Kulin Hotel

Statement of Significance

The place is of exceptional significance in the development of Kulin town. It demonstrates associations with leading identities of the time, and historical events. The place demonstrates a sense of place for Kulin people, and demonstrates ways of life and customs in a rural town. The place is a fine architectural example of the period, demonstrating an early example of the Spanish Mission influence. The construction and design is unique in Kulin. It is integral within the streetscape, and townscape character of Kulin.

Physical Description

The original building is constructed of stone with brick quoins, and rough render gable details. It consisted of 2 bars, a lounge, a commercial room, and accomodation facilities. Although situated on a corner, with a truncated entry across the corner, the facade addresses the main street and railway station beyond. The front facade has a central recessed verandah flanked by two prominent gables of the Spanish Mission influence. The long verandah extends off the main hipped roof at break pitch, and features a gable central within it. The roof is corrugated iron. A later extension extended along the secondary street frontage, and together with the existing south wing of hotel, formed an internal winter-court, open on the west. On the south boundary of the property six brick motel units have been constructed, with a tiled gable pavilion roof extending along the length of the units

History

The hotel has a controversial beginning which culminated in a Royal Commission in 1919. A gallon licence was issued to the Dudinin shop as early as 1912, and a sly grog shop operated at Jitarning from 1914. Michael Brown, the largest land owner in the Jitarning district, constructed a two storey stone building in 1918, with the view to establishing a hotel. However by the time it was constructed and he applied for a licence, the Kulin Hotel had already successfully become licensed. A hotel is a pivotal development in any town, and it seems the demise of towns without a hotel, such was the case for Jitarning, and Kulin. The circumstances of the liquor licence grant causes a furore in state politics in 1918 when it was alleged that the member for Williams-Narrogin, EB (Bertie) Johnston used his influence for his family interests. The findings of the subsequent Royal commission were inconclusive. The hotel was officially opened on 1 April 1919, and no one attended, thinking it was n April Fool's joke. WM Butler, a Wickepin Machinery agent had the distinction of being the first licensee, followed in two years by EB Johnston's brother, HC Johnston. In 1975, the pub had no beer, the local community recognised the need for a well managed established, and were concerned at the prospect of no hotel in their town, and they purchased the hotel. The community owned the hotel for 5 or 6 years during which time they constructed the motel units. The community group formed a public company through a series of trusts, and all the profits funded Kulin sporting facilities.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: redeemable Authenticity: medium/high degree

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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