remained until it was removed after deterioration in 1957. The Post Office has always been central to life in the Northam District, and it continues to play an important role in Northam.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High degree Authenticity: High degree

Condition

Good

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Northam Railway Station (fmr)

Condition

The Station building is in good condition as a result of regular maintenance in the past. The Goods Shed is in fair condition as it is structurally sound and intact but has been subject to neglect in the past and has evidence of water damage on the external surfaces.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Northam Railway Station (former) has aesthetic and architectural significance as an example of the Federation Free style that contributes to the streetscape of the main street of Northam, in West Northam. It has historical and social significance owing to its role in the development of West Northam, and its connection with the stream of prospectors who passed through Northam en route to the Eastern Goldfields in the decade around the turn of the century, use and associations during World War Two, and as a Museum

Physical Description

Northam Railway Station, a single story masonry construction has an extensive street frontage parallel with the railway line where the platform verandah also extends the length of the building. The entry is denoted by central projecting gable roof with decorative timber brackets and finials. Ornamental eaves, consoles and chimney cornices add interest to the simple form.

History

Northam Railway station, replaced the first station built after the railway line arrived in Northam in 1886. It became an important marshalling yard and junction for the emerging Eastern Goldfields. Thousands of gold prospectors passed through Northam. It was opposite the Grand Hotel. The West Northam district developed around these two busy centres. Use peaked during WWII and the Korean War when thousands of servicemen were transported to and from the Northam Army Camp. It was the headquarters for the Eastern Districts, with a large shunting complex and 24 hour staff. In 1966 with the introduction of the new standard gauge railway, the old route was dismantled and a new station was built at East Northam. The closure of the old station led to a decline in population and business in West Northam, and the building is now used as a Railway Museum.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate degree Authenticity: High degree

Condition

Fair

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Northam Police Station

Parent Place or Precinct

01890 Northam Police Station and Court House

Uses

Creation Date

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Town Council Offices (fmr) & Library, Northam

Child Places

• 01869 Northam Municipal Chambers site

Condition

Town Council Offices (fmr) & Library, Northam is in good condition having been in use since construction. Regular maintenance has been undertaken

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Child Places

• 01869 Northam Municipal Chambers site

Statement of Significance

The Northam Town Council offices and Library have aesthetic and architectural significance as a powerful example of the forms that represent brutalist architecture. It has social significance as the local government offices and library for the Town of Northam. It contributes to the streetscape of the main street of Northam.

Physical Description

The Town council offices are two storey concrete block structures modular in form and sculptural in detail. The library form is more free flowing but with the same textural geometric design relief integral to the walls

History

These distinctive Council Offices replaced the previous offices on the corner of Glebe Street in 1974. Characteristic of the regional West Australian work of the Architect Ivan Ivanov, it is rugged, bold, assertive and presents itself aggressively in terms of both form and material.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High degree Authenticity: Moderate /high degree

Condition

Good

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John Morrell's Grave

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The memorial has historical significance, being associated with John Morrell, one of the first landholders in the Northam district in 1836. (One source dates his arrival in the district as prior to 1834).

Physical Description

The memorial to John Morrell, who died in October 1843, is set on the road verge overlooking Northam. The actual grave has been covered by the bitumen road. The memorial is a rectangular structure, with capped pillars on the four corners.

History

John Morrell was one of the early pioneers who took up a farm in the area in 1836. He was one of the first to send produce to Perth and to build a farm house, namely Morby Farm. The inscription is; Sacred to the memory of John Morrell Died 18th October 1843 Aged 63 years He was the Pioneer of Northam Centenary of Western Australia 1929 Re-erected in 1965 by his many descendants Morrell died from pneumonia, an illness which set in after he had attempted to rescue a drowning man who had been washing sheep in the Avon River.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate Authenticity: Moderate

Condition

Good

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Byfield House

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Byfield House has aesthetic significance as a fine example of a turn of the century residence, demonstrating the wealth of the owner who built the place. It has historical significance as the home of prominent Northam personality and businessman, James Byfield. It is aesthetically pleasing and contributes to the streetscape of residential Gordon Street, and as a landmark in that area.

Physical Description

The facade is centred around a double height tower, central on the symmetrical frontage. The tower includes a porch with a rounded arch opening at ground level and balustraded balcony above. The ground level verandah is covered with a bullnose roof while the main roof is tiled with closed eaves and decorative terracotta saddle ridge and hip capping. Vertical dormer windows with timber finials and decorative barge boards flank the upper level balcony. Other features include face brickwork, quoined corners, turned timber verandah balustrades and decorative metal valance.

History

James Byfield moved to Northam in 1898. He designed his home as well as other significant buildings in Northam. He was a leading building contractor and he also established a coach building business. He successfully operated the flour mill between 1883 and 1902. James Byfield was a leading member of the Temperance Movement, which became very influential in the district. He served on the Council for 35 years from 1879 to 1914. He was also the owner of the first car in Northam, a 1904 Oldsmobile. Byfield was killed tragically in an accident in 1914 when a horse harnessed to a wagon moved, causing the wagon to crush him. Since that time Byfield House has had a number of owners. At one stage it operated as a restaurant.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate degree Authenticity: Moderate degree

Condition

Internal fabric at Byfield House is good, some of the brickwork and roof tiles are in poor condition, and overall, Byfield House is in good condition.

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Uralia

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Uralia is a significant building, for its architectural merit, and its association with the Throssell family, who were extremely influential in the district, because of commercial and political interests. It was also used as a maternity hospital for a number of years. Uralia is one of a number of buildings in Gordon Street which reflect the influence of the wealth gained by Northam as a result of the gold rush of the 1890s. It is aesthetically pleasing as a fine residential example of Federation Free style, exhibiting details characteristic of the Architect, Prockter and makes a significant contribution to the streetscape of the prestigious residential sector of Northam.

Physical Description

The single storey masonry residence features a distinctive double storey decorative turret tower topped by a belvedere, front gable, corner bay which rises through the roof as a parapet, and verandahs on four sides. The chimneys are trimmed with an arch design. The wide verandahs are supported by turned timber posts and timber trimming. Includes: entrance gates, approach, and Moreton Bay Fig tree.

History

Uralia was built in an elevated position on a 17 acre site fronting onto Gordon Street by Lionel Throssell, son of George Throssel, who was MLA for Northam (1890 to 1904) and Premier of WA for a brief period in 1901. The house was alongside 'Fermoy', George Throssell's home. After the collapse of the Throssell business empire in 1911, the bank assumed the property, allowing Lionel Throssell to stay on until Uralia was sold in 1923. The property was subdivided and the house became Rosalyn, a private maternity hospital, operating as such until 1948 when it became St John of God Hospital. For a period after 1973 it was used by the Marist Brothers and then as a classroom by St Joseph's School. It reverted to a private residence in 1985.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High degree Authenticity: High degree

Condition

Very Good

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The Residency

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The Residency is a fine example of the Queen Anne Federation style in Northam. It has historical significance owing to its association with the politics of local government in Northam in the 1900-1915 period. The Residency is aesthetically pleasing and contributes to the streetscape and character of Northam.

Physical Description

Situated in a prominent position, this single storey brick dwelling is characterised by rendered string courses, tall chimneys with terracotta pots and ensembles of varied roof shapes with roof vents echoing main gables. The wide verandahs have timber posts and ornamental valance elements.

History

This substantial dwelling was once the home of the early resident magistrates. The siting of the Residency in the working class area of West Northam by Magistrate W D Cowan in 1903-4 further deepened the traditional east-west division and led to delays in the building, which was finally completed in 1909.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High degree Authenticity: High degree

Condition

Good

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Mitchell House

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

James Mitchell came to Northam in 1891 as manager of the West Australian Bank. In 1903 Mrs Clara Mitchell purchased three blocks of land on the hill considered to be Northam's "nob hill", the most prestigious area in the town. Mitchell won a seat in the Western Australian Parliament in 1905 (-1933). Mitchell House was used as a family home and as the venue for garden parties. Mitchell was Premier of WA from 1919-24 and 1930-33. He was influential in securing post-primary education for Northam, in 1921, the year he was knighted. In 1933, he was Lieutenant Governor of WA and moved to Perth. Next were Hal Colebatch, the editor of The Northam Advocate and his wife, Theodosia (nee Mitchell), until 1953. In 1978 a Centenary Celebration for Northam Primary Schoolwas held there, and during the 1980s Mitchell House was the venue for balls, large formal dinner parties and fetes. In 1995 purchased by Shamrock Hotel owners for private and guest accommodation.

Physical Description

Mitchell House is a substantial two storey residence located on a corner block. The Italianate main entrance porch faces Hawes Street, and a two-storey stucco, balustraded arcade faces Duke Street. The house has some features reminiscent of colonial Georgian architecture in its simplicity. Quoined window and door openings are embellished with entablature. On the site are timber stables and a wash-house.

History

James Mitchell came to Northam in 1891 as manager of the West Australian Bank. In 1903 Mrs Clara Mitchell purchased three blocks of land on the hill considered to be Northam's "nob hill", the most prestigious area in the town. Mitchell won a seat in the Western Australian Parliament in 1905 (-1933). Mitchell House was used as a family home and as the venue for garden parties. Mitchell was Premier of WA from 1919-24 and 1930-33. He was influential in securing post-primary education for Northam, in 1921, the year he was knighted. In 1933, he was Lieutenant Governor of WA and moved to Perth. Next were Hal Colebatch, the editor of The Northam Advocate and his wife, Theodosia (nee Mitchell), until 1953. In 1978 a Centenary Celebration for Northam Primary School was held there, and during the 1980s Mitchell House was the venue for balls, large formal dinner parties and fetes. In 1995 purchased by Shamrock Hotel owners for private and guest accommodation.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate degree Authenticity: Moderate degree

Condition

Good

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Northam Cemetery

Condition

In general terms the place is very well maintained. Notwithstanding the effects of vandalism, soil erosion, the impact of the growth of mature trees, and the general attrition of time on the materials associated with the markers and railings, the place reflects its values well and maintenance practices have not detracted from its values.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The old pine tree, or Little Pansy’s Tree, has aesthetic significance as an exceptionally large and old pine tree, shading some of the graves in the old section of the cemetery. It has historical significance owing to its association with Pansy Throssell, infant daughter of George Throssell, an influential Northam resident and WA politician (WA Premier in 1901). The Northam Cemetery as a whole has a great deal of historical and social significance. It is the last resting place for many of the pioneers of Northam, including Abraham Morgan, George and Annie Throssell, members of the Chidlow family, and James Byfield. The Childrens’ Garden of Remembrance and Eden Park are moving tributes to the families who suffered the loss of their infants over the last 50 years.

Physical Description

Northam Cemetery is a planned burial ground, with a wide variety of grave markers, roads, young and mature plantings, located on a hillside site. The place is one of the oldest and longest serving public cemeteries in the State, having operated continuously from 1856 to the present. The Pioneer section is not clearly delineated but the grave palisades and surrounds and headstones show the extent of the area and are representative of various styles and periods. Includes a memorial pine tree planted in 1897 known as 'Little Pansy's Tree' or 'Hubert Bartlett-Day's Tree'. Pansy’s Tree – This is a very old, mature pine tree planted on the grave of young Hubert Bartlett-Day in the Anglican section of the Northam Cemetery in 1897. It was mistakenly thought to have been on the grave of Pansy Maude Octavius Clifton Throssell (Little Pansy), infant daughter of George Throssell, who died of influenza in 1885. However, the name, Little Pansy’s Tree, remains. The tree is a significant feature of the Northam Cemetery which is situated in a prominent position on a hill north west of Northam, overlooking a stretch of the Avon River,. With rolling hills in the background. It is a very restful setting for a remarkable cemetery, which was classified by the National Trust in 1993. Two features of special note within the cemetery are the Children’s Garden of Remembrance, representing the 1250 unmarked children’s graves in the district prior to 1950. The efforts of the Shire and the research and hard work of Jan Goodacre made this project possible. Another special consecrated section, Eden Park, is for stillborn babies. In 1995 a moving group service for 200 family members of 80 babies was held. Melissa’s Fairy Garden is another unique feature of the Northam Cemetery, the last resting place for many of the pioneers of the district, as well as for their modern counterparts.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Authenticity: High

Condition

Maintenance of Northam Cemetery is an enormous undertaking and in general terms the place is very well maintained

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Morby Farm Cottage, Northam

Statement of Significance

Morby Farm Cottage, Northam (1836), a simple single-storey random-stone and corrugated iron farmhouse in the Victorian Georgian style with some Victorian Regency detailing, has cultural heritage significance for the following reasons: the place is rare as one of Western Australia’s oldest surviving residences, and was the first house to be constructed in Northam; the place was home to the first settler in the Northam district, and was also the first church, the first school, the first courthouse, the first retail outlet and the first postal centre; the place is representative of the historic practice of early Western Australian settlements where private homes were also the location of multiple civic activities; the place is significant as the first farm to be established in the Northam district. It produced the district’s first dairy in the 1830s and was a very early producer of butter sending it to market in 1835; the place is associated with John Morrell, the first colonist to settle in the Northam district. Morrell’s journey from England and his subsequent settlement in Northam tells a rich story of early colonial life; and, the place retains rare original window panes, frames and doors, brought to Western Australia from England by the original owner in 1830.

Physical Description

Morby Farm Cottage, Northam (1836) is a simple single-storey random-stone and corrugated iron farmhouse in the Victorian Georgian style with some Victorian Regency detailing.

Condition

Refurbished in the 1980s

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Morby Cottage has aesthetic and architectural significance as an example of an early cottage, constructed in the 1830s from simple materials, built to a simple design. It has historical significance as being part of the first farm to be developed in the district by John Morrell after 1836. It has social significance as it was the centre of community life in the district at that time, being the venue for church services and school classes. It still has social significance as a tourist attraction and cultural museum.

Physical Description

Morby Cottage is a single storey masonry cottage with a break pitch veranda running along the length of the front elevation.

History

John Morrell arrived in Fremantle in March 1831, where he and his son Richard traded as carpenters, and where they also cultivated a small plot with wheat and barley. Morrell was awarded a land grant of 4,500 acres in the Avon district, and late in 1835 arrived in Northam after cutting his own cart track from Morby Farm on the Avon to Northam. The land was finally assigned on 23.1.1836. He planted the vines, trees and potatoes he had brought from Cape Town, probably living in a temporary shack. He later built a permanent dwelling made from simple and crude materials. This first home was closer to the river than the existing place. The Morrell home became the centre of old Northam, with the first school and first church being located there. The first mill in the district was on the property, and good quality cheese and butter were produced. Morrell also spent time in Perth, constructing early buildings. Tragedy struck in 1843 when Morrell contracted pneumonia after attempting to save a drowning man. He was buried in a spot at the top of Doctor's Hill (memorial) Morby Cottage is now under the care of the Morby Cottage Management Committee. Many of the Morrell family heirlooms are insitu.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate degree Authenticity: Moderate degree

Condition

Good

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Northam Senior High School

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Northam Senior High School has aesthetic and architectural significance, being an example of the Inter-War Mediterranean style. It has historical and social significance, having provided vital educational services to generations of young Northam people, and as the first rural town to achieve post primary education in 1921.

Physical Description

Northam Senior High School complex has increased in size over the years since it was built in 1920-21. The symmetrical double storey buildings have light coloured textured stucco walls, exposed rafter ends, double hung windows, and central entry portico with grouped posts. The windows are framed by face brick rectangular architraves.

History

A private finishing school for young ladies was the first 'high school' in Northam in 1898. Northam was the first rural town in Western Australia (& Geraldton) to have a post-primary education school at East Northam Primary School. Northam Senior High School has been extended over time with the addition of various wings. Past students relate how they "dragged" the building from one location to another. The hall is used as a theatre arts centre and a new hall/gymnasium was constructed in 1986. A new science and agricultural block and prevocational centre, opened in 1996. Some eminent people were once students at Northam Senior High School, including Rhodes Scholar Jerry Ellis, athlete Shirley Strickland, cricketer John Rutherford, and Naturalists Harry Butler and Barbara York-Main.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High degree Authenticity: Moderate to High degree

Condition

Good

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Fermoy House (fmr), Northam

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

This building has aesthetic and architectural significance, as an example of a grand Federation residence, of a style and scale fitting to that of the prominent original owner, George Throssell. It has historical significance, being associated with Throssell and his position in Northam, and later as Premier of Western Australia. It has social significance, owing to its use for community social activities, and later as a hospital and a school.

Physical Description

Set on high ground with a grand entry stairway, the single storey building has an extensive basement that is at ground level for two sides of the building. The plan form of this former residence has projecting window bays characteristic of the period. A feature of the building frontage is the gable end, which incorporates timber nogging to frame infill panels.

History

Fermoy House, was originally the home of George Throssell, Northam's first mayor who later became Premier of Western Australia. He was a prominent businessman, who became influential in the Temperance movement in the 1870s. Fermoy House was often the venue for large receptions, balls, garden parties, charity functions and a variety of community celebrations. Throssell died in 1910 after he fell down a staircase at the house. In 1912 the land around Fermoy was subdivided and a new housing estate was opened up on 'the hill'. Fermoy then became a private hospital for many years. Part of the hospital was taken over for use by the military in the 1940s. The Marist Brothers took over Fermoy in 1948 for use as a school, which became known as the Marist Brothers College, St Paul's. The migrant intake into the district from Eastern Europe after WWII led to increased numbers at the school. In 1971 St Paul's amalgamated with St Joseph's Girls School

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate degree Authenticity: Moderate degree

Condition

Good

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Curdnatta

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Curdnatta has aesthetic significance, being a fine regional example of the work of prominent architect Edwin Summerhayes, and a modest example of Federation Queen Anne architecture. It has historical significance owing to its long association with the flour mill, the town's major secondary industry, from 1911 to 1969.

Physical Description

This single-storey brick and iron residence is asymmetrical with tall chimneys and prominent decorative consoled gables and hip gables facing the street. It has a projecting bay window, though atypically, this does not face the street front, but rather its view over the town and the mill.

History

'Curdnatta' is among the finest in the suburb 'Burwood' or 'Leake Estate' subdivision. The first occupant, for whom the residence was built, Ashton Hunter, Manager of the flour mill and a Mayor of Northam from 1921-1923. He had a life long association with Australian flour mills, and lived at Curdnatta until 1930. Curdnatta was occupied by prominent employees of the milling company until 1969. Another owner, R B James, was Mayor of Northam between 1949-1955.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High degree Authenticity: Moderate degree

Condition

Good

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Poole Street Footbridge

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Poole Street Footbridge adds to the landscape across the Avon River and provides a place for viewing the river landscape and its flora and fauna. It has historical significance, for associations with the Goldfields Water supply Scheme pipeline between 1917 and 1958. The bridge has rarity value, having served as both a pipeline bridge and footbridge at the only major river crossing built for the Goldfields Water supply Scheme. It has social significance, for use by the working class population of West Northam and by migrant workers in the 1950s. It is aesthetically pleasing and contributes to the character of Northam

Physical Description

Poole Street Footbridge crosses the Avon at the western end of town at a height of approx 3 metres above river level. The bridge is approx 150 m long and 2 metres wide, with a footway of 1200 mm. It has a slow incline from either bank to the central horizontal section over the river channel. Timber piles of approx 300mm in diameter form 36 piers of 2 piles at approx 4300mm intervals. It has timber crossheads, cross bracing, stringers and decking. The decking and handrails are replacements.

History

The bridge was associated with the development of the Goldfields Water Supply Scheme and is representative of wooden bridges built by the PWD early this century. It was built to carry the G W S pipeline and to provide a footbridge for the townspeople of Northam, linking the two sides of the river, providing easy access from the Perth road to the Northam Railway Station, West Northam, and the nearby shops, hotel, houses and the railway workshop. In summer Northam children used the bridge for access to Burlong Pool, and in the 1950s the bridge was well used by the many European migrants temporarily settled at the Holden Migrant Camp. The pipeline was shifted in 1958 to a new bridge in Burn Street. Proposed closure in 1994 prompted opposition

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate/high degree Authenticity: Moderate/high degree

Condition

Despite the poor condition of the footbridge decking, overall Poole Street Footbridge is in fair structural condition

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Northam Town Hall/Lesser Hall

Parent Place or Precinct

04258 Wellington Street Conservation Area

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Northam Town Hall and Lesser Hall have considerable architectural merit and is one of the State's finer examples of Free-Classical style. It has historical significance as the civic and social centre of Northam until the mid 1970s, and social significance as the venue for a range of community activities over the years.

Physical Description

This ornate two storey civic building together with the adjoining lesser hall has been called Northam's most grandiose building. The buildings are similar at ground level, with rusticated pier edging and round-arched windows. The single level hall has a large almost semi-circular opening with associated pediment and columns. A pair of engaged piers frame the central door on its main facade. The second floor has pediments above each window and a set of 'swag' ornaments as a part of the decorative cornice.

History

The Northam Town Hall is not located in the main precinct of the town, probably because of strong rivalry between factions favouring east Northam as against west Northam, resulting in a compromise. Cost overruns meant the original design was not fully implemented. A supper room was added in 1901, and the grand Italianate style facade was added in 1904. A proposed clock tower was never built. Inside is an impressive jarrah ceiling, which was built in 1918 when other repairs were carried out. This replaced the original pressed metal ceiling. The Town Hall has been well used over the years, and in earlier times it housed a Council Chamber, a Mayor's parlour and offices for the Council officials. It has been the venue for many drama performances, and the weekly moving picture show was held there. It continues to be a venue for activities such as the Avon Valley Arts Society Music Festival, Art Shows and other events..

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate/high degree Authenticity: Moderate/high degree

Condition

Good

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St John's Anglican Church & Parish Hall, Northam

Parent Place or Precinct

04258 Wellington Street Conservation Area

Condition

Generally St John's Church and the Parish Hall are in good condition. There is evidence of minor deterioration to stonework as the result of salts in the ground moisture. This is particularly severe on the northern side of the hall, there is some deterioration to roof flashings adjacent to the parapet walls of the hall roof and the gutters and downpipes are in a very poor state generally. There are some broken panes and deterioration to lead lights and stained glass windows. There is some movement in the floor of the church.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

St John's Anglican Church and Hall is significant for the integral associations with the Anglican community of Northam since 1887, its architectural merit as an example of the Gothic Revival style, and the contribution it makes to the streetscape and character of Northam.

Physical Description

St John's Anglican Church and Hall are impressive stone buildings, constructed of random laid local stone. The church has a distinctive stone bell tower topped by a battlement. Both church and hall have the narrow pointed windows and buttresses associated with Gothic architecture. Inside, the church is renowned for their outstanding timber ceilings and roof truss systems. The church also has excellent stained glass windows.

History

The first Anglican Church in the district was St James' Church, on the Katrine Rd, in 1851. When the focus of the district moved to Northam town, plans for a new church were made, with the foundation stone of St John's finally being laid in 1889 by Bishop Dr H H Parry. St James' Church was closed and later demolished in 1904, and a second St James' Church was built in 1911 to serve the needs of the Anglicans in West Northam.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High degree Authenticity: High degree

Condition

St John’s Anglican Church and Parish Hall, Northam is in good condition. There is evidence of minor deterioration to stonework, which is particularly severe on the northern side of the hall. There is some deterioration to roof flashings and gutters and downpipes are in very poor state generally. There are some broken panes and deterioration to lead lights and stained glass windows. There is some minor movement in the floor of the church.

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Northam Courthouse

Parent Place or Precinct

01890 Northam Police Station and Court House

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Northam Court House has historic significance for the continuous operation as a Courthouse and associations with judicial processes in Northam. Northam Court House is a typical example of the work of George Temple Poole, and makes a contribution to the streetscape and character of Northam.

Physical Description

Northam Court House, a single storey brick building has the entrance set back behind a narrow arcade supported by brick pillars. Three rounded arches and the three arched windows of the Court Room and the decorative timber eaves strutting on the Court Room roof are prominent features. The east side of the building houses offices for the magistrate and other officers. The room on the west side behind the arcade houses registry workers.

History

Northam Court House, built in 1896-7, is a typical example of the work of George Temple Poole, the Colonial Architect at that time. The design is similar to other Court Houses being built at the time, at Beverley and Toodyay for example, reflecting a period when expansion following gold discoveries at Kalgoorlie promoted government building in significant country towns.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High degree Authenticity: High degree Modifications Renovations 1911, some refurbishment c. 1991

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