The Terraces

Statement of Significance

The place is of historic significance due to its association with Frank Wittenoom and the Lefroy family, people who contributed significantly to the development of Western Australia in the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century and more recently with property entrepreneur Lord Mc Alpine.
The place is of aesthetic significance as a rare example in the inner city of a federation Queen Anne bungalow, a housing type more commonly found in the western suburbs of Perth and demonstrates a high level of architectural design.
The place is of representative significance as it demonstrates the form and lifestyle of wealthy members of Western Australian society at the turn of the century.

Physical Description

Single storey residential building with medium-pitched roof and return verandah with timber posts and fretwork.

History

Mount Street appeared on the first statutory plan of Perth prepared by A. Hillman and signed by Governor John Hunt in 1845, however, it was not established and settled until much later. Mount Street developed, along with West Perth generally, in the late 1890's and early 1900's. The elevated position made the area prime real estate and the area was characterised by large, often architect designed, mansions. Mount Street has always been an extremely prestigious address and has included embassies and homes of prominent families and notable individuals in the context of the history of the city and the state.
The house was built for Frederick Francis Burdett Wittenoom in the late 1890s and early 1900s. Wittenoom was a pastoralist and explorer and was a member of the Weld Club. He and his brother opened up the Murchison region. The house was inherited by Wittenoom’s nephew Edward Lefroy and it was held by the Lefroy family until 1987.Lord McAlpine bought the property in 1987 and carried out a large restoration. It is still used as a residence.

Integrity/Authenticity

High level of integrity.
Medium level of authenticity as it has been restored.

Condition

Fair

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.