Perenjori Shire Hall & Offices

Statement of Significance

The Perenjori Shire Hall and Offices have considerable historic and social significance as the centre for local government since the 1930s and as an important community venue for socialising and entertainments. The place has high townscape value given its prominent location on the main street of the town and its large scale, it being one of the largest buildings in Perenjori. The large scale of the building combined with the imposing rendered facades afford the place considerable aesthetic appeal.

Physical Description

Situated on the main street of Perenjori, the Perenjori Hall and Shire Offices are the most substantial buildings in the town. The large red brick building accommodates the hall, shire office and library. Positioned on the comer and fronting onto Fowler Street, the Hall provides for the most dominant part of the civic complex. The large building has a gable roof and is two storey in height. The rendered front facade is painted white and has a tall decorative parapet with arched pediment and parapet walls either side concealing lean-to roofs behind. The main entry doors are recessed with a braced moulded awning over and "Perenjori Hall" written in black letters. Several buttresses line the south elevation which also features rendered banding and lintels with large high set timber framed windows containing 12 panes. There are two sets of double entry doors to the south facade. The Hall has a later sympathetic addition to the rear. Adjoining to the north is the Shire Office and Library which sees a continuation of the Hall's rendered facade with similar parapet detailing. Two triangular pediments emphasise the entrances to the building above which appear in black lettering "Office & Library" and "Shire of Perenjori". The original doors have been replaced and a new brick addition which houses the Council Chambers has been constructed to the northern end of the complex.

History

The foundation tablet for the Perenjori Hall was unveiled by the Hon J.M. Drew MLC on 7 December 1929, in the State's Centenary year. Designed by architect Herbert Parry, the hall was built by Evan J. Pike, and became the centre for much recreation and entertainment. Built by T P. Crothers of Northampton, the Perenjori Road Board Offices were officially opened by the Chairman, H.W. England Esq on 20 August 1938. At this time the members of the Board consisted of William H. Hepworth, Thomas J. Farrell, Anthony Farrell, John Bickers, James Hunter, James Carr and the Secretary was Victor G. Webb. The Hall has been widely used by the local community for such things as Anglican Church services prior to the construction of St Christopher's Church. Talking pictures were exhibited every Saturday night in the Hall during the 1930s, but ceased when World War II commenced due to petrol rationing. They became a popular pasttime again in the 1950s. The Perenjori Hall was extended and upgraded in conjunction with the Shire of Perenjori's 50th anniversary celebrations in 1978.
(Sources: Cannon, E.S., "Golden Opportunities", pp.109, 135-6, 141 & 222 & Foundation Stones)

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Medium

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.