House, 21 Range View Way

Statement of Significance

21 Range View Way has historic value as it is representative of the development of Thornlie in the 1950s which was one of only two privately conceived suburbs in Australia at the time. This house has aesthetic value as it was one of the first houses built in the area in 1956 and it represents the style of the period as demonstrated in a modest residence. The place is significant for the associations with Patricia Morris, AM JP Honorary Freeman, who served as a Councillor and Mayor for many years.

Physical Description

The single storey simple rectangular form is one of six standard designs available at the time of construction. The simple pavilion roof, timber framed windows and balanced façade are typical of the developments. Some additions have taken place.

History

The 1,715-acre property of the former Thornlie Park Estate, was put up for auction in two lots in September 1954, and the first development took place on 228 acres of Lot 1, purchased by D. and M. O'Sullivan. The area was aimed mainly at middle-income earners and inner city dwellers and was a commuter suburb where a car was essential as public transport was not available. Thornlie was one of only two privately conceived suburbs in Australia at the time. There were forty houses completed by March 1957 and one hundred by May 1958. This included Pegus Street, Thornlie Avenue, Bernice Way and Martindale Avenue, and was later extended to include Wynyard Way, Range View Way and Selby Street. After initial problems with winter flooding, the second development went ahead rapidly, bounded by Spencer Road and Thornlie and Berehaven Avenues. The rapid growth of the suburb was a result of modestly designed homes in the £2,600 to £4,000 range and the availability of bank finance which had just been introduced. All the houses were of brick construction, many in the triple-fronted style favoured in the 1950s, and there were six basic plans to choose from, for both two- and three-bedroom homes. Patricia Morris AM JP Honorary Freeman was the original owner of this place, and with her family resided at the home for many years. Pat Morris served as a Councillor of the City of Gosnells and was Mayor for two periods between 1989 to 1993; and 1999 to 2007.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High degree: continual residential Authenticity: Moderate degree (garage addition on the side)

Condition

Good

Uses

Creation Date

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