Strathcona

This 1900 villa has regional historical significance as an example of the substantial timber Edwardian residences built on elevated site for Geelong's more affluent citizens, and for its associations with William Purnell and Sons, a notable Geelong firm of timber merchants, builders and architects. It is one of a number od such houses built as investments by this firm "Warranmurra" at 32 Laurel Bank Parade (1894) is another.

"Strathcona" has architectural significance at state level for its unusual and particularly evocative Edwardian appearance and context. Significant elements include the very complex roof forms, the vwavy balustrade timbers and rising sun motifs. The dense romantic garden, fence, corner gate and outbuilding garage are also significant in completing the ensemble.

REFERENCE:

R Aitken, "Edwardian Geelong: An Architectural Introduction" unpublished thesis, Deakin University, 1979, p.31.

Les Angus Purnell, the Purnell family, pp 80-82.

Newtown rate Book 1900-1901, North ward No. 336.

IBID.

IBID 1906-07, No 351. Purnell and Sons were owners still.

Purnell, pp 79-81

IBID

Gladys Seaton, Model Borough, City of Newtown, 1982, p.28.

Stephen Davis, "Federation Houses. Geelong", published researchessay, Deaking University, 1981, p.26.

Purnell, p 81.

Newtown rate book, 1908-9, No 349; 1909-10, No 356; 1924 No 424.

IBID 1921, No 314; 1923 No 405.

IBID 1925, No 436.

IBID 1938, No 459.

Group

Residential buildings (private)

Category

Residence