Marybrook Farmhouse and Grave Site - Bunbury

Statement of Significance

• The place has historic value for its association with the early settlement of the region and the families and the type of housing constructed in the mid 19th century.
• The place has historic value for its association with the Richardson-Bunbury family who developed the property over many decades and contributed to the farming industry in the region.
• The place has social value for its contribution to the community sense of place for its longevity and association with early settlement.

Physical Description

The remnants of this former dwelling ‘Marybrook’ demonstrates the methods of construction, form and detail of a modest farmers cottage. The majority of the structure was built of limestone with brick quoining and rendered with ashlar marking.

A smaller building to the rear was of timber frame and weatherboard cladding with a substantial chimney.

The loss of the timber frame roof has meant the walls are opening up due to the lack of stability and the interiors are deteriorating. There are no intact doors or windows.

There are mature plantings around the building which likely date from the period in which it was functioning as a home.

History

The land on which this structure is located was originally part of the landholding of Captain John Molloy (1786-1867), Resident Magistrate of the Vasse Region. The land was subsequently transferred to Richard Gale, a prominent settler and farmer in the district. It is possible that the small timber structure on the site was built during Gale's ownership, however as some rooms display pressed metal ceilings this appears to date the rooms from approximately 1880s to 1930s.

The significant limestone residence Marybrook was built between 1889 when Edward Archibald Richardson-Bunbury (1869-1917) purchased Lot 6; and 1909 when Edward married Vida Muriel Heppingstone (1889-1967). Edward was one of the Captain Molloy's grandchildren.

The couple lived at Marybrook and raised their four children and concentrated their farming efforts on the breeding of draught horses, cattle and dairy cattle. After Edward's death in 1937, Vida stayed on at the property and continued to manage the farm until at least the mid 1960s.

Edward was first buried in the churchyard which was located adjacent to the property. With the closure of that church the body was relocated to the Dunsborough cemetery. The church is no longer on the site and was also relocated to Dunsborough.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity Notes: The place retains a high degree of integrity.
Authenticity Notes: The place retains a high degree of authenticity.

High Degree/High Degree

Condition

Poor

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.