South Caroling Hall

Statement of Significance

The South Caroling Hail is a significant representation of the community of South Caroling. It demonstrates the changing ways of life and customs in the agricultural community. It has very significant associations with the pioneers of the district.

Physical Description

Built of a local stone with a sand and lime mortar, and a timber floor and substructure. The hall measured 56.5" by 26.5" by 143' high. The gable ends have weather-board infills, and the front has a lean-to shelter over the double entry doors. In later years concrete buttresses have been constructed front and rear, and later still, brick buttresses at the front of the two sides of the hall. A brick on concrete floor lean to kitchen has been constructed at the rear of the hall, and toilet facilities a separate structure at the rear. A tennis pavilion in the proximity of the hall, has also been erected of brick and iron construction. Condition: Very good in terms of maintenance, however the structural adequacy of the place bears further investigation.

History

The community of South Caroling called a meeting in 1923 to consider the feasibility of building a community hall. The allocated site was unsuitable, and J O'Dea swapped the site. Tenders were called and the committee organised the materials for the builder. The hall cost £ 700 with another £ 200 for piano, curtains, crockery etc. Over 300 people attended the opening on the 30th June 1924, after sporting and motor events in the afternoon, a banquet was served followed by a concert at 8pm, after which dancing continued until 2 am. From 1924 it has functioned continuously as a community and social venue for the people of the area. Meetings of the Progress Association, Farmers and settlers, Farmers Union, and now the Farmers Federation have continuously met at the hall. Anglican church services were conducted at the hall, agricultural displays and the now discontinued but the highlight of the calendar, the South Caroling Flower Shows and the accompanying dance. The Football Club commenced in 1923 and operated from the hall until it amalgamated with the Quairading club in 1935. The now defunct badminton club, and the still functioning tennis club have operated from the hall. Dances were a regular event at the hall, as were numerous socials, concerts, social and family celebrations in the local community. The original trustees included many of the pioneers of the area; JH Stone, JB O'Dea, JA Jones, T Richards, A Knox-Thompson. When they passed away, new trustees were appointed, some carrying on the family tradition; TE Richards, GC Stone, ID Hall and CJ Squiers.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Dependent on the structural adequacy, the place is otherwise intact. Authenticity: Additions have not compromised the original fabric.

Condition

Very good in terms of maintenance, however the structural adequacy of the place bears further investigation

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update