Perth Girls' Orphanage (fmr)

Statement of Significance

The place is important as the first purpose built Anglican orphanage in Western Australia. Subsequent changes to, and upgrading of, the fabric of the building represent response to changing ideals of child health care and sanitation in the second half of the nineteenth century and the early years of the twentieth century.
The building has historical associations with the provision of social services within the State by the Anglican Church.
The place is important to the community, originally as an orphanage and, subsequently, for its historical and aesthetic value.

Physical Description

A two storied building with steeply pitched roof, half timbered gable and dormer window. Ground level distinguished by loggia with single-pointed arches and label moulds. Brick and iron building with rendered bands and large chimneys with brick corbelling.

History

Perth Girls' Orphanage (fmr) has an historical link with the 1864 orphanage established on the same site. Perth Girls' Orphanage (fmr) is important as the first purpose built Anglican orphanage in Western Australia. As such it has a close association with the treatment of orphans and the provision of social services at the end of the nineteenth century and during the early years of the twentieth century in Western Australia.(Ref State heritage Assessment document)In 1868 the first Girls’ orphanage was established on the site using cottages that were purchased by the Church. Due to increase in numbers boys were moved to the Swan Boy’s Orphanage in Middle Swan. As the number of girls at the orphanage increased, a new building was required. It was built in two stages, the first was completed in 1899 which included the east wing and chapel and the second was completed in 1904 with the completion of the west wing. The orphanage was closed during World War Two as it was close to East Perth power station and all children were moved to Middle Swan. The building was used by the Army until 1949. Ownership was transferred to the State and it was used for offices for State government departments.
Internal layout of the building was changed to suit the office requirements. Buildings around the site were demolished including the original cottages. Some restoration has been undertaken to the building.

Integrity/Authenticity

Low level of integrity.
Medium level of authenticity. Largely as originally constructed with detail intact. Somw changes internally.

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.