Newtown Hall (Vasse Hall)

Statement of Significance

The hall has historic value for its association with periods of settlement of growth of the Newtown, now Vasse, district. The first in the late 19th century when the region was first developed for agriculture and in the Inter War period when the Group Settlement scheme brought many new settlers to the region.

The hall has been the venue for many social and community events that were attended by many members of the community therefore contributing to the community sense of place.

Physical Description

The hall comprises two portions. The smaller portion constructed of rendered brick with a simple pitched roof clad with corrugated metal sheeting. The gables of this portion feature a simple half timbered detail. Timber sash windows and a central timber door are located symetrically on the elevations.

Adjoining the brick hall in a perpendicular alignment is a larger timber framed weatherboard clad hall, again roofed with a simple pitched roof clad with corrugated metal sheeting perforated with roof vents. Double timber doors of vertical panels are located centrally in the long and short elevations with timber windows positioned on either side.

Smaller additions have been constructed on the west elevation and another smaller shed is located adjacent. The majority of the site is paved parking or cleared with several mature trees.

History

In 1896, a deputation from the settlers in the Newton community approached the Premier Sir John Forrest asking for the proclamation of a town at Newtown. The name 'Newtown' had been used for the Primary School since 1869.

In 1897, land was provided by Richard Gale for the erection of a hall on the site. The building was constructed of locally burnt bricks made on the property of John Joseph Dawson of 'Fernbrook' with the help of Mr Finlayson. The masonry hall had verandahs with skillion roofs on three sides of the structure, a long kitchen off one of the side verandahs and was lit be kerosene lanterns.

One of the first events held at the hall was a Sports and Dance in May 1898 and the building became the focal point of the community.

In 1922, land was gifted again by Richard Gare for the construction of a Recreation ground, and a committee was formed to clear the grounds and construct tennis courts.

In 1924, the name of the town changed to Vasse resulting in the change of the name of the hall.

By 1936, the original hall was too small and as a result a large weatherboard hall was constructed alongside for £600 by Mr Butterly from Yallingup together with the assistance of local volunteers.

The Vasse and District Community Centre Inc has operated the Hall since 1982 and in 1998 the Centenary of the Vasse and Districts Communitiy Hall was celebrated.

Integrity/Authenticity

High Degree/High Degree
Integrity Notes: Some modifications were made in 1936 but the place retains a high degree of integrity.
Authenticity Notes: The place retains a high degree of authenticity.

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.