Oulnina House Site

Statement of Significance

One of the original Crown Grants at the Williams River and as a consequence one of the largest
holdings in the district.

Physical Description

The original house site is about 100 metres north east of the present home.

History

In the 1920's the property changed hands, new owner being Harold Klug. Both he and his wife
quickly adapted themselves to the social and public life of the district. It was largely due to his
enthusiasm that land was purchased on which to establish the present golf course. His son, George,
and daughter, Mrs Malcom Higham, now farm portions of this old grant of land. Higham's portion
retains the old title "Jennamartin". (1)
The previous owner was Harry Baron Rodway who is said to be the first surgeon dentist to come to
Australia, having been trained at Guy's Hospital in London. He practised in North Terrace,
Adelaide for some years before taking up land at Darkan. Rodway was the "English Gentleman'
type and had his own ideas of fanning based on the English pattern. (2)
It is believed that he bought some of his property in the Weld Club, Perth, without having seen it,
from a Victorian named Lancel. It is said that the price was 21- per acre. The land consisted of
nearly 18,600 acres and encompassed 'Boraning', Jennamartin', 'Wild Horse Creek' and 'The
Extension' (600 acres which connected 'Wild Horse Creek' to 'Jennamartin') to the north of
Darkan and 'Heartleaf' to the south of Darkan.
Rodway's total holdings were probably in the order of 20,000 acres and some settlers believed that
his large holding was detrimental to the progress of the district.
It is said that Rodway spent over 100,000 pounds on the properties, which was a fortune at the time,
but he died virtually penniless. (3)

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.