Slab Cottage Group, Quindalup

Statement of Significance

Slab Cottage has cultural heritage significance, as it remains one of the few 19th century residences that are clad with split timber slabs and characterises vernacular cottages design during the colonial period. At a macro level, the group of buildings exemplify a well-designed integrative design. The place is significant for its close association with the Quindalup timber mill and jetty. The oldest buildings serve as a reminder of the once bustling district that had a substantial population. Historical significance is also derived for the place’s links to the operations of customs and the police during Quindalup’s early life. In today’s context, the cottage contributes to a community’s sense of place. Furthermore, the buildings are linked to the Harwood family, early settlers of the region. John Harwood (B. 1840) and wife were among the first settlers and he was said to teach at the neighbouring school. William Harwood (b. 1870) was a member of Quindalup Social Club in the 1930s. At a micro level, the internal planning of the cottage demonstrates a now defunct way of life. The Quindalup Post Office was significant in its role of providing postal and telephone services in the area between 1923 and 1966. The barn and government building represent colonial masonry work and construction detailing.

Physical Description

Slab Cottage comprises a split timber slab and weatherboard cottage, a freestanding weatherboard kitchen, a three room limestone and iron building (known as the government building) and a three sided rubble limestone barn. The Slab Cottage has a plain, unadorned and symmetrical façade topped by a spreading hipped roof. It is designed in Colonial style with a prominent front verandah. The patina of age that has accumulated on the exterior of the barn and Government Building contributes to a rich layering of colours and texture that not only speaks of the buildings’ age but merges well with the surroundings.

History

The buildings were close associated with the growth of the timber industry and the Quindalup jetty. Early evidence shows that the outbuildings were used as a bond store and a lock-up. During the period from 1923 to 1966, the Quindalup Post Office and telephone exchange centre were established on the site. The Harwood family, pioneers in the district occupied the Slab Cottage for approximately 100 years. They played a pro-active role in the local community development including managing the district’s post office and telephone exchange.

Archaeology

The place contains potential archaeological findings that may shed light on the early domestic ways of the rural working class, in particular European settlers of the 19th century. Some of the artefacts include 19th and early 20th century ceramics and glassware in close proximity to the cottage.

Integrity/Authenticity

High Degre/Moderate Degree Integrity Notes: The Slab Cottage retains a high degree of integrity despite some changes to the western perimeter rooms. The kitchen building is in poor condition. The government building and barn are also in poor condition. The roof is also in poor condition due to neglect. Authenticity Notes: The place retains a moderate degree of authenticity, as although most of the original fabric remains intact with the finishes in deteriorated state, there have been considerable alterations to the building. The internal linings of the western rooms, weatherboards on the eastern side and corrugated iron roof were replaced. The ground level at the front of the cottage has been lowered, window sashes reconstructed and new electrical connections installed.

Condition

The place is in good condition, undergoing restoration and conversion into a café in 2000.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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