SAMSON COTTAGE

Because of its relatively undisturbed integrity, this place has a very rare ability to inform of life in a past era. Its lack of the trappings of the 20th and 21st centuries make it a rare example of a dwelling that can explain the nature of life of a struggling family on the Goldfields in the mid-19th century. It is an almost unique example of a mining era dwelling that has not been modernised in some way and that is directly associated with its contemporary mining landscape.

Its ability to evoke the visual character of the Goldfields is outstanding because of its integrity and its associated environment of contemporary mine workings and other infrastructure such as water, races, etc.

For these reasons, the place has cultural significance at a very high level.

The stone cottage and its associated site at 21 Doye Street, Golden Square is of historic, aesthetic and architectural significance to the State of Victoria.

- It is historically significant for its rare capacity to inform of the lifestyle of early mining families of the mid-19th century Bendigo goldfields and for its historical connection with the early (pre-deep lead, company) phase of gold mining in the region. The place exemplifies the evolution of a family home, the range of activities involved and the techniques of providing for a struggling family in a harsh and limiting environment.

- It is aesthetically significant as a collection of vernacular mid-19th century structures expressed in the consistent theme of rubble stone work. It is intensely evocative of the visual environment of its era and location.

- It is architecturally significant for its ability to demonstrate characteristic vernacular design and construction of the goldfields era and for its very high level of integrity. 

VHC; A - historical associations; B - rarity; C - educational; D - representative place.

The whole of the built structures, including retaining walls, well, water races, etc. Landscaping elements (subject to further investigation).