Old Sherlock Station (fmr)

Statement of Significance

Old Sherlock Station has historic significance as one of the earliest pastoral stations in the Shire of Roebourne (c1870s, the lease being older) with evidence of the early phase of station life in the Northwest over time. The station buildings are the ruins of the original homestead buildings. The archaeological remains reveal the organization and material culture of the site. The station also has historic significance for its association with the Withnell family. The station precinct has aesthetic significance as it is located on a picturesque ford across the Little Sherlock River. The associations for local Aboriginal people involved with this station are of clear his torical significance.

Physical Description

The head station complex is an archaeological site on a low hill overlooking the Little Sherlock River, located at a ford in the river and on the road towards the later Sherlock Station complex. While no standing structures survive, the archaeological record was used to provide an interpretation of the complex (see isometric reconstruction below).

History

Sherlock Station was once owned by noted European colonists John and Emma Withnell. It appears they moved from Mt Welcome to the station in the 1870s, and knew the place as Brooklyn. They left in late 1888. Their children sold the lease to Emily and John Goldsworthy. At some stage in the late 1800s the station was abandoned or destroyed, and the current head station location was in place by 1898. For Aboriginal people this is a site with historical records of Aboriginal people being present as visitors and station residents.

Archaeology

The analysis of the archaeology at the site revealed the remains of the various buildings and activity areas at this site. Surface archaeological materials were found in varying concentrations across the site. The greatest range of ceramic shards (range measured in different wares) was at the ruin presumed to be the remains of the main residence. This structure reflected how the occupants expressed their taste and indeed status in the Northwest. The buildings were once decorated with cast iron decorative lace, one fireplace was faced with white marble, the other with a black slate. One or more rooms were decorated with painted tiles. These are all expensive materials, given transport costs in colonial times.

The other structures at the head station were located ‘behind’ the main residence, which faced the river. Other buildings contained artefacts that indicated functions as men’s quarters, kitchen, and working buildings. In the centre of the complex were low stone walls to hold sheep, probably for shearing.

Integrity/Authenticity

Foundations and wall bases only

Condition

ruin

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.