Braemar

Statement of Significance

The place represents the beginnings of the Jennaberring Agricultural Area, and the community efforts to develop the area. Powell was instrumental in furthering the causes of the Jennaberring district and this place demonstrates significant associations with him, James Mitchell, and the Jennaberring community. The communication centre for mail and phone also demonstrates a way of life no longer practiced. The place is a fine representative example of the architecture and quality building of the period.

Physical Description

The residence terminates a vista along an avenue of trees leading into the place. The tiled roof has several gables with one over the central entry portico. Verandahs under the main roof surround the home. The interior fitout is a fine example of the period.

History

James Mitchell worked in the Northam branch of the National Bank when he became interested in the Jennaberring Agricultural Area, and when he became a member of Parliament in 1905, he promoted the area. Mr Wilson from Meckering was prompted by Mitchell to inspect the land, and chose blocks 8 and 9. An employee from his farm, George Powell, who was supervising the clearing of Blocks 8 and 9, selected blocks 10 and 11, in addition to the homestead block # 40, for himself. The blocks were granted on conditional purchase in 1909. George Powell was particularly responsive to the native fauna on his land, which was in abundance due to the plentiful water supplies. In 1910, George Powell was one of the founding members of the Jennaberring Progress Association who immediately sought to have the proposed railway closer to the Jennaberring area. . A deputation went to parliament in Perth but was unsuccessful, so James Mitchell was invited to Jennaberring. A marquee was erected near Powell's home, and lunch was served to the community and guest, at which time the Jennaberring case was put. The bid was successful. A two chain wide road runs in front of "Braemar" as part of the original surveyed railway line. A townsite was planned, but the railway line did not pass through Jennaberring. Braemar also operated as the Jennaberring telephone exchange. The party telephone system was attended by George Powell's sister Agnes. The phone system provided an important communication network throughout the agricultural areas, and also provided the otherwise isolated women on the farms, with a social link to others in the same position. It was usually the women who operated the phone exchange in the home. Powell's was also the Post Office for the area.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Intact
Authenticity: High degree

Condition

Very 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.