Lawyers' Office

Statement of Significance

The Lawyer's Office is of social, historic and aesthetic significance. It represents the development of Bridgetown at the turn of the century, after the arrival of the railway and the development of Hampton Street as the commercial centre of town. The building is an important part of the Hampton Street precinct. Aesthetic Value Being of a simple, solid, smart but no frills design, the architecture reflects very much the use of the building. It stands out as it does not have other buildings directly adjoining, and for the distinctly early 1900 character, without any imposing verandah or signage. It forms an important part of a significant streetscape which contains many fine late nineteenth century and early twentieth century buildings and retains much of the ambience of a pre-World War One rural town centre.Historic Value Historically, the building is very valuable for both its age (c.1900) and the role it has played in the lives of the people of Bridgetown and surrounding areas, assisting at times in many aspects of Law. Research Value N/A Social Value The Lawyer's Office has social significance both for the legal service it has provided to the community and as a meeting place of work. Also as a part of the commercial centre of Bridgetown since 1900.

Physical Description

The Lawyers office is located in Hampton St and probably dates from the period of expansion of Bridgetown following the opening of the railway in 1898. The front elevation of the building is constructed of stone and brick quoining around door and window openings and there is a decorative brick detail at eaves level. The side elevations are of stretcher bond brickwork. The front door with fanlight and double hung sash window are typical of the era although the existing front door is not original. The building has an iron roof and central chimney.

History

Percy Ewing became a Public Notary in 1922, having already been a Solicitor in Bridgetown since before October 1911, at the time of his marriage. He occupied the building for many years. Historically, the building is very valuable for both its age (c.1900) and the role it has played in the lives of the people of Bridgetown and surrounding areas, assisting in many aspects of Law.

Integrity/Authenticity

High The Lawyer's Office is believed to have always been used as a Lawyer's /Solicitor's Office since c.1900. High The only external alterations to the building include the replacement of the front door and the addition of the air conditioner above the front door. Internally there have been very minor alterations.

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update