Wickepin Hotel

Statement of Significance

The place represents the first commercial premises in the l
Wickepin townsite. The place demonstrates an evolution of development and ways of life in
Wickepin, and demonstrates significant association with EB Johnston. The place is a fine
representative example of architecture of the period, and a rare example of hotel architecture of its
type, of which there are few examples in the region.

Physical Description

The hotel is a one storey brick structure. Originally red face brick work with a rendered string courses at the sill and top of window levels and a rendered parapet, it has since been painted. Originally a verandah extended only along a part of the Wogolin Street facade. A verandah now extends the entire length, and obstructs the arched windows on the facade. The verandah post have been replaced with 100cm steel poles. The interior has undergone numerous refurbishments, but the structure of the place remains intact. An additional accomodation wing has been added in c1925, and various other extensions and remodelling has taken place. In 1956 new toilets were constructed, and in 1985 a lounge on the front.

History

In 1906 EB Johnston was working at the Lands Office in Narrogin when the rumour about the railway line eastwards was realised when the Government purchased 40 acres of land of land from Charlie Smith, and proclaimed the town of Wickepin. The enterprising Johnston purchased and subdivided 10 acres of the newly declared townsite.
Johnston built a hotel on the land directly opposite the railway gates, before the railway actually
arrived in Wickepin. He also donated land a few lots west of the hotel for the Post Office. He
thereby set the precedent for the development of the Wickepin townsite, along Wogolin Road
directly opposite the railway line. However by that time his actions had caused a scandal, and he
resigned from the Lands Department.
On the 20 March 1909 the inaugural meeting of the Wickepin Roads Board was held at the hotel.
In 1916 the Vice-Regal tour of the District by the Governor Sir Harry Barron attended a banquet at the hotel, followed by a concert at the hall.
In 1916 the hotel proprietor proposed to install a lighting plant of sufficient power to light Wogolin Road shops and the street lights. The subsequent plant was not sufficient for the street lights as well as the hotel's requirements. "
The Hotel is a social focus for a sector of the rural community, and the hospitality centre for n
travellers.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Intact or redeemable
Authenticity: High degree

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.