MANNING BUILDINGS, 36-50 SOUTH TERRACE

Statement of Significance

The place is of historic significance as part of a group of buildings known collectively as the Manning Buildings, built in the first decade of the twentieth century by the Manning family and believed to have been designed by the prominent architectural firm of Cavanagh and Cavanagh. The place is a fine example of a Federation Free Classical style building, with elaborate stucco decoration above the ground floor level, that makes a significant contribution to the streetscape. Awning and shop fronts are not significant. The place is of social significance as evidenced by its classification by the National Trust.

Physical Description

Two storey rendered and parapeted terraced building, has a zero setback from the pavement. The decorative parapet has a decorative and central pediment with '1902 Manning Bld'gs' in stucco. On the ground floor, at the centre of the building, is the entrance to South Terrace Piazza Arcade. Engaged pilasters divide the building into bays, arched double hung sash windows have stucco above and a string course. A corrugated iron verandah roof is supported by timber chamfered posts with timber brackets (probably not original). The majority of shops have recessed entrances.

History

The Manning Buildings comprise: 109-113 High Street, 115-119 High Street, 121-137 High Street, 1-5 William Street, 40-62 Market Street and 36-50 South Terrace.
The Manning family emigrated to Australia in the 1830s and became the biggest landowners in Fremantle. The Manning buildings were built from 1902 to 1906 for a cost of £2,243, as an investment by the trustees for the Manning Bros. estate. The National Trust assessment cites Cavanagh & Cavanagh as the main architects for the buildings with various builders for the different stages. The Majestic Theatre (115-135 High Street) formed part of the development. There was public objection when, as part of a refurbishment in 1986, three of the shops were demolished to allow access to the shopping mall.
On file at the Local History Collection: Bruce Robinson & Assoc. photographic record 1989 for Manning Arcade Project.
Currently (2002), the buildings house various retail and commercial uses.

Condition

Good.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

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