Elizabeth Quay - Florence Hummerston Child Care Centre

Statement of Significance

The place is of aesthetic significance as a landmark on the Esplanade. Social and historic significance for its various uses associated with the Esplanade. Some significance for associations with Florence Hummerston, female Councillor and philanthropist.

Physical Description

Single-storey asymmetrical building with a diversity of roof forms and large semi-circular windows. Distinguished by pyramidal forms and prominent eaves with exposed rafters. Rendered and face brick building with a tiled roof and arched window openings. The plan of the building comprises a series of interlocking octagonal forms. Single storey generally with a second storey in the central core.

History

In March 1927, Architect Louis Bowser-Cumpston prepared plans for a kiosk and dressing rooms. The tender of E Allwood was accepted in April 1928 and the kiosk was erected at a cost of £5991 and was ready for leasing in February 1929. Florence Hummerston Child Care Centre is located on the Esplanade Reserve (1880-present). The reserve formerly contained a Recreation Ground, Wanda Tennis Club, Perth Croquet Club, Perth Bowling Club and WA Bowling Association, all established by 1915. The building currently known as the Florence Hummerston Child Care Centre was built in 1928 as a refreshment kiosk, public conveniences and change rooms. They were built by the Perth City Council as a cost of £5,99.00. A concrete platform for concerts and orchestral performances was built adjacent in 1944. The change rooms and toilets were redesigned internally in the 1970s. In 1977 the PCC leased the building to Gary Thompson Holdings who converted it into Annabella’s Nightclub. The lease for the club was not renewed after 1980. In 1982 the Salvation Army leased the kiosk as a centre for young people known as ‘The Converted Duke’. In 1985 the place was taken over by the Florence Hummerston Day Care Centre which occupied the building until 1998. The Child Care Centre was named after Florence Hummerston (1889-1984), first woman councillor of the City of Perth, who served from 1951-1965 and was involved in various social justice organisations including Meals on Wheels and Wanslea House. Florence Hummerston established a child-minding centre on the third floor of the National Mutual Arcade building in 1964 which relocated to the Esplanade building in 1985. (Information extracted from HCWA Assessment Documentation for Esplanade Reserve, No 3850).

Integrity/Authenticity

Low level of integrity. Fair level of authenticity.

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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