Robert Reid Clothing Factory, former

History:

The former Robert Reid factory was built c.1890. In 1891-92, Robert Reid & Co. Ltd is listed as having a factory at 4 Hoddle Street. In 1910, Robert Reid & Co. is still listed but at No. 2 and then in the years 1920 to 1930 Frieze Bros Pty Ltd, clothing factory is recorded at 2-8 Hoddle Street. Frieze Bros, was a major Melbourne clothing manufacturer, concentrating on Menswear.

Description:

The former Robert Reid Clothing Factory is a two-story brick building, designed in a simple Italianate style. The symmetrical Hoddle Street facade is rendered and has eleven bays of semicircular arched window openings at first floor level with bluestone sills and moulded architraves. The ground floor is similar, except two of the openings are rectangular door openings, not original. There are rendered cornices at both ground and first floors. The facade is surmounted by a plain parapet with a scrolled rectangular pediment, containing evidence of signage, now removed.

The associated building at 2 Ferguson Street is a two-storey brick building with a central ground floor entrance with segmental arched windows arranged asymmetrically on either side. Modern vehicle entrances have been constructed and the brickwork has been painted. A right-of-way provides access down the side to a loading bay.

Significance:

The former Robert Reid clothing factory in Abbotsford is of local architectural and historical significance. The two buildings which comprise this complex at 2 Hoddle Street and on the west side of Ferguson Street are substantial and intact 19th century factory buildings which are demonstrative of the development of the local clothing manufacturing, and which remain important heritage elements in their streetscapes.

Group

Manufacturing and Processing

Category

Factory/ Plant